Dec 4 2010
As the new construction market continues its slow recovery in 2011, leaders at Hy-Lite, a U.S. Block Windows Company, predict that operable replacement acrylic block windows will see accelerated sales as they increase in popularity with consumers.
“Homeowners are currently focused on staying put and remodeling their existing homes with unique products that can enhance their lives,” says Roger Murphy, president of Hy-Lite, a U.S. Block Windows Company. “We believe 2011 will see an acceleration in acrylic block window sales because of the immediate value they provide consumers by offering privacy in the home while allowing in light and ventilation. This type of ‘problem/solution’ product that offers both interior and exterior design benefits to the home has already become a popular choice when homeowners are doing renovation work.
Operable acrylic block windows bring light and ventilation into the home.
“In a sea of sameness with the other windows in the home, both acrylic block and decorative glass windows stand out and help set the home apart. Because these units are pre-framed and ready-to-install, they’re becoming even more popular as a do-it-yourself project for many homeowners.”
Fixed Units Continue with Strong Sales
According to Murphy, the most popular product manufactured by his company over the past several years has been the traditional fixed acrylic block windows used primarily in new construction bathroom applications. “Builders can’t get enough of these easy-to-install windows,” says Murphy. “They discovered long ago that the acrylic block window is the best solution available in the market for adding light and privacy to bathroom settings. That’s our number one selling product for builders. Despite economic challenges, this product still leads our company in overall sales.”
Throughout 2011 Murphy believes energy efficiency features will continue to be a high priority for both contractors and homeowners. “We’re constantly striving for the next advance in energy efficiency for our products,” says Murphy. “We are currently testing and evaluating new acrylic resins and decorative glass options that will improve the overall performance of our products.”
Decorative Glass Windows Sales Rise
Murphy believes the escalation of sales for the company’s decorative glass windows that was seen in 2010 will continue in 2011. “As awareness grows of operable decorative glass window options, we predict a surge in sales for those homeowners looking for the convenience and fresh air aspects that casement and awning style windows can provide, along with the beauty and privacy found in leaded, beveled glass windows,” says Murphy.
To support awareness of both decorative glass and acrylic block product sales in 2011, Hy-Lite, a U.S. Block Windows Company, will enhance its model home program, manufacturer rebate offers, trade show appearances and new marketing support materials. Combined with the option of either easy on-line Internet purchasing or dealer direct ordering of the company’s products, sales are expected to continuing growing throughout 2011.
Commercial Sales Growth
According to Murphy, sales of the company’s acrylic block radius walls are expected to escalate in 2011. Used primarily in a variety of commercial settings such as offices, patient waiting rooms, hospitals, restaurants and other locations, the radius walls add both a decorative and functional aspect to commercial projects.
“Without the weight concerns and structural support limitations of true glass, commercial designers are free to use these lightweight acrylic block walls anywhere inside a structure where their imagination leads them,” says Murphy. “We know the walls have been used in veterinarian offices, beauty parlors and hospitals. In the coming year I believe they’ll also gain in popularity in college campus settings, retail shops and libraries.”
Hy-Lite/U S Block Windows offers acrylic block window options for all areas of the home in fixed picture, custom radius, casement and awning styles. The company also manufactures acrylic block walls, door inserts and accent panels.
Source: http://www.hy-lite.com