What Is A Storm Door? Pros & Cons

Finding the right replacement door and replacement windows Hillsboro, OR, can be difficult for you. There are different replacement door types such as fiberglass doors, vinyl doors, and storm doors. But, what’s a storm door? A door to protect your home from the storm?  

In this article, we will define everything you need to know about storm doors.  

What is a Storm Door? 

A storm door may sound like something to protect you from the harshest weather. But, it is actually much simpler. A storm door acts as a secondary barrier to your entry door. It is usually made a with rectangular door frame with glass panels. A storm door makes up the majority of the door.  

A storm door is backed with insulating foam material within the frame. Aluminum is the best material resistant to weathering. Also, storm doors can be made of fiberglass, vinyl, and wood. Most importantly, you can customize the glass panels depending on your needs and preferences.  

Benefits of a Storm Door 

Here are some of the key benefits of a storm door: 

  • Improved insulation: A storm door can improve the insulation of your home, which is one of the biggest advantages. As a storm door adds another barrier to your home, it can provide insulation. With more insulation, you can make your home warmer during the winter and cooler during the summer.  
  • Proper ventilation: Are you looking for ways to ventilate your home? The best solution is to install a storm door with screens. It can let the fresh air in and allow you to ventilate. Fresh air can result in many health benefits such as a strong immune system.  
  • Added security: A storm door can provide an additional layer of security. It functions as an entry door with standard door locks. So, it is the best way to add a protective layer to your home. As a result, it becomes difficult for intruders to enter your home.  
  • Enhanced aesthetics: Aesthetic value is another great benefit of a storm door. It is made of large panels to make your home more appealing. If you want to bring the outside in, a storm door is a perfect choice.  

Drawbacks of a Storm Door 

Some of the drawbacks include: 

  • Added cost: Cost is one of the major drawbacks of a storm door. It can cost you anywhere between $200 and $1,000. Although this cost is less than the cost of a typical entry door, it is still not cheap.  
  • Less privacy: A storm door can allow more natural light and fresh air. But, it can have a major drawback in terms of privacy. When you want to open your windows and doors to let fresh air in, be aware of what is outside.  

Regardless of the drawbacks, a storm door might be an ideal choice for your home because it improves insulation, adds security, and enhances aesthetic value. An expert window and door contractor can help you choose the right door and replacement windows Hillsboro, OR, for your home. 

Ways to Increase Natural Lighting

Replacement windows Milwaukie, OR, can help you achieve natural light in your home, which has so many benefits. It can bring out the natural beauty of your home, encourage positive emotions, and improve energy efficiency. Natural light can create a positive atmosphere for your whole family, and it can make a room appear bigger. Do you have a small entryway? Increasing natural light in your small entryway is very important. It can completely change how you feel about your property. Extra light exposure can also improve your health.

Here are some of the ways that can help you increase the natural lighting in the entryway of your home.

Add a mirror

Mirrors are function and can be home decorating items as well. Add a mirror to make a room feel brighter because they give an illusion of spacious space. Maximum the mirror effect to increase the natural lighting in your entryway. You can opt for a round-shaped mirror and mount it on the interior wall adjacent or opposite to a window.

Doors with glass panels

A front door can play a pivotal role to let a certain amount of natural light in your entryway. For that reason, it is important to choose the right type of front door. Solid doors without any glass portion installed block all the sunlight. Consider installing replacement doors with glass panels to get more sunshine into your home. A door with a glass panel would be an excellent option. French doors come with glass panels, and these are perfect candidates to increase natural light in your entryway.

Paint your walls white

Although dark and rich colored walls are trendy these days, these are not an ideal choice if you want to increase the natural light in your home. Such colors feel heavy which can make the congested space feel even smaller. Looking for an alternative? Opt for a light color scheme or all-white when painting. Consider a fresh coat of white paint that can brighten up your entryway instantly. It creates an illusion of bigger space as well. So, it’s a win-win situation when painting your walls white.

Exterior windows

Do you have ample exterior wall space in the entryway? Add exterior windows on either side of your front door. It can increase the flow of natural light in your home to a great extent. You can opt for a pair of double-hung vinyl windows, one on each side of the front door. It will look visually appealing as well. This is something that you can plan with the help of an expert.

These small entryway lighting ideas can increase the natural light at home. Remember, windows and doors play a vital role to allow more sunlight in your home. If you are looking for beautifully designed windows and doors, look no further than our platform. We have a huge collection of premium quality doors and replacement windows Milwaukie, OR that can brighten up any space.

