Thinking of making some home improvements? Let’s look at what is going on in your basement. What kind of windows do you have? We recommend glass block windows for your basement which will benefit your house in several ways. Mainly, glass block windows will improve your home by making it more energy efficient. These thicker windows have airtight blocks that are sealed to perfection which will decrease energy bills with a more insulated basement while keeping pests like spiders and mice out of your basement.  Glass block windows help to make your home LEED certified, meaning they help to certify your home as environmentally sustainable and energy efficient. With the installation of glass block windows in your basement you are looking at a 5-35% increase in value of your home against comparable structures due to the added value of being LEED certified. Further, glass block windows prevent a drafty room. The main contribution to this feature is the unique cement mortar which holds the windows together. More often than not the basement tends to be the coldest room in the house due to the location, but glass block windows help to keep cold air out making it a more comfortable environment.

Glass block windows’ warped design allows for top privacy going into your basement while still allowing a brighter, more natural light into your basement. These windows allow for outsiders to only see blurs while looking in.  Although glass block windows make it difficult for insiders to see outside as well, it is unlikely you plan to look outside, especially if the windows are installed in your basement. Glass block windows allow for a more private environment, but also a more secure home.  Due to the thickness of these windows, glass block windows are nearly impossible to break through, increasing security and your state of mind.

The look of these glass block windows are also extremely aesthetically appealing and give more of an upscale look to your home.  Although this look may not be for everyone, these unique windows add to your home’s appearance.

To vent or not to vent? There are many different styles of glass block windows, especially for basements. The most popular add on to a basement glass block window is a vent. These vents are a small part of the window that allow air flow that most homes need. Many people struggle deciding if they want a solid glass block window or a vented glass block window; however, we notice that in most cases these windows have a vent. The vent allows air flow while also eliminating any moisture and preventing mildew buildup. Now, many people believe that it is absolutely necessary to have a vent installed in your glass block window, but that is not the case. Both options of pros and cons and it ultimately is based on personal preference. If you are worried about security, the plastic based vent may compromise the full security of your window. Although, this option still offers higher security than a regular glass window.

Although glass block windows are top notch, we still recommend getting them sealed every five years in order to prevent any water penetration and keep up with its maintenance. This may seem like a hassle but in fact glass block windows require much less maintenance than a regular window would because of how sturdy they are. If you are going to be selling your house in the near future, consider installing glass block windows to improve the overall architectural design to appeal to those who are looking to buy your home!