Wall Panels of Different Kinds Transform Interiors

Wall panels can cover existing bare walls of brick and concrete and provide you interiors that are far more pleasing to live and work in. Alternatively, wall panels can create complete new walls. They come in different materials, forms and properties. The range is increasing along with the development of relevant technologies.

A Look at the varied Kinds of Wall Panels

There are the traditional wood plank wall panels that provide a rustic and rough-hewn look to dwellings. There are also luxurious wood panels made of polished oak and expensive wood like teak and rosewood that can provide a great look to the interiors of commercial establishments and residential mansions.

Aluminum, plastics, composites and other materials are replacing wood in modern walls. These materials eliminate the problems of wood such as accumulation of difficult-to-remove dirt, dampness, insect attacks and high maintenance costs.

Wall panels can create complete walls, as curtain walls do, or be installed to cover existing walls.

Curtain walls are non-load-bearing walls often made of transparent or translucent materials like glass or plastics. Loads are borne in these buildings by other structural elements like frames and columns, with the walls bearing only their own weight. Curtain walls can create superb effects and provide thermal and solar control.

Lighter wall panels can be installed over existing brick or other walls using nails, staples or glue. Nails are best on wooden surfaces, staples for when wooden battening is used and glue for even, dry, grease-free walls. Where walls are damp or uneven, treated-wood battening is fixed first on the walls and the wall panels are fixed to these. End profiles are used to finish the ends. Use of battening allows space for cables for power supply and communication.

Translucent plastic wall panels can allow in daylight creating a pleasing interior effect. Made with plastics, these panels can incorporate useful properties, such as filtering harmful UV rays and insulating against heat and noise. Energy savings can result as natural daylight replaces artificial lighting and heat insulation prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Aluminum, steel and composites can provide desired structural qualities in addition to pleasing appearance and lesser maintenance needs.

Modern materials have made it possible to produce wall panels in different colors, shapes, sizes and thickness to create desired effects or meet special requirements.

Wall panels have indeed come a long way since the days of pine wood planks.

Conclusion

Wall panels can be standalone walls like curtain walls or coverings over existing walls to beautify them and/or provide other benefits. Wall panels made with modern materials like aluminum, plastics and composites can eliminate the problems of wooden panels, such as accumulation of difficult-to-remove dirt, proneness to rot and the need for regular maintenance.

Modern materials can also create wall panels to meet special requirements and create special effects, such as extra thick walls or translucent walls that allows in natural daylight but not harmful UV rays.

Fitting the wall panels can also be done in different ways to suit existing structures.

Tag : wall,wall decor,wall design,wall panels

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/wall-panels-of-different-kinds-transform-interiors-277899.html

Wall Panels of Different Kinds Transform Interiors

Wall panels can cover existing bare walls of brick and concrete and provide you interiors that are far more pleasing to live and work in. Alternatively, wall panels can create complete new walls. They come in different materials, forms and properties. The range is increasing along with the development of relevant technologies.

A Look at the varied Kinds of Wall Panels

There are the traditional wood plank wall panels that provide a rustic and rough-hewn look to dwellings. There are also luxurious wood panels made of polished oak and expensive wood like teak and rosewood that can provide a great look to the interiors of commercial establishments and residential mansions.

Aluminum, plastics, composites and other materials are replacing wood in modern walls. These materials eliminate the problems of wood such as accumulation of difficult-to-remove dirt, dampness, insect attacks and high maintenance costs.

Wall panels can create complete walls, as curtain walls do, or be installed to cover existing walls.

Curtain walls are non-load-bearing walls often made of transparent or translucent materials like glass or plastics. Loads are borne in these buildings by other structural elements like frames and columns, with the walls bearing only their own weight. Curtain walls can create superb effects and provide thermal and solar control.

Lighter wall panels can be installed over existing brick or other walls using nails, staples or glue. Nails are best on wooden surfaces, staples for when wooden battening is used and glue for even, dry, grease-free walls. Where walls are damp or uneven, treated-wood battening is fixed first on the walls and the wall panels are fixed to these. End profiles are used to finish the ends. Use of battening allows space for cables for power supply and communication.

Translucent plastic wall panels can allow in daylight creating a pleasing interior effect. Made with plastics, these panels can incorporate useful properties, such as filtering harmful UV rays and insulating against heat and noise. Energy savings can result as natural daylight replaces artificial lighting and heat insulation prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Aluminum, steel and composites can provide desired structural qualities in addition to pleasing appearance and lesser maintenance needs.

