buy local Archives - Advanced Window Products

U Factor Ratings for Energy Efficient Windows

Posted on June 8, 2021November 5, 2025 by import

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing new energy-efficient windows is the U-factor. This number measures how well a window insulates, making it critical in deciding which windows are right for your home. While it can sound technical, the basics are easy to understand.

What Is U-Factor and Why Does It Matter?

The U-factor measures how well a window prevents heat from passing through. A lower U-factor means the window provides better insulation. You can think of it like wall insulation’s R-value; the two are inverses of each other. With windows, you want a low U-factor; with insulation, you want a high R-value.

Windows with high U-factors let heat flow more easily, meaning winters feel colder and summers hotter. That forces your heating and cooling systems to work harder, driving up energy bills. Lower U-factors, on the other hand, help stabilize indoor temperatures and reduce HVAC strain.

Energy Efficiency and Comfort

Windows with low U-factors keep warm air inside during the winter and cool air inside during the summer. This improves energy efficiency, keeps bills manageable, and reduces hot or cold spots around windows. Your home feels more comfortable overall, while your heating and cooling equipment lasts longer thanks to less strain.

NFRC Certified Windows and U-Factor Standards

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) puts windows through rigorous testing to qualify windows. NFRC guidelines vary by region and climate, but all include U-factor requirements. Choosing windows that meet these standards often makes you eligible for rebates or incentives, depending on location and timing.

While NFRC provides an excellent baseline, it’s not the only factor to consider. Advanced Window Products can help you select windows with additional efficiency features tailored to your specific needs.

How Replacement Windows Achieve Lower U-Factors

Modern windows are designed with multiple features to improve insulation and lower U-factors. These include argon gas fills, low-e coatings, and insulated frames. Unfortunately, older windows can’t be retrofitted to meet today’s efficiency levels. While temporary DIY fixes may help slightly, the best way to achieve meaningful savings and comfort is with professional window replacement.

Upgrade Your Home with Energy-Efficient Windows

Lower U-factor windows not only cut energy costs but also make your living spaces more comfortable year-round. At Advanced Window Products, we help homeowners compare options, understand efficiency ratings, and choose windows that fit both budget and climate.

If your current windows are drafty, outdated, or driving up your utility bills, now is the time to upgrade. Contact us at Advanced Window Products today for a free consultation and quote, and start enjoying the benefits of modern, energy-efficient windows.

Vinyl or Aluminum Windows – Which is Better?

Posted on April 15, 2021December 8, 2025 by import

Today’s state-of-the-art energy-efficient replacement windows are offered in a vast range of options for everything from aesthetic styles, to framing materials, to finishes. The standard wooden window frames are now mostly found on older homes, often with a lot of traditional charm and even more old-fashioned inefficiency. In all types of replacement windows, highly popular vinyl and aluminum framing materials have emerged as more practical long-term choices than wood, but which is best — vinyl or aluminum?

But, Which Window Frame is Best – Vinyl or Aluminum?

Both vinyl and aluminum window frames are typically less expensive, more durable, and require less maintenance than conventional wooden alternatives, however, there are pros and cons to each. When choosing the best window framing material for your home or business, you’ll probably want to factor in price, energy efficiency, durability, maintenance needs, insulation value, and other considerations.

Here are five major differences between the two currently most popular window framing materials, aluminum, and vinyl:

Insulation

For maximum effectiveness, only choose energy-efficient replacement windows with the EPA’s logo indicating that the product has been Energy Star® rated. Windows and doors that are qualified for this rating can reduce heating and cooling bills by as much as 30%.

Vinyl frames are supreme window insulators because they minimize heat transfer. The best vinyl window manufacturers build high-quality replacement windows that rival wood frames for window insulation value.
Aluminum window frames readily conduct heat and cold, so they are not as energy efficient as vinyl alternatives. Some more advanced aluminum versions are designated as “thermally improved.” These models have “thermal breaks,” which are layers of vinyl installed inside the aluminum frame as an insulator against loss of thermal energy.

Durability

Overall, aluminum frames are stronger than vinyl, and both aluminum and vinyl window frames are highly resistant to cracking, scratching, or superficial damage. However, for measures included in assessments of overall durability, the comparisons strongly favor vinyl framing.

