Frequently Asked Questions
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HydroBlok
What is HydroBlok?
The HydroBlok Shower Waterproofing System features a closed-cell XPS foam core and custom-engineered polymer-modified cement coating. Once installed using HydroBlok's Joint Sealant, you get a fully waterproofed line of shower pans, wallboards, and accessories that are lightweight, strong and ready for your tile or stone creations and all backed by HydroBlok's industry-leading lifetime warranty. HydroBlok products are ICC-ES certified and ready to tile or water test immediately after install. Quick, easy and a lifetime warranty!
Is HydroBlok waterproof, or does it need another waterproofing layer?
HydroBlok’s shower-system components are designed to form a waterproof assembly when installed with the specified joint sealant and details. An ordinary shower generally does not call for an additional waterproof coating over the complete system. Steam showers have additional vapor-control requirements; follow HydroBlok’s steam-shower guidance for those projects.
How is a HydroBlok shower pan installed?
Installation begins with a sound, properly prepared substrate and the correct pan and drain for the layout. The installer sets the pan, connects the drain, installs the adjoining wallboard and curb as specified, and treats every required seam and penetration according to the guide for that pan model. Follow that model’s full instructions for materials, sequence, and testing.
Do HydroBlok shower pans already slope toward the drain?
Yes. HydroBlok offers CNC-cut pre-sloped shower pans designed to direct water toward their intended drain location. Select the pan and drain configuration that fits the shower layout, and install it on the substrate specified in its instructions.
Can HydroBlok be used for a curbless or low-profile shower?
HydroBlok offers low-profile and single-slope pan options for designs with a reduced entry height. Whether a particular shower can be curbless depends on the pan, drain, floor structure, available recess, and finished-floor elevations. Review those measurements before selecting the system.
Can HydroBlok be used in a steam shower?
Yes, with the additional construction and vapor-control details required for the steam-shower application. HydroBlok's VaporBlok is a ready-to-use elastomeric waterproofing and crack isolation membrane that cures to form a durable, rubber-like barrier beneath tile to meet steam-shower code requirements. HydroBlok publishes separate steam room and shower guidelines that refer to the applicable TCNA methods. Do not treat the instructions for an ordinary shower as the complete specification for a steam shower; verify the current product instructions and project requirements.
How are HydroBlok seams and corners waterproofed?
Use the manufacturer-specified joint sealant and follow the instructions for each pan-to-wall, wall-to-wall, curb, drain, and penetration detail. Some details also call for mesh tape embedded in sealant. The exact treatment matters because the waterproof system depends on its connections as well as its panels. In most cases seam tape is required on all joints that connect to the shower pan.
Can a HydroBlok shower be flood tested?
Yes. HydroBlok’s installation resources describe flood-testing procedures and drain-plug details. Follow the guide for the selected pan, the sealant instructions, and the inspection requirements for the project before tiling. Water testing is always highly suggested. Simply use the HydroBlok-supplied water test ball.
What tile can be installed over a HydroBlok shower pan?
HydroBlok pans are intended as a tile or stone substrate, but the tile size and setting materials must meet the instructions for the chosen pan. Small floor tile has additional grout requirements in HydroBlok’s published instructions; check those requirements before selecting mosaics or another tile smaller than 2 by 2 inches.
Can HydroBlok wallboard be cut to fit a shower?
Yes. HydroBlok says its wallboard can be cut with common tools, including a utility knife, hand saw, or small circular saw. After cutting, install and seal the board’s joints, edges, fasteners, and penetrations as the applicable guide requires.
Does HydroBlok offer a linear-drain shower pan?
Yes. HydroBlok offers single-slope and thin single-slope pan installation methods for use with HydroBlok's linear drain. The drain, pan, substrate, and waterproof connections must be detailed as one compatible assembly.
Does HydroBlok have a warranty?
Yes. HydroBlok offers the ONLY lifetime warranty in the shower waterproofing industry. HydroBlok describes its shower system as backed by a limited lifetime warranty. The only limitation to the warranty is that it must be installed to HydroBlok's specifications. HydroBlok conducts quarterly install workshops to educate contractors on proper install process. See the Project Showcase for a list of HydroBlok-certified contractors.
Glass Block
What can glass block be used for?
Glass block windows, walls and shower walls are most common in both residential and commercial projects. Glass block can bring natural light into windows, shower walls, room dividers, exterior walls, and other architectural features. The right block and installation system depend on whether the project is indoors or outdoors, its size, and its requirements for privacy, energy performance, or fire resistance.
Does glass block provide privacy while letting in light?
Yes. Patterned, frosted, and sandblasted glass blocks diffuse light and obscure views to different degrees. Privacy varies by the specific pattern and finish, so visit our showroom to see the patterns in person.