Modern materials have made it possible to produce wall panels in different colors, shapes, sizes and thickness to create desired effects or meet special requirements.

Wall panels have indeed come a long way since the days of pine wood planks.

Conclusion

Wall panels can be standalone walls like curtain walls or coverings over existing walls to beautify them and/or provide other benefits. Wall panels made with modern materials like aluminum, plastics and composites can eliminate the problems of wooden panels, such as accumulation of difficult-to-remove dirt, proneness to rot and the need for regular maintenance.

Modern materials can also create wall panels to meet special requirements and create special effects, such as extra thick walls or translucent walls that allows in natural daylight but not harmful UV rays.

Fitting the wall panels can also be done in different ways to suit existing structures.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/wall-panels-of-different-kinds-transform-interiors-277899.html

How to Install Your Wall Mural

Congratulations! You decided to have a beautiful Wall Mural installed in your family room wall. You cannot wait to have this exquisite addition transform the entire look of your room, and who could blame you? Knowing you want a desert scene complete with cacti, mountains, and a beautiful cloud-filled sky, you chose Organ Pipe State Park, a breathtaking photograph indeed.

The family room is a great location for your Wall Mural. The wall you chose is one most easily seen when entering the room. Even better, it doesn’t even have many electrical outlets on it. Having already purchased the Wall Mural, you are now wondering about the cost of professional installation. You want to save money, right? Excellent. Well then, invite a buddy over, roll up your sleeves and set aside a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. You can even keep the game on while you install the Wall Mural yourself! Similar to hanging wallpaper, installing your Wall Mural really is not difficult.

Before you begin your project, be sure to unroll and inspect the Wall Mural panels. Be sure all the pieces are present and in good condition. To achieve the best results, please don’t wing it. Instead, consult the manufacturer's instructions. Keep them at hand and re-consult them as needed.

Prior to hanging, make sure that family room wall is clean and flat. Fix any holes or dents in the wall if there are any. Wash the wall with a mild, soapy water to remove dust and dirt. Then rinse with cool clean water on a sponge or cloth. Allow the wall to air dry completely before you start.

Now you need to determine the exact place on the wall where you will start to hang the first panel of the Wall Mural. Using a plumb bob, you can make a straight chalk line.

Select the first panel. This piece should be the upper left hand corner of the Wall Mural. On a flat clean surface, roll out the panel with the picture side down. Now apply a thin, even coat of wallpaper paste along the entire backside. Next, carefully roll the panel up inside out and let the piece lay undisturbed for a few minutes. This will help prevent it from curling when you are applying it to the wall itself.
After a few minutes, you can apply the Wall Mural panel to the intended spot marked on your wall. Position the left edge of the panel along the straight chalk line you made with the plumb bob. Carefully unroll it while aligning it with the line. Once in place, use a damp sponge or finishing brush and gently push any air pockets that may be trapped under the panel. Use gentle, sweeping movements to remove the air pockets without harming the Wall Mural image. Firmly press down on the outer edges to assure adherence of the panel to the wall.

The next panel you choose should be the one that goes directly beneath the first one. You’ll notice there is a small amount of overlap for each panel. This is to help you align the Wall Mural panels together easily yet precisely.

Now simply repeat the above process over again with each adjoining panel of the Wall Mural. Once you have the entire image hung, gently wipe over the entire Wall Mural with a damp cloth or sponge. This helps the wallpaper paste to adhere uniformly. It also helps to remove the excess paste that drips out.

Now you must allow the Wall Mural to air dry completely. Once dried, check all the seams, making sure they are glued down properly. If necessary, use some additional paste to seal any loose edges.

Well, what do you know? Your Wall Mural has transformed your family room into a beautiful rendition of Organ Pipe State Park! Wasn’t that easy?

Tag : Wall,Wall Mural,Wall Decor,Wall Paper,Wall Design

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Herbik

Using Pre-made Glass Block Panels For a Shower Wall Or Partition

Creating a beautiful glass block wall for a shower or partition in a home or commercial building no longer requires being a veteran mason contractor or tile setter. Starting with common-sense design steps and prefabricated glass panels the process has been simplified dramatically for those who don't tackle this type of project on a daily basis.