Vinyl windows offer greater durability against chipping, denting, or fading. Because vinyl frames are made of the same material throughout the thickness of the frame, they do not show scratches or chips.
Aluminum frames are much more vulnerable to dents, corrosion, and chipping, and their enamel finishes are highly susceptible to fading. Additionally, the steel fasteners on aluminum windows can corrode and become pitted. If the finish on an aluminum frame becomes damaged, the raw aluminum underneath becomes exposed.

Still, in homes with unusually large windows, aluminum framing is normally used. The greater structural strength and impact resistance of metal makes aluminum ideal for supporting extremely large glass panels.

High-impact-resistant vinyl window frames are available at a price around 20% to 30% higher than comparably impact-resistant aluminum alternatives.

Appearance

Vinyl and aluminum window framing materials are both available in both single- and double-hung window designs, and in single-, double-, and triple-pane energy-efficient windows. Both also come in virtually any kind of finish and in any color, you may want. But, available specifications can vary between manufacturers.

Vinyl window frames can be fashioned into any style, from the most traditional looks otherwise only available in wood framing to the sleekest of modern designs. Vinyl window frames are generally thicker than aluminum alternatives and can support textured smooth, or even very convincing wood-look textured finishes. Vinyl is popular with homeowners who want windows with a wood-look but want the greater longevity and durability of modern framing material.
To achieve an appearance somewhat resembling wood using aluminum window framing would mean applying a coating, basically painting on a wood finish, which does not look very realistic.

The comparatively thin aluminum frames are usually finished with powder-coated enamel, either smooth or textured, to produce a sleek appearance that fits well into more modern architectural designs.

Cost

Estimates vary between industry experts, however, generally speaking, vinyl replacement windows cost around 30% less than comparable aluminum models.

Six replacement windows with vinyl frames cost an average of around $3,150
Six replacement windows with aluminum frames cost an average of around $4,660.

Whichever of the two framing material options you select — aluminum or vinyl — installing new replacement windows in your home helps protect your real estate investment and maximize your property value.

Maintenance

Many frame finishes, including paints and other coatings, do not bond well to either aluminum or vinyl window framing material and are likely to be susceptible to cracking, flaking, and peeling.

Maintenance for vinyl window frames is minimal, far less than any other window frame type. Because the vinyl is one color throughout the thickness of the frame, there is rarely a need to paint it. (Painting vinyl frames may void the warranty, so check with the manufacturer prior to painting.)
Aluminum window frames are more susceptible to accumulating condensation, which promotes mold and rust. Aluminum windows require routine cleaning with a cleaning product made especially for use on aluminum. The frames must then be rinsed and dried. Aluminum window frames also need routine lubrication of moving parts, in order to prevent excessive wearing of the mechanisms. Enamel paint can be used to cover chips or scratches on aluminum frames, but precisely matching the original finish may be difficult.

Advanced Window Products, Salt Lake City Utah

We are Utah’s leading manufacturer of energy efficient windows and glass doors. All our high-quality windows and doors are built from the highest grade of materials available. We sell factory-direct to our customers and perform all our own window installations. That means there is no retail markup and no typical warranty issues. All our installation specialists are NFRC,AAMA, NFRC, Energy Star, and lead-safe certified.

We offer our customers many benefits, to make upgrading your home easy, including:

- - Zero down, zero-interest financing for 2 years (for approved credit)
  - $2000 off when you buy 10+ windows
  - All windows have our double lifetime warranty

Come and visit us at our downtown showroom, or call Advanced Window Products, Salt Lake City UT at (801) 505-9622, to schedule your free in-home estimate.

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Power of the Little Blue Label When Making Home Improvement Upgrades

Posted on January 29, 2020 by import

Your home’s windows are an integral feature that allows in natural light and warmth, plus they have their own unique aesthetic qualities. However, as with most building components, there comes a time when they need replacing and when it’s time for you to make this type of home improvement upgrade, you should consider the benefits of energy star windows.

Energy star windows are those windows marked by the little blue label with white writing and what that little blue label essential means is that the product has been ranked as among the best energy-efficient windows. But, you may ask yourself, why bother to buy energy star windows when you can buy normal windows at lower costs? Well, just consider the following great reasons why looking for that little blue energy star label can be so rewarding when you make home improvement upgrades:

Understanding the Power of the Energy Star Rating When Making Home Improvement Upgrades

Save Money Long-Term with Energy Efficient Windows

While it is true that the best energy efficient windows cost more upfront than traditional single and double pane options, it is also true that you will save hundreds every year in utility costs. According to Energy Star, when you choose one of their windows over a single pane window, you can save as much as $465 a year on your home utility bills. Thus, to buy energy star windows as a home improvement upgrade is to enjoy a lifetime of annual savings.

Reduced HVAC Maintenance and Related Costs with Energy Star Rated Windows

The reason why energy star windows save homeowners so much is that they are incredibly insulative and thereby significantly reduce heat transfer. So when you save on energy costs, you do so because your HVAC equipment won’t need to cycle on as often and will instead keep the same even and desired temperature at lower energy costs. As such, homeowners who buy energy star windows find that their costs related to HVAC care and maintenance likewise go down as the units operate more efficiently with less overuse.

Increased Comfort in the Summer and Winter

With traditional windows, it is common for there to be hot spots during the summer and drafty cold spots during the winter as these products are not equipped to completely stop the transfer of heat. In contrast, energy-efficient windows get the little blue label precisely because of their abilities to stop heat transfer. The result is a home that is significantly more comfortable as it’s without drafts or hot spots.

Contact Advanced Window Products in Salt Lake City, Utah to Learn More About the Benefits of Energy Star Windows or to Schedule Your Home Renovation

Here in Utah, we enjoy a full four-season climate with bitter cold, sweltering heat, and gorgeous buffer months. As such, energy-efficient windows offer homeowners all of the above benefits and make for a great home improvement upgrade no matter what part of the state you live in. And wherever that is, our team at Advanced Window Products is here to help you find the perfect windows for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our products or to schedule a home installation.

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Composite Wood Siding vs Vinyl Siding

Posted on September 23, 2019August 27, 2025 by import

Vinyl siding or wood — which is best? Both offer their advantages. To determine which of the two materials is right for your home, consider cost, long-term performance, installation, maintenance, aesthetics, and other factors. Ask your builder or siding contractor which makes the best sense for your new construction or home improvement project. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s comfort and energy efficiency or upgrade your property’s curb appeal, the place to start is comparing the vinyl siding and composite wood siding options. Here’s a comparison of these two popular home siding materials:

Composite Wood Siding for Homes

Composite wood siding for homes consists of small scraps of wood. The wood fragments have been compressed, and resins have been used to bond them together. The material is chemically treated to resist fungal growth and insect infestation.

Composite boards are available pre-primed for painting, or even pre-finished in one of many styles that have the appearance of beautiful real wood. You can select from various widths of composite boards for creative exterior designs, and you can use traditional horizontal, more modern vertical, or even highly stylized diagonal installation. Composite wood siding has a seamless finish, vs the typically unavoidable seam you see on vinyl-covered exteriors.

Composite wood provides a home’s structure with exceptional protection from wind, water, and high temperatures. This type of siding is available in a wide range of styles, textures and colors. High-quality composite wood siding can last up to 30 years.

Advantages of Composite Wood Siding

Authentic wood look

Superior structural protection

Durable (more durable than vinyl)

Cost-effective

Superior insulation value

Resists scratches, stains, mold, rotting, and swelling

Easily cleaned with soap and water

Gorgeous aesthetic

Seamless finish

Weighs less and is easier to install than regular wood

Can be customized

UV resistant

Low-maintenance

Resists splitting

Fade-resistant

Less expensive than regular wood siding

All-weather composite siding withstands extreme temperatures

Only needs painting every 5 to 10 years

Exceptional long-term value

Disadvantages of Composite Wood Siding

Takes a little longer to install than vinyl sheets

Requires more maintenance than vinyl siding

Costs slightly more than vinyl siding

Vinyl Siding for Homes

What is vinyl siding on a house? Vinyl siding is panels of manufactured exterior siding, made from a plastic resin called polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which contains fillers and fibers and bonding materials. Vinyl siding resists damage from weather, wear, and insects. It’s fade-resistant and nearly maintenance-free, never requiring painting. It’s available in a wide array of colors, textures and patterns. From shakes, to lap siding looks. Vinyl siding has less insulative quality than composites. For insulated vinyl, instead of standard vinyl siding, add about 15% to the price estimate.

Vinyl siding is a practical solution for building or renovating where minimal maintenance is a priority. It’s a budget-friendly choice, compared to much more expensive exterior materials, like real wood or stone. Because vinyl siding is impervious to rotting and to insect infestation, it can last up to 40 years. One caveat is that although vinyl siding itself cannot rot or become infested, moisture can enter between siding sheets, promoting rotting and insect infestation of a home’s support structures.

