News Release
BEAUMONT, CA - Hy-Lite® Products has advanced its energy efficient product offering with the introduction of Solar Block Plus. The new acrylic block has a non-metallic tint that is added to the raw acrylic in the fabrication stage and then molded evenly into the block. The resulting consistent smoke-colored tint helps block solar heat gain, making the windows more energy efficient than regular glass or acrylic block windows. In a unique manufacturing process, the tint is only molded into the exterior half of the block --- the side facing the sun. The clear interior block provides a decorative look in the home and offers privacy through its obscurity. The new Solar Block Plus meets the energy code requirements in two strict states (Texas and Georgia) with a .40 solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) when used in aluminum-framed windows. When combined with vinyl frames, the SHGC drops further and ranges from .28 to .37.
"Solar Block Plus is a definite advancement over and above what we introduced several years ago with our Solar Block units," according to Jack Nugent, president for Hy-Lite Products. "Our ability to now mold the tint into the raw acrylic gives each block a consistent smoky-gray look and eliminates any mirror-like appearance. While some homeowners liked that look, we believe a greater number will appreciate the non-metallic smoke color that complements most home styles.
Hy-Lite Introduces Solar Block Plus
"By including Solar Block Plus windows in a home, builders and remodelers are helping homeowners lower their overall energy costs. These blocks help reduce the amount of heat gain entering the home through the window, so they're ideal for use especially in the warmer southern states."
The new clear wave Solar Block Plus blocks come in both six- and eight-inch sizes and can be incorporated into either operable or non-operable windows or exterior doorlight inserts. Frame options include vinyl or aluminum. Solar Block Plus window units meet ENERGY STAR® requirements for the southern zone of the United States. All Solar Block Plus windows bear the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label indicating the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of that window.
"The Solar Block Plus products complement a full-house window package that focuses on energy efficiency," according to Nugent. "Homeowners gain the decorative and privacy features of acrylic block windows without sacrificing energy efficiency."
Hy-Lite Products is an industry leader in prefabricated acrylic and glass block products and specialty windows. The international company manufactures a full line of operable and fixed windows, radius walls, door insert units and partitions. For more information on the full line of Hy-Lite products available worldwide, call 1-877-712-4013 or visit www.Hy-Lite.com on the Internet.
Contact: Kathy Ziprik
304-428-1856
kziprik@aol.com