Glass brick

The texture and color of glass blocks can vary in order to provide a range of transparency.

Patterns can be pressed into either the inner void or the outside surface of the glass when it is cooling in order to provide differing effects.

Glazes or inserts may also be added in order to create a desired private or decorative effect.

[1][2] There are newer glass blocks injected with argon gas and having a layer of low-emissivity glass between the halves, which increases the insulative (U) value to 1.5 W/m2·K, which is between triple glazed windows (1.8 W/m2·K) and specialty double glazed windows with advanced frame and coatings(1.2 W/m2·K).

These blocks are normally cast into a reinforced concrete gridwork or set into a metal frame, allowing multiple units to be combined to span over openings in basements and roofs to create skylights.

Glass wall blocks should not be used in flooring applications because the way in which they are manufactured does not allow them to support a load.

Other methods of construction include several proprietary systems whereby the mortar is replaced by timber or PVC extrusions.

This advancement in production technique has resulted in a glass block which is able to offer significantly improved thermal insulation properties.

However, the colored coating may not be UV stable and can fade in bright sunshine over time, and may therefore not be suitable for all locations.