Mounting Systems

1. Installation Systems for Glass Blocks and Solid Glass Bricks

Glass blocks and solid glass bricks offer unique architectural solutions, but they require proper installation systems to ensure stability, safety, durability, and aesthetic quality.
This guide analyzes all available systems, with clear technical instructions understandable even for non‑professional installers.

2. Traditional Glass Block Installation (with mortar and spacers)

The traditional system is the most widely used in Europe and allows the construction of solid, stable walls with a classic aesthetic.

2.1 Required Components

• Cement-based mortar for glass blocks (GlassBond25)
• Plastic spacers
• Galvanized steel rods
• Wedges and level
• Perimeter elastic joint

2.2 Summary Procedure

• Prepare a perfectly level base.
• Place the spacers and the first row.
• Insert horizontal steel rods.
• Proceed with the second row, inserting vertical rods.
• Complete the wall while maintaining uniform joints.
• Seal the perimeter with neutral silicone.

2.3 Advantages

• Máxima estabilidad estructural
• Ideal para paredes de gran tamaño
• Estética tradicional

2.4 Limitations

• Longer installation time
• Requires experience to achieve uniform joints

3. PVC Binario System — The Patented Modular System for Straight and Curved Walls

The Binario System is a patented modular system made of impact‑resistant PVC, designed for the construction of vertical, straight, or curved walls cast in reinforced concrete with glass blocks. It is the only system in the world that combines ease of installation, maximum design freedom, high structural performance, and impeccable aesthetics.

3.1 Function of the Binario System

The Binario System performs three essential functions:

• Lost formwork for concrete casting
• Precise positioning of glass blocks before and during casting
• Joint covering, ensuring a perfect and uniform aesthetic

Thanks to its modular structure, the system allows the construction of:

• straight walls
• curved walls
• large surfaces
• high‑performance structural walls

3.2 Components of the Binario System

All components are made of impact‑resistant PVC, available in grey or black.
Vertical separation (vertical divider for straight and curved walls)

• Installed vertically between glass blocks
• Straight wall versions: H19, H24
• Curved wall versions: HC19, HC24

Structural Spacer

• Manages thermal expansion when wall dimensions require it
• Models: SPA19, SPA24

Horizontal Profile (Corrente)

• Separates horizontal rows
• Model: C600

U‑Shaped Perimeter Profile

• Contains concrete during casting
• Provides perimeter reinforcement
• Model: PUC600

Accessories

• Galvanized steel corner
• Metal clamp
• Joint connector

3.3 Installation Procedure

• Install the U‑shaped perimeter profile along the wall perimeter.
• Position the first horizontal track.
• Insert glass blocks and vertical separation (straight or curved).
• Add structural spacers if required.
• Proceed row by row, alternating tracks and vertical separation.
• Insert reinforcement rods according to technical specifications.
• Cast concrete inside the structure.
• Complete with the top frame and reinforcement accessories.

The result is a monolithic, resistant, precise, and perfectly finished glass block wall.

3.4 Curved Walls — The Absolute Strength of the Binario System

The Binario System is the only available solution that allows the construction of curved glass block walls while maintaining:

• identical joint width on the inner and outer sides
• consistent joint geometry along the entire curve
• aesthetic and structural continuity
• perfect load distribution
• superior stability thanks to in‑situ concrete casting

This is possible thanks to:

• dedicated curved vertical separation (HC19, HC24)
• flexible tracks that follow the curvature
• adaptable U‑shaped perimeter profiles
• impact‑resistant PVC that maintains shape during casting
• internal reinforced concrete creating a monolithic structure

Result: A perfect curved glass block wall with regular, continuous joints — impossible to achieve with:

• traditional mortar systems
• metal profiles
• silicone systems
• non‑structural modular systems

3.5 Advantages of the Binario System

Technical Advantages

• Straight and curved walls cast in place
• Reinforced concrete structure with glass blocks
• Superior resistance to pressure, impact, and vibration
• Anti‑intrusion and bullet‑resistant wall options
• Thermal expansion management
• Large glazed surfaces (up to 13 m² per module)

