Acrylic Block Windows
Acrylic Block Windows Offer Light, Privacy And Egress Options
While at the 2010 Baltimore, MD Remodelers Show I came across a company that produces acrylic block windows. I was familiar with the heavy glass block that you need a mason to install but not the acrylic block. It was interesting enough to share with you here.
The company was called, Hy-Lite, and they are a U.S. Block Windows Company. Hy-Lite provides you with a pre-framed acrylic block, glass block and decorative picture windows and interior shutters for the residential new construction and replacement window markets.They also make an operable window.
Many times homeowners want to have privacy, natural light and ventilation in the home but regular windows are not an option. Now you can get operable acrylic block windows that will provide natural light, ventilation as well as meet fire egress codes.
For years Acrylic Block Windows have been used primarily in bathrooms and bedrooms, in many cases where windows are in basement settings they open out into egress wells. With the privacy features of acrylic block windows you obscure the unsightly view of an egress well cylinder, ensure privacy and help improve the overall aesthetics of the basement environment.
“According to The International Residential Code, egress windows need to open to at least 5.7 square feet,” says Roger Murphy, president of U.S. Block Windows, Inc. “In many cases, egress windows are required in areas like the bathroom, bedroom and basement so people can safely and quickly exit the home in an emergency situation. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of window options that meet this requirement while also providing a decorative look to the home.”
The company also offers single hung, slider, awning and hopper acrylic block windows, plus a line of decorative glass operable windows.
I may consider this option on my next basement remodel in conjunction with an egress well. More on egress wells to follow.