Design Checklist for Aging in Place

For those who are thinking about retiring or have recently retired, thinking about what you’ll need as you get older is important. Many people want to continue to enjoy their home and the idea of moving into a retirement community or assisted living center is not appealing. That’s why it is critical to look closely at your home and consider its comfort and accessibility for the long term. If you plan to age in place, keep this design checklist in mind.  

Update Windows

As you age in place, it’s important to update your windows and doors to ensure they are energy-efficient and easy to open and close. For example, if your windows are old and difficult to open, they may get harder to open if your muscles weaken or if the windows deteriorate with moisture or continued exposure to the outside elements. Consider adding casement windows that have cranking handles, as they are some of the easiest types of windows to open and close. 

Consider Accessibility 

Make sure your door entryways are wide enough so you can get wheelchairs, crutches, or walkers in and out without a problem. Also, look closely at your entryways or thresholds to make sure there are no obstacles or difficult transitions. This will help prevent falls or trips.  

Maximize your Indoor-Outdoor Space 

Oregon and Washington are wonderful places to enjoy life – especially as you age in place. To get the most out of your space, consider adding a moving glass wall system or a large patio door that introduces fresh air and sunlight to your home. Even if you struggle with mobility at some point down the road, with a setup like this, you’ll be able to get outside or sit nearby and enjoy the scenery in your neighborhood or yard.

Planning for a remodel, or an addition to your home, or do you simply want to update a few things around your home to accommodate yourself as you get older? Using top-quality products that stand the test of time and installing them with a skilled team of contractors is key. Lifetime Windows and Doors has the experience you can trust with your aging-in-place projects. Our 25 years of serving Pacific Northwest homeowners speaks for itself. 

Call us today to schedule your free quote.  

Have you ever considered what it would take to transform your unfinished basement into a home theater, a man cave, a crafting space or workroom, a guest bedroom, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or a game room in your basement? A project of this magnitude requires some planning! Here are some things to consider for this type of home renovation.

Basements can add extra living space

When it comes to hosting guests, family, or friends, this extra square footage will go a long way. It can also be a great selling point that adds more value to the home if you are considering putting your home on the market in the future. You will generate a good return on your investment with a project like this.

Basements can pose a unique set of challenges

• Moisture issues are common at lower levels, so you may need to add exterior draining, grading, or a dehumidifier. It’s important to think about waterproofing the area so no mold or other moisture issues develop over time. 
• Darkness can also be an issue. In addition to painting the walls light colors and adding enough overhead lighting, consider adding sizable windows, or sliding glass doors to bring in natural light. 
• Complexity can also be a factor with all the little details of this type of project. However, our experienced contractors at Lifetime Windows and Doors are skilled in working with remodeling projects of all kinds and will gladly work with you to find the right window and door products that will keep the space feeling comfortable, light, and spacious.

Your Partners in Finished Basements

Once you have decided to take the leap to finish your basement and are looking for help from the experts, our team can help! Whether it’s an egress window, a French door that separates areas around the basement, or siding that needs to be replaced as you finish the space, we can help! We have served Oregon, Central Oregon, and Southwest Washington since 1998. You can trust us to get the job done right so you can reap the benefits of a larger home. Call us today to learn more about our expertise and schedule your consultation!