Expert Tips On Choosing A New Front Door

If you are looking for replacement windows Milwaukie, OR, or a new door in the market, choose one that adds to your home’s curb appeal and boosts its performance as well. It is much more than just a point of entry or viewing area. A front door can make a great impact and first good impression on the visitors. Replacing your outdated and drab front door can increase the resale value of your property. Isn’t it a big reason to upgrade your front door today? However, you need to wisely choose the front door that suits your budget and needs.

Here are some expert tips on choosing the right front door for your home.

Always consider your budget

Like any other upgrade project, you need to consider your budget when it comes to replacing your front door.

A front replacement requires proper planning, and the budget is always the first thing you think while planning any project. Choose high-quality products; they may cost more upfront but can be worthy investments because of long-term use and weather resistance they offer. Properly research different brands and come up with quality materials.

Based on your budget, you can ensure purchasing the right door that complements your home. There are endless cost-effective options available in the market. All you need is to explore and pick up the best one. It can be overwhelming for you, but not anymore when you have experts helping you out in each stage from planning to purchasing and installing a front door.

Choose the material you need

Steel, fiberglass, and wood are commonly used materials for wood. Each one provides different advantages and can protect your home effectively. Among these options, fiberglass is more stylish, but steel offers more durability. For that purpose, it is necessary to choose one that suits your home’s architecture, budget, and personal style.

A front door should fulfill your needs in the best possible way. For example, maybe you want more natural light flowing in. That is why you should find the perfect front door for your home that fits your needs.

Go for a unique style

Front doors are available in a range of styles. Choose your unique style to make it stand out. A new entry door will benefit you in many ways, no matter whether you want an oval, arched, or round decorative glass. Moreover, you can also consider other customizable features such as hardware choices, screen options, decorative glass offerings, and stain colors. Customize your front door to ensure seamless integration with your home décor.

Energy-efficient option

An energy-efficient door can ensure lower bills. Choose a door that will not only protect you from the elements but also keep energy bills as low as possible. Moreover, such a door can keep warm or cool air from leaking out of your home. Insulating materials are usually used to improve energy efficiency. You can keep your interior atmosphere comfortable at all times with such energy-saving features. The right replacement windows Milwaukie, OR, will also help.

How Curb Appeal Adds Value to Your Home

Do you want to add value to your home and make it more attractive to buyers? Look no further than adding curb appeal and replacement windows Hillsboro, OR, to make a huge difference. From maintaining a green lawn to lighting up your exterior, you can attract more potential buyers. Whether you have just moved into a new house or want to update your existing home, one of the best ways is to focus on curb appeal. It refers to how much your home’s exterior looks attractive from the street. It comes down to every exterior element of your home including sidewalks, fixtures, driveway, and landscaping. Remember, it leaves the first impression of your home for passersby, guests, and potential buyers.

Here are some affordable ideas that can add instant curb appeal.

Freshen up your front door

One of the best ways to add instant curb appeal is to freshen up your front door entry. You can simply update the look of your home by adding a fresh coat of paint to the outdated front door. It is an easy, cheap, and quick option to create a lasting first impression. Most importantly, buyers often stand at the front door for a couple of minutes. It means upgrading your door can attract more potential buyers. By replacing the drab hardware of the door with the modern ones, you can make those moments count. Make your door complement the other outdoor elements to create a stunning view. An updated front door can, of course, make your home stand out on the block.

A lush and green lawn

Keep the updated look of your lawn all time. Make it look green to add value to your home. Prevent the weeds from overcrowding the plants and keep the grass in tip-top shape. Even with regular maintenance, your yard can still look messy. Therefore, it is necessary to properly use a mower and create attractive patterns with it. It will look aesthetically pleasing and create a healthy environment in your home.

One gallon of paint Can Work Better

Are you looking for instant curb appeal? One gallon of make can make a huge difference when it comes to increasing your home’s curb appeal. It can transform your home’s exterior and give it a new shiny look. A bold color can make your home stand out from your neighbors’ home.

Light up your exterior

Transform the look of your exterior by updating the light fixtures. It can amplify your home’s curb appeal. When buying new fixtures for your home, make sure they are practical and attractive at the same time. Moreover, a light fixture should provide an adequate amount for your entryway.

Install stunning water features

Adding a new element to your home’s exterior can take it to the next level. Water features can bring more life to your outdoor area. Fountains, ponds, birdbaths, and waterfalls can make your home more serene. The chirping birds lured in by birdbaths create a breath-taking view. They create a perfect view to be seen out of replacement windows Hillsboro, OR.

