Glass block window in existing wall after extension. Am I safe to remove?

MCD1984

Morning all. Hope you're all safe and well. With the prospect of a few weeks at home looming ever closer my dear wife has started lining up DIY projects for me at home, One of which is to sort the hideousness that is a glass block window that was put in place before we moved in. The glass blocks have been put in where there used to be a window from what I can tell. My question is am I safe to just knock these clean out? Structurally I'm guessing this will not cause any issues as due to their structure they cannot be load bearing? JUst wanted others opinions before I take a hammer and chisel to them..... Also is there a technique to do this in the cleanest way possible? Or just clear an area and go to town? Thanks in advance

Martyn

ps Pictures attached.

FreeBear

You would be surprised at just ho much of a load glass blocks like that can take. I would be cautious about dismissing the thought that it could be a load bearing wall. If it is a solid brick wall, it could well be structural. A timber stud wall, not so likely, but even so, it could be providing support for the floor above.

Are you just wanting to remove the glass blocks, or the entire wall ?

For the former, chip off some of the plaster above to see if there is a lintel. For the latter, get a qualified opinion from a structural engineer. If it does turn out to be load bearing, building control will probably need to be involved.

MCD1984

Cheers Freebear. It is now an internal wall but was an external wall before the extension was built. The are they have glass blocked in is what I believe to be the original window. I am pretty certain there would be a lintel there. And would just be the area of glass blocks I'd be looking to remove. Below is a picture of it from the other side.  That and the fact it's above the sink.

FreeBear

On the face of it, it should be safe to remove the glass blocks. But you should check for the presence of a lintel, and if any doubt, call in an expert that can advise accordingly.

beaker141

Youre not in Stockport are you - I fitted those to my old house 
In my case, it replaced a back door and window, with the lintel left in above.

MCD1984

Perfect. Thanks both for the replies. I will check for a lintel. I'm 95% sure it used to be a window but if I am in any doubt will ofcourse seek professional advice. And Beaker I'm in Swindon bud. So a little way our of Stockport.