Is a French Door Right for Your Space?

French door on a patio in Portland OR | is a French door right for your space? | Lifetime Windows & Doors

Looking to add more natural light to your home or office space? A French door could be the perfect option! Stunning glass panes that run the length of the door bring in outside light and open any room that they’re in. No matter what your style preference – modern, cozy, rustic, or a little bit of everything – there is a bright, beautiful French door waiting to make your living or workspace even more magical.

Benefits of French Doors

In addition to filling your home with gorgeous natural light and scenery, these doors are great for showcasing your unique aesthetic. Want to revamp your living area? Make it feel larger and more welcoming by adding a French door. Trying to boost your office productivity? Use these doors to make your space feel more serene and focused. No matter what your goals, these doors will upgrade your aesthetic while enhancing ventilation and bringing in that cool Pacific Northwest air.

French Door Styles

There are various options when it comes to materials, styles, and designs. When you work with our experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors, we can help you customize your options, too, adding sidelights (other glass panels on the sides of the door) or a panel of glass above the door(s). Here are some of the most common style options.

  • Center-hinged: A center-hinged door has two doors, one on a fixed pane and the other one able to swing open.
  • In or out-swinging: Whether it’s one or two doors, you can choose to have your door swing in or out. The type you determine will likely depend on your room’s layout and which one will function most conveniently in the space.

French Door Installation Experts

A French door installation is an upgrade to any home or office space. We are your local French door installation experts and have been installing these products for over 25 years. Your French doors will enhance your space like nothing else can! Call us today to get your quote scheduled.

Tips for Designing Your Home Addition

Home after a remodel and addition

If you’ve lived in your home for a while and you’ve decided you want to add on to it or remodel the existing space, you understand how much planning it takes. It’s a big project to tackle. Determining your biggest priorities is the first step. Once that is done, you’ll need to set your budget and find professionals that can get the job done accurately and on time. Here are some additional tips to consider when designing your home addition.

Think About the Future

Designing a space that is not just luxurious, but functional and comfortable for the long-term is key. Adding new siding and roofing are two of the best things to do to ensure your home stands the test of time. A quality roof can last for decades. Siding – especially top-notch fiber cement siding installed by our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors – will protect your home for years, too. Exterior doors also provide the protection you need.

These home improvement items are also important in case you choose to sell your home later. So, when it comes to designing your addition or planning a remodel, consider what your style preferences are, but also keep in mind that things should appeal to other buyers if you have to sell your home somewhere down the line.

Watch Your Budget

Home improvement projects, remodeling, and home additions can get expensive. Whether you’re replacing windows and doors or adding a whole new level to your home, look closely at your budget and determine what things are “must haves” and what are just extras. There will be things that pop up throughout the course of your project that may put a strain on your budget, so make sure to put a buffer in there for those extenuating circumstances, as well. Setting out with a set budget will help you work within it, so when the project wraps up you can enjoy the results and not be anxious about finances.

Do Your Research

Planning for a home addition or large remodeling project that includes replacing windows, doors, roofing, or siding, requires you to do some research beforehand. That means getting quotes from various companies and contractors to determine you’re working with the most qualified team. Unfortunately, there are companies and individuals in the industry who are not honest or simply don’t do quality work. Make sure you read online reviews, ask for photos of completed projects, and read about what their area of expertise is.

Get Professional Insight

At Lifetime Windows and Doors, we have 25 years of industry experience in the home renovation space. We have worked on thousands of residential and commercial projects around Oregon and southwest Washington. Our quality products, commitment to great customer service, and positive online reviews speak for themselves.

Ready to start your renovation or home addition project? Contact us for a free quote for your home addition or home improvement project! We have the experience you can trust and regularly offer specials that can help save you money.

How to Make Your Home Brighter

light coming in through the windows of an empty interior

When you’re in a home, what do you notice? Chances are, you’ll notice the light – or lack of light – right away. Having enough light makes the area feel open, bright, and spacious. It sometimes even makes a difference in making the space feel dreary versus happy. If you want to bring some light into your space, follow these tips for making your home brighter:

Get a Window Replacement:

Are your windows drab, inefficient, or small? Upgrade your entire room by replacing just one thing – your old windows. Larger windows with the right treatments will make your space look larger and more inviting. Not only that, but you can frame your gorgeous view and make nature a centerpiece of your design. New windows also offer other benefits such as:

  • Increased energy efficiency
  • Higher property value
  • Enhanced curb appeal
  • More light indoors

There’s no doubt about it: all it takes is the right pane of glass to give you a view of the great outdoors and keep the area from feeling dull.