Advantages of Vinyl Siding for Homes

Wide selection of colors, textures, and patterns

Durable

Very little maintenance

Easy to install

Easy to clean

Resists fading

Resistant to hot and cold temperatures, wind, rain, and hail

Does not rot, scratch, or dent

Does not need repainting

Disadvantages of Vinyl Siding

Can crack in extreme temperatures

Impacted aesthetic, when vinyl siding panels overlap, causing an unwanted seam

Can swell from long exposure to moist environment, increasing potential for structural issues

Can leak between siding panels, promoting mold, rot and insect infestation

Susceptible to damage by strong winds (not the best option in areas with severe weather)

Compare Costs of Composite and Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding and composite wood siding costs are pretty similar. Both typically cost between $7,000 to $13,000 and up. Your actual cost will depend on the size of your home and the quality of the siding products you choose. For a more accurate price comparison, estimate the amount of material you’ll need for your siding project, based on the total square area of the exterior surface space to be covered.

For a finer cost estimate, add local and state sales tax rates for the siding purchase. Add the cost of other materials needed for installation, such as clips for composite siding, and add the total installation cost estimate for each of the two types of siding.

When comparing vinyl to composite wood siding cost, you are likely to discover that the two materials are available at prices that are similar enough that the purchase cost does not have to be a major consideration in choosing between them. Ultimately, you will probably find that it is more practical, all things considered, just to pick the siding you like best, based on other factors, like durability and aesthetics.

So, Composite Wood Siding vs Vinyl Siding — Which is Best?

Vinyl siding offers many highly appealing advantages over other kinds of exterior siding. It’s less expensive than wood, composite wood, and other types of siding. It’s more resistant to an array of deteriorating elements, such as weather, insects, and long-term wear. It’s also easy to install and clean, and it requires no periodic painting and very little other maintenance.

Composite wood siding offers an upgrade from vinyl siding, in terms of natural aesthetic and design options. It’s also arguably more cost-effective long-term, due to its more durable material, affording greater resistance to adverse elements and providing a more stable and robust protective shield for a home’s structure than vinyl. Composite wood siding has superior insulative properties as well. Overall, composite wood siding provides a more protective covering and, therefore, a stronger added value to a property.

Advanced Window Products Located in Salt Lake City, Utah

We are the leading Utah vinyl and composite wood siding, doors and
windows company. We provide top-grade, energy-efficient vinyl and composite wood siding, doors, windows, sliding doors and French doors at fair prices. Our installers are all AAMA, NFRC, Energy Star and lead-safe certified. We offer exceptional customer service. Manufacturing our own energy-efficient products and selling factory-direct to our customers eliminates mark-up and potential warranty issues. We make it easy to upgrade your doors and windows with:

Double Lifetime Warranty

Satisfaction Guarantee

0 down, 0% interest financing (with approved credit)

Part of Buy Local First Utah

We are a green business, and we’re committed to our community. Your business enables us to continue to support many important causes, including Habitat for Humanity and Make A Wish Foundation.

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For More Information About Composite Wood Siding and Vinyl Siding, Contact Advanced Window Products

Our experts can help you select the best exterior siding solution for your new home build or for your home improvement project. New vinyl or composite wood siding can improve your home’s appearance, protect its structure, and increase its value.

For more information about high-quality vinyl siding or composite wood siding, visit our showroom in Salt Lake City, or call Advanced Window Products, Salt Lake Cityat 1-800-246-9355, to schedule a free estimate at your home.

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How Energy Efficient Windows Absorb Sound

Posted on July 22, 2019 by import

You live on a busy street with traffic whizzing by continuously. Or on a cul-de-sac, but you contend with lawn mowers and exuberant neighborhood kids. Maybe your family home is near a hospital, and ambulance sirens keep you up half the night. Or there’s an airport within 10 miles.

Whatever your unique situation, it’s likely that you’re aware of more outside activity than you’d like to hear from the comfort of your home. It’s called noise pollution, and it’s a problem in most American cities, suburbs and even smaller communities.

Fortunately, the replacement window industry is on it. Today’s quality energy efficient windows add a variety of technologies and smart construction strategies to buffer noise and add aural comfort to your home life.

How Today’s Energy Efficient Windows Cut Noise

Modern windows are built and designed to keep the cold out in the winter and to block solar radiance so that your house stays cooler in the summertime. But that’s not all that energy efficient windows keep out. They also reduce noise levels from the outside in much the same way that they block sun, cold and rain.