Can glass block be used for a shower wall?
Yes. Glass block can form a shower enclosure or partition that admits light and provides privacy. Select blocks and finished-edge pieces for the design, then detail the base, joints, adjoining wall, and waterproofing as part of the complete shower assembly.
What sizes do glass blocks come in?
Glass block comes in multiple square and rectangular formats, with different thicknesses. Check the actual dimensions of the selected product before designing the opening: its nominal size may differ from its measured size, and the completed panel also includes joints and perimeter allowances. See the Glass Block section for more on size options.
How do you calculate the size of a glass block window or wall?
Calculate the panel from the actual block dimensions, the number of blocks in each direction, and the joint width required by the chosen installation system. Then account separately for the perimeter expansion and connection details before setting the rough opening. Sierra Glass Block can prepare a 3D model layout using the exact block and installation method selected for the project for review and approval of dimensions prior to purchase.
Can glass block be installed in an exterior window?
Yes. Glass block can be used in exterior openings when the chosen product and complete installation meet the project’s structural, weather, energy, and local code requirements. The perimeter connection and water management are as important as the block itself. Sierra Glass Block will help guide you on your exterior window to include a 3D model to check specs prior to purchase.
Is glass block energy efficient?
Yes. Energy performance depends on the specific block and assembly. We carry glass block designed for improved thermal performance, including energy-saving glass blocks. For an exterior project, compare the selected product’s published thermal data with the applicable energy requirements rather than assuming all glass blocks perform alike.
Is glass block fire rated?
Yes. Choose from 45-, 60-, 90- or 120-minute fire-rated glass block, as well as bullet-resistant and hurricane-resistant glass block. Ordinary glass block should not be assumed to be fire rated. We carry designated fire-resistant glass block with published classifications. A required rating depends on the exact block, tested wall assembly, installation details, and the authority reviewing the project.
Is a glass block wall load bearing?
No. A standard architectural glass block partition should not be designed to carry building loads. Structural support must be provided as specified for the selected system. Have the designer or engineer review any project where loads, large spans, or unusual support conditions are involved.
What is the difference between mortar and other glass block installation systems?
Glass block installers have the option of the mortar system or the vinyl & silicone system. Both have their benefits. The vinyl system doesn't require special skills like the mortar system does. Traditional installation uses joints, reinforcement, and perimeter details specified for the wall. Other manufacturer systems use dedicated profiles or components and may produce a different joint appearance. Choose a system before finalizing dimensions because joint widths, compatible blocks, and installation details vary.
Are there glass blocks for finished shower-wall edges and corners?
Yes. Certain product lines include end, double-end, and other specialty shapes for exposed edges or changes in direction. Confirm that the specialty pieces match the selected block’s pattern, size, thickness, and installation system before approving the layout. Sierra Glass Block will provide you with a 3D model including finished edges for review and approval prior to purchase.
Can glass block be used in a floor?
Yes, but not glass block — horizontal glass pavers are designed for horizontal placement. Only glass products and assemblies specifically designed for horizontal use should be considered for a floor. Floor design requires evaluation of loads, support, slip resistance, and the manufacturer’s installation requirements. A standard wall block should not be substituted for a floor product. See the Inspiration page for real-life images of horizontal glass pavers.
Glass Floors & Stairs
Are structural glass floors safe to walk on?
Yes. Our structural glass floors and stair treads are laminated safety glass, custom fabricated to your load requirements, with anti-slip surface finishes available. Each system is built from your drawings for the specific span and use.
Can glass stairs and floors meet building code?
Yes. Our structural glass systems are code-compliant for most jurisdictions. We provide load ratings and technical documentation for your submittals and can coordinate with your engineer so the design meets your local requirements.
What is the typical lead time on a glass floor system?
Glass floors and stair treads are special-order products, custom designed and fabricated to spec. Lead times are typically several weeks depending on size and project scope — contact our Sacramento team for a schedule on your project.
Do you provide engineering for structural glass?
We work from your drawings and specified PSF load requirements, provide load-rating documentation for submittals, and coordinate directly with your engineer or general contractor through fabrication.
Service Area
Do you serve the Bay Area or Southern California?
Yes — we supply projects throughout the West Coast. Orders can be picked up or shipped anywhere.
What areas do you cover?
Our products go into projects across the West Coast. Available for pickup or delivery. Visit our Sacramento showroom to pick up your glass block or HydroBlok Shower Waterproofing Systems.
Can I pick up my order?
Yes. All orders are available for local pickup at our Sacramento showroom at 8230 Belvedere Ave, Ste E. We are open Monday through Friday 7:30am to 3:30pm. Contact us to confirm availability before pickup.