Aesthetic Advantages

• Perfect, constant joint
• Same joint width inside/outside, even on curves
• Architectural‑grade finish
• Wide design freedom

Operational Advantages

• Easy installation
• Suitable even for non‑specialized personnel
• Minimal final cleaning (PVC joint)
• No condensation
• Fast installation

3.6 Limitations of the Binario System

The Binario System has very few real limitations:

• Not suitable for non‑standard glass blocks (compatible only with 19×19×8, 9×19×8, 24×24×8, 11.5×24×8 cm)
• Requires concrete casting (not a dry system)

For everything else, it is the most advanced and high‑performance system available today.

4. ReadyBlock Aluminum System – Installation for Glass Block Walls up to 5 m²

The ReadyBlock System is a modular aluminum system designed for fast, precise, and clean installation of glass blocks. It ensures:

• perfect joint alignment
• structural stability
• fast installation
• simplified maintenance and replacement

Installation is performed using perimeter profiles, intermediate horizontal profiles, ARSE01 hooks, ARSH19 vertical spacers, and ReadySil sealant.

4.1 Required Tools

• Work gloves
• Tape measure and level
• Metal saw
• Silicone gun
• ReadySil white silicone
• Screwdriver
• Bucket, sponge, and glass cleaner

4.2 Installation of the Perimeter Frame

4.2.1 Frame Assembly

• Assemble the bottom profile with the two vertical profiles and the top profile using the four supplied metal brackets.
• Screws are optional but recommended for added security.
• The assembled frame forms the base structure of the wall.
• The opening must be 1 cm larger than the ReadyBlock frame for easy insertion.

4.2.2 Fixing the Frame to the Opening

• Fix the bottom profile with flat‑head screws every 40–50 cm.
• Fix the vertical profiles up to approx. 50 cm height.
• Before installing the second row of blocks, complete the fixing of the vertical profiles.
• Continue fixing every two rows until reaching the final height.
• Use wooden reinforcements if necessary to avoid deformation.
• Ensure all profiles are perfectly level.

4.3 Installation of the First Row

4.3.1 Initial Positioning

• Place the first block without silicone, resting on the horizontal and vertical profiles.

4.3.2 Application of Vertical Spacers

• Apply a line of ReadySil silicone on the block side.
• Attach the ARSH19 vertical spacer with silicone.

4.3.3 Completing the First Row

• Continue placing blocks + spacers + silicone until the row is complete.
• Constantly check vertical joint alignment.

4.4 Installation of Intermediate Rows

4.4.1 Preparing the Next Row

• Apply silicone on the top of all blocks in the previous row.

4.4.2 Installing the Horizontal Profile

• Position the horizontal profile above the row.
• Fix it to the vertical profiles using ARSE01 hooks.
• Screw the profile using the same hooks.

4.4.3 Installing the Blocks

• Repeat the same steps as the first row until the second‑to‑last block.
• Frequently check alignment.
• Insert the last block by sliding it from above.
• Repeat for all intermediate rows.

4.5 Installation of the Last Row

4.5.1 Preparation

• Position the top horizontal profile and fix it with ARSE01 hooks.
• Apply ReadySil silicone on the three contact surfaces of the blocks, except the last block.

4.5.2 Inserting the Blocks

• Position the blocks in the center and slide them outward.
• Proceed as in previous rows.

4.5.3 Treating the Last Block

• Apply a silicone strip on the visible side.
• Do not use ARSH19 spacer for the last block.
• Apply a reduced amount of silicone in the vertical joint.
• Insert the last block using a screwdriver or spatula.
• Seal the entire perimeter.
• Check alignment.

4.6 Optional Grouting

ReadyBlock does not require grouting, but it may be done for:

• shower walls
• walls exposed to humidity
• indoor/outdoor partitions

Procedure:

• Wait 72–96 hours for silicone curing.
• Clean blocks thoroughly.
• Apply 2 mm cement grout.
• Clean with soft sponges while grout is still wet.
• Avoid abrasive or acidic products.
• For satin or decorated blocks, remove protective film only before grouting.