Learn 5 1/2 practical steps to move you from an initial design concept through a successfully completed glass block wall installation.

Step 1 - Determine where you want to use the wall - One benefit of a block wall is it's durability, strength, and thickness. Since the blocks for wall projects range from 3 1/8" to 3 7/8" thicknesses they can be used on both the inside and the outside for a wide variety of applications. Some of the more popular uses inside include shower enclosures and stalls, conference room walls, and partitions to separate work and living spaces. Externally these glass block walls can be used as a straight or rounded part of the home or building's structure or as free standing separations for privacy walls between yards or to create a private outdoor living space with unique style.

Step 2 - Design and determine the size and shape of the wall - Although there is virtually no limit to the size of a block wall, the size and shape will often drive the preferred construction method. Here are a few decisions to make regarding your wall:

How wide and tall do you want the walls? When the walls are greater than approximately 15 feet wide or tall there can be the need for wall supports within the structure. Also the size of the structure will be needed to figure the correct amount of anchors and wall reinforcement material required.

Will the wall have a special shape or be straight in design? There are now specially shaped blocks to make rounded walls, angled walls, or even assemblies that stair-step down in 8" size increments.

Step 3 - Identify special features you want for your glass block wall - You want the wall to function for your specific needs and application. The good thing is the blocks are not a "one size fits all" product. Listed below are special feature blocks you may want to consider for your project:

Enhanced security blocks - Some block units come with thicker inside walls that make them extremely difficult to knock out. A standard block has a face thickness of 3/8", but there are specialty units that are ¾" thick and also one block that is a 3" solid glass brick.

Increased privacy blocks - Whether you're building a home or commercial building there are some spaces where you may want to have the combination of excellent light transmission and high privacy - for these uses there are high privacy blocks.

Extended fire ratings - Standard blocks provide a 45 minute fire rating. For increased safety there are also 60 and 90 minute block assemblies that can be used for tight spaces between buildings and homes.

Combining accessibility and safety - A glass block shower or partition wall is durable because of it's thickness and safe for increased accessibility situations because of it's smooth glass faces.

Step 4 - Add unique pattern, color, etched or lighting feature for a one of kind design - Why have a generic wall when you can add features that will make your design distinctive and customized with your specific interests, tastes, and decorating in mind. In the beginning blocks came in one pattern and size - fortunately this no longer the case. Here are some design options to consider:

Colored glass blocks for a wall - whether you want a vibrant or more muted earth tone color, standard and custom colors can now be added to any size, pattern, or shaped block.

Etched glass wall - Personalization has never been more attainable or cost effective than with the computerized laser etching process available today. Add a custom image or standard etched design into one block, or combine a group of blocks to create a distinctive mural. It's possible to etch your hobby, family picture, nature scene or any image into blocks - very cool and affordable and available in smaller order quantities as well.

Pattern - Using multiple block patterns (note: the patterns are on the inside of block for easy cleaning) you can create stripes, borders, or individual block accents within an entire wall structure.

Lighting - Move light through the glass block wall with either simple rope type lighting behind the wall to sophisticated fiber optic or even lighting systems that can be hidden inside the glass block shower curb like was done by a remodeling contractor in Minnesota.

Step 5 - Have the walls prefabricated to save time, money, and improve your finished quality - In the old days blocks were installed in a painstaking and time consuming process with a mason laying one block with mortar, leveling it, laying another block, leveling it etc. Since these block units are made of glass vs. standard cement-based masonry materials like bricks or blocks they do not dry as fast and are generally considered more difficult to install than a traditional brick or block. With the invention of spacers and prefabricated glass block wall sections the process has come out of the stone ages and into the 21st century. Using a vinyl stack spacer system you can now install these glass block prefabricated wall sections and anchor them to adjoining walls for support bypassing the need for the long and difficult block by block method. Here are the steps for the pre-made wall section process:

Compute the overall size of the wall (width x height).

Contact a glass block panel fabricating company to help you determine how big to have them make the wall sections. Some considerations for the size of the wall sections are where the wall is located, if one or more people will be installing the sections, and the actual design and shape of the wall. (Note: Since these sections are made with the vinyl spacers and specialized silicone to join them together they can be shipped safely).

Set the first vinyl stack premade wall section in a bed of mortar to the base. Level and plumb the section and anchor it to an adjoining wall. Apply specialized glass block silicone wall sealant to the top of the horizontal vinyl strips.

