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Glass block windows can range from $250 to $3,900 depending on their size, with an average of $721 per window.* Glass block windows let in a great deal of natural light while maintaining privacy, so they’re commonly found in bathrooms and basements. They’re also energy-efficient, as they’re less prone to air leaks and better at keeping out heat than many standard windows. We’ve detailed the various factors that affect this price and tips for finding a professional installer.
*We averaged the cost data in this article from Fixr and Home Advisor.
Glass Block Window Installation Cost Factors
The primary factors that determine the price of a glass block window are its brand and style, the type of glass block, and the installation method.
Cost by Size
The larger the window, the more glass bricks required and the higher the cost. Most glass blocks are 6-inch or 8-inch squares, though 4-inch squares are sometimes available at a higher price point. Here’s how much the individual blocks cost by size.
| Block Size (in Inches) | Cost Range |
|---|---|
|
8×8 |
$5–$25 |
|
6×6 |
$10–$30 |
|
4×4 |
$15–$40 |
Some glass block windows are prefabricated to fit standard window sizes. These windows cost less than custom options. We’ve detailed average price ranges from both prefabricated and custom glass block windows below. The prices include materials and installation.
| Window Size (in Inches) | Prefabricated Cost | Custom Cost |
|---|---|---|
|
12×24 |
N/A* |
$365–$1,200 |
|
16×32 |
N/A* |
$365–$1,200 |
|
24×24 |
$250–$900 |
$430–$1,400 |
|
24×32 |
$300–$1,250 |
$430–$1,400 |
|
36×36 |
$400–$1,600 |
$550–$2,800 |
|
36×48 |
N/A* |
$550–$3,000 |
|
48×48 |
$750–$2,000 |
$625–$3,900 |
*Note: These window sizes are not available in prefabricated options.
Cost by Glass Block Type
A prefabricated glass block window has the necessary corner and edge pieces already in place. If you opt for a custom window, you’ll likely need several different block types for the edges, corners, or curves. Glass block walls may also need specialty end pieces for a finished look. These specialty pieces cost more, but you’ll likely only need a few.
| Glass Block Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
|
Standard square |
$6–$25 |
|
Curved end |
$30–$50 |
|
Linear end |
$30–$50 |
|
Sharp angle |
$40–$60 |
|
Round angle |
$40–$60 |
|
Double-curved end |
$50–$70 |
|
Double end |
$50–$70 |
Cost by Glass Block Style
Clear and frosted glass are the most common, but glass blocks come in several other finishes, opacities, and styles. In general, the more privacy the windows offer, the more they cost.
- Clear glass blocks ($6 to $10): These transparent blocks let in the most natural light, providing the least privacy.
- Wavy glass blocks ($6 to $15): Wavy blocks let in nearly as much light as transparent blocks, but they distort it for additional privacy.
- Alpha glass blocks ($6 to $10): Alpha blocks have a circle in the center and offer similar benefits to wavy blocks with a slightly different internal pattern.
- Ice glass blocks ($6 to $15): Ice blocks have a crinkled internal pattern that’s more textured than wavy or alpha blocks, offering a good balance of translucence and privacy.
- Diamond glass blocks ($10 to $20): Diamond blocks have criss-crossing lines that obscure vision through the blocks without obscuring much light.
- Frosted glass blocks ($10 to $20): A frosted finish lets in the least amount of light, but offers a great deal of privacy. These blocks often have a slight green tint.
- Acrylic glass blocks ($12 to $20): Acrylic blocks are made from translucent plastic rather than glass, which is lighter and easier to cut. However, acrylic isn’t as durable or effective as an insulator, so it tends to be used indoors.
- Colored glass blocks ($12 to $25): These blocks come in a range of colors and opacities.
Cost by Brand
Glass blocks are usually produced by glass companies rather than top window brands. Here are some popular glass block manufacturers and their average price per block.
| Brand | Cost Range |
|---|---|
|
TAFCO |
$6–$10 |
|
Pittsburgh Corning |
$6–$20 |
|
Seves |
$8–$12 |
|
Quality Glass Block and Window |
$8–$20 |
|
Mulia |
$8–$20 |
Labor Cost
Glass block installers charge about $45 per hour. Note that prefabricated glass blocks cost less for labor as well as materials because they can be installed quickly as a single unit. For custom glass block windows, installers must properly align all the bricks and install support and dividers between them. Thus, the total cost of labor is usually between $150 and $1,000 for a prefabricated window and $300 to $4,500 for a custom window.
Additional Factors Affecting Glass Block Window Installation Cost
The following factors may also impact your total project cost.
Accessibility
Anything that makes the project take longer will increase labor costs. This includes installations in hard-to-access areas. Adding a curve to a glass block wall or window also increases the project’s complexity and cost.