4.7 Additional Tips

Shower Walls

• Apply ReadySil silicone on all four internal edges of each block.
• Seal on the outer side of the shower wall.
• Drill drainage holes in the first horizontal profile.

Exterior Walls

• Apply silicone only on the interior side, not exposed to weather.

5. Metal System – Aluminum Structure for Large Glass Block Walls

The Metal System is a modular aluminum system designed for large glass block walls, both indoors and outdoors. It is patented, highly stable, demountable, reusable, and engineered to ensure:

• structural rigidity
• perfect alignment
• thermal expansion absorption
• wind resistance
• clean, continuous aesthetics

Unlike traditional mortar systems or PVC systems, the Metal System uses extruded aluminum profiles with mechanical connections and vertical dividers that create a solid, precise, fully inspectable structure.

5.1 Components of the Metal System

• PU80 Perimeter Profile – C‑shaped aluminum profile defining the wall perimeter
• CH80 Horizontal Track – horizontal profile with mechanical hooks and divider slots
• HH80 Vertical Divider – aluminum or reinforced plastic divider
• A80 Hooks – mechanical connectors between tracks and vertical profiles
• S42 Pins – locking pins joining tracks and dividers
• Bridge Reinforcement – for long walls or wind‑exposed installations

5.2 When to Choose the Metal System

Ideal for:

• tall walls (over 2.5 m)
• long walls (over 3 m)
• wind‑exposed walls
• exterior walls
• shower walls
• walls requiring maintenance or disassembly
• professional installations in hotels, offices, commercial buildings

It is the most robust and technical system in the entire Future Euro Trade range.

5.3 Opening Preparation

• The opening must be 1 cm larger than the Metal structure.
• Tolerances: ±2 mm/m.
• The floor must be perfectly level.
• Side walls must support vertical profiles.

5.4 Professional Installation Procedure

5.4.1 Installing PU80 Perimeter Profiles

• Build the structural frame supporting the wall.
• Fix the first PU80 vertical profile with expansion anchors.
• Install the PU80 bottom profile, perfectly level.
• Align profiles using the supplied jig.
• Install the second PU80 vertical profile.

5.4.2 Installing the First glass block

• Ensure the base is perfectly aligned.
• Place glass blocks on the PU80 bottom profile.
• Insert HH80 dividers between blocks.
• Check alignment.

5.4.3 Installing CH80 profiles

• Fix A80 hooks to the track ends.
• Loosen screws slightly.
• Rotate and insert the track into PU80 profiles.
• Push hooks downward to lock.

5.4.4 Installing Subsequent glass block

• Alternate blocks, dividers, and tracks.
• Insert S42 pins in track/divider holes.
• Repeat until final height.
• For the last block: use a half HH80 divider.

5.4.5 Top Closure

• Insert the top PU80 profile.
• Ensure HH80 dividers fit correctly.
• Check final alignment.

5.5 Sealing for Shower or Exterior Walls

• Apply neutral anti‑mold silicone on all four internal edges of each block.
• For shower walls: seal from the outer side.
• For exterior walls: seal from the inner side.
• Drill 2–3 drainage holes in the bottom PU80 profile.

5.6 Advantages of the Metal System

• Maximum stability thanks to extruded aluminum
• Demountable and reusable
• Clean aesthetics: no visible PVC
• Wind resistance (with reinforcements)
• Ideal for large dimensions
• Compatible with standard 19×19×8 cm blocks
• Patented system

5.7 Recommended Applications

• Interior partitions
• Shower walls
• Exterior walls
• Commercial interiors
• Light corridors
• Tall and long walls
• Professional installations

6. Multiplo System – Modular Technology for Prefabricated Glass Block Panels (Horizontal or Vertical)

The Multiplo System is a modular PVC technology designed for the production of prefabricated panels, skylights, walkable slabs, and insulated vertical walls in glass block. It is not a simple accessory. It is not an installation system. It is an engineered lost formwork that allows the creation of glass block elements with millimetric precision, total modularity, and superior structural performance.

