Doesn't matter if it's a glass block window or a regular window, building code requires tempered glass around tubs and showers. We got questioned on it here in central Indiana and our window supplier had already taken care of it.

I have a window in my new shower. During my review with the building inspector, there was some discussion about the need for it being tempered, but I seem to remember that because the window was at a certain height, it didn't have to be tempered. In the end, I used an ACRYLIC block window instead of glass, so the point became moot. Have you already bought the window? Could you use acrylic block instead?

Joe

Joe, were the acrylic blocks purchased loose or set in a window already? Does it look the same as glass block? I have not seen acrylic. I have already bought the glass blocks.

The contractor did not point out to me that this could be an issue. I guess ultimately it's down on the home owner and I now feel like a fool for not thinking of this but I've seen so many photos of glass blocks in bathrooms that this did not occur to me!

Bill V - you're hot on code stuff, any thoughts?

I love the look of glass block. I didn't think about the glass being tempered. I once had the idea of putting glass block in our window wells of a 50's style ranch house. It was a fire hazard because it would prevent the window from opening. Maybe building inspectors just don't like glass block. I do. Maybe the acrylic block will work in this case. Good luck.

The acrylic block window I got is a functional awning style window, complete from the factory in a vinyl frame. It's designed for new construction, but I just cut the nailing flange off and presto, it's a remodel unit! The manufacturer's name is Hy-Lite. I ordered it from the Home Depot special order desk, after I convinced the third store that they could get it. Here's a pic, still under construction

They have all kinds of styles available in standard and custom sizes, and a handful of patterns. A friend of mine installed a 4' x 6' awning window in his bathroom, and it's fantastic! I recommend 'em.

Joe

Thanks Joe! Looks like your bathroom is shaping up very nicely.

If anyone is following this thread and considering glass block in CA, I did some research at the weekend at the library and consulted the California Building Code. I found what looks like some 'exceptions' and glass block seems to be one of them if my interpretation is correct. We shall see ....

We used an acrylic glass block in our master bath shower too. At first I was a little disappointed that it wasn't tempered glass, but it looks just fine. We're in No VA if that makes any difference.

The research I did seems to agree with your interpretation.
Good luck. We have glass block in our shower and we love it.

Here is a link that might be useful: Glass bloc and building codes