Close up view of new decorative Interior shower wall panels - Cleveland Ohio

In the 70’s and 80’s many bathrooms used products like jetted tubs and fiberglass wall surrounds. While jetted tubs might have made sense for that time – these products just aren’t a fit with homeowners today who lack the time to take baths. In addition the low cost fiberglass tub surrounds in many homes are beginning to show their age (many have yellowed or cracked) and are hard to keep clean. This is exactly the dilemma that faced the Mockabee family of Cleveland Ohio (who had an existing jetted bathtub/shower surround combination with old fiberglass walls). Learn below how they converted their tub and showering area into a low maintenance, high style and functioning shower.

Before conversion to a shower - jetted tub with fiberglass wall surrounds - Cleveland Ohio project

Choosing the right products

It’s easy to talk about low maintenance and high style – but the key is choosing the right products. Here are some of the choices the Mockabees’ made (through their contractor and supplier –Bath Doctor of Cleveland Ohio) to add style and reduce upkeep:

• Decorative Sentrel interior shower wall panels – The Mockabees wanted to add some pizzazz to the space without the hassle of longer term maintenance. To accomplish this objective Sentrel shower wall panels were chosen. These walls use an advanced digital imaging process that is embedded onto a PVC backed waterproof composite material – creating the look of real stone without the cost or maintenance. In this project the Calcutta Gold color was chosen (note: there are over 20 different pattern selections in this line).

• Wedi waterproof shower pan and curb – The base underneath the shower is the foundation of the entire project. To ensure a watertight long term solution an extruded polystyrene base from Wedi Corp was used.

Wedi waterproof pan and curb before new decorative wall surround installation cleveland ohio

• Wolverine anti-scald shower valve – Shower valves (the operating component inside the shower wall) are not a sexy thing that can be seen – but it is an important selection for the long term safety and function of a shower. The anti-scald function chosen to provide a high level of safety.

Increasing storage, function, and safety

Remodeling a bathroom is the right time to make the space (even if it is small) really work for all members of the family. Steve Vlk (the Project Manager with Bath Doctor) explained, “In this project the Mockabees used a total of 6 corner shelves (3 in the front of the shower and 3 in the back) which allow them ample storage for soaps and shampoo. A hand held shower was installed (in addition to the stationary shower head) to make showering and clean up easier. Finally decorative Moen grab bars where added to make it safer to get into the space.

Hand held shower, 3 corner shelves, Sentrel interior wall panes and grab bar in Cleveland Ohio project

What do you think about the Mockabees conversion of the jetted tub and fiberglass walls to a new shower? Do you have any questions about the products chosen? Please comment below.

If you’re looking for more information or an estimate converting a tub into a shower project visit or call The Bath Doctor of Cleveland (216-531-6085) or Columbus (614-252-7294).For nationwide direct product sales call Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888). For complete bathroom remodeling contact Cleveland Design & Remodeling (216-658-1270).

After Glass Block Church Windows at St James Episcopal Church with Composite Trim Board

Let’s face it – single pane wood framed windows have a lot of pitfalls – they are poor insulators, can be broken into easily and the frames surrounding the sashes deteriorate over time. Transform Construction contacted the Columbus Glass Block division of Innovate Building Solutions to find a long lasting and high quality solution for this problem. The old basement windows to be replaced were part of a basement renovation for St. James Episcopal Church. Learn below the advantages of glass block church windows and the installation approach used to ensure these windows last over time.

Before - single pane wood framed windows at St. James Episcopal Church in Columbus Ohio before glass blocks were installed

Benefits of Glass Block Church Windows

Since many churches are older, historic type buildings their original windows (whether they used stained glass or traditional wood or metal frames) are often in need of replacement to save energy or to increase safety and security. Glass blocks have become an excellent solution for church replacement windows for the following reasons:

• Thicker product which is very difficult to break – Glass blocks are either 3 1/8” or 3 7/8” thick which makes them probably the most difficult type of window for a burglar to break in through (especially vs. a single or even double pane window with thin glass). There is also a new fabrication system (called the Protect All Window) which is put together with vinyl spacers and silicone which is even tougher to break through than a traditional mortared assembly.

