Q)  I am remodeling my very small bathroom in my 1950's era house. I am building a custom shower enclosure on an exterior wall that currently has a window. Although it is vinyl, it is wood framed and has metal mechanics.

I would like to put a window in the shower that is able to get wet and is preferably set just outside the wall in order to build a small shelf to make the shower seem more spacious. Any suggestions on what might work?

Eric - San Diego

A)  The big suggestion is not use the window that is there now. Leaving that window will have all kinds of leaks and could be a concern regarding resale later for you.

Here's what I would do. Remove the window and install glass block. It's important to install the glass block flush with the inside wall of the shower. No recesses inside the shower wall area. Mold and mildew can collect in recess shelf areas and leaks can appear months later.

I would suggest getting a good remodeler to help you with this project so the shower area is really water tight and well protected. The glass block will make you feel more spacious in the shower without causing you future problems. When one builds the shelf you speak of, in the long run they have leaks, mold and mildew problems in a small shower. However, if you have a large shower and water is not always hitting the walls where the shelf is built, then maybe OK.