Assembly Method
Prefabricated glass blocks may be installed with or without a window frame. The easiest blocks to install come preassembled in a vinyl or wood frame and can be slotted into the wall opening. Otherwise, the blocks or prefab unit must be mortared in place. For walls or large windows, installers must use rebar between blocks for extra strength and stability.
| Method | Prefab Cost per Square Foot | Custom Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|---|
|
Unframed mortared |
$25–$75 |
$50–$150 |
|
Vinyl framed |
$30–$80 |
$60–$160 |
|
Mortared and rebarred |
N/A*** |
$80–$200 |
***Note: This assembly method is not available for prefabricated options
Window Replacement
If you’re replacing an existing window with glass blocks, you must pay to remove the old window and add extra frame support. This could cost as little as $100 to $300 for a small single-pane window. Large or custom windows will cost more to remove. The total cost of window replacement with glass blocks is between $700 and $1,800.
Professional vs. DIY Glass Block Window Installation
It’s possible to install a glass block window yourself in some cases, but we recommend hiring a professional. Here’s a look at both options.
Professional Glass Block Window Installation
We recommend hiring a top window installer if you’re installing a large or custom glass block window. A professional will know how to properly support and seal the glass blocks so that the window doesn’t shift or leak over time. You’ll have to pay for labor, but the window will look better and be more durable.
DIY Glass Block Window Installation
Some prefabricated glass block windows are sold as do-it-yourself (DIY) kits at hardware stores such as The Home Depot and Lowe’s. These kits typically include frames, spacers, wall anchors, and tubes of silicone sealant. Doing it yourself is less expensive than hiring a pro, but keep in mind that glass blocks are heavy, and if the window isn’t properly sealed, it could compromise your home’s energy efficiency.
How to Hire a Professional
Glass blocks can be installed by glass professionals or window contractors. Here are some criteria to keep in mind when comparing contractors.
- Ensure the contractor has specific experience with glass blocks, particularly if you have a custom design in mind.
- Although no specific trade license is necessary to install glass block windows, all contractors should be bonded and insured.
- Check each company’s Better Business Bureau page for its rating and accreditation status.
- Ask for references and read customer reviews on sites such as Trustpilot.
Questions to Ask Your Glass Block Window Installer
Once you’ve picked a professional, here are some further questions to ask.
- What is the overall cost estimate? Can I have an itemized quote?
- What preparation needs to be done?
- What permits are required?
- How long will the project take from start to finish?
- Will any of the work be subcontracted?
- Do I need to be present during installation?
How to Reduce Glass Block Installation Costs
Glass block windows are an investment, but you can still save money with the following tips.
- Stick to prefabricated units in small sizes, which cost less to buy and install.
- If privacy isn’t an issue, opt for clear, uncolored glass for the lowest material costs.
- Install your own glass block window using a kit if you feel comfortable.
- If you choose professional installation, ask if there’s any preparation or finishing work you can do yourself.
- Labor costs tend to be highest when window installers are most in demand, typically during spring and fall. Wait until the offseason to install your window if possible.
- Get quotes from at least three installers to compare pricing before making a choice.
Benefits of Glass Block Windows
Glass blocks aren’t always ideal, but they have several benefits in the right applications.
- Privacy: Glass blocks offer privacy by obscuring what’s behind them without blocking light.
- Energy efficiency: Since glass block windows are fully sealed with mortar and caulk, they minimize air leaks and heat transfer.
- Waterproofing: Glass block windows have no sashes or movable parts to allow water into your home.
- Security: Glass blocks are much harder to break than glass panes.
- Aesthetics: Some homeowners like the distinctive, contemporary look of glass blocks.
Glass blocks are typically used in bathroom or basement windows, where privacy and natural light are high priorities. Note that because a glass block window doesn’t open, it can’t serve as an egress window in a basement.
Our Recommendation
Glass block windows are a great option when you want to maximize privacy without sacrificing natural light. You can choose from different opacities, textures, and colors to create a wall or window that suits your home. According to our research, glass block windows cost a little more than similarly sized standard windows, but they’re highly efficient and secure.
Glass Block Window Installation Cost FAQ
How are glass block windows energy efficient?
The thick glass in block windows is a better insulator than thin glass panes. Additionally, glass block windows don’t open, so they can be thoroughly sealed shut to keep out drafts.
How do you repair glass block windows?
If a single glass block breaks or chips, you can repair it by chiseling away the mortar and replacing it. You may need to replace the whole window if the problem is expanding rebar or pressure from a shifting foundation.
Is a glass block window cheaper than traditional glass pane windows?
Glass block windows cost an average of $720, which is higher than the average cost of $700 for a standard window.
Is it easy to break into glass block windows?
The glass blocks used in windows and walls are thick and dense enough that they’re very difficult if not impossible to break through.
How We Chose the Top Window Brands
We researched and analyzed dozens of window manufacturers. We then crafted a rating system based on each brand’s standard and energy-efficient product offerings.
We spoke directly to representatives at each company to learn how the installation process works and determine how each brand personalizes its windows for each home. We also closely analyzed each company’s warranty options to ensure their product and labor guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
Finally, we assessed the manufacturer’s years of experience and customer reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.