• More energy efficient – glass block windows are usually 10x more energy efficient than traditional single pane windows – this can equate to significant heating and cooling savings.

• Increased privacy – If a church is storing valuable items in a basement or upper level space increased privacy will be a good feature. Glass blocks come in high privacy patterns and can also be frosted for increased security.

• Colored light – Stained glass windows have long been used in churches to move natural light combined with color into the space – that’s the good news – the bad news is the stained glass windows are not good insulators. Another more energy efficient option is to use colored glass block windows – these windows come in over 104 different color and frosted options.

Basement window installation approach for the St. James Episcopal Project in Columbus

Using the right installation approach is the key to having a product that lasts over time. The St. James project was unique because the lower level windows where not enclosed in a traditional cement block or poured wall setting – but they were encased in wood openings. This presented an installation challenge because using the traditional mortar process around the windows would not be a good long term solutions (since the mortar applied to the wood would likely crack over time).

The installation team (led bySean Malmsberryand Isaac Clark) removed the old sashes but instead of mortaring around the windows used an expanding installation foam with an R15 insulation value to secure the glass block windows and provide the maximum in energy efficiency. Then to make the finish these lower level windows off a composite board was used around the windows to provide a decorative look that would not deteriorate over time.

Bathroom window installation approach

The upper floor bathroom windows were also single pane with old metal frames that were set inside a stone and also where showing their age. With these windows Sean and Isaac removed the old frames and used the traditional mortar approach to fill in the irregular gaps around the window.

Bathroom glass block windows at St. James Episcopal Church in Columbus Ohio with mortar around sides

What do you think about the use of glass block windows in this Columbus church? Do you have any basement, bathroom or upper floor stained glass windows in your church that could benefit from this product? Please comment below.

###

To learn more about the glass block church windows or get a free estimate on a glass block project visit or call Innovate Building Solutions on a nationwide basis (877-668-5888) or for a local project their divisions including Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020) or Mid America Glass Block (513-742-5900) of Cincinnati or Dayton and Akron (330-633-2900). This article was authored by Mike Foti.

Colored & Frosted Glass Block Shower Wall Using Finished End Blocks

Are you looking for more privacy (without having to use blinds or curtains) for a bathroom window (or basement window for that matter)? Do you want to move some colored light from one space to another while having a understated look? If so – frosted glass blocks are an option to consider. Learn below what a frosted glass block is, the various options available and where they can be used to create add privacy, create a cool mood or just provide a decorative look in a residential or commercial space.

Frosted Glass Block – A frosted glass block is a modular glass building block that has been sandblasted. This process makes the block more translucent and reduces the amount of direct sunlight that passes through the glass.

Options Available – Many people think of glass blocks (not just the frosted units) as simply 8” x 8” units that are stacked on top of each other. The reality is this could not be further from the truth.

Frosted glass blocks in various sizes and shapes

Today’s glass blocks come in various shapes including corner blocks to make 90 degree turns, end blocks to finish the side of a wall, curved blocks for shower stalls and partition walls, double end blocks to step down a wall. In addition the glass block sizes range from 4” x 8”, 6” x 6”, 6” x 8”, 8” x 8” and 12” x 12”. Then there are multiple patterns to create unique designs that can either create a see-through type of window or wall or have various design patterns or levels of privacy. There are over 52 different colored glass blocks to choose from. The different shapes, sizes, patterns and colors of glass blocks can all be frosted.

Benefits of Frosted Blocks – Frosted glass blocks can be used to create a higher level of privacy, reduce the amount of direct light transmission, help to lessen the harmful effects of direct sunlight or just create a softer look than a standard smooth faced glass block. What is nice about these units is they are not that much more expensive than a regular block.

Where to use frosted glass blocks – These units can be used any place you would use a standard glass blocks – like bathroom and basement windows, shower walls, conference rooms, restaurants or other commercial or retail spaces. These blocks can be used in an entire window, wall or shower or can also be used as accents, stripes or individual units within a standard glass block assembly.

Frosted glass block shower wall for privacy in a Cleveland Ohio bathroom remodeling project

Do you have a project where you’re considering the use of colored or frosted glass blocks where you need help? Please comment below or call.

###

To learn more about the frosted glass blocks or get a free estimate on a glass block project visit or call Innovate Building Solutions on a nationwide basis (877-668-5888) or for a local project their divisions including Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020) or Mid America Glass Block (513-742-5900) of Cincinnati or Dayton and Akron (330-633-2900). This article was authored by Mike Foti.

Glass block shower wall using 8 x 8 colored glass blocks and 4 x 8 alternating blocks

When you live in Southern California it’s essential to make every inch of a small bathroom count….and that’s exactly what Jeff R. accomplished in his recent bath renovation project. As Jeff said, “The bathroom in our 75 year old home was shot. The tile had hairline cracks, the shower area was dark, the shower pan was failing, and the earthquakes and tremors where part of the cause of the tile falling apart.” It was not possible to change the size or layout of this room – so the challenge would be to make the space nicer and more functional…but how?

Before renovation - old tile shower enclosure was closed in by stud walls

Learn below how Jeff, his wife, an interior designer and their contractor not only used materials like a unique “floating” glass block wall to create a fresh contemporary look – but also embraced a famous tile design element to make their small space sparkle.

Products Used & Construction Solutions

The glass block shower

Choosing the right products for this update was key. Jeff – who has always been a fan of glass blocks was determined to use this material – but was not content to do it in the same old way of just stacking one clear block on top of another. Getting inspiration from unique local projects and the web site of Innovate Building Solutions Jeff designed a “floating” glass block shower – where part of the shower stall literally appears to not be supported and floats above the pivoting glass doorway.

As Jeff said, “We used 2 angle braces made of 3/16” x ¾” 304 stainless steel bars to provide support for the blocks that appear to float above the pivoting door. The stainless steel bar was covered over with glass tile blocks. In addition I created a design using a combination of 4” x 8” wave pattern glass blocks with 8” x 8” Bromo pattern aquamarine colored and frosted glass blocks to tie in with the colors of the tile design to provide symmetry and style. We also used urethane grout and a unique vinyl stack glass block shower wall installation system to make sure the project will last. The new glass block wall not only provides more light into the shower – but it also creates a lot of style!”

Glass block shower wall installation system with stackable panel sections

Retaining the past while updating the tile with modern style

One of the interesting features of the old bathroom was a tile mosaic of a fish in the middle of the old shower that is believed to be manufactured from the famous Catalina Tile Company. Jeff and his wife not only wanted to retain this design element – but also to decorate the space around this tile section. Their contractor very carefully removed the old tile and reused the design in the middle of the new shower.

Shower close up showing Catalina tile mural with glass tile border and recessed niches

In addition the colors of the glass tile border and colored glass blocks where chosen to highlight the old tile mural – how cool is that!

Creating room in a small space

In many cases little things make a big difference in a small shower. Jeff used recessed wall niches premade with expanded polystyrene and plastic for the soap and shampoo to maximize the space on the inside of the shower.

What do you think about this small bathroom renovation? Please comment below.

###

To get free estimate on a glass block shower installation or for nationwide supply of premade sections like were used in this project contact Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888) or for a local project their divisions including Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020) or Mid America Glass Block (513-742-5900) of Cincinnati or Dayton and Akron (330-633-2900). If you need a small bathroom remodeling project in Northeastern Ohio contact Cleveland Design & Remodeling (216-658-1270). This article was authored by Mike Foti.

Rosemarie Rossetti & Mark Leder in Universal Design Master Bathroom

Who ever said accessible bath design cannot look cool and relaxing has never visited the home of Rosemarie Rossetti and Mark Leder. This home – built in Columbus Ohio – is a living example of how inspired design can also be a safe and functional space for people of all abilities, sizes or ages. This home called the Universal Design Living Laboratory is the brainchild of Rosemarie and Mark and will be open to the general public in a few short months.

This article (which is Part 2 in a series– Part 1 looked at the Guest Bath) will look at the key features and benefits of an accessible and universal design master bathroom.