Set your next wall section on top of the first section. Repeat the additional steps above.

Finish off the spaces (joints) between the blocks with either mortar, tile grout, or a glass block silicone sealant.

Step 5 1/2 - How to coordinate this wall or shower project if you don't want to do the work yourself - if don't have the time or want to have a professional contractors installation warranty on the block work, you can either order the wall sections directly from a qualified vinyl stack glass block wall manufacturing company or have your contractor work directly with the wall supplier. Try to make sure the premade wall supplier has installation expertise so they can guide you and your contractor on both the design and structural considerations of your custom wall.

There are also some companies that can actually provide a custom or standard shower base that can match up exactly with your prefabricated glass block shower wall as well (some of these bases come ready for the tile floor and other bases are made of acrylic and don't require any additional finishing material to go over them).

Now that you're equipped with these 5 1/2 steps you're ready to order your glass block wall for a shower or partition in your home or business.

Tag : wall,wall decor,bathroom wall,shower wall,wall design

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Foti

How To Install Your Wall Mural

Congratulations! You decided to have a beautiful Wall Mural installed in your family room wall. You cannot wait to have this exquisite addition transform the entire look of your room, and who could blame you? Knowing you want a desert scene complete with cacti, mountains, and a beautiful cloud-filled sky, you chose Organ Pipe State Park, a breathtaking photograph indeed.

The family room is a great location for your Wall Mural. The wall you chose is one most easily seen when entering the room. Even better, it doesn’t even have many electrical outlets on it. Having already purchased the Wall Mural, you are now wondering about the cost of professional installation. You want to save money, right? Excellent. Well then, invite a buddy over, roll up your sleeves and set aside a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. You can even keep the game on while you install the Wall Mural yourself! Similar to hanging wallpaper, installing your Wall Mural really is not difficult.

Before you begin your project, be sure to unroll and inspect the Wall Mural panels. Be sure all the pieces are present and in good condition. To achieve the best results, please don’t wing it. Instead, consult the manufacturer's instructions. Keep them at hand and re-consult them as needed.

Prior to hanging, make sure that family room wall is clean and flat. Fix any holes or dents in the wall if there are any. Wash the wall with a mild, soapy water to remove dust and dirt. Then rinse with cool clean water on a sponge or cloth. Allow the wall to air dry completely before you start.

Now you need to determine the exact place on the wall where you will start to hang the first panel of the Wall Mural. Using a plumb bob, you can make a straight chalk line.

Select the first panel. This piece should be the upper left hand corner of the Wall Mural. On a flat clean surface, roll out the panel with the picture side down. Now apply a thin, even coat of wallpaper paste along the entire backside. Next, carefully roll the panel up inside out and let the piece lay undisturbed for a few minutes. This will help prevent it from curling when you are applying it to the wall itself.

After a few minutes, you can apply the Wall Mural panel to the intended spot marked on your wall. Position the left edge of the panel along the straight chalk line you made with the plumb bob. Carefully unroll it while aligning it with the line. Once in place, use a damp sponge or finishing brush and gently push any air pockets that may be trapped under the panel. Use gentle, sweeping movements to remove the air pockets without harming the Wall Mural image. Firmly press down on the outer edges to assure adherence of the panel to the wall.

The next panel you choose should be the one that goes directly beneath the first one. You’ll notice there is a small amount of overlap for each panel. This is to help you align the Wall Mural panels together easily yet precisely.

Now simply repeat the above process over again with each adjoining panel of the Wall Mural. Once you have the entire image hung, gently wipe over the entire Wall Mural with a damp cloth or sponge. This helps the wallpaper paste to adhere uniformly. It also helps to remove the excess paste that drips out.

You must allow the entire Wall Mural to air dry completely. Once dried, check all the seams, making sure they are glued down properly. If necessary, use some additional paste to seal any loose edges.

Well, what do you know? Your Wall Mural has transformed your family room into a beautiful rendition of Organ Pipe State Park! Wasn’t that easy?

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=102930&ca=Home+Management

Glass Block Wall and Bar Sizes For Design and Installation Success

"Why can't designing and installing a glass block wall or bar be as easy as putting together Lego blocks," a customer once asked. Although it's not that easy, with the new shapes, sizes, prefabrication techniques and installation accessories available today this unique glass wall product is being used increasingly in homes, businesses and commercial buildings. Follow these 5 steps and you'll be able to create a cool, stylish, and easy to maintain wall or bar.

Step 1) Where do you want to use your glass block wall or bar? How big do you want to make the wall?

These specialized glass walls can be used on the inside, within the exterior structure of the home or building, or even on the outside. Most common uses include partition walls to separate rooms, shower walls, and bars for the kitchen and recreation rooms. When you are designing and determining the materials needed for this project the size and shape of the wall are critical.

o glass block bar sizes & shapes - Most bars are built 40" high (5 courses of 8" blocks stacked on top of each other). The countertop is installed after the block work is finished. For extra stability and cool design consider making your bar with either an "L shaped" or angled shape design or rounded (radius) look. The bars should be anchored into one wall for added support.

o glass block wall sizes & shapes - block walls can be built virtually any size, however the maximum dimensions of each wall section (or panel) will vary based on the thickness of the block (3 1/8" or 3 7/8" thick) and if the wall will be on the inside or exterior of the home or building. Since most walls are built using the 3 7/8" thick size, here's a quick reference for how big you can make your wall without the need for some type of engineered steel or aluminum support structure between your glass panels:

1. Maximum inside wall panel dimensions (3 7/8" thick block)
- Total square footage of the wall - 250 sq. feet.
- Maximum height - 20 feet
- Maximum width - 25 feet

2. Maximum outside wall panel dimensions (3 7/8" thick block)
- Total square footage of the wall - 144 sq. feet.
- Maximum height - 20 feet
- Maximum width - 25 feet

Step 2) What type of floor, partial wall or base will the block wall be placed on? What is the smallest width of the base for the block wall?

block walls or bars can be placed virtually on any surface as long as it is structurally sound and approximately 3" to 4" wide. Most block walls weigh about 12 pounds per square foot of wall area. Shower pans made of acrylic, fiberglass, and tile with concrete work well. Interior walls with wood joists are usually fine as well as long as the floor is level. Placing the block on knee walls (also called half walls) with metal stud and drywall supports underneath works as well.

Step 3) What do you need to put your glass block wall or bars together? Can panel sections be manufactured to make the project easier?

The installation of block walls can be made much easier with the use of spacers, installation systems, or purchasing pre-made sections of block. Here's a quick overview of each type of approach:

o glass block Spacers - In the old days block had to be laid piece by piece by a skilled mason contractor - these skilled craftsmen can be expensive and difficult to find. With the use of all plastic spacers the blocks can be laid uniformly and the spacers even help to keep the wall or bar flush and in place as you're building it. Spacers are available for either straight or radius walls.

o Installation systems - The new vinyl stack installation system uses vinyl horizontal and vertical spacers between the blocks to align and hold the blocks in place for easy assembly. Silicone is used to bond the blocks to the vinyl spacers on the inside of the block wall. This system can be used for interior and exterior applications. Special tile grout or silicone can be used to finish off the joints.

o Prefabricated or pre-made block sections - With the vinyl stack installation system sections of block can be pre-assembled and installed in the field. glass block panel manufacturers can build these sections for you, often saving time and money to complete the job. These sections should be designed considering who(m) will be installing the wall and where it is physically located on the project site.

Step 4) Choosing the right sizes, shapes, and colors to make your glass block wall and bars cool and unique.

o There are a wide selection of block sizes, patterns, shapes, colors, artistically designed murals, and lighting options available for your wall or bar. Here's a overview of your options:

o Sizes and thicknesses of glass blocks for walls or bars - glass masonry units are made is both metric and American sizes. Most of the blocks available in the United States are American sized. The American sized blocks are available in 4" x 8", 6" x 6", 6" x 8", 8" x 8", and 12" x 12". Specialty shapes can help you turn corners, make 45 degree angles, create rounded or radius walls if you're looking to make a walk in or roll in shower, or finish off the end of the wall or bar with a smooth bullnose look. The blocks have nominal sizes meaning the actual size of the block units is ¼" smaller allowing for a mortar joint to adhere the block to one another (an 8" x 8" block actually measures 7 ¾" x 7 ¾"). The blocks for walls and bars are 3" and 4" thick. Thinner block (3 1/8" thick) are more cost effective, but design options are more limited in this thickness of block.

o Patterns, designs and color glass blocks - blocks come in a multitude of patterns providing different levels of privacy, style, and design options. The block are now available in standard and custom colors, tints, and artistically decorated murals to match any interior design style. Check out a comprehensive block web site to see the possibilities.

o Lighting your blocks - Putting lights behind a glass wall has increased in popularity. Consider a fiber optic system (where the colors of the block wall can change as the system is running) or standard rope lighting behind a clear wall for extra impact.

