GLASS BRICKS

Glass bricks are solid glass masonry units, while glass blocks are typically hollow.

Certain glass brick systems can achieve 45-, 60-, and 90-minute fire ratings in approved assemblies (where permitted by local code and when installed per the required details).

VETROPIENO™ is offered in full and half sizes, and VISTABRIK® is available in multiple size options (including 8" x 8" x 3").

Yes—glass brick can transmit light while still obscuring clear visibility depending on finish/pattern, making it ideal where you want brightness without “open sight lines.”

Yes. Glass brick can be used in interior or exterior walls, and performance-focused systems can be engineered for conditions like storms and fire where required.

Depending on the design and performance needs, glass brick can be installed in mortar (traditional masonry look) or set within grid/framed systems for clean, modern detailing.

Pricing varies by style and color, but GBA notes glass bricks often range $25–$55 per brick (project pricing depends on scope, system, and details).

VISTABRIK® is widely used in environments where impact resistance and security performance are priorities.

The official name of GBA’s glass floor application is GlassWalk™ Structural Glass Floor Systems. Customers may refer to structural glass floors as walkable glass, glass flooring, walkable skylights, floor glass, and glass flooring systems.

Since glass bricks are made of solid glass, this makes them relatively strong compared to hollow glass block.  

Modern glass bricks are transforming architectural design by blending light and structure in a new way. These solid masonry units are different from traditional hollow glass blocks, as they replicate the look and feel of classic bricks while allowing natural light to pass through. This combination of strength and aesthetics makes them an exceptional choice for accent walls and architectural highlights. As their popularity grows, glass bricks are becoming a hallmark of contemporary design, offering unmatched durability and a striking visual effect as light interacts with their surfaces.

The use of a running bond is common in traditional glass bricklaying. Glass bricks can be laid in a running bond to create the traditional look of brick while achieving the "wow" factor. Given their translucence, glass bricks can be used in a bathroom to create a visually appealing accent wall. Although they are beautiful to look through, glass brick accent walls still grant privacy to any area by distorting shapes from the inside or outside of the room. Additionally, glass brick can be a great solution to elevate a space and create a modern corporate partition wall. 

There are numerous benefits of incorporating glass brick in business and commercial designs. Glass bricks are ideal for increasing natural light within the workplace. Partitions made of glass brick increase the brightness of any workplace and optimize the function and energy of a workplace's interior.  Glass brick can also be used to transform any dark space into a sun-filled sanctuary. Architects and designers are always looking to design visually unique features in any space, whether it's adding a pop of color or illuminating a space naturally. A glass brick wall offers an unforgettable design solution with an added bonus of safety.  VISTABRIK^® and VETROPIENO™ glass bricks provide a 90-minute fire rating in masonry walls where permitted by building codes.  

Installing glass bricks is similar to laying normal brick.  The glass bricks can be laid in a stack bond or running bond in both our mortar or mortarless applications. 

No, glass bricks alone are not hurricane proof.  They can be hurricane resistant and meet certain specifications when used in our hurricane resistant system.  To learn more about what glass bricks can be incorporated into our hurricane resistant window system, contact a GBA sales expert. 

Glass bricks are durable building materials known for their longevity. When properly manufactured, installed, and maintained, glass bricks can last for many decades, often surpassing the lifespan of conventional window materials such as wood or single-pane glass.

The lifespan of glass bricks depends on various factors, including the quality of the glass, the manufacturing process, the installation, and local environmental conditions. Generally, glass bricks have similar attributes to glass blocks in terms of resistance to weather, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to moisture.

Proper installation and routine maintenance, such as regular cleaning will extend the life of glass bricks. With care and attention, glass bricks can provide a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing solution for architectural and design applications, including windows, walls, partitions, and more.

Glass bricks are available for builders, architects, and consumers to purchase. In fact, they have gained popularity in recent years. Glass bricks, not to be confused with traditional glass block products, are solid glass masonry units, as opposed to glass blocks, which are typically hollow. The applications of glass bricks are becoming more popular among high-end designers and architects to create accent walls that appear more stunning as light penetrates through them. 

Glass bricks are solid glass units that emulate the look and feel of traditional masonry but allow natural light to illuminate a space. Glass bricks can be used in a bathroom wall or shower to provide translucency and privacy by distorting shapes. Glass bricks can also be used to create an accent or partition wall or provide interest to an exterior wall.

Like traditional brick masonry, glass bricks don’t go out of style, but they have also seen a rise in  popularity among high-end architects and interior designers in recent years. For instance, they have been used recently in restaurants as dividers and behind bars as a beautiful backdrop to open shelving. Recently in Amsterdam, the luxury store Chanel received a facelift with a combination of glass brick and traditional masonry brick.