How to Design Your Living Room

Replacement windows Vancouver, WA, is part of a great living room design. Designing the living room always comes first when it comes to decorating your home. The living room should always be your topmost priority, and interior designers do their 100% to make it more appealing for you and your guests. There are several things that you need to consider for designing your living room. From the paint color to set the furniture, you have to be very careful.

If you are looking for the perfect guideline to design your living room, you have come to the right place. With specific tips and tricks, you may add to the beauty of your living room. Here are some design ideas you need to follow.

1. Arrange Your Furniture 

You can enhance the beauty of the living room by properly arranging the furniture. Your furniture should represent the nature of your living room. It includes the living room for outside view, a space to play, and arranging the party in the living room.

If you have a focal point in the room or outside the window, you should consider arranging the furniture. It could be a TV, a fireplace, or a painted wall. Place the furniture wisely so that it is convenient to maneuver around the living room.

2. Pick a Color Scheme of the Room 

Always take some time to choose an attractive, persuasive, and appealing color for the living room. The living room’s color depends on various things: If your furniture leather is brown, go for brown color for almost everything, such as a chair, fireplace, and the wall.

3. Lush Leaves 

Plants and leaves add to the beauty of the living room; therefore, try adding some lush leaves in the corner of the room. For this purpose, always make sure your room has adequate sunshine.

Swiss cheese plant, aloe vera, wax plant, and cast-iron plant are excellent options for the living room. When you have the right plants, choose the right pot for the plant. Always place the plant to its right place and make sure there is enough place left in the room to move around.

4. Keep Entrance Clear & Spacious 

The entrance to the living room should be clean and bright. There should be no plant and furniture at the entrance of the room. This is how the guests will enter the room without fighting with the plant and other items. Always group the furniture in the opposite wall instead of placing it in front of the door.

5. Art and Lighting 

Art and lighting are the two main things you should not forget at all. Empty walls don’t put a strong impression, but you can add art to empty walls to enhance their beauty and look. Art is essential for a living room, but it shouldn’t be so expensive. Again, don’t forget to consider the color schema of the room when you incorporate art.

Similarly, don’t ignore the importance of lighting for a room. There are several things to consider when it comes to lighting the room. Only the experienced interior designer can tell you the best lighting according to the color scheme, placement, overall look, and of course, your budget. Your replacement windows Vancouver, WA, plays a role in this as well.

How to Prepare Your Home for Sale

Your home’s replacement windows Vancouver, WA, are among the factors you should consider when you’re thinking about selling the property. If you want to make the most amount of money, your home should be as presentable as possible. Now, this may present difficulties if there are a lot of repairs to be done. Then you’re in the position of needing to discover if it’s worth it to try and fix everything yourself and recover the cost in the asking price or let the buyer deal with the issue.

To prepare your home for sale, you need to first review the market. The real estate market is described as a buyers’ or a sellers’ market. If you can, it’s a good idea to wait until asking prices are high. If you’re not doing this, you should have a compelling reason for your choice. Once you’ve determined that it’s a good time in the market, you should figure out how to price your home specifically.

One way to do this to work with a real estate agent. This is a professional who knows how to sell homes. They can handle the work so you don’t have to. It’s only a good idea if you find a realtor that you feel comfortable with. Working with a real estate agent is not a requirement. Naturally, this will be one of the first steps that complete.

If you do decide that you need to work on repairs, make a schedule. There are projects that you can complete where you will actually make money in the long run. For example, if your windows are severely damaged, it can affect the overall appeal of the home. By replacing them, your entire home becomes more appealing. You can reflect on the cost of the installation in your asking price.

You should also think about keeping your home very clean. At least, make sure it’s spotless before any open house. It’s all about the presentation. If someone doesn’t immediately feel comfortable in the surroundings, it will be hard for them to picture themselves living in the home.

With the same idea in mind, it can also be a good idea to clear out some of your personal belongings. While a striking, unusual design might appeal to you, it’s easier to sell your home if the design is blander. It won’t particularly strike anyone’s eye, but that’s the point. It shouldn’t be too attractive or offensive.

If you decide to sell your home as a work in progress, you’ll have to think very carefully about the asking price. The scope of the work that needs to be done will have a direct influence on how much someone is willing to pay for it. However, you don’t want to give too much of a discount. It’s a balancing act. If you decide to work with a real estate agent, this is one of the things that they can work with you on.

Every home will need replacement windows in Vancouver, WA, at some point. Contact the experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors now.

