Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about glass block windows, installation, maintenance, warranties, or payment? We’ve answered some of the most common questions homeowners, contractors, and businesses ask Security Glass Block so you can feel confident before starting your project.
Helpful Answers Before Your Glass Block Project
Most of our clients are not typically an expert in glass block windows, shower walls, panel fabrication or installation – and that’s okay.
That’s why we’re here! Don’t worry, you’re not the only one with questions. Here is a list of some of the common questions (and answers) customers ask us. We welcome your questions and comments, so keep them coming!
For any questions that were not answered in this section, please call us at 414-453-9110. We look forward to working with you!
What areas does Security Glass Block serve?
Although the majority of our jobs are within a 20 – 30 mile radius of our facility (located in Waukesha near Menards, Home Depot, and Sam’s Club), we have installed glass block in other areas such as: Madison, Platteville, Sheboygan, Janesville, Racine, and Kenosha. Depending on the scope of your project, we will happily consider traveling outside our typical radius.
If I would like an estimate, do I need to be home when you measure my window(s)?
No. Many of our customers work during the day and cannot be home. Most of our measurements are done from the outside and do not require us to get inside. If your project requires us to get inside, we will schedule an appointment to meet.
What is Security Glass Block's warranty?
We offer an industry best 10-year craftsmanship and materials warranty. Damage to products or the work caused by vandalism, accidents, or Acts of God, are excluded from this warranty. This guarantee is specified in the installation contract and on the back of your invoice given upon completion of the installation.
If a single glass block is broken, is the entire window ruined?
Absolutely not! Don’t let other companies tell you that the entire window needs to be replaced. If a stone from a snow blower or lawnmower, a hammer blow by a vandal, or another random event breaks a single block in a window, we are able to remove the broken block and install a new block in the opening. There are situations where it makes sense to replace the entire window but give us a call and we can have a conversation and talk about your options.
Do I need air vents?
No, but we ask customers to consider their situation and needs when considering air vents. If you want cross ventilation, a couple air vents located on various walls will offer that. If you ever have an emergency situation in which you’d need to get a sump pump hose or electrical cord out the window, air vents allow for that. Adding air vent(s) to your window(s) is cheaper upfront than having us back to install the air vent(s) after the window(s) have been installed.
Do I need to leave one of my basement windows without glass block for egress and code compliance?
If your basement is used as a bedroom, the Wisconsin Department of Commerce Uniform Building Codes (21.03 (5) par. B) requires that there be a provision for escape in the event of a fire. If, however, your basement is not used as a bedroom, you may install glass block in all the windows.
Approximately how long will it take to install my glass block window(s)?
Although every job is unique, on average, it takes us approximately 45-60 minutes per basement window to install. Bathroom and garage windows take approximately 60-90 minutes per window to install. Commercial, warehouse, and manufacturing facility installation times will vary depending on the size, complexity, and window location (how high the windows are off the ground).
When do I pay and what type of payment do you accept?
We do not require a down payment. Upon completion of the work, we accept cash, checks, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. A card payment has an additional 3.5% processing fee. We collect a credit card number when scheduling your installation to hold your installation date, but we will not run the card unless you choose that form of payment.
Do I need to be home for the installation?
We do require inside access the day of installation. Ideally, the customer is present so we can do a walk through to address any questions or concerns. If you can’t be home, we can do the “walk through” over the phone and you could provide a key location or lock box code for us to get in. The installers need a clear path to both the inside and outside of the work area as well as a few feet around the area to install (excludes washer/dryer/permanent fixtures). If you have shelving/tables in front of the windows, please remove any items from those places. We ask that your wells be free of dirt and debris and you remove any window well coverings prior to installation.
How should I care for my glass block windows?
Glass block windows are low maintenance. If you choose to clean them, always inspect them before cleaning. Use a damp microfiber cloth/sponge to wipe the windows clean. If you have window wells, keep them free from debris (trash/leaves/soil), and ensure they have proper drainage (4”-6” of stone in the bottom, below the bottom of the window) to prevent water from accumulating.
Are your installers employees of Security Glass Block or subcontractors?
All of our installation technicians are employees of Security Glass Block. We do not use any subcontractors to install our glass block windows or panels.
Is Security Glass Block insured?
Yes, we are fully insured and can provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) upon request.
“I would highly recommend them. Security Glass Block was efficient and also more cost effective than several competitors. The people here are extremely friendly and easy to deal with when we had them come out and install some material on our job site.”
Rico Lopez
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