How to Pick the Right Siding Color for Your Home

Are you considering a siding replacement? Picking the right color for your home’s exterior is a big decision. It will be a color you’ll have to live with for a long time and it plays a big role in your home’s overall curb appeal. Here are some tips on how to pick the right siding color.

#1: Know your home’s style.
The architecture in your home will help guide you. For example, if you have a Craftsman-style home, you’ll want to stick with traditional earthy colors. Colonial-style homes are often white. Country-style homes are often lighter, so breezy yellows and blues are a popular choice. For modern homes, stone hues are a good option.

#2: Consider the size of your home.
If you have a large home, it’s usually best to avoid dark, gloomy colors. Dark colors on large spaces can make it look a little overpowering. Smaller homes do better with dark hues.

#3: Coordinate roof color.
Look at your roof. If it’s dark, it’s often best to go with a lighter siding color. If you have a roof that has a mix of light and dark, stick with a neutral siding color. If your roof is brown, light earth tones or off white could contrast nicely.

#4: Consider the neighborhood.
Walk around your neighborhood and pay attention to what other homes look like. You don’t want to pick a color that sticks out like a sore thumb – especially if you plan to sell the home somewhere down the line. You can definitely pick something that is unique to your specific taste and style but consider how that will play into the whole neighborhood feel.

Our experienced team of professional installers at Lifetime Windows & Doors are factory-trained and ready to help install your new siding. We know that your home is one of your most valuable possessions, so we will make sure the job is done right! We proudly carry and install top quality fiber cement siding. It is incredibly durable and won’t swell, rot, or warp when it’s exposed to heat, humidity, or water. It uses ColorPlus® technology, which is uses a baked-on pre-finish that won’t fade or fade from ultraviolet rays.

Contact us today to learn more about getting your siding project started so it can be ready in time to enjoy the beautiful Northwest spring and summer seasons!

Tips on Avoiding Roof Damage This Winter

Your roof plays a key role in keeping you and your family protected and comfortable – especially as winter weather rolls in. So, ensuring your roof is ready to handle whatever winter throws its way this year, there are some important tricks to follow to help avoid roof damage.

#1: Check your gutters.
Winter in the Pacific Northwest is wet. As rain pummels the roof, water will roll off it and route it away from your home’s foundation via the gutter system. If your gutters are broken or clogged, they can’t do its job. This means that the roof could collect standing water, and this could cause damage in the form of mold, mildew, or even dry rot.

#2: Remove roof debris.
Wind and rain will bring tree branches, leaves, dirt, and other small objects that can cause damage. Piles of debris can cause mold build up or even attract pests. Ensuring your roof is clear will help minimize your risk of problems.

#3: Treat mildew and mold immediately.
If you notice any mold or mildew buildup, treat it right away. This type of buildup on your shingles could damage them as well as the sheathing underneath.

#4: Keep nearby trees trimmed.
If you have trees hanging nearby your roof, be sure to keep them trimmed. Fallen branches – especially in the event of a rain or windstorm – could cause damage to the roof.

#5: Don’t ignore damage.
If there is significant damage to your roof, don’t ignore it. This could cause water to leak through, which could damage the structure of your home. This is especially true if your roof is already at the end of its life cycle. The average roof will last about 20 years. But if your roof is older than that, chances are, it will need to be replaced soon.

Keeping your roof prepared for the winter weather is important. Roof maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your roof. Or, maybe it is time for a full roof replacement. So don’t put your home’s exterior in jeopardy by waiting to replace it! A roof replacement can happen at any time during the year, including the winter! Whether you’re looking for a shingled roof, metal roof, or tile roof, our skilled team at Lifetime Window and Doors can help answer your questions! We’ll ensure you have the right high-performance roof to keep you protected and comfortable all year long.  Contact us today!

Why DIY Window Replacement is a Bad Idea

“Do it yourself” (DIY) projects are popular. But that doesn’t mean they are all a good idea. Home improvement projects can be expensive and doing them yourself can save money. However, when it comes to window replacement, relying on experienced window installation contractors is key. Here’s why.

#1: It can get complicated.
Measuring for windows is more complicated than you might think. Incorrect measurements could cause big problems including gaps or leaks around the windows. Windows that won’t fit into existing frames can be a difficult problem to fix. In addition, removing existing frames means cutting through connectors and caulk. Without the right tools and training, you could bend or chip the framing or damage another important area around the new window space.

#2: Do you know how to level?
Leveling your windows is critical. If they are not leveled accurately, they will be installed crooked. The crooked windows will sink, settle, and shift. Over time, that could pull away from the frame and leave leaks and gaps that allow heat, cold air, or humidity into your home. And this wastes energy and lets out your heated or air-conditioned air, too. This in turn, makes your heating or cooling system work harder than necessary.

#3: Mistakes can be costly.
Unfortunately, DIY mistakes are common. Improper installation could cause water to get inside your windows or window frames which could lead to mold or dry rot later down the road. All of this translates to expensive fixes and even health problems.

#4: Industry standards must be adhered to.
Did you know that certain home improvement projects require permits or code inspections? If you don’t have the proper paperwork done, you could be looking at a fine later. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors are trained to install windows according to proper building codes outlined by city and state requirements.

Our professional window contractors are expertly trained for proper assembly and careful installation. So, save yourself time, hassle and potential stress by hiring our team to do the work for you. Our work and positive reviews speak for themselves. Whether you choose Milgard or Simonton Windows, our product selections are of the highest quality in both energy efficiency and innovation ratings! We will work with your budget and your style preferences. So call us today for more details on getting your window replacement project started this autumn!