Key Components of an Accessible and Universal Design Master Bathroom

When Rosemarie and Mark thought about the design of this space they wanted to feel like they were going to the beach when they stepped into and used their master bathroom. In addition to having this beach theme the bath needed to be easy to use for both Mark and Rosemarie (note – Rosemarie is a short woman who uses a wheelchair and Mark is a tall man – about 6’ 4” tall). Here are some of the key elements they used to make this space fun and functional:

• Barrier free tile shower with accessories which are easy for Mark & Rosemarie to reach – Having to step over a shower curb can be dangerous for anyone – but when you’re having to navigate a wheelchair a curb can be a barrier impossible to overcome. This universal shower was designed with a no lip shower so the room is at all one level. A stylish linear drain was used to move the water quickly. In addition the soap/shampoo niches were placed lower than standard for Rosemarie and higher than normal for Mark. Lever style handles make it easy to turn the water on as well.

Accessible barrier free tile shower base with a quick drain feature

• Roll under sink – A key feature of a universal design bathroom is a roll under sink. This picture shows high stylish this feature can be!

Roll under sink in universal and accessible design bathroom

• High Privacy Glass Block Window in Bathtub and Shower Areas – Carrying through the nautical theme (and also ensuring privacy on the side of the home) glass block windows with a unique mural design were added by the jetted bathtub. This bathtub used a wider transfer area on the tub deck to make it easier for Rosemarie to get into the space as well. The high privacy glass blocks were also used in the shower.   

High privacy glass block bathroom window with a art mural

Universal design shower with a glass block privacy window

• A light filled, safe & stylish toilet room – Separate toilet rooms can be dark and difficult for those in wheelchairs to maneuver through. This room was designed with a 5’ turning radius, a comfort height toilet and a decorative grab bar. The high style translucent resin panel door also allows for privacy while moving light in from the exterior windows.  

Toilet room in accessible bathroom with comfort height toilet, grab bar, and wider turning radius

Translucent resin panel doors in a toilet room

Do you have a need to create a universal or accessible master bathroom? If so – what do you think of these ideas? Please comment below. 

If you’re looking for more information, design assistance or an estimate to install a universal or accessible guest or master bath visit or call The Bath Doctor of Cleveland (216-531-6085) or Columbus (614-252-7294).For nationwide direct product sales call Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888). For complete accessible bathroom remodeling contact Cleveland Design & Remodeling (216-658-1270). This author was authored by Mike Foti.  

Garage windows using glass blocks being mortared for high security and increased privacy

You may be asking – why should anyone care about the windows being used in a garage and why would glass block windows make sense in this space? Well in case you haven’t noticed garages are becoming a “hot” area of a home. Check out some of these facts:

• According to the U.S. Census 1.3 million garages per year are being converted into living space.

• From the National Association of Home Builders in 1950 58% of new homes had no garage – today 91% of new homes have a garage and 83% have a 2 car garage or more.

• 17% of new homes in the United States have a 3 car garage.

So – what is prompting this increased interest in garages and what does that have to do with glass block windows? The reality is homeowners are looking for cost effective spaces that can be used as “flex” areas (i.e. for more than one use). In addition to parking cars people are now using garages for hobby and craft areas, workshops, children’s play rooms, ping pong and pool tables, poker rooms and exercise rooms. With this increased interest (and money) being put into garages there is a need for better windows– that is where garage glass block windows come into place.

Learn below the benefits and options of these windows vs. the old single pane windows that are generally installed when the garage was built.

Benefit of Garage Windows with Glass Blocks

Although glass blocks have been around for years (and are being used extensively in basements, bathrooms and commercial windows) many people don’t think about their use for a garage. Here are some of the benefits of this type of product vs. standard wood or metal framed windows.

• Improved Security – With valuable elements in the garage (cars, tools, or craft and hobby materials) the need to keep intruders out goes way up. Garage glass block windows can either be mortared together or a specialized “Protect All” window (for maximum security) can be used that makes it virtually impossible to break in.

• Increased privacy – With more obscure patterns of glass block it’s difficult (or impossible with certain selections) to see what is inside the space.

• More light transmission – In many cases unframed glass block windows can be used so there is actually more light space in an existing opening than existed with the old framed window.

• Reduced heating and cooling costs – If you’re looking to do a garage remodeling project to make this a flex type space you may be putting in a heating or cooling system. The glass blocks are a much better insulator than the existing single pane windows.

