If you're considering creating a glass block shower in your bathroom apply the words of author Steven Covey and "begin with the end in mind.
" All too often the desire to a block shower enclosure is an afterthought.
The problem with this lack of planning is the block units cannot be cut - so following the shape and form of an existing base can be a challenge.
Follow these 5 1/2 steps for design and installation success.
Step 1 - Design First - Develop a rough sketch of your concept.
Consider the size and shape of the shower base.
If you'd like a walk in door-less stall you'll likely need a curved or angled glass wall to direct the water towards the drain.
If you're remodeling this bathroom consider how important it is to you to keep the drain in the same location (doing this will save on plumbing costs).
Step 2 - Identify what material you would like on the shower floor - The most common block shower bases are made of acrylic or custom waterproof expanded polystyrene ready for tile varieties.
The advantage of the acrylic base is it's surface is already finished.
It's primary disadvantages are the small selection of sizes, no flexibility with drain location, and acrylic floors are not thought of being as luxurious as other flooring materials.
The ready for tile base on the other hand is completely customizable with regard to shape, size, and drain location.
This base can be finished with either tile or river rocks.
It's principal disadvantage are grout joints between the tiles (although there are now good solutions for this as well).
Step 3 - Consider your shower accessories - The function of your shower enclosure will be enhanced by adding the right accessories in the right location.
If your shower space is smaller you might want to add a fold down seat (for shaving and/or safety) or consider recessed ready for tile soap or shampoo holder that can be built into the wall (instead of taking space by sticking out of the wall).
If you have more room in the shower adding a corner or bench seat (for sitting or placing towels out) may be a nice option.
Also consider the location and type of shower head(s), sprays, valves and towel/grab bars.
For a walk in shower consider using a rain shower head to provide a soothing shower experience while minimizing the spray of water.
Step 4 - Prefabricate glass block walls with your taste and style in mind - Unless you're a glutton for punishment do not build your block wall piece by piece.
This is a tedious, difficult and time consuming process which is hard for a homeowner or unfamiliar contractor to accomplish.
Using the stack and grout fabrication system will simplify the project, reduce labor costs, and improve your finished quality.
If you're looking for a more unique or distinctive style consider adding colored, frosted or etched glass blocks.
Step 5 - Do not skimp on the grout - Imagine buying a new car with one thin coat of latex paint on the surface (it would be a disaster waiting to happen).
Match as the paint is a critical finishing touch to a car - grout is the all important finish to a glass block shower stall.
Although it's OK to use sanded grout between the joints for superior long term performance use a urethane grout.
It has more elasticity, improved resistance to moisture, and is premixed to ensure that the grout matches throughout the shower.
This product also does not require resealing.
Step 5 1/2 - Call in an expert - If you're not comfortable running and managing this project on your own call in an expert.
Look for a glass block wall prefabrication and installation company with bathroom remodeling experience as well.
Now that you're equipped with these 5 1/2 steps you're ready to get started with your shower project.
" All too often the desire to a block shower enclosure is an afterthought.
The problem with this lack of planning is the block units cannot be cut - so following the shape and form of an existing base can be a challenge.
Follow these 5 1/2 steps for design and installation success.
Step 1 - Design First - Develop a rough sketch of your concept.
Consider the size and shape of the shower base.
If you'd like a walk in door-less stall you'll likely need a curved or angled glass wall to direct the water towards the drain.
If you're remodeling this bathroom consider how important it is to you to keep the drain in the same location (doing this will save on plumbing costs).
Step 2 - Identify what material you would like on the shower floor - The most common block shower bases are made of acrylic or custom waterproof expanded polystyrene ready for tile varieties.
The advantage of the acrylic base is it's surface is already finished.
It's primary disadvantages are the small selection of sizes, no flexibility with drain location, and acrylic floors are not thought of being as luxurious as other flooring materials.
The ready for tile base on the other hand is completely customizable with regard to shape, size, and drain location.
This base can be finished with either tile or river rocks.
It's principal disadvantage are grout joints between the tiles (although there are now good solutions for this as well).
Step 3 - Consider your shower accessories - The function of your shower enclosure will be enhanced by adding the right accessories in the right location.
If your shower space is smaller you might want to add a fold down seat (for shaving and/or safety) or consider recessed ready for tile soap or shampoo holder that can be built into the wall (instead of taking space by sticking out of the wall).
If you have more room in the shower adding a corner or bench seat (for sitting or placing towels out) may be a nice option.
Also consider the location and type of shower head(s), sprays, valves and towel/grab bars.
For a walk in shower consider using a rain shower head to provide a soothing shower experience while minimizing the spray of water.
Step 4 - Prefabricate glass block walls with your taste and style in mind - Unless you're a glutton for punishment do not build your block wall piece by piece.
This is a tedious, difficult and time consuming process which is hard for a homeowner or unfamiliar contractor to accomplish.
Using the stack and grout fabrication system will simplify the project, reduce labor costs, and improve your finished quality.
If you're looking for a more unique or distinctive style consider adding colored, frosted or etched glass blocks.
Step 5 - Do not skimp on the grout - Imagine buying a new car with one thin coat of latex paint on the surface (it would be a disaster waiting to happen).
Match as the paint is a critical finishing touch to a car - grout is the all important finish to a glass block shower stall.
Although it's OK to use sanded grout between the joints for superior long term performance use a urethane grout.
It has more elasticity, improved resistance to moisture, and is premixed to ensure that the grout matches throughout the shower.
This product also does not require resealing.
Step 5 1/2 - Call in an expert - If you're not comfortable running and managing this project on your own call in an expert.
Look for a glass block wall prefabrication and installation company with bathroom remodeling experience as well.
Now that you're equipped with these 5 1/2 steps you're ready to get started with your shower project.
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