HGTV's Drew Scott Says To Ditch This Home Feature ASAP (You Could Get Cash For It)
Plenty of outdated features quickly age your home, creating eyesores in your design scheme. But when it comes to renovations, knowing what to keep and what to replace can be tricky because some once-dated trends may also emerge again in today's interiors. One possible home feature that you may be wrestling with is the inclusion of glass block windows in spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. While this home feature screams 1980s, its resurgence has become divisive, with some folks advocating for why you should actually keep those outdated glass block windows in your home and others firmly rejecting them. Drew Scott from HGTV's "The Property Brothers" tells HGTV Magazine that homeowners might want to remove any glass blocks from their spaces ASAP and possibly gain a handsome profit when selling them due to the high demand.
While glass blocks provide privacy for spaces like the bathroom and allow in plenty of natural light, they aren't without their faults. A great disadvantage of this window feature is the lack of ventilation. While smaller hopper windows and vents are sometimes added to glass block windows for extra air flow, these additional features can ruin the intended look. Another concern with glass block windows is that they could become problematic in an emergency requiring rapid evacuation since they cannot be opened like a traditional double-pane window. Still, many are questioning whether glass block windows are going out of style. While there are some aesthetic benefits that have them re-emerging in our interiors, Drew Scott offers a solid argument on why you should rid them from your home.
Nix the glass blocks in favor of more modern features
According to the Property Brothers, glass blocks aren't worth keeping. There are plenty of other tips and tricks for adding privacy to bathroom windows without using dated materials. Drew Scott offers alternatives for those seeking a decorative privacy window in the bathroom, suggesting homeowners opt for frosted or stained glass alternatives, both providing the same aesthetic value as glass block windows. However, these options might be safer since you could source larger windows that are capable of being opened for greater airflow. Further, these solutions allow in light while also obscuring visibility, which is the main draw of glass block windows.
The HGTV star also tells homeowners that selling their glass blocks could be more profitable than keeping them, so long as they're in good condition. Since homebuyers value energy-efficient and updated windows, you might find it's more cost-effective to replace outdated glass blocks for more modern alternatives. Used glass blocks, particularly those with more intricate designs or unique colors can sell for over $15 per block. Many will range from $10 to $60 each when bought new, though, with prices varying for used materials. Depending on the size, pattern, and color of your glass block window, you could easily get $100 or more by selling your blocks online, making it easier to justify the update to a more timeless window style for your space.