Maintain Your Privacy Without Giving Up The Advantages Of Windows: Two Options To Consider

Placing a window inside a bathroom isn't always as simple as it may seem. In fact, bathrooms are often left unequipped with windows due to concerns over lack of privacy. In some bathrooms, a window may be provided, but it is often a narrow casement window located near the ceiling. This type of window often admits insufficient light and does not permit easy viewing for home occupants. However, there are other options for homeowners who want to maintain privacy in their bathrooms yet add the light-giving characteristics provided by windows. Below is more information about the advantages offered by two types of windows that can be installed in a bathroom:

Glass blocks

A glass block window is a retro-appearing option that also offers a lot of practical value to homeowners. Here are a few advantages you can obtain by having your bathroom windows constructed from glass blocks:

• High insulating value - glass block windows possess an R-Value more than twice as high as single-pane glass windows. This means that the resistance to heat transmission provided by glass blocks is vastly superior to ordinary sheet glass. Hollow glass blocks containing argon gas instead of ordinary air are even better at reducing heat transmission, and they have an added benefit of reducing sound levels, too.
• Excellent privacy and security - additional benefits achieved by using glass blocks are higher levels of privacy and security. Glass block windows distort and diffuse shapes so you are shielded from outside observers. They also provide strong protection from intruders and vandalism; glass blocks are difficult to break, and most would-be burglars would choose an easier window to target.
• Lots of options and versatility - glass blocks can be configured in almost any shape you desire. If a rectangular or square window isn't your style, the blocks can be arranged in an alternative fashion such as diamond or round patterns. In addition, glass blocks are available in different colors so creating mosaic patterns is another way to express your individual taste.

Frosted or etched glass

Another option for bathroom windows is the use of frosted or etched glass. Frosted glass is made by applying etching chemicals that permanently diffuse the surface of ordinary sheet glass. Frosted glass offers you the following advantages:

• Potential for creating a personal touch - frosted glass allows homeowners to achieve a decorative effect that belongs solely to them. By using patterns applied to the untouched glass before the etching process, sophisticated and elegant designs can be created. The etching process can be completed prior to window installation or afterward, depending upon the homeowner's wishes.
• Functionality isn't sacrificed - if you prefer the advantages offered by having a conventional window, such as the ability to open and close it, then frosted glass permits you to have that option while still maintaining privacy. Both manufacturer-built and custom-made windows can be altered by etching, and there is no need to sacrifice your style for the sake of practicality.
• Balance between visibility and privacy - since glass blocks provide a completely distorted view from both inside and outside the window, they are not ideal for those who wish to be able to see out the window. However, by etching the glass in strategic locations, it is easy to provide homeowners with both visibility to the outside and privacy for the inside.
• Affordability - etching is a low-cost process that does not require much in the way of resources. Etching chemicals are readily-available, and patterns can be found online for little or no cost. You can even create your own patterns for etching glass, if you wish, but assistance is available from custom glass installers and others who work with glass for a living. For more information on custom glass, try visiting http://www.wildwoodglasscompany.com.