Step 5) Don't worry about any of the first 4 steps and call a glass block supplier, wall panel manufacturer and installation professional - If you really don't want to figure out what size, shape, and design layout is best call a block specialty company who offers design, supply, wall fabrication and installation services. This type of company will usually come to your home or business (without a charge), measure your shower space, figure out the possible designs for you, and install it with a guarantee.

Tag : wall,barl,design,installation,glass block wall

The Benefits Of Solar Wall Fountains

Why Solar Wall Fountains are Right for You

Solar wall fountains are becoming exceedingly popular not only with the "save the earth" population, but also with consumers in general. In these days of climate crises, green living practices are slowly expanding to touch all features of our lives, and our styles of decorating haven't been untouched. Because they are powered by the rays of the sun, solar wall fountains consume no electrical power. Even if you're of the opinion that global warming is the figment of a paranoid environmentalist's imagination, you have to admit that saving money on your electrical bill is a good thing. The lack of electrical requirements means that you can hang your solar wall fountain without the fear of dangling electrical cords that can be dangerous to kids who veer too close to them. This can sometimes be an issue when you're installing a regular wall fountain. And that's not all. Solar wall fountains are low maintenance, so you don't need to worry about time consuming cleaning procedures. They're also low on pollution - no fumes and no noise. This ease of installation and operation has led to a burgeoning demand for solar wall fountains.

How do Solar Wall Fountains Work?

The basic premise of solar wall fountains is similar to all other mechanisms that rely on solar energy to function. Solar energy involves converting solar power from the sun into electricity through a solar panel. This panel consists of Photovoltaic cells also known as PV cells which amass power. This solar powered panel in turn powers the water pump that's connected to the solar wall fountains. To see uniquely designed wall fountains check out http://www.garden-fountains.com/Detail.bok?no=1674.

Installing Solar Wall Fountains

Solar wall fountains may either have their panels integrated into the body of the water feature or have it placed a distance away from the fountain. The distance can be as much as 15 feet. Mounting the panels can be done by positioning them up against a wall, propping them up against a hard surface, or by placing them in your garden. The most important consideration is the amount of exposure to direct sunlight - it should be optimal.

For those who have never experimented with solar powered gadgets, it's easy to believe that these function only when weather conditions are bright and sunny. That's not necessarily true. Solar wall fountains will continue to gush when the weather is cloudy, although the water flow may be less intense due to the reduced power generated from the sun. Learn more about the latest designs for wall fountains by visiting http://www.garden-fountains.com/Categories.bok?category=Wall+Fountains.

Published At: http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=208997&ca=Gardening

5 Steps To Size, Design & Install Glass Block Walls And Bars

“Why can’t designing and installing a glass block wall or bar be as easy as putting together Lego blocks,” a customer once asked. Although it’s not that easy, with the new shapes, sizes, prefabrication techniques and installation accessories available today this unique glass wall product is being used increasingly in homes, businesses and commercial buildings. Follow these 5 steps and you’ll be able to create a cool, stylish, and easy to maintain wall or bar.

Step 1) Where do you want to use your glass block wall or bar? How big do you want to make the wall?

These specialized glass walls can be used on the inside, within the exterior structure of the home or building, or even on the outside. Most common uses include partition walls to separate rooms, shower walls, and bars for the kitchen and recreation rooms. When you are designing and determining the materials needed for this project the size and shape of the wall are critical.

• Glass block bar sizes & shapes – Most bars are built 40” high (5 courses of 8” blocks stacked on top of each other). The countertop is installed after the block work is finished. For extra stability and cool design consider making your bar with either an “L shaped” or angled shape design or rounded (radius) look. The bars should be anchored into one wall for added support.