For instance, weather stripping to keep out the cold also goes far toward blocking noise. Multiple panes of glass or the addition of storm windows similarly create soundproof windows in addition to maintaining temperature comfort.

The point is, if you can interrupt the air flow you’ll also block the sound path between your interior and the great big, noisy outside world.

But that’s just a start. There are more technologically advanced ways of reducing noise penetration.

Asymmetrical Panes and Other Strategies

Asymmetrical window glass glazing is a strategy to help reduce sound transmission. It involves the construction of windows with glass layers of varying thicknesses. The idea here is that all of these barriers of different dimensions breaks up sound into various frequencies, dissipating its intensity.

Another approach is through the use of laminated glass, which absorbs sound by breaking it up. Furthermore, window frames constructed of wood, composite materials, PVC or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) rather than metal offer superior sound insulation qualities.

The most effective soundproof windows combine several of these strategies to keep noise pollution at the very minimum.

What’s the Goal?

Your sound reduction end game should be to attempt coming as close as possible to the sound absorbency potential of the walls in which your windows are placed. (It wouldn’t make a whole lot of sense to meet better sound reduction standards with your window than you can achieve with the wall, after all.)

Upgrade Your Home Today

You’ll find today’s top vinyl replacement windows with superior soundproofing qualities at Advanced Window Products, Utah’s #1 window company.

We’ve made it especially easy now to upgrade your home with sound-buffering energy efficient replacement windows by offering our $0 down, 0% interest financing for six months.

If you need even more motivation to switch to energy efficient windows — on top of comfort, energy bill savings and dramatic sound reduction — another key advantage can be the tax savings. You can read more about that here.

Tour our showroom in downtown Salt Lake City. Or call us at (801) 505-9622 for a free estimate at your home, at your convenience. Check out our hours and location information.

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Signs A Patio Door Needs Replaced

Posted on July 19, 2019 by import

On average, sliding patio doors last 20 years. However, this average lifespan assumes normal wear and tear conditions. The lifespan also assumes the doors have not been repeatedly exposed to harsh conditions. Unless a homeowner has been the sole owner of the property or has had the doors installed, it can be difficult to determine these factors. Fortunately, we can help homeowners recognize the telltale signs that it is time to replace a home’s patio doors.

Top Signs

The top signs we can use to determine whether a home needs replacement patio doors include:

The door functions poorly or is broken
Poor energy efficiency, including drafts and condensation on the inside of the glass
An appearance that no longer fits the desired look of the home

As property owners, we can fall into the trap of complacency if a door starts sticking, not working properly, or not shutting all the way. Doors that seem to be in constant need of repair and are not working the way they should could become a safety hazard. Doors that do not shut all the way and do not lock properly can increase the chance that someone can break in or enter the home. Sliding glass doors, for instance, should be replaced when the rollers become difficult to use or the doors no longer stay on the track.

Concerns about energy efficiency are a sign it is time to invest in replacement patio doors. If the doors are more than ten years, there’s a high chance that they are not as efficient as the latest options. Telltale signs such as moisture on the inside of the glass during cooler months or drafts means the doors are no longer keeping air in the home. We can install doors that meet the latest energy efficient standards and ratings. Doors that meet the latest standards not only provide improved insulation but help homeowners save on utility bills in the summer and winter.

The appearance of the home’s current sliding patio doors may not fit with the overall look of the room. A previous owner could have updated the windows and the doors no longer match. It is also possible the look of the room has changed, more light or a different look is desired. Installing French doors is a popular way to update a room with a more sophisticated look and increase resale value.

Replacement Costs

If one or more of the signs are present, it can be natural to worry about financing. While an owner should get at least two or three quotes from different vendors, choose one that offers a warranty and zero interest payment options. At Advanced Window Products, we offer a double lifetime warranty, zero down and zero percent financing for 60 months. We also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Putting off the decision to replace a home’s doors can result in higher long-term costs. If doors are no longer functioning properly, are showing signs of poor energy efficiency, or no longer fit the home’s look, don’t put it off any longer. We’re happy to help with replacement quotes and affordable payment options.

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Benefits of Natural Lighting

Posted on October 18, 2018 by import

Sunlight is essential to keep us healthy and happy. A home with abundant daylight reduces the need to use electric lights from sun-up to sun-down. The best strategy to achieve a warm and inviting space is with natural light design. As a fundamental design component for sustainable living, utilizing natural light can reduce lighting energy consumption during the day by as much as 80%, according to the US Green Building Council.

