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!

Best Places for Bay Windows

Large white bay window overlooking trees

Bay windows are a show-stopping feature that will captivate anybody who enters your home. By offering an abundance of natural light and sweeping views of the surrounding scenery, they will add charm and luxury to any room. The hardest part of installing a new bay window is deciding where to put it – but that’s where we can help! With decades of experience designing and building custom products, we know where bay windows can have the biggest impact. Read on to gather inspiration for your project!

What Are Bay Windows?

A bay window is more than just a window – it’s also an architectural element that alters the shape of your home. They typically have three sections: one central window (or group of windows) flanked by two smaller ones. All three sections curve or angle outward from your wall, creating an elegant protrusion that is visible from both the interior and exterior of your house. The result is a “bay” inside of a room that provides an airy, beautiful glimpse into the outside world. 

Best Places to Put a Bay Window

If you are looking to upgrade your home with gorgeous bay windows, then the first step is to decide which room you want to transform. To spark your imagination and creativity, here are some of our favorite places for bay windows:

Office or Library

Typing away on your laptop? Cozying up with your newest book? Nothing will keep you inspired quite like having the beautiful Pacific Northwest on the other side of the glass. Whether you want to build the perfect reading nook with a window seat or you’d prefer a floor-to-ceiling option for ample space, a bay window will make your home or office feel like a magical getaway.

Bedroom or Guest Room

Your bedroom is your escape from the outside world, so it should be a place of total relaxation and comfort. A bay window will help you create an irresistibly luxurious atmosphere that will have you excited to bundle up and stay in. And, if placed in a guest room, it will make your home a spot that your visitors can’t wait to return to.

Kitchen

A bay window over your kitchen sink will make dishes feel less like a chore and more like a peaceful daily task. Having a view into the yard will not only brighten up your space, but it also gives you the opportunity to keep an eye on your kids while making dinner or cleaning up. And, a little extra space creates the perfect place to put plants or flowers that need additional sunlight.

Living Room

Grab your favorite recliners and turn them to face a large bay window. With panoramic views and soft natural lighting, these windows create a comfortable place to sit and relax with your loved ones. 

Dining Room

Adding tall bay windows will make your dining room feel more spacious and sophisticated. When you get your dining table, a rug, some plants and window accents added, the dining room will feel welcoming, warm, and ready to host your next holiday meal with friends or family.

Transform Your Space with Bay Windows

Want to see how bay windows can transform your space? Get in touch with Lifetime Windows and Doors! Our team has served Portland, Southwest Washington, and Central Oregon for more than two decades. To give our customers the best results possible, we use highly efficient double-pane products from reputable brands like Simonton Windows and Doors or Milgard. From the design and product selection to the full installation, we can help bring your vision to life! Give us a call today to learn more or 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!

Aging-in-Place Features For Your Home

If you are newly retired or you are thinking about retirement soon, chances are you are crunching numbers and determining what life will look like after working. Many retirees want to stay in their homes as long as possible, so making their home as updated and convenient for aging-in-place is very important. Here are some things your home should have as you set out toward your journey of retirement.

#1: Updated windows.
Chilly winter days and hot summer nights – we have a little bit of everything in the Pacific Northwest.  New windows are energy efficient and can even help reduce your utility costs each month. That’s a real win when it comes to conserving your retirement dollars!  Updated windows also help keep outside noise out, so you can kick back and relax in the quietness of your own space. And last, new windows add value to your home and enhance curb appeal!

#2: New roof.
A reliable roof is one of the most important parts of your home’s structure. A new roof is one of the best long-term investments you can make for your home. It will help keep you comfortable and protected from the outside elements. We use Malarkey Roofing Products in our roofing jobs, a company committed to protecting the environment in their Energy-Star rated roofing materials. One thing is for sure – a high-quality roof will serve you well for many decades! And, you’ll be confident knowing that the roof above you is doing its job to keep you secure and safe from whatever the weather decides to do outside.

#3: Reