Our Blog | GBA Architectural Products + Services

Enhancing Hurricane Resilience with Glass Block: A Guide for Builders and Architects

Hurricane blocks are an effective solution for buildings located in areas vulnerable to severe weather. Built to handle the impact of high winds and flying debris, these glass blocks offer a strong blend of protection and style. They give builders and architects a dependable option for improving both safety and design in hurricane-prone regions. As more projects prioritize resilience and modern aesthetics, this durable material is becoming a popular choice for long-term protection.

Understanding Hurricane Glass Block:

Hurricane glass block, also known as impact-resistant glass block, is specially designed to resist the destructive forces unleashed during hurricanes and severe storms. Composed of durable, fortified glass, these blocks are engineered to withstand high-velocity winds, debris impact, and extreme weather conditions that accompany hurricanes. The construction involves layers of tempered and laminated glass, creating a robust barrier that enhances both the structural integrity and safety of buildings.

Key Features and Benefits

Impact Resistance

Hurricane glass block is crafted to withstand impact from airborne debris, a common occurrence during hurricanes. The multi-layered composition, typically including tempered and laminated glass, ensures that the blocks remain intact even when subjected to strong forces, preventing breakage and maintaining the structural integrity of the building.

High Wind Resistance

Engineered to resist high-velocity winds associated with hurricanes, these glass blocks provide an effective barrier against wind-driven rain and debris. This feature is crucial for preventing water infiltration and maintaining the building's envelope integrity during a hurricane.

Natural Light Integration

Despite its robust nature, hurricane glass block doesn't compromise on aesthetics. It allows the seamless integration of natural light into interior spaces, creating a bright and open atmosphere. This feature is particularly appealing for architects looking to design hurricane-resistant structures without sacrificing the benefits of daylighting.

Energy Efficiency

Hurricane glass block contributes to energy efficiency by reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The translucent nature of the blocks allows sunlight to penetrate while maintaining thermal insulation, creating a comfortable and energy-efficient environment.

Hurricane Glass Block from GBA

When architects and builders need to plan for the worst nature has to offer, GBA sells and installs Lightwise® High Performance Glass Block systems. Lightwise® is renowned for its reliability and flexibility to create innovative and beautiful spaces that stand up to hurricane-force winds and impact from flying debris. The window assemblies are recognized and approved by Miami-Dade County (Florida), the Texas Department of Insurance, and the state of Florida. GBA can deliver, ship, and/or install the units as preassembled hurricane glass block windows. Lightwise® glass can be customized for transparency or privacy. Furthermore, the finish of the aluminum framing is also customizable. Three glass patterns are offered: Nubio, Clarity, and Endura.

What is the average cost for glass block windows? 

The total cost to install glass block windows in a basement can fluctuate significantly based on several key elements. The final price is influenced by the window's dimensions, the intricacy of the design, and the specific style of glass block chosen. Standard glass block windows are generally more budget-friendly, whereas decorative or custom designs will cost more. Larger window sizes also increase the price due to higher material and labor needs. Installation fees will vary by location and the project's difficulty, with possible extra charges for removing and disposing of the old windows. When comparing costs, it is also important to consider factors like durability, insulation, and aesthetics.

The Benefits of Custom Glass Block Windows

Glass block is a durable, flexible, and fully customizable building product that enhances both the beauty and performance of any space. Designed to fit virtually any opening, custom glass block installations are perfect for window replacements or creating standout architectural features. No matter the project, glass block can be precisely tailored to meet your specific size, design, and structural needs.

A History of Glass Block Architecture

Glass blocks became widely popular in the early to mid-20th century, valued for their distinct mix of functionality and aesthetic appeal. These durable, light-transmitting building units are used for windows, walls, and walkable surfaces. The history of glass block shows its evolution into countless applications, from biotechnology to simple decorative accents. GBA offers the largest supply of glass blocks in the US, providing architects with innovative solutions like custom glass walls and walkable glass systems to add a "wow" factor to any design.

The Finishing Touch on Your Glass Block Project

Glass blocks give you endless design options, whether it’s partition walls, pet kennels, or eye-catching accent features like desks. With a wide selection of patterns, shapes, and finishes, designers can bring almost any idea to life. For a glass block accent wall and other projects, finishing touches make all the difference. Glass block caps add a stylish, functional element, keeping the edges of your walls as polished and appealing as the rest of the design.

Restored Glass Block Windows Youngstown, Ohio

Some of our favorite ventures are renovation projects in our local area. As a company based in the Cleveland/Akron area, we were excited to take on a renovation assignment in Youngstown, Ohio, just 65 miles from our office.

Zero Lot Line Construction

What is a Zero Lot Line House?

A zero lot line house is a type of residential property where the home is built directly on or very close to the edge of the property line. Different types of zero lot line properties include patio homes, garden homes, townhomes, and row houses. These homes can be either attached or detached and may feature one or two side yards, though most often they include just one.

Historic Glass Block Warehouse Renovations: Hecht Warehouse

Architect: Antunovich Associates

General Contractor: McCullough Construction, LLC.

Owner: Douglas Development

---

Hecht Warehouse: The History

Known as one of Washington D.C.’s oldest and most successful large-scale, locally-owned retail stores, Hecht’s offered customers a variety of products in its iconic “American Gothic” building on 7th Street. In 1934, Hecht’s department store installed the city’s first escalators, improving the shopping experience. With continued growth throughout the block, Hecht’s relocated most of its service operations in 1937 to a new Art Deco building, which became the central warehouse for its expanding network of department stores.

GBA Architectural Products + Services had a very exciting 2019 as we worked on many exciting architectural projects, bringing new life to buildings with the addition of glass block and structural glass. We had the privilege of working with some of the best architects and contractors in the world. All of the projects we participated in were exciting and complex challenges that left us with a rewarding feeling when completed.

Installing Glass Block in Fort Worth's Pioneer Tower

Pioneer Tower

Glass block projects continue to grow in popularity due to their ability to combine design and performance in one solution. Whether it is upgrading existing spaces with glass block windows for added privacy and strength or transforming outdoor areas with illuminated sidewalk panels, the possibilities are extensive. We’ve made structures almost entirely built from 4x8x3 Seves Vistabrik, enclosed with glass roofing. There are many different ways to use glass to enhance your facilities.

Our latest project is another example. In their ambitious efforts to transform their structure from great to gorgeous, we’re renovating the Pioneer Tower in Fort Worth, Texas, adding 15 flights of exterior glass block to be used on all four sides of the historic building. Behind it will be LED lighting, ready to light the Texas sky.

They do it big in Texas.