Pick the Right Window Treatments

Beautiful windows deserve beautiful treatments. Whether you’re looking for roman shades or plantation shutters, the material and structure you use to cover your windows plays a big role in how light will enter your home. Once you finish a window replacement or installation project, avoid using dark window coverings. Instead, opt for neutral colors such as:

  • White
  • Cream
  • Grey
  • Beige
  • Taupe

You can also add mirrors around your new windows that can make the space feel bigger and reflect the light that’s coming in. Also, consider painting your walls lighter colors. This can work wonders in making things feel cheerful and bigger. 

Add a Moving Glass Wall System:

When it comes to choosing a window, you have a lot of options to pick from. However, few have more potential than a moving glass wall. These floor-to-ceiling glass panes look like large windows, but they can also slide to the side and function as a doorway. Since they are available in 3 to 6-panel configurations with stacking, pocket, or bi-fold doors, you can also personalize your design to create something truly unique. A gorgeous and customized moving glass wall system will complement your style, add a sleek touch to your home, and brighten up your room.

Get Help from an Expert

Light transforms space, and here at Lifetime Windows & Doors, we love seeing our clients experience a newly renovated house that is uniquely theirs. So, let us help with your home improvement project this spring. For nearly 25 years, we have worked with clients across Oregon and Washington to replace their exterior doors, windows, siding, and roofing, so they can enjoy and relax in their spaces. Call us today for a free estimate!

What to Know Before Buying Patio Doors

Sleek patio doors with dark windows and dark trim

With hot summer weather on the way, nothing’s better than stepping outside and relaxing on a sunny patio. The right patio doors will not only make it easier to get outdoors, but they will also showcase your unique sense of style and improve your property’s functionality and value. That said, there are dozens of options available on the market, and it can be challenging to find the perfect patio doors for your space. If you’re considering upgrading your home with new patio doors, here’s what you need to know before shopping around.

What to Consider When Choosing Patio Doors

Beauty and style are probably the first things you think about when looking at different patio doors. However, there are a lot of other factors you should take into consideration to get the best results possible:

  • Durability: While most people use their patio doors more in the sunny summer months, year-round weather here in the Pacific Northwest is often rainy and harsh. All of your exterior doors should be durable enough to perform well even during our cold and wet winters. 
  • Ease of operation: A great sliding patio door will glide effortlessly when you open or close it. The last thing you want is a door that gets stuck or only opens partially. When selecting an option for your space, try to test out the door to make sure it works as easily as it should.
  • Maintenance requirements: Though all exterior doors require some cleaning and care to look their best, some require a little more maintenance than others. Selecting one with a material that is fast and easy to clean will save you time and effort in the long run.
  • Energy efficiency: Doors and windows play a big role in the energy efficiency of our homes. Your patio doors are no exception. Look for products that can help conserve energy to make it easier for your heating and cooling system to maintain a comfortable temperature all year long. 

Material Options for Patio Doors

The material you pick for your patio doors will have the biggest impact on durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. While there are a lot of good options available, here’s an overview of some of the most popular materials:

  • Vinyl is a great choice because it is affordable, strong, and available in different colors.
  • Aluminum has risen to popularity for its sleek, modern look and easy maintenance.
  • Fiberglass is loved for its durability and advanced energy efficiency.

Not sure which material is best for your patio doors? Don’t worry! At Lifetime Windows & Doors, we offer a wide range of high-quality products that use dependable materials. Our team of experienced craftsmen can discuss your needs and goals to help determine which option is right for your space. 

What Are Moving Glass Wall Systems?

Moving glass wall systems are unique alternatives to traditional patio doors. They are customized to fit your space and stretch all the way from the floor to the ceiling for a continuous glassy look. With 3 to 6-panel configurations and stacking, pocket, or bi-fold doors, there are endless style and design options. If you want to showcase your view, then a moving glass wall system might be the perfect solution for your home or business. 

Your Local Experts

If you want to transform your space by adding a new patio door or a moving glass wall system to your home or business, we can help! For nearly 25 years, we have worked with clients across Oregon and Washington to open up their spaces with new exterior doors. Our reputation for quality workmanship speaks for itself. If you’re ready to experience Pacific Northwest living with the perfect combination of indoor and outdoor living with a new moving glass wall system or a new patio door, call us today for a free estimate!