Home Improvement Ideas Anyone Can Try

Replacement windows Portland, OR, can do a lot for your home. Home improvement projects can be constant, or they can be rare events. It depends on you and how much you want to work on the property. For some, the work is pleasurable and rewarding. Others prefer to spend their free time completing other things.

Whichever side you fall on, there are certain home improvement projects that anyone can complete. You don’t need to be a professional contractor, although working with a professional team might speed up the process.

Here’s what we know.

Remove Clutter

By removing the clutter in your home and yard, you can make the entire property appear more attractive. Clutter distracts the eye from the home’s best features. The best news about the clutter is that it’s easy to remove and organize. You don’t have to throw anything away. You can achieve a dramatic effect by using containers to organize the mess. You can even do it in a way that’s visually appealing.

Clean Windows

Your home may have windows that you never touch or open. It’s easy for these windows to slip your mind. However, if you decide to pay attention to these windows, you can achieve a better appearance for your home. Any easy way to take care of these windows is to keep them clean. You can do this without spending a dime of your money. Clean, sparkling windows can draw the eye. They allow sunshine to freely enter the property.

Interesting Art

The great thing about art is that it’s entirely subjective. There are no rules about what counts. So, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to achieve a huge effect. You also don’t need to be an art expert. You can focus on artistic pieces that you enjoy looking at. Adding art to your home is a great way to make it feel more personal. Your house should feel like your own.

New Windows

It may be a good idea to replace your windows entirely. Doing so can add depth to a room, as well as new aesthetic interest. There also may be practical reasons why it makes sense to replace the windows. They don’t last forever. You will need to replace them at some point due to natural wear and tear. Or, you might decide to replace the windows with a more energy-efficient option. This will produce savings that you’ll see in your energy bill. Ultimately, replacing your windows may save you a significant amount of money, despite the upfront cost.

Homeowners naturally want their properties to be in pristine condition. However, this takes work. You have to keep your eye out for areas of your home that need extra work and attention. When you first move in and are gaining experience, this likely won’t be automatic. You’ll have to learn over time. This can be done if you’re willing.

When your home needs replacement windows Portland, OR, installed, it’s a good idea to stick with the pros.

Make Your Backyard Pop

Your plans for your backyard may include replacement windows Bend, OR. Changing your windows may not be the only thing you need to do to your backyard, but it will make a huge difference. The other changes that you make deepen the effect. For many, their backyards become a center of social activity.

Of course, this isn’t the only way to alter your backyard. Below, you’ll find our best tips marshaled for your use.

Visualize

Visualize your ideal backyard. What does it look like? Is it a lush garden paradise? A desert wonderland? It’ll be much easier to make substantive changes if you can visualize what you want to do. You can keep these images in your head, make a physical vision board, add an online outline. Your options expand when you can visualize what you’re going to do.

Find a Theme

When you work on your backyard, everything will be easier if you can tie it together with a theme. A popular backyard theme is tropical. You can set it up with tiki lights, fun plants, etc. Now your backyard windows will look out at a lovely view. It can improve your mood whenever you see it.

New Windows

If your backyard door is a sliding glass window, there are a lot of benefits to upgrading it. You should keep the glass clean as well. This affects your view of whether you’re in your home or your backyard. Now, the good news is that you won’t have to do this very often. Modern windows are designed to last for a very long time.

Hire a Gardener

If you have a lot of greenery in your backyard, you should try to keep it looking good. When it turns brown or overgrown, it will be unappealing to your eye. Some people naturally enjoy gardening and yard work. However, you may not have enough time to do this. Or, you may not have a green thumb. If this is the case, you will be better served by hiring help. Someone else can take care of all of your outdoor requirements.

New Lighting

Special lighting can make your backyard appear amazing. It can also frame your new windows. You may be surprised at how doable this plan is, even if you’re working with a tight budget. You can set up this new lighting system yourself. It doesn’t have to be fancy to be effective. Simple lights strung up on posts would create a dramatic visual effect.

Garden Path

Creating a walking path in your garden space will come in handy if you host social engagements. They’re easy to build as well. You can learn how to do it yourself even if you’ve never completed a similar home improvement project. You can install tiles and lighting that pleases the eye. Working in your garden can also be extremely soothing. Many people believe that it’s relaxing.

When you find the right replacement windows Bend, OR, you can start to transform your home. These windows can light and depth to any room in your house.