Options in Glass or Acrylic Block Garage Windows

Some of the more popular options include:

• Different patterns of blocks – In most cases consumers want more privacy in a garage so patterns like the obscure “Wave” or high privacy “Iceberg” are desired. If someone does want a clear see-through block those exist as well.

• Prefabricated glass block assemblies with or without a vinyl frame – glass blocks can be made into section for ease of installation and shipped anywhere in the country.

• Ventilation – For the glass block windows air vents are available to provide high security while allowing air flow. For completely operable high privacy window a casement, awning or single hung acrylic block window may be the right solution.

• Color glass blocks or frosted blocks – If you really want a cool look consider using colored or frosted blocks that come in over 104 different patterns.

What do you think about the use of a glass block garage windows? Please comment below.

###

To get free estimate on a glass block garage window installation or for nationwide supply of premade sections contact Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888) or for a local project their divisions including Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020) or Mid America Glass Block (513-742-5900) of Cincinnati or Dayton and Akron (330-633-2900). This article was authored by Mike Foti

Colored and frosted glass blocks using 4 x 8 and 8 x 8 blocks in a bath window

When most people think of making a glass block window, shower or wall they envision 8” x 8” units being stacked on top of each other – but why settle for a boring look when you can jazz things up using different sizes, patterns and colors? Learn 5 tips below to add some pop to your next glass block project.

Tip 1 – Turn the block on its side – When you see glass blocks put together in most cases they are either square or vertical in their orientation. Consider placing the block horizontally instead. In the smaller glass block shower wall below the horizontal orientation makes the space seem wider.

4 x 8 glass blocks laid horizontally in a shower wall

Tip 2 – Create a banding effect with 4” x 8” and 8” x 8” blocks – Alternating rows of 4” x 8” blocks in an 8” x 8” design can create a type of “accent” course to make a window or wall stand out.

Banding effect using 4 x 8 colored and 8 x 8 clear glass blocks

Tip 3 – Combine patterns, sizes and colors – Using the right color can create a calming (or vibrant) feel in a space. The project below (picture coming soon) used 8” x 8” x 3 1/8” Bromo pattern (by Mulia Inc.) color glass blocks with clear 4” x 8” x 3 1/8” wave pattern units to separate a shower enclosure from a pedestal sink in a small space in San Diego California.

Tip 4 – Create a kaleidoscope by mixing glass block sizes with color-  This bathroom window design combined 6” x 6”, 6” x 8” and 12” x 12” units for a one of kind look in a modern sleek bathroom space.

Glass block sizes combined in a colored and clear bathroom window project in Louisiana

Tip 5 – Using shaped glass blocks to make a snail shaped walk in shower – With the introduction of curved and finishing end blocks it is possible to create shaped partition walls and showers that would be difficult to near impossible to do with other glass shower wall products. Check out the special look created in Othello Washington.

Snail shaped glass block walk in shower with colored and curved glass blocks in Washington

What do you think about the use of a glass blocks after incorporating different sizes and colors? Please provide your questions or comments below.

###

To get free estimate on a glass block window, shower or wall project or for nationwide supply of premade sections contact Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888) or for a local project their divisions including Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020) or Mid America Glass Block (513-742-5900) of Cincinnati or Dayton and Akron (330-633-2900).

Entry Door Sidelights with Glass Blocks

To add to the curb appeal and provide light many homes have entry door sidelights– that is the good news. The bad news is these sidelights provide an easy and quick place for a burglar to enter your home. While you could use wire in the glass or wrought iron bars for security they can make the appearance of your home look industrial or just not fit your home’s décor. Fortunately there is another option – a glass block sidelight. Learn below the advantages of using glass blocks, the decorative options, best prefabrication techniques and installation tips.

Advantages of Sidelights with Glass Blocks – Here are a few of the benefits you can get using glass blocks:

• Improve security – since this product will either be mortared together (or for the ultimate in safety use a “Protect All” window) – it will become a very hard place to enter the home.

• Reduce heating and cooling costs – many of the existing sidelights have single pane glass – the glass blocks provide higher energy ratings.

• Increase privacy – one of the things people don’t like is the ability for others to be able to see into their home through the sidelights. There are high and moderate privacy glass block patterns that eliminate this problem.

• Reduce maintenance – glass blocks are easy to clean and virtually maintenance free.

Decorative glass block options to add style and privacy – What’s nice about glass block is it can add more privacy than the existing sidelights. There are high privacy patterns called “Pristal” and “Iceberg” and a moderate privacy pattern called “Wave.” To add more style the glass blocks can also be frosted and colored for a unique design.

Use prefabricated glass block panels for an easier higher quality installation – It can be very difficult to lay the glass blocks individually inside a door opening so it is best to use premade glass block sections for the entry door light. The best quality fabrication approach for this type of application is to use (a) mortared glass block windows or (b) a Protect All Glass Block window. The Protect All window offers the highest level of security, improved energy efficiency and better protection against movement and drafts.

Installation tips – Like most building materials doing the right installation will be the key to the best long term performance. Since glass block sidelights will be going into a door jamb which will have movement with the door opening and closing the key is to make an installation which is sturdy, energy efficient – yet has some flexibility. What works best is to silicone the glass block window section (which is 3 1/8” wide) to a 1” x 4” PVC board (which is actually about 3 ½” wide). Then the PVC board (with the window inside) is screwed into the wood framing. Insulation foam is used between the PVC board and the side of the opening to maximize the energy efficiency of the window. The window is then trimmed out with wood on the inside and caulked on the outside.

What do you think about the use of a glass block sidelight around your front entry door? Please comment below.

To get free estimate on a glass block sidelight installation or for nationwide supply of premade sections contact Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888) or for a local project their divisions including Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020) or Mid America Glass Block (513-742-5900) of Cincinnati or Dayton and Akron (330-633-2900).

Decorative DIY Interior Tub Wall Panels with an Accent Strip and Corner Shelf

Let’s face it – grout can be a real pain to deal with in a shower or tub area – but cheap plastic or fiberglass surrounds aren’t the answer because they just don’t last (and are prone to discoloration and cracking). In addition tile walls can be problematic with mold and mildew. So what type of shower wall panels can create a cool low maintenance space for a DIY’er that’s easy to work with and won’t bust the budget? Learn about 3 interior wall systems below that can achieve this objective.

System 1 – PVC Backed Composite Sentrel Walls – One of the most interesting new product on the market in the last 5 years is the decorative Sentrel tub and shower inserts. Sentrel is a PVC backed composite that fuses of an advanced high resolution digital image and a scratch resistant hard coat to create the look of real stone at a fraction of the price. This material is easy to install and comes with a range of accessories (including 2 different sized niches, corner shelves, trim moldings, and accent strips). This system can be used with any tub or shower on the market. It is ¼” thick and is easy to cut with a utility knife. There are over 20 different stone patterns with a wide mix of luxury stone patterns. The most common panel sizes include 60 x 96, 36 x 96, 60 x 60 and 36 x 60. There are also ready to purchase DIY shower and tub kits that include precut walls and trim pieces for an even quicker installation.

There are different sized trim moldings to accommodate a new construction or remodel installation (it is possible with this line to go over existing tile). The system uses a specialized polyurethane adhesive to adhere the DIY tub or shower wall panels over sheetrock or existing tile.

DIY interior shower wall panels with a shampoo niche and corner shelves

System 2 – Acrylic walls – Acrylic shower and tub wall surrounds have come a long way since the days of the plain white walls that were originally used in hotels to go over old tile. There are now natural stone and tile patterns in acrylic. This material is thinner than the Sentrel (1/8” thick vs. ¼” thick) and can be a bit tougher to work with (especially on a cold day due to expansion and contraction). It is warm to the touch and is flexible in it’s ability to go over old tile shower and tub surrounds. The acrylic can be cut with a jig saw.

One of the challenges with acrylic walls is they can be difficult to source as a DIY consumer and the colors are more limited than the Sentrel materials.

Acrylic shower walls with Breccia pattern and shower caddy

System 3 – Solid Surface Shower & Tub Surrounds – Products like “Swanstone” are another option for a DIY’er. These panels come in different sizes (depending on if you’re doing a tub or shower unit). The Swanstone shower and tub line comes in 38 different colors. The panels range in size but many of them weigh approximately 50 to 60 lbs. per section (this can make them tougher to work with than the PVC backed composites or acrylic systems). Solid surface walls are usually cut with a circular saw with a fine blade (this may present a challenge for a DIY’er who does not own this type of equipment).

What do you think of these 3 interior tub and shower wall panel systems? Have you used any of them or another system you’re like to provide input about? Please comment below.

If you’re looking for more information or an estimate to install or supply the decorative Sentrel shower or tub wall panels contact The Bath Doctor of Cleveland (216-531-6085) or Columbus (614-252-7294).For nationwide direct product sales call Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888). For complete bathroom remodeling contact Cleveland Design & Remodeling (216-658-1270). This article was authored by Mike Foti.

Curved sliding glass enclosure from Fleurco using a 54 x 54 acrylic base

There is nothing quite as sleek, stylish and contemporary as a curved glass shower enclosure – but the question is can they be affordable? Learn below the benefits of these systems, the most popular types of curved glass showers, where they can be used and what are some of the more cost effective options.

Benefits of curved glass showers – Maybe one of the most prominent advantages of curved glass is simply the elegance of the product – but there are other benefits to consider as well. If you have a smaller bathroom a clear curved glass shower can give the feeling of a larger space. Another advantage is it’s ability to be designed to create walk in showers (these types of showers eliminate the need to clean around a door and are growing greatly in demand.

Most popular types – There are 3 general categories of curved glass most commonly seen:

1. Custom bent architectural curved glass – The most common bent glass products include single glazed units with safety tempered glass (the tempered glass is required for wet applications).  Bent glass is available in different thicknesses, patterns and there are even low iron units to provide the maximum clarity. While this product can be customized to someone’s requirements – it is a pretty expensive option.

2. Standard curved glass enclosures – One way to get the cost of curved glass down is to create standard shower base systems and then make the shaped glass in a production environment. Fleurco a company headquartered in Montreal Canada has developed such a product. First they created standard sized acrylic bases with curved shapes. The names of these bases are called – Arc, Round, Corner slice, corner wedge, Bowfront and Roman half-curved. Using these unique designs the manufacturer has then developed shower enclosures at various price levels – from moderate priced systems up to high end luxury showers.

Frameless curved Corner Sliding Door Shower Enclosure and Acrylic Base Kinetic Line

3. Curved glass block showers – Glass blocks have come a long way! In the old days there were only square blocks that were generally used inside of window or wall openings. Today there are thinly shaped units available to create graceful curved wall. These thin shaped blocks are even available in clear patterns to show off tile or stone work on the inside of the shower.

Curved glass block in a clear design for shower walls

Uses of curved glass enclosures – Flexibility is the word with the new era of curved showers. Whether you’re looking for a shower with a door or a walk in variety there is a cool looking selection available. These units can be put in “alcove” spaces (i.e. where they are surrounded with 3 interior walls – check out the Fleurco Bowfront or Roman half curved units for a couple of examples), or in the corner of a room and are made to fit multiple sizes. You can choose from frameless shower glass or framed systems.

Most cost effective varieties – Sometimes in remodeling or new construction projects are eyes go to what looks cool – but our hopes can get dashed when we get the price – ouch! If you’re looking for a cost effective curved enclosure that’s lighter on your budget check out the Fleurco systems and glass block walls. They are usually significantly lower in price than custom bent glass.

What questions or comments do you have about curved glass enclosures? Please comment below.

###

Contact Cleveland Design & Remodeling (216-658-1270) or the Bath Doctor in Columbus (614-252-7294) for design ideas and estimates on bathroom remodeling and curved glass enclosures.

If you’re looking for a curved glass block shower or the Fleurco glass enclosures get nationwide design and supply through Innovate Building Solutions (877-668-5888) or one of it’s local divisions including Cleveland Glass Block (216-531-6363), West Side Glass Block (216-398-1020), Columbus Glass Block (614-252-5888), or Mid America Glass Block. For complete remodeling services contact Cleveland Design & Remodeling (216-658-1270).  This article was authored by Mike Foti.