Developed, refined, and used exclusively by Future Euro Trade, it is unique in Europe.

6.1 What the Multiplo System Is (and Why It Is Different)

Multiplo is composed of grey PVC formelle that:

• interlock with each other
• define the joint
• support the glass block during casting
• remain embedded in the panel
• allow horizontal casting
• offer height modularity in 2 cm increments
• enable surfaces up to 10–12 m²

It is the only system that allows:

• vertical prefabricated panels
• horizontal prefabricated panels
• modular skylights
• walkable glass block slabs
• continuous glazed surfaces with no visible profiles
• insulated vertical panels (with F1911 only)

No other system on the market offers this combination of modularity, strength, and design freedom.

6.2 Components of the Multiplo System

Walkable Elements

• P20 or similar – solid walkable glass plate
• GF200 – walkable ventilation grid
• BCRF/1010 – walkable glass block
• BCTP/40 – walkable glass block

6.3 Compatibility with Glass Blocks

Multiplo is compatible only with:

• 19×19×8 glass blocks
• 19×19×10 glass blocks
• Future Euro Trade glass blocks

Not compatible with special blocks (curved, rectangular, decorative, non‑standard formats).

This ensures:

• perfect tolerances
• constant flatness
• uniform joint
• structural resistance
• no voids during casting

6.4 Where the Multiplo System Is Used

A) Vertical Prefabricated Panels (F1911 only) For:

• insulated walls
• interior partitions
• technical walls

B) Horizontal Prefabricated Panels For:

• glazed surfaces
• skylights
• inclined panels
• modular panels for on‑site installation

C) Walkable Glass Block Slabs With:

• PR40
• P20 / GF200 / BCRF/1010 / BCTP/40

D) Modular Skylights With combinations:

• F208 + P20
• F208 + PR40 + P20
• F208 + J1916 + glass block
• F208 + PR40 + J1916 + glass block

6.5 Maximum Panel Dimensions

Theoretical limit:

• up to 12 m²

Recommended practical limit:

• 10 m²

Due to:

• weight
• handling
• transport
• thermal expansion
• casting safety
• deformation during lifting

For larger surfaces: Use:

• technical joints
• multiple adjacent panels
• guaranteed aesthetic continuity

6.6 How a Multiplo Panel Is Made

A) In Factory (Professional Use) Ideal because:

• perfectly flat surface
• controlled vibration
• uniform casting
• correct curing
• panels up to 10–12 m²
• handling with suction cups or frames

B) On Site or at Home (Advanced DIY) Possible with precautions:

• create a temporary support structure
• perfectly level
• able to support casting weight
• remove only after full curing

6.7 Advantages of the Multiplo System

6.7.1 Total Modularity

• height variation in 2 cm increments
• infinite combinations
• adaptable to any project

6.7.2 Superior Structural Performance

• panels up to 10–12 m²
• walkable slabs
• certifiable skylights
• integrated structural beams

6.7.3 Design Freedom

• continuous glazed surfaces
• inclined panels
• insulated vertical panels
• walkable horizontal panels

6.7.4 Fast Production

• rapid prefabrication
• simplified on‑site installation
• no mortar, no spacers, no profiles

6.7.5 Superior Aesthetics

• perfect joint
• aligned glass blocks
• no visible elements on the finished side

6.7.6 Exclusive Future Euro Trade System

• Compatible only with its own glass blocks
• Proprietary know-how
• Real production experience
• Dedicated technical support

6.7.7 Why Choose the Multiplo System

Because it is the only system that allows you to:

• create prefabricated glass block panels
• build walkable slabs
• construct modular skylights
• obtain large continuous glazed surfaces
• guarantee millimetric precision
• maintain impeccable aesthetics
• work in full safety
• design without limits

7. Solid Glass Brick – Installation with Hybrid Crystal Polymer/Silicone ARS‑SB2

Solid glass brick is a massive, elegant, and luminous element. Installation with Hybrid ARS‑SB2 crystal adhesive is the most modern, clean method, suitable for both professionals and private users.