Along with the benefits natural light design, there are also negative issues that need to be addressed like glare, heat loss, heat gain and UV exposure. An experienced energy-efficient window expert can help you balance the benefits with the side effects. Window type, glass selection, placement and orientation are all important components to take full advantage of the sunshine and apply shading techniques to enhance and define your space.

Advanced Window Products in Salt Lake City, Utah is proud to offer our custom-made new or replacement windows and doors to create a controlled natural light design to utilize the sun’s light and warmth while protecting you and your family from harmful UV rays. Take advantage of rebates for our high-quality, energy-efficient window products and flexible finance options.

Top Three Advantages of Natural Light

Aside from the instant value new windows provide, there are many benefits of using natural light through strategic window design and placement in your home, like:

Utilize Natural Light to reduce light energy consumption and the warm rays of the sun can naturally heat your home during cold winter months to help save on energy bills.
Improve Indoor Air-Quality by opening up the windows to bring outdoor air Inside with functional window options.
Health Benefits from Regular Sun Exposure are crucial to our well-being. Sunlight offers low levels of vitamin D and promotes better sleep and a higher sense of optimism.

Introduce Natural Light with Daylighting

The design term daylighting refers to strategic placement of a variety of windows, side lights and skylights to introduce the maximum amount of natural lighting into your home. You will want to consider window placement and orientation for each area as the sun moves across the sky. Depending on the time of day, the sunlight will subtly change the look and feel of the room.

You can achieve all of the benefits of daylighting and reduce energy consumption by choosing windows & doors specially designed to withstand Utah’s weather extremes. It is important to choose a window manufacturer with a large selection of window types with energy efficiency options to fit your budget. Look for features like heat reflection to combat heat transfer while still letting in the light, UV protection and the following manufacturing standards for superior long-term performance:

How Can I Maximize Natural Light?

If you do not have the option to incorporate daylighting design in the floorplan of your new build, there are several things you can do to your existing home without changing the location of your windows. The experts at Advanced Window Products recommend maximizing your home’s current window layout to take advantage of natural light at different times during the day.

Here are a few strategic tips for homeowners to incorporate natural lighting without major renovation to change a window’s location:

North Facing Windows present an even natural sunlight with minor glare and summer heat gain.
South Facing Windows will provide beneficial heating from the sun during winter months and minimal direct sun in the summertime.
East and West Facing Windows should ideally be smaller in size and include shading options because of direct sun exposure. East facing windows receive targeted sunlight from sunrise to mid-afternoon and West facing windows cause heat build-up from mid-afternoon to late evening sunshine.

Selecting the best windows for natural light to complement the sun’s benefits through daily movement and seasonal location is very important to avoid hot spots and glare and take advantage of natural light and warmth in the wintertime. It is equally important to shop around for the best quality windows to meet your needs and consider professional installation to ensure the windows are properly sealed and insulated.

Let Us Help Your Achieve Your Ideal Daylight Design

Advanced Windows USA superior quality window and door products have been specially designed for the four-season weather of Utah. You can’t go wrong with factory-direct savings, flexible finance options, double lifetime warranty, professional installation and our industry-leading customer service. As a part of Buy Local First Utah, Advanced Windows is pleased to participate in our local community and proudly supports the Utah Make A Wish Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Zenith International Charity (ZIC) and the Fallen Brothers Foundation.

Contact Us or give us a call today at 801-505-9622 to learn more about creating a more sustainable home with innovative, energy saving natural light design and energy efficient window options.

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Summertime Home Maintenance That Can Save You Money

Posted on July 27, 2018 by import

Owning a home can be expensive. Even aside from house payments, there are utility bills to pay, maintenance work to do, and repairs you have to make. Fortunately, there are also a lot of ways to lower your bills and reduce your long-term costs. Read on to find some of the ways to help you make your house more energy efficient and resistant to damage.

Keep the Gutters Clean

If your gutters are clogged, then you are probably getting a lot of extra water near your house’s foundation. Over time, this could lead to some very costly foundation repairs. Take an afternoon and save yourself a lot of trouble later!

Banish Incandescent Bulbs

Every time one of your incandescent light bulbs burns out, replace it with an energy efficient bulb. Sure, they cost a little more, but they last so much longer that they more than pay for themselves. This means you have to replace bulbs left often and you save more energy on your utility bill each month.

Plant Trees!