Home Office Trends to Watch for This Year

close up of a person sitting at a desk, typing on a laptop near an open window.

The pandemic transformed work environments for people in a variety of industries across the globe. Working from home, otherwise known as remote work or just WFH, has become the norm for a large percentage of employees. And because this phenomenon is so common, home office renovations have climbed sharply in 2022. The trend is likely to continue this year, too. Maybe you’re remodeling a shed or garage to be a dedicated home office space, or it could be that you’re simply upgrading an existing space to make it more functional. Regardless, real estate experts everywhere are seeing home office setups become a real priority for people today. Keep these home office renovation ideas and trends in mind in 2023. 

Calming Space

The stress of the last few years has weighed on everyone at some point or another. You can combat this in your home office designs by creating a space with peace and calm in mind. Wood tones, soft pastel colors, and natural greens are all considered one of the best home office setups. If you plan on keeping your office in a shared space, consider adding shelving, a French door, or a room divider to create separation. This helps keep work and home-life divided as much as possible. 

Natural Light

Having a workspace with plenty of natural light is great for your energy bill – but it offers so much more than that. Daylight is important for bolstering creativity and helping with mental and physical health. So in that way it benefits your wellbeing as well as your productivity. In fact, a 2018 study showed that office environments with natural daylight reported an 84 percent drop in symptoms of eyestrain, headaches, and blurred vision symptoms. That’s why incorporating natural light is a crucial part of a modern home office where you can work better and feel better doing it.

Access to Outside Living

Think about ways you can provide access to the outside of your home via your office. Maybe a new door can add an easy exit into your patio or backyard. We can help with the installation of all kinds of doors, including sliding patio doors, French doors, or a moving glass wall system. 

Transform Your Office Space

Let our experts help with your home renovation project so you can create an office that is functional, productive, and beautiful. Whether it’s window replacements that bring in natural light to your home, a new exterior door, or a combination of windows, doors, siding and roofing for a shed or garage remodel, we can help. Give us a call today to learn more or to get your free home office estimate.

Going Green This Spring

an open window letting in natural light

It can be intimidating to think about how to save the environment. But you don’t need to know everything about global warming and pollution to really make a difference. If you want to “go green”, you don’t need to look any further than your own home. Here are some great ways to start a journey toward energy conservation and green living. 

Take advantage of natural light.

We’ve all heard it before: turn off the lights when you leave the room. And it’s true – paying for light usage when you’re not using can be wasteful. Instead, take advantage of the natural light that comes from your windows every day. Even during a rainy spring afternoon, there is plenty of light to take advantage of. Doing so not only helps reduce your energy consumption, it also helps bring in warmth from the sun which can help minimize your heating use, too. When you do need to switch on your lights, make sure that your lightbulbs are energy efficient bulbs or LED lighting that will last longer and use less energy. 

Unplug what you’re not using.

Electronics or appliances that are not used regularly will drain energy. Put your television or computer on standby when you’re done using them, and if you don’t use some appliances often, unplug them. This is a small but mighty step toward energy conservation. And it’ll save you money on your monthly power bill, making this choice sustainable as well as economical.

Plant a garden.

Eating fresh foods from your garden is a great thing to do for your overall health and wellbeing. Once your garden is planted, you will probably spend even more time outside, which means you may want to consider adding a moving glass wall system to your home. These floor to ceiling walls slide like a patio door but look like a huge window. They’re a beautiful way to connect inside and outside living. We proudly carry Milgard moving glass wall systems, which are cost effective and highly durable. 

Say goodbye to drafty windows and doors.

Leaky windows and doors let warm air escape in the winter and cool air escape during the summer. These drafts throughout the year can cause your heating and cooling bill to skyrocket. If that’s not enough, it’s also a significant waste of energy! Replacing these faulty structures with new Energy Star® certified windows and doors from Simonton Windows and Doors or Milgard is not only a great way to help you go green in your home, but it also adds value and helps increase curb appeal.  

Start Your ‘GREEN’ Project Today

It isn’t difficult to be an environmentalist, and even with a few eco-friendly changes you can make a big difference. So, if you’re ready to go green, let us help with window or door replacement or the installation of a new moving glass wall system. Call us today for a free estimate!

