I've been really into the idea of swapping out part of my external kitchen wall for glass bricks to brighten up my dark house. I'm aware that they typically don't have great insulation (R-value), but is there any way to enhance that effect? I live in Canada, where temperatures can dip as low as -35C (-31F) in winter and reach 40C (104F) in summer, so I'm concerned. Is this a bad idea overall?
3 Answers
Replacing a wall with glass bricks might sound cool, but you should really consider insulation. Many people pointed out that glass blocks don't provide much insulation, which means it could get really cold and uncomfortable in winter. If you're replacing an external wall, you'd be risking significant heat loss, and that could lead to climbing energy bills. Plus, frost could form on the inside when it's super cold outside—definitely something to think about!
Your energy bills are definitely something to worry about with glass bricks! The thermal efficiency isn’t great, so you might pay more for heating during the frigid winters. While there are some modern glass blocks with low-emissivity coatings or argon filling, they still won’t match traditional insulated walls. Consult with an architect or a contractor who has experience with this kind of installation to weigh the pros and cons.
While glass bricks can look stunning, you want to think long-term, especially when it comes time to sell your house. Not everyone is going to love a wall of glass blocks, and it could impact resale value. If you still want that look, maybe consider using them just as a feature instead of replacing a full wall. It could give the aesthetic without all the potential downsides!
Thanks for the heads-up! I’ve heard about these energy-efficient blocks, but it's good to be reminded they can't compete with regular walls. I'll make sure to do thorough research before moving ahead.