Glass block end block combining two sizes – 4″ x 8″ x 3 1/8″ end block (Designed by Joel Breitigam JB Design)
End block finishing unit in a walk in shower wall
Although many people like the idea of a glass block wall – the question is how do you finish off the end of the wall to make it look good. The development of the glass block finishing unit created an excellent solution to this problem. Below you’ll learn about this product, it’s advantages/disadvantages and decorative options.
Definition – A glass block finishing block is a unit where one side has a rounded bullnose surface to create a finished look at the end or top of a shower or partition wall. This glass block shape can be used on a vertical or horizontal surface.
End glass block sizes and patterns – Included below are the sizes and patterns of the finishing units:
6” x 8” x 3 7/8” (Decora, Icescapes by Pittsburgh Corning)
8” x 8” x 3 7/8” (Decora, Wave, Icescapes, Iceberg by Mulia and Pittsburgh Corning)
Advantages of using a finished end glass block
Smooth “all glass” look – With this shaped block you don’t need to use a dissimilar material (ex. Wood, solid surface, granite or marble) to complete the end of glass block walls.
Less expensive finishing material than marble, granite, solid surface – Attaching a finished glass block to a glass block wall will cost less than these solid surface materials – and the blocks will not have to be cut to fit the rest of the wall.
Finished glass blocks can be used in wet areas – Unlike finishing the end of a glass block shower wall with wood – the bullnose glass end block can be used for any type of shower wall and it cleans up easily as well.
Minimizes the effects of water spotting – Patterned glass blocks (like the wave, decora, icescapes and iceberg patterns) show very little spotting – a major advantage over clear glass shower walls.
Can be fabricated into pre–assembled sections – Finishing blocks can be pre-made with the rest of the glass block wall to improve the finished quality of a project, make the installation easier (using a stack, anchor and grout system) and cut field labor costs.
Flexibility – The finished blocks can be used in curved, angled or straight walls.
Disadvantages of using a finished end glass block
More expensive than a pine wood end cap
Doesn’t come in all glass block sizes – The finishing blocks do not come in the 12” x 12” and 6” x 6” sizes.
Decorator options
Glass block ends are no longer just available in clear units. Have some fun with your shower or partition wall with these design options:
Frosted or colored glass blocks – using over 104 different colors you can add a distinctive look to your wall project.
Glass block tiles – Glass tiles can be fused on to the end pieces for a sleek, contemporary style.
Combining different sizes – you don’t have to use all the same sized blocks – mix it up with 2 or more different sizes to create a one of a kind design.
If you have any questions or words of wisdom about using glass block finishing units please comment below.
President of Innovate Building Solutions a nationwide supplier and regional (Cleveland and Columbus) remodeling contractors. Some of our product lines include glass counters, floors, backsplashes, glass blocks and grout free shower and tub wall panels
