Homestyle

Glass block is a hot remodeling idea - and a cool design technique that also offers privacy, security and energy savings.

There are many styles and options from which to choose. There are attractive colors and patterns in plastic and glass, in individual blocks, kits and ready-to-install units for use in both windows and freestanding walls (in both straight and curved designs).

Glass blocks are also energy-efficient. Much like double-pane thermal windows, they have a vacuum-filled space that insulates.

Beyond their beauty, versatility and efficiency, they also offer security against break-ins. Solid bulletproof glass blocks are available; they are virtually indestructible. There are inserts for ventilation, too.

RUN THE FAN: Do you run your bathroom fan long enough to complete the job that it's there for (removing all moisture or providing a complete exchange of room air)?

Probably not -- and you're not alone. Few realize how long a bathroom exhaust fan needs to run after a steamy hot shower or a long relaxing bubble bath. A few minutes does little; it takes about 20 minutes to remove all moisture. A complete exchange of room air takes a little less time, but generally more time than most people allow, primarily due to the noise associated with fans.

One logical solution is a timer switch that comes on when the light is turned on, but keeps on running for the proper length of time, well after the light is turned off. If you don't think it's important, you will change your mind when the wallpaper starts peeling and grout lines turn dark from mildew. The answer: a few more ticks on the minute hand.

- From wire reports

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