How to Stay Comfortable While Working from Home

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people go about their daily lives. It’s also changed work environments around the country. Many offices have shut down and told their employees that working from home is the new norm. If you are working from home, you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help. Here’s how.

#1: We can update your space.
Did you know that your windows play a key role in keeping your home’s heating and cooling evenly distributed? Old, energy inefficient windows can leak outside air in. That means your heat during the fall and winter months can make its way outside and cold outside air could create cold spots in your home. That means your heating and cooling system must work harder to keep the temperatures evenly distributed. Because of that, your utility bills will likely increase. So, consider window replacement for your home! We have a variety of options that will fit your home’s unique style and most importantly, your budget.

#2: Replace your doors.
Your exterior doors are also an important part of creating a comfortable home and work environment. We carry a variety of brands including Simonton, ThermaTru, Simpson! These doors are affordably priced and can even be ordered custom. Our team of installation specialists can take a look at your current doors and make recommendations for replacement based on your style preferences and budget guidelines.

Home renovations like these will not only make the space your beautiful and comfortable, but they can help increase your home’s value! That means when it comes time to sell it, you will have a greater return. The money you spend now is well worth it, because it will create an opportunity for a easier, smoother home sale later down the road.

Contact us today to talk about your home improvement projects. We have been working with customers around Oregon and Washington since 1998. We have the products you need and the experience you can count on.

Summer Window Weatherizing Tips

August is here and the hot weather will be here for the foreseeable future. Did you know that weatherizing your windows could help keep you cooler this month? It can also help increase energy efficiency, which can save money on your monthly utility bill. Here are some helpful window weatherization tips.

#1: Check your windows regularly.
Homeowners have various home maintenance tasks to keep up with. Checking your windows is one of them. Look for any chips or cracks and ensure that there are no issues with sealing. If you spot anything, make sure they are fixed right away. This will help prevent damage to the outside structure of your home and it could save you money on a costly window repair or replacement later down the road.

#2: Caulk windows.
Windows that leak air in and out can cost you big money. Windows are one of the primary places that air is lost, so caulk well around the seams.

#3: Utilize shades and fans.
Window coverings will help block hot incoming sun and work with your AC system to keep your home cool and comfortable this August. Keep blinds or curtains closed at the hottest and sunniest parts of the day so the temperatures inside can stay balanced.

#4: Replace old windows.
If the windows in your home are decades old, chances are, they are inefficient. We offer free quotes on replacing your outdated windows! New windows are EnergyStar® rated and insulated. Many windows use glass made of high efficiency low-E coatings which can reduce the amount of heat that is transmitted through your windows. And it will also help protect you from ultraviolet rays.

Ready to get your window replacement project started? We proudly carry and install Simonton and Milgard products and can help you find the right windows for your budget. We serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington.  We are currently offering a variety of specials, so visit our specials page to see what our deals are available, then contact us today to get your free consultation scheduled.

Tips to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer

Summer in the Pacific Northwest is stunning. The weather is warmer, the days are longer, and it’s a great time to sit outside in your yard and enjoy the day. But when you come inside, you want a place to cool off. Here are some tips on how to keep your home cool, while minimizing your use of air conditioning.

Reduce sunlight:
Sunlight lifts the spirits, but direct sunlight heading into your home for hours on end could increase your home’s temperature. Adding some drapes, blinds, or reflective panels to your windows can minimize amount of sunlight that goes into your home. That will help decrease your home’s temperature and make it more comfortable.

Make sure your ceiling fan is rotating the right way.
Did you know that if you set your ceiling fan to rotate counter clockwise during the summer, it will help move heat away from the room and push the heat to the ceiling rather than down toward you? This will keep things cooler and more comfortable.

Utilize cross ventilation early in the morning.
Fresh air is great. But, if your doors are open while the temperature is hot outside, that heat will make its way inside. Open the doors in the morning when the temperatures are cooler, then keep them closed for the remainder of the day as the temps heat up. At the same time in the morning, open windows on both ends of your home. This will allow for cross ventilation, and cooler air will be able to move freely throughout the home.

Maybe your windows and doors are not energy efficient or easily opened. Perhaps they are decades old, have cracks or other damage, or leak that precious cold air inside your home out. The solution: new replacement windows Portland, OR. Contact the experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors today for more information!

Reasons to Replace Windows During Winter

The cold, wet weather is here and it’s easy to feel like you should stay inside all the time. When it comes to taking on a home renovation project during this time of year, it might feel a bit daunting. But we have good news! Replacing your windows during the winter can be easy and cost effective!

Your old windows will show their true colors.
Winter is the best time to identify problems with your existing windows. Window materials contract in the colder weather and your windows are exposed to significant wet weather and other elements. That’s oftentimes when you will start noticing any drafts or leaks.

Scheduling is more flexible.
Summer is incredibly busy for our team and other home renovation specialists in the Northwest. Getting your replacement windows done during the winter means you will have greater flexibility on installation dates. We will work with you year-round to find the best time for installation but planning your installation early will help you accommodate any other projects that you might have.

Save money!
Winter promotions are happening right now, so it’s time to act! We are offering a variety of specials that will help you save big money on the price of your window replacement project. For example, buy any two windows and receive your third free!*

Replacing your windows doesn’t mean you’ll be losing heat and energy as the old windows come out and the new ones go in. Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors will work to install one window at a time to ensure that your home stays as comfortable as possible throughout the process.

Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors can install your replacement windows on time and with superior attention to detail. Whether it’s Simonton or Milgard windows you choose, we have a variety of innovative and energy efficient windows that will fit your home’s style and your budget! Contact us today for information on getting your window replacement project started!

*Cannot be combined with other promotions. Must set appointment by Dec 31, 2019. Not valid on completed jobs or jobs in progress. Details provided at time of quote.