PITTSBURGH, PA (May, 2004) - Designing and installing glass block is now easier than ever with new Pittsburgh Corning Glass Block EZ Design Library powered by SketchUp®. Utilizing SketchUp by @Last Software, a powerful, yet easy-to-learn design tool, the new EZ Design library allows architects, builders and distributors to quickly and easily turn initial glass block project thoughts and ideas into 3D models.

Much like doodling on a napkin, the technology of the SketchUp conceptual design software allows EZ Design users to start their design with loose proportions and add exact dimensions and details at any time. And since SketchUp is described as "3D for the rest of us," EZ Design features a unique user interface, an intelligent guidance system with intuitive point and click modifications and tutorial section to streamline the 3D drawing process without extensive training.

For designing projects to be built using traditional mortar application or with new Pittsburgh Corning ProVantage™ Glass Block installation system, EZ Design features a customized Pittsburgh Corning Glass Block Library to enable users to create real designs with scaled drawings illustrated in 3D using any shape, style or size of Pittsburgh Corning glass blocks. In addition, several pre-designed applications of showers, walls and other popular glass block projects are included.

Once the glass block design is complete using EZ Design, SketchUp provides professional looking data for printing or exporting for use in CAD, 3D modeling, image editing, and illustration applications. In addition, EZ Design develops a complete bill of materials for each design, defining the exact number of blocks by size and shape, and additional materials and accessories needed to complete the job.

EZ Design library powered by SketchUp fits with existing technology infrastructure, with fast DWG/DXF import/export and has cross platform functionality for both Windows and Mac. To access the EZ Design glass block library and download a trial version of the Sketch-Up software, visit www.pittsburghcorning.com.

Based in Boulder, Colorado, @Last Software develops innovative design tools for design professionals. Their SketchUp conceptual design software is a completely new way to design in 3D on the computer.

Pittsburgh Corning Glass Block products are available at select home centers and from authorized Pittsburgh Corning distributors across the country. For more information on glass block products, contact Pittsburgh Corning's Glass Block Resource Center at 800-624-2120; or visit their web site at www.pittsburghcorning.com.

Located in suburban Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Corning is a manufacturer of applied glass technology and systems. The company has been a major producer of glass block for commercial and residential use since 1937.