What to Know Before Replacing Exterior Doors

Wooden front door with white trim on a light green house in Portland OR

Replacing an exterior door may seem like a quick and easy task, but there are actually a lot of small details that are easy to overlook. Since your door serves as a first impression for anyone who visits your home, it’s important to consider a few key things before starting your project so you can get the best results possible. To create a beautiful and cohesive look, here’s what you need to know before replacing exterior doors:

Which Material You Prefer

Did you know that standard hinged doors can be customized with different types of glass, unique materials, or additional windows? If you want your entry door to make a statement and flow seamlessly into the rest of your home, then you should be selective when choosing a material. To ignite your creativity, here are some examples of great door materials:

  • Aluminum is one of the most commonly used door materials, and for good reason! In addition to being very durable and affordable, it is highly resistant to wear and tear from bad weather, insects, and other environmental factors. It can also be painted to blend gorgeously with the rest of your exterior. 
  • Wood is full of rich colors and warm details that will set the tone when people enter your home. Since wood is such a timeless material, it adds a classic elegance to any space while amplifying your unique style. 
  • Fiberglass is built to withstand years of use without showing any wear and tear. These types of doors don’t warp with humidity or wet weather, making them a particularly good choice for people in the rainy Pacific Northwest. Additionally, they can be painted to suit your aesthetic.
  • Vinyl is an affordable and thermal-resistant door material that is also highly durable. Since these door types often come in folding, sliding, or swinging options, they are perfect for creating an entry to a patio or backyard.

The Style of Your Home

Your exterior doors don’t stand alone. Instead, they work with all of the other architectural and stylistic elements of your home to create a cohesive final product. If you pick a door style that clashes with the rest of your home, it may stand out for all the wrong reasons. 

However, that’s not to say you can’t mix and match different styles! Rather, we recommend considering how the door will look against your unique home when it is fully installed so you can achieve your aesthetic goals and build something that is true to your vision.

Your Budget Range

As with any project, your budget is important. And when it comes to exterior doors, price ranges can vary pretty significantly. To ensure you don’t accidentally go over budget, it’s best to set a specific range of what you want to spend on your new exterior door. 

When working with Lifetime Windows and Doors, we’re happy to help with this step! Our team is highly experienced in exterior doors and can help you get the most out of every dollar. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your budget and show you a variety of high-quality products that are within your range. From paint colors to glass or material options, we’ll also help you find stunning customization options that will bring your vision to life without breaking the budget. 

Start Your Project Today

Are you ready to get your exterior door replacement project completed in 2023? Our expertise is unmatched, and we’ll provide you with a lot of options so you can find the absolute best doors for your space and budget. With quality products from reputable brands such as Therma-Tru, Milgard, and Simonton, you can expect the very best when working with Lifetime Windows and Doors. Just give us a call today to get your free estimate!

Tips for Restoring Your Older Home

Older homes have charm and a unique sense of character. Historic homes or those that were built in decades past have a story to tell and add charm to any neighborhood. Whether you live in a Victorian, a Craftsman, or a mid-century home in Oregon or Washington, restoring it while retaining its distinctive characteristics is important. Here are some things to keep in mind when remodeling an older home.


ENHANCE THE EFFICIENCY & KEEP THE HISTORY

Older homes often have ornate windows or doors that hint at times past. Single-pane windows were very common several decades ago, but they are nowhere near as energy efficient as contemporary windows. Replacement windows in fiberglass, vinyl, or wood give you stunning options that can be modern, traditional, or classic in design. No matter what era your home is from, there are new windows that can keep that older home feel, but provide you with the updates you want. New windows also add instant value and curb appeal. They are an investment that helps garner good returns if you want to sell your home later.


MAKE COMFORT SUPREME

When you stand near your windows, do you feel a draft? Warm air inside will leak out during the winter and cool air-conditioned air can get out in the summer months. Energy-efficient, double-paned windows from reputable, high-quality brands like Simonton Windows and Doors or Milgard help eliminate drafts. This not only keeps your home more comfortable inside with more evenly distributed temperatures, but it also helps with noise reduction. The end result is a quieter, more comfortable home.


CREATE GREATER FUNCTIONALITY

Modern designs can be difficult to integrate into older homes. So, look closely at its overall functionality and make changes during the renovation that make it easier to use. Perhaps adding a moving glass wall system instead of a large picture window could create greater access to your outside living space. Or, maybe your home could simply benefit from new, energy-efficient doors that are safer and more secure.