Take note of which windows get the lightest during the summer, then plant some trees to block some of that light. This will naturally shade your house during the summer, lowering your cooling bill. Not only that, it makes your property look better and increases resale value!

Check the Vents and Hoses

Make sure your dryer vent is kept clean. This makes it run more efficiently and use less electricity. You should also periodically clean the vent hose at the back of the dryer, for the same reason. While you’re at it, check that the hoses going into your washing machine are sealed tight as well, so you don’t waste water.

Stop Pet Door Leaks

Pets are wonderful, and many pet owners install pet doors to let their furry little friends get more exercise and stimulation from the great outdoors. The trouble is, warm air from inside leaks out through these pet doors during the winter, and cool air leaks out during the summer. We can install advanced, energy-efficient pet doors that let your pets have the freedom they enjoy without wasting all that energy.

Get Out the Caulking Gun

As time goes by, your house settles a little. This can make your door and window frames pull away a little bit from the walls. In the summer, cool air leaks out through these cracks. Seal them up with a little caulk and watch your cooling bill go down.

Insulate Your Home While Giving It a Makeover

If the paint is peeling on your house, or the siding coming off, then this is the perfect time to make your home more energy efficient while sprucing it up. We can install insulated vinyl siding that is so efficient that it can reduce your energy costs by 30%! This siding also reduces weather damage, minimizing the repairs you have to make. Not only will our insulated vinyl siding save you money, but it will also make sure that you never have to paint your house again.

Replace Those Old Windows

As windows get older, they may start to warp, pulling away from their frames and leaking air. We can inspect your windows for you, and replace them with newer, better fitting windows. The difference this can make in heating and cooling bills is amazing.

Better yet, replace those old windows. Ordinary windows just let in the light, but windows made with modern technology can do so much more. We can replace your old-fashioned windows with Low-E windows. These high-quality, low-cost windows utilize special coating and high-performance glass to let in the visible light while blocking both heat and ultraviolet rays. This keeps your house warm when it’s cold, and cool when it’s hot, cutting down on heating and air conditioning costs. These windows soon pay for themselves.

Come by our showroom in downtown Salt Lake City or just call us to get a free estimate. We will show you how our green, custom made products can save you money while making your home more comfortable and better looking.

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Pet Door DIY: How to Install the Glass Insert Yourself

Posted on June 20, 2018November 12, 2025 by import

Adding a pet door to your home is one of those projects that sounds simple. However, when it involves glass, it’s a whole different ballgame.

Whether you want to give your dog or cat easy backyard access or just enjoy the convenience of fewer trips to open the door, installing a glass door with a dog door insert can make life easier for everyone. But before grabbing your tools, it’s important to understand the right way to do it safely and correctly.

Crucial Safety and Planning

Working with glass isn’t like cutting drywall or wood; it requires care, the right tools, and sometimes professional support. Here’s what to keep in mind before you start:

Safety First: Glass panels are heavy, fragile, and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Always wear gloves and safety glasses and never attempt to lift or install large glass panes by yourself.

The Unbreakable Rule: Tempered glass cannot be cut. Once it’s manufactured and tempered, it’s impossible to modify safely. This means you can’t take your existing patio door and “cut out” an opening for the dog door. Instead, you’ll need to order a brand-new insulated glass unit (IGU) that’s made specifically for your door size, with the pet door opening pre-cut at the factory.

Measurement Is Key: Accurate measurements are everything. You’ll need the width, height, and thickness of your current glass unit, as well as the air space between the panes. Any small error can lead to a poor fit or air leaks.

High-Level DIY Installation Steps

Step 1: Preparation & Ordering

Once you’ve confirmed your measurements, contact a manufacturer or installer who can create a custom glass panel with the pet door built in. Expect a lead time of several weeks since every piece is made to order. During that time, clear your workspace and gather tools like suction cups, screwdrivers, painter’s tape, and a stable work surface.

Step 2: Removing the Old Glass

Carefully remove the door from its track (if it’s a sliding unit) and lay it flat. Then, remove the glazing beads or trim that hold the glass in place. With a helper, gently lift the glass out of the frame using suction cups. Be mindful of sharp edges and never force the glass, because it can shatter suddenly.

Step 3: Installing the New Pet Door Insert

Set the new IGU with the built-in pet door into the frame, ensuring it’s aligned perfectly. Reinstall the glazing beads or trim, checking that everything sits snugly and evenly. If the fit is even slightly off, stop and double-check your measurements before proceeding.

Step 4: Final Touches

Reinstall the door into its track, test the sliding motion, and inspect the weatherstripping around the edges. Make sure the pet door flap opens and seals smoothly to prevent drafts. A dab of silicone around the corners can add extra insulation.

Contact Us Today for a Free Estimate and Let Us Handle Your Dog Door Installation

Installing glass isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Many homeowners begin this project with enthusiasm but soon realize how complex and risky it can be. At Advanced Window Products, we make the process safe, seamless, and guaranteed to last.

Our team designs, fabricates, and installs custom glass panels with precision-cut openings, so your door looks clean, performs flawlessly, and stays energy-efficient. Call 801-505-9622 or contact us online today for a free estimate.

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Are New Doors with Blinds Between the Glass Right for Your Home?

Posted on June 8, 2018 by import

When you make the decision to upgrade your home with new exterior doors, you will be faced with several different options, with the potential to update the look of your home. Patio doors with built-in blinds, also known as integral blinds, may be a worthwhile investment to modernize the look of your home with this easy-to-use innovation.

With features like the convenience and the ability to easily regulate privacy, new entry doors are seamless and streamlined with the blinds between the glass. So, the question is, ‘are new doors with blinds between the glass right for your home?’ Here are the top 7 benefits of new exterior or entry doors with integral blinds.

Innovative Integral Blind Features

The incredible innovation of integral blinds has been around for several decades and today’s technology offers homeowners great flexibility with a streamlined design, including no more tangled cords and cost-saving natural light control. Operating options include position choices above 30 inches and left or right-handed operating options.

Customizable Between-the-Glass Blind Options

Since every homeowner has his or her own personal style, Advanced Windows USA, located in Utah, offers homeowners the choice of six blind colors to aesthetically blend with your home’s unique décor. Choose from silver, espresso, moon, sand, slate gray, tan, or white. Our integral blind French doors can be personalized with a center hinge, French hinge or hinged operation.

Glass Options for Utah Homeowners

Homeowners have different options when it comes to choosing the glass for your new patio doors with integral blinds:

Annealed Glass – Many homeowners choose annealed glass as a more cost-effective option. This glass offers safety with high durability and will withstand typical forces. Annealed glass is energy efficient to provide utility savings.
Tempered Glass – Tempered glass is considered high-performance glass that will not easily shatter. With the installation option of energy-efficient warm edge spacers, tempered glass protects you and your family from harmful UV rays and will prevent interior fabric from fading.

Long Life and Durability

Made with new-generation, multichambered PVC vinyl, doors with blinds between the glass highlight improved durability with the ability to withstand a typical family’s normal wear and tear. These incredible doors also have the added durability of fusion technology welding to ensure they maintain a tight seal against our harsh Utah weather and retain ideal usability for years to come. The encased blinds will also withstand the damaging rays of the sun for an increased level of durability and long life.

Integral Blinds for Your Family’s Safety and Privacy

Utah families with children and pets will enjoy the worry-free, kid and pet-friendly cordless operation of integral blinds without the safety hazard of dangling cords. Pets and kids stay safely behind the glass and cannot damage or get caught up in the blind slats. Built-in blinds will allow you to raise and lower the blinds to regulate privacy and lighting. Unique symmetric privacy channels match on the inside and outside and tilt in a wide range of positions for optimal privacy. French doors with integral blinds also feature a secure multi-point locking system that can withstand up to 300 lbs. of force.

Hassle-Free, Easy Cleaning!

With blinds between the glass, you will NEVER have to clean or dust your blinds again! Without the typical build-up of dust and debris, those with allergies will also notice an improvement in their allergy symptoms too.

Limited Ten Year Full Warranty

A result of decades of research and innovation, Advanced Window Products‘ integral blind doors are designed to withstand the 4-season weather of the Beehive State. And because we are the manufacturer we confidently back our high-quality between the glass patio doors and French doors with a limited ten-year full warranty.

Why Choose Advanced Window Products for Your New Doors with Integral Blinds?

Now that you understand all of the incredible benefits of choosing new doors with blinds between the glass, give us a call at (801) 505-9622 for your free quote or stop by our showroom at 3052 South 460 West in Salt Lake City to see our selection of French doors with integral blinds. We proudly offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for our high-quality window and door products and our friendly, expert installers are AAMA Certified Installation Masters and provide superior, professional installation with excellent customer service. Click here for a virtual tour of our facility.

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