How to Build a Glass Block Interior Wall

Traditional glass blocks make good accent walls. Building a glass block wall takes some planning and preparation, but it's no more difficult than any other do-it-yourself task that involves setting tiles with mortar. While a traditional glass block wall has each block set individually, there are glass block systems available that allow you to set groups of blocks together to make the process go even faster. No matter how you set the blocks, it's important to include the glass block spacers and reinforcement materials in the building process to give the project a professional finish.

• 1

  Build the frame for the glass block wall out of lumber. Because you cannot cut glass blocks, measure the area for the glass wall carefully. Allow the recommended space for the glass block spacers and expansion strips both horizontally and vertically. The wood used in the frame must be wide enough to support the glass blocks, which are either 3 or 4 inches thick. Make sure that all sides of the frame are level and plumb. Attach the frame to the adjacent walls, floor and ceiling with screws anchored in the studs or floor/ceiling joists.

• 2

  Use tin snips to cut the perimeter channels to fit into the frame. Place 1-inch flat-head screws in the holes in the perimeter channels and use a screwdriver to secure the channels in the center of the frame on the middle and two side sections. Cut the channel for the top of the frame in half lengthwise and attach one side of the channel to the top of the frame.

• 3

  Mix white premix mortar according to the package directions. The mortar should stick to the side of the glass block and not fall off. The mortar needs to be fairly dry but not crumbly. Mix the mortar in small batches for the best results.

• 4

  Set a block into the bottom channel and slide it all the way to the left. Set another block into the bottom channel and push it all the way to the right. Do not use mortar on any side of the blocks that come in contact with the channels.

• 5

  Add 3/8 to 1/2 inch of mortar to the side of a block. Set it in the bottom channel and slide it up against one of the set blocks. Push the two blocks together until they are only ¼-inch apart. Set a spacer on top of the two blocks. Continue this process until the bottom row, or course, is set. Use a brush to wipe off any excess mortar from both sides of the blocks and to fill in gaps.

• 6

  Place 3/8 to 1/2 inch of mortar on top of the first course of blocks. Do not get mortar in the glass block spacers. Set the right-hand block of the second course in the perimeter channel and repeat with the left-hand block. Compress the horizontal layer of mortar to a ¼-inch depth. Continue setting the second course with mortar placed vertically between the blocks.

• 7

  Work your way up the wall using the process described in Steps 4 through 6. Periodically use the level to make sure each block aligns with the block above it. Make sure each course is level as well. If necessary, push the blocks deeper into the mortar to help level them. Slide the other half of the top perimeter channel into position in the damp mortar.

• 8

  Wipe the glass blocks with a damp sponge to clean off any mortar residue.

• 9

  Swipe the striker tool across the horizontal joints to give them a uniform appearance. Next, run it along the vertical joints. Repeat the process for the other side of the wall. Allow the mortar to dry according the length of time recommended by the manufacturer.

• 10

  Use a caulk gun to apply glass sealant to the perimeter of the glass wall where the perimeter channels and the glass blocks meet. In addition to providing a seal, this holds the unattached top channel in position permanently. Allow the glass sealant to dry.

• 11

  Cut wooden molding, if desired, to fit around the glass wall's frame with a handsaw. Attach it to the frame with finishing nails. Paint or stain the frame and molding to match your interior decor.