HOME RESTORATION EXPERTS IN PORTLAND OR

Our team has served the greater Portland OR area for over 25 years and have worked with homeowners on exterior projects all year round, even in the dead of winter! Restoring your old home with modern updates is an important investment in its life and longevity, so call us today to learn more about our services and get a free estimate!

Benefits of Custom Exterior Doors

Your home or business is a reflection of your design preferences and even your personality. If you want to make a statement, a custom exterior door is one way to do that. Here are some benefits of installing a custom exterior door. 

Style

Open the door to something different when you welcome guests to your home, or customers and employees to your business. Doors come in a variety of sizes, shapes, styles and paint colors. There’s more, too. There are panel and glass design choices, different types of woods, and other customizable options available. Our specialists at Lifetime Windows and Doors will walk you through your options so you can customize your door to match your unique needs. 

Endurance

A custom, top-quality door offers protection for many years. It’s not enough to have a door that looks great today. With our top-quality doors, you can rest assured your door will look beautiful for a long time to come. 

Vision

Your exterior doors provide a glimpse into the rest of your home or business Once you determine the best custom door design, many people feel inspired to extend their design vision throughout the rest of the space. Maybe it means getting the ball rolling for window replacement around your home, or even new siding on your home or business exterior. We can help with these improvements too and have over two decades of hands-on expertise implementing them. 

Return on Investment

Much research has been done to determine which home improvements provide the best return on investment when it comes time to sell. New entry doors, new windows, and updated siding are just some of the home improvement projects that yield great returns. In the meantime, you can enjoy the security, beauty and energy efficiency that new exterior doors provide.

New door installation is an easy and very visible home improvement that will catch the eyes of passersby. With different sizes and styles available, let us help you with select a door that’s perfect for your home or business.  

Your Custom Exterior Door Experts

Want to jazz up your exterior door? Turn to the experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors! Our specialists have been helping people choose custom exterior doors for more than two decades! We have an incredible number of quality door options to choose from. Whether you want a custom door, a patio replacement, or a simple front door for your home, we have dozens of style options for you to choose from! Call us today to get your free consultation!

Home Improvements Worth Investing In

If you love your home and plan on spending many more years there, you’ll want to make sure it’s updated to last for the long haul. Your home is likely your biggest investment, so as you plan for your future, it’s important to keep it maintained so it can keep you protected and comfortable – no matter what kind of weather we get. To maximize your comfort and keep your home maintained, consider investing in these things!

Updated Siding

It’s true: quality siding enhances the exterior of your property. But it also works to protect all parts of your home from the wind, rain, and other damaging environmental factors. Not sure if you need new siding? Here are some signs that your siding needs to be replaced:

  • Rotting
  • Mold
  • Warping
  • Bubbling
  • Cracked paint
  • Moisture issues

New roof

On average, your home’s roof will last about 20 years. However, don’t ignore any missing shingles or other damage. This could cause dry rot or other moisture damage on the exterior of your home, which could translate to big, expensive repairs.  

Our team at Lifetime Windows & Doors is always prepared to help with a free quote for a roof replacement. We proudly use products from local Portland manufacturer Malarkey Roofing for our roof replacements. These products are the best of the best and are known for superior energy efficiency, the utmost quality, and extreme durability.  

Energy Efficient Windows

Single-pane windows are not energy efficient and leave your home vulnerable to moisture issues and air leaks. This means your heating system works harder to keep your space warm during the winter and cooler in the summer and this means higher utility bills. Replacing your windows with EnergyStar® rated windows that keep your space insulated and quiet is one of the best additions to your home that you can make. You’ll notice a difference right away in your comfort, quiet, and energy savings. Not to mention, you’ll be able to reap those benefits for many years to come. 

You Can Trust Our Home Exterior Experts!

Updating your home to make it exactly how you want is important – especially if you plan on living in it for a while. Our experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors strive to make it as easy as possible to get your home renovated. From roof to siding replacement, to new windows and exterior door installation, we’ve got a range of exterior services that keep your home looking beautiful. Our certified team has served the greater Portland OR area for over two decades, so we know what it takes to deliver exceptional results. If you want help getting your house ready for long-term living, call us today to get your free estimate!