7.1 Surface Preparation

The surface must be stable, clean, dry, and free from dust and grease. Do not apply on non‑consolidated plaster.

7.2 Angle Check

Verify that the angle between floor and wall is exactly 90°.

7.3 Weight

1 m² of solid glass bricks weighs approximately 130 kg. Ensure the substrate can safely support this load.

7.4 Sorting the Bricks

Bricks may have slight thickness differences. Lay them out on the floor and sort them before installation.

7.5 Applying Hybrid Crystal Adhesive

Different application techniques are possible (thin lines, thick lines, trowelled). For optimal results:

• Apply adhesive on one long side and one short side.
• Leave a clean edge to avoid excess squeeze‑out.
• Lightly spray water on the adhesive to improve curing.
• The brick must be installed within 7 minutes.

7.6 Installing the First Brick

• Apply the adhesive.
• Position the brick against wall and floor.
• Press firmly but without excessive force.
• Check for air bubbles and remove them immediately.
• Remove any excess adhesive at once.

7.7 Installing Subsequent Rows

• Repeat the procedure brick by brick.
• Constantly check verticality with a level.
• After the first row, wait 24 hours before continuing.
• Every 2–3 rows, wait another 24 hours to ensure stability.

7.8 Finishing

In bathrooms or wet areas, seal the perimeter joint with neutral silicone. Full curing occurs in approximately 7 days.

8. Solid Glass Brick – Edge‑On Installation with Cement Mortar (Fixoglass)

For installing Future Euro Trade Full Glass Brick, edge‑on installation with high‑performance Fixoglass cement adhesive (high workability, compensated shrinkage) is recommended.

To ensure perfect structural stability, uniform spacers and stainless steel AISI304 rods must be used.

8.1 Substrate Preparation

Horizontal surfaces: Must be flat, solid, compact, and free from weak parts, dust, or grease.
Vertical surfaces: Must be perfectly plumb to guarantee wall verticality.
Layout: Mark guide lines on the floor to keep the wall straight. Clean the support surface thoroughly before starting.

8.2 Preparing and Applying the Adhesive

Mixing:

• Pour 6–6.5 liters of clean water into a container.
• Gradually add one 25 kg bag of Fixoglass under mechanical stirring.
• Mix until a smooth, lump‑free paste is obtained.
• Let the mix rest for a few minutes, then briefly remix before use.

Application:

• Spread the mortar on the base with a trowel, creating a compact, uniform layer.
• Constantly check level with a bubble level.

8.3 Brick Installation and Reinforcement

Alignment:

• Place the first row of Full Glass Brick.
• Insert plastic spacers between bricks to ensure regular, uniform joints.
• Remove excess mortar before it hardens.

Structural Reinforcement:

• Insert 6 mm ribbed stainless steel AISI304 rods in both horizontal and vertical joints.
• Fully embed the rods in Fixoglass to lock them in place.

8.4 Grouting and Sealing

• Once the structure is sufficiently stable, remove the protruding parts of the plastic spacers.
• Ensure joints are free from dust or hardened residue.
• Apply Fixoglass, pressing it deeply with a rubber spatula to fill all spaces.

Expansion Joints: For large walls, provide suitable expansion joints to be filled later with an elastic sealant (polyurethane or neutral‑cure silicone).

8.5 Final Cleaning

• When the mortar in the joints is sufficiently hardened (but not fully dry), start cleaning by removing excess with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently.
• Once fully hardened, wipe the glass surface with a dry, clean cloth to remove residual dust and polish the bricks.

Important Recommendations
Curing: Fixoglass is a cement‑based product. Protect the wall from rain, wash‑outs, frost, and direct sunlight until fully hardened.
Tool Maintenance: Wash all tools and buckets with water before the product hardens. After curing, mortar can only be removed mechanically.