I'd like to replace my (really old, really energy inefficient) bathroom window. It faces the back yard and I'd like to use glass blocks instead of a traditional window. I thought it seemed relatively simple and straightforward to do this, not to mention relatively inexpensive. But when I went to the home improvement store to purchase the blocks, I found a bunch of spacers, "block tracks" and other accessories that almost doubled the cost of my proposed project.

Are these things really necessary? Or can I just lay the blocks in with cement & shims for leveling, along with caulking to seal the edges? I really want to do this but I'm on a budget and if it's going to be THAT much for all the extra crap, I'd just as soon put in a new double-hung window for less.

U do not need the spacers, make your own. Once you put the blocks in you are kind of stuck with it. At least you can open a double hung, and if it the privacy you want you can etch the glass with a kit.