Quick Ways to Make Your Home More Comfortable

Your replacement windows Portland, OR are directly related to your comfort level. That’s why prison cells usually don’t have windows. They’re a luxury. They make any room appear more inviting. Of course, your windows aren’t the only part of your home associated with your comfort.

New Windows

Bright, cheery windows can make your life more pleasant. Multiple studies have shown that sunlight, specifically morning light, can improve your mood. Too much sun is harmful. But the right amount is a healthy way to get Vitamin D. New replacement windows can affect how much sunlight enters your home. You can even think about making your windows larger.

New Bedding

Think about the best sleep you’ve ever had. There’s a reasonable chance that your bed is what made it so comfortable. It’s hard to get a good night’s sleep on an uncomfortable surface. Changing your mattress, however, takes effort. You can achieve a similar effect immediately by changing your bedding. New sheets and blankets feel great on your skin. You can also find options that suit almost every budget.

New Rug

If your carpet has grown old or dingy, it will inherently be less comfortable. You will notice it when you’re walking around your home. If you want the best feeling on your feet, you should think about installing new carpet. Plush, fresh carpet is exactly what you need to feel better. Of course, if you want a quicker fix, go for a rug. A nice rug can cover most of your floor.

Air Filters

The air quality in your home is very important. Poor air quality can trigger your allergies. It can also be very drying if you live in a non-humid climate. Dry air can lead to nosebleeds. To make yourself more comfortable you can get a humidifier and new air filters for your air conditioning and heating unit.

Fresh Paint

If there are any peeling or cracked parts in the paint, it’s easy to see why a fresh paint job would be appealing. However, even if the paint looks fine, there are still reasons to apply a fresh coat. A new color, for example, may promote your comfort level. Sometimes, you simply need a change. Painting an indoor room is easy enough that you should be able to do it yourself.

New Window Treatments

If you’re not ready to replace your windows outright, you can think about installing new window treatments. You can do it in a few minutes if you want to. It’s related to your comfort because it affects the visual appeal of your home. Humans are very visual creatures. You need to enjoy the view if you’re going to enjoy the location. It’s only natural.

Lifetime Windows & Doors can design and install your replacement windows Portland, OR. Please call us at (503) 230-0500 if you’d like to speak with a member of our team. Our showroom is located at 14110 SE McLoughlin Blvd, Milwaukie, OR, 97267. We have experience and a strong reputation in the area.

Window Replacements and Warranties

If you’re investing in a window replacement for your Vancouver, WA home, you need to make sure your new windows have a warranty. Window warranties are there so you can feel confident in your window purchase in case the window breaks or doesn’t perform as it should. Read on to learn more about warranties, and what to look for when you’re shopping.   

First of all, you need a warranty for your new windows. Warranties are a guarantee from the manufacturer or service provider that, if the product falls short of a certain standard, you as a customer have the right to seek out replacement or repair at no cost. You never know what can happen with replacement windows, from poor installation to normal wear and tear. A warranty is the only way to ensure that the company will fix any problems that arise.   

Second, it’s important to remember that not all warranties are created equal. Some are for life, while other only last 10 years. Some warranties are only good for hardware, while others cover the entire window. When you’re shopping for your new windows, it’s just as important to ask questions about the warranty, as it is to ask questions about the windows themselves, so you know exactly what’s covered and what isn’t. The more information you get up front, the more prepared you will be if problems arise in the future. As your window supplier warranty questions like:  

  • How long is the warranty valid for?  
  • Does the warranty cover all parts of the replacement window?  
  • Does the warranty cover labor costs?   
  • Is it a full or limited warranty?  
  • How quickly will the company respond in the event of a problem?   
  • Is the warranty transferrable?   
  • Are there any exclusions?   

Also, don’t forget to read the fine print before signing a warranty contract. There are often loopholes that can be a big problem down the line. You should also be sure to get the answers to your questions or any special additions in writing, as the law does not honor verbal answers or warranties.   

It may feel uncomfortable to be so thorough with your supplier, but a trustworthy business should be understanding. It should be a big red flag if your supplier is reluctant to answer questions or put things in writing.   

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what’s included in your warranty, as long as it meets your personal standards and expectations. You need to be very clear on what is and what’s not in your replacement window warranty, so you’re not caught off guard if any issues arise.     

Do you have more questions about window warranties, or about Vancouver, WA window replacementLifetime Windows & Doors can help. Come pay us a visit at 5021 NE 94th Ave. Vancouver, WA 98662 to get your questions answered in person. You can also give us a call at (360) 726-6930 to schedule a consultation to get more general information about what we can do for you.