How much do glass block windows cost to install?
How much do glass block windows cost to install?
$300 – $1,500 average cost per window installed
Cost of glass block windows by size
Glass block windows cost $300 to $1,500 with installation on average, depending on the size, style, and whether it is a custom job or prefabricated. Glass block material prices are $10 to $60 per block. Glass block windows and walls are commonly used in basements and bathrooms.
| Window dimensions (inches) | Average cost installed (prefab window) | Average cost installed (custom window) |
|---|---|---|
| 25x25 | $60 – $300 | $400 – $1,400 |
| 31x31 | $70 – $350 | $450 – $1,500 |
| 36x36 | $100 – $500 | $550 – $2,800 |
| 48x48 | $160 – $800 | $600 – $3,900 |
Glass block window prices by material
Block prices range from $10 to $60 per block before installation, depending on the material. Acrylic block windows are harder to find and limited style-wise, but they're lighter and more durable than glass. Glass blocks come in a wider variety of prices, styles, and colors.
| Block material | Average price per block* |
|---|---|
| Glass | $10 – $60 |
| Acrylic | $15 – $25 |
*Not including installation.
Glass blocks come in a range of sizes but are typically 6- to 8-inch squares and 2 to 4 inches thick.
Glass block cost by location
Glass block windows and walls often cost more when installed on a home bar or accent wall because they are more likely to be custom-made. Basement and bathroom windows are more likely to have prefabricated options.
| Location | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Bar front | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Basement window | $300 – $1,200 |
| Bathroom window | $400 – $3,000 |
| Wall | $1,300 – $5,000 |
In comparison, a standard glass window replacement costs $xxx to $xxx per window, depending on the size and frame material.
Cost to install glass block basement windows
A glass block basement window costs $300 to $1,200 installed, depending on the size and style. Different safety options are available for basement block windows, including fire-rated glass and impact-resistant blocks.
A finished bedroom or living space in a basement legally requires an egress window for escape in an emergency, and glass block windows do not qualify. An egress window costs $3,000 to $7,000 with installation.
Glass block in the bathroom or shower
A glass block window in a bathroom or shower costs $400 to $3,000 with installation, while a glass block shower wall costs $1,000 to $3,000. Glass blocks are most commonly used in bathrooms for windows and shower walls. Frosted or translucent styles preserve privacy in these areas.
In comparison, a standard glass shower door costs $400 to $1,900 installed for a prefabricated door or $1,400 to $3,300 for a custom door.
Glass block wall cost
A glass block accent wall costs $1,300 to $5,000 installed, depending on the size and style. Custom designs, curves, colors, and other styles cost more than a basic design with clear blocks. In comparison, a standard glass wall costs $xxx to $xxx when made with a glass pane instead of blocks.
For a more cohesive look, choose a colored glass block that's tinted to match the rest of your décor.
Glass block window installation costs
Glass block materials make up 35% to 50% of the total project cost, with labor making up the other 50% to 65%.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $150 – $500 |
| Labor | $150 – $1,000 |
| Total installed cost | $300 – $1,500 |
The following factors affect installation costs:
Prebuilt vs. custom – Prefabricated block designs cost much less than custom designs. Prefabricated windows come in basic shapes and designs but often have ventilation built in.
Brand – Prices vary by brand and retailer. Popular glass block manufacturers include TAFCO, Pittsburgh Corning, Seves, and Mulia.
Frame – Unframed glass block windows are most common, although some prefabricated sets come with a vinyl frame. Some framed glass block windows can be opened, but most glass block designs are not functional.
Ventilation – Glass block windows and shower walls may need ventilation, which costs about $40 to $60 to add.
Labor cost to install glass block windows
The labor cost to install glass block windows is $150 to $1,000 total on average. Complex custom builds cost more in labor than small jobs using prefabricated glass block windows.
Contractor rates – A handyman charges $50 to $80 per hour on average, while general contractors charge $50 to $150 per hour.
Installation type – Traditional mortar costs less than silicone or vinyl mortar, which are durable and waterproof.
Job complexity – Custom jobs, curved walls, intricate block patterns and layouts, and difficult site conditions typically drive up labor costs.
Repairs – Preexisting damage to the surrounding wall or trim may cost extra to repair:
Drywall repair costs $100 to $400 per hole or crack or $150 to $1,000 for ceiling repairs.
Frame repairs cost $150 to $600 on average, depending on the material and extent of the damage.
Interior trim replacement costs $xxx to $xxx on average.
Glass block price by style
Glass block prices are $10 to $60 per block, depending on the style. Plain, clear blocks are the least expensive. Frosted, diamond, and colored blocks usually cost more.
| Pattern or style | Average price per block* | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha | $10 – $25 |
|
| Wavy | $10 – $25 |
|
| Frosted | $15 – $50 |
|
| Ice | $15 – $50 |
|
| Diamond | $10 – $60 |
|
| Leathered | $10 – $40 |
|
| Clear | $10 – $20 |
|
| Color | $20 – $60 |
|
*Not including installation
Glass block windows FAQs
Are glass block windows energy efficient?
Glass block windows are energy efficient because they are airtight and prevent heat from entering or leaving your home. A glass block window blocks UV rays and has a higher R-value than a standard single-pane window.
Can you replace a single glass block if it breaks?
Yes, you can remove and replace a single glass block if it breaks. Contact a professional to make sure the block is replaced properly and the wall or window isn't damaged further.
Can you see through glass block windows at night?
You can see through glass block windows at night only if they're clear or transparent. Frosted or translucent glass block styles either partially or completely obscure the view. If anyone tries to look through them, they'll only see a vague shape.
Are glass block windows hurricane proof?
Some manufacturers make glass blocks that meet the requirements to be considered hurricane proof. Standard glass blocks are typically 2 to 4 inches thick, which makes them durable if not indestructible.
Are glass block windows out of style?
Glass block windows have gone in and out of style for many years but are becoming popular again, especially contemporary designs, shower windows, and accent walls.
Getting estimates from glass block window installers
When hiring a glass company or window installer near you, consider the following steps:
Choose a licensed, bonded, and insured company.
Get multiple estimates of similar styles to compare.
Read reviews from previous jobs on HomeGuide and Google.
Get a written estimate, contract, and warranty in advance.
Follow a payment plan. Only make the final payment when the work is completed.
Questions to ask
When hiring a glass block installer, ask these questions:
How long have you been installing glass block windows and walls?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Is my block style in stock? If not, how long will it take for it to ship?
What style do you recommend for this project?
Will you subcontract any of the work?
How do you handle on-the-job damage?
Does your estimate include delivery and cleanup?
How long will the installation take?
What does your warranty include?