• Glass block wall sizes & shapes – Block walls can be built virtually any size, however the maximum dimensions of each wall section (or panel) will vary based on the thickness of the block (3 1/8” or 3 7/8” thick) and if the wall will be on the inside or exterior of the home or building. Since most walls are built using the 3 7/8” thick size, here’s a quick reference for how big you can make your wall without the need for some type of engineered steel or aluminum support structure between your glass panels:

o Maximum inside wall panel dimensions (3 7/8” thick block)
 Total square footage of the wall – 250 sq. feet.
 Maximum height – 20 feet
 Maximum width – 25 feet

o Maximum outside wall panel dimensions (3 7/8” thick block)
 Total square footage of the wall – 144 sq. feet.
 Maximum height – 20 feet
 Maximum width – 25 feet

Step 2) What type of floor, partial wall or base will the block wall be placed on? What is the smallest width of the base for the block wall?

Block walls or bars can be placed virtually on any surface as long as it is structurally sound and approximately 3” to 4” wide. Most block walls weigh about 12 pounds per square foot of wall area. Shower pans made of acrylic, fiberglass, and tile with concrete work well. Interior walls with wood joists are usually fine as well as long as the floor is level. Placing the block on knee walls (also called half walls) with metal stud and drywall supports underneath works as well.

Step 3) What do you need to put your glass block wall or bars together? Can panel sections be manufactured to make the project easier?

The installation of block walls can be made much easier with the use of spacers, installation systems, or purchasing pre-made sections of block. Here’s a quick overview of each type of approach:

• Glass Block Spacers – In the old days block had to be laid piece by piece by a skilled mason contractor – these skilled craftsmen can be expensive and difficult to find. With the use of all plastic spacers the blocks can be laid uniformly and the spacers even help to keep the wall or bar flush and in place as you’re building it. Spacers are available for either straight or radius walls.

• Installation systems – The new vinyl stack installation system uses vinyl horizontal and vertical spacers between the blocks to align and hold the blocks in place for easy assembly. Silicone is used to bond the blocks to the vinyl spacers on the inside of the block wall. This system can be used for interior and exterior applications. Special tile grout or silicone can be used to finish off the joints.

• Prefabricated or pre-made block sections – With the vinyl stack installation system sections of block can be pre-assembled and installed in the field. Glass block panel manufacturers can build these sections for you, often saving time and money to complete the job. These sections should be designed considering who(m) will be installing the wall and where it is physically located on the project site.

Step 4) Choosing the right sizes, shapes, and colors to make your glass block walls and bars cool and unique.

• There are a wide selection of block sizes, patterns, shapes, colors, artistically designed murals, and lighting options available for your wall or bar. Here’s a overview of your options:

o Sizes and thicknesses of glass blocks for walls or bars – Glass masonry units are made is both metric and American sizes. Most of the blocks available in the United States are American sized. The American sized blocks are available in 4” x 8”, 6” x 6”, 6” x 8”, 8” x 8”, and 12” x 12”. Specialty shapes can help you turn corners, make 45 degree angles, create rounded or radius walls if you’re looking to make a walk in or roll in shower, or finish off the end of the wall or bar with a smooth bullnose look. The blocks have nominal sizes meaning the actual size of the block units is ¼” smaller allowing for a mortar joint to adhere the block to one another (an 8” x 8” block actually measures 7 ¾” x 7 ¾”). The blocks for walls and bars are 3” and 4” thick. Thinner block (3 1/8” thick) are more cost effective, but design options are more limited in this thickness of block.

o Patterns, designs and color glass blocks – Blocks come in a multitude of patterns providing different levels of privacy, style, and design options. The block are now available in standard and custom colors, tints, and artistically decorated murals to match any interior design style. Check out a comprehensive block web site to see the possibilities.

o Lighting your blocks – Putting lights behind a glass wall has increased in popularity. Consider a fiber optic system (where the colors of the block wall can change as the system is running) or standard rope lighting behind a clear wall for extra impact.

Step 5) Don’t worry about any of the first 4 steps and call a glass block supplier, wall panel manufacturer and installation professional – If you really don’t want to figure out what size, shape, and design layout is best call a block specialty company who offers design, supply, wall fabrication and installation services. This type of company will usually come to your home or business (without a charge), measure your shower space, figure out the possible designs for you, and install it with a guarantee.

By: Mike Foti

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Striking Printed Wall Art

A great way to make the most of wall space is to hang printed wall art which is pleasing to the eye and forms both a focal and talking point. Inspirational designer canvas printed wall art is available to suit any type of interior design style and with the majority being printed as blocks the make a bold statement to a room without the necessity of trying to match fame colours and styles.

