Install a glass block window

Over the years, the window above a bathtub in an older home succumbs to moisture; its wooden frame and sill rot away. Replacing the window with a glass block unit designed for the job is a good solution because it allows light in from the outside while providing privacy inside. The replacement unit is an all-in-one, preconstructed glass block window laid up and framed into easy-to-install vinyl jambs. They come in dozens of standard sizes, and you’ll find them where building materials are sold at lumber yards and home centers.

The job involves removing the old window, sizing the rough opening to the proper dimensions, fastening the block window in place, and reinstalling interior and exterior molding. Most of the work is done from the interior side of the wall so you don’t have to work outside from a ladder.

A contractor will charge $612 to replace an old window with a new 32-inch-by-24-inch glass block unit. If you have carpentry experience and tools, you can buy it for $285, install it, and pocket a 53 percent saving. Plan to budget more time and money if the siding and framing around the old window frame is damaged and requires rebuilding.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Pro Cost -- DIY Cost -- Pro time -- DIY Time -- DIY Savings -- Percent Saved

$612 -- $285 -- 6.9 -- 11.0 -- $327 -- 53 Percent

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