Glass Block Windows

[Mario Morales]

I heard that glass block windows are against code in chicago for legal garden units? 

[Prashanth Mahakali]

Thank you @Jonathan Klemm

It is natural to think of code requirement. I have always maintained that for basement or garden units, the goal is to exceed building code. Code will allow glass block windows in rooms that do not require natural light and ventilation. Where required, while it is possible to meet light and ventilation, chances are, you will not meet them without a significant number of openings. It may not make sense.  

If you want a story, I have heard from a client in Chicago how they saw their adult son stuck on the wrong side of a regular vinyl window in a basement not able to escape a fire and lose his life. Basement windows are serious and code requirement is only the starting point. 

Since we are in the topic of garden units, many investors / landlords want to convert their basement into garden units. Having lived in a basement myself, I can say with authority that there is a negative mental / emotional impact living in a basement unit vs an above grade unit. So, if you are going to create one, make it better or as good as the units above. There is a reason most problem tenants originate in the garden units. Try staying in a room that has a 6'-8" or 7' ceiling height for an hour. If you are going to create a unit anyway, make them taller by digging down and create more window openings, with regular windows. Do not obstruct with grills outside the windows. Seen too many of those in the name of "security". Do a little bit more than code requirement. 

Having worked on many basement projects in less affluent areas, I have fought many battles with clients to make these spaces better. Some I won and others I consider I lost. 

I want to end with a positive note. There are ways to make windows taller in basement units. You could expand them toward the first floor and stop the first floor joists short with a beam. You could expand the windows down toward grade with a window well(with a drain, of course). The possibilities are only limited by your creativity and budget.

Happy Friday!