These excellent quality printed wall art designs are more than just a picture, they can provide a room with the finishing touches which are essential in any modern or contemporary area of a home or working space. They are chic and elegant, creating either dramatic or subtle effects and without the traditional glass covering they do not reflect unwanted images or light from them. They are made with a professional coatings which are both practicable and durable.

The subject matter when choosing a printed wall art picture is vast, there is a printed wall art subject to suit all tastes and interior design styles. Many of the subjects available are used to not only compliment the design of the room but also can remind people of their holidays and a tranquil way of life. These wall art designs are perfect for reducing stress, they can calm the mind and create an informal and relaxed atmosphere in a room, scenes of tranquil beaches or the setting sun can create a sense of well-being.

Printed wall art is designed for contemporary living, the modern approach to interior designs is to have one quite large striking picture hung against a plain wall, this can be achieved by using one solitary printed wall art design or by using the same wall art design which has been divided into four squares. These printed wall art designs are intended to be hung together with just a small gap exposing the wall in between them. The visual effects is equally as dramatic as one large print, however, can suit smaller rooms or wall space more effectively.

An alternative to four blocks is to have printed wall art panels. These are produced in rectangular blocks and look stunning when displayed on smaller walls or small spaces, their shape is an ideal way to bring the illusion of height to a room.

Printed wall art which depict scenes of the most famous focal points in America are extremely popular, these photographic printed wall art pictures are extremely striking and are suitable for modern interior designs, providing a visual impact in monotone. These prints are also available in subtle tones as well as night scenes for a unusual and dramatic look.

Close up photographic printed wall art images of flower blooms and bouquets are very popular choices of printed wall art as they provide a clean, bright and fresh look to a room. These are available in a whole host of different flower species and colours enabling a favourite flower to be displayed all year round. These printed wall art designs make a real impact and when only part of the flower 'blown up' by immaculate photography is used to design the wall art takes on a whole new concept from traditional flower pictures, interesting and unusual shapes are formed over the area of the canvas or block which provides a focal point to a room.

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Tapestries For Wall Art

Usually large size looms have been used to weave tapestries on. Several types of threads have been used to make laces like gold, silk and silver threads weaving numerous pictures of subjects as well as those of the peasant scenes after Teniers, Biblical history, mythology, etc. Tapestries have been used as wall hangings yet unlike needlework, it was woven on a loom. It was also erected in proportions much larger than would mostly be used in hand-stitched embroidery; tapestry panels ranging from ten or twelve feet in height and twenty feet long are relatively standard. The chief medium was wool, but in special models silk was additionally used. In some of the finest works the use of gold and silver can be seen. The primary heart of tapestry weaving from the year 1500 has been Brussels. But the outputs during the years have greatly varied in quality. Biblical and Roman history, peasant, mythology and scenes subsequent to Teniers were some of the subjects.

A good number of seventeenth-and eighteenth-century works are let down by the truth that within the years a murky brownish image has faded their red dyes. Brussels tapestries normally own a mark with a shield with the letter 'B' on either side. At times weavers add their names or initials, in the work. There were two significant factories in France. Both the Gobelins and Beauvais were based in the second half of the seventeenth century. Although the former was a private worry with State support, the latter was a Royal factory and it was only in the late eighteenth century when one could buy any of its productions. Although both did work of the highest quality, Beauvais was mainly celebrated for a sequence of panels centered on the Fables of La Fontaine, and for several sets of settee covers and chairs. The former was also made at Gobelins, where about 1775 they made beautiful and exemplary sets of furniture covers and matching wall hangings.

Example of these types of decorative harmony is to be seen in a room produced by Robert Adam, remains at Osterley Park, near London. A set of furniture (shorn of its wall-hangings but even now intact Gobelins covers) made for Moor Park in Hertfordshire, is housed in the Museum of Art in Philadelphia. A couple of of these rich ensembles are intact even now, but a collection of tapestries that had been made for a store at Croome Park in Warwickshire has been sold off for a sum of £50,000, and is now seen in the New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art. Once more in France at Aubusson, tapestry panels, chair covers and also tapestry carpets were made.

Most of the output belongs to the nineteenth century, though the pattern of work is similar to an earlier era. Philip and Michael Wauters, supplying to global markets, they wove their tapestry in Antwerp. Works popularized by additional plants were copied here with achievement, these Flemish tapestries were also at times confused with the English productions they copied. Brussels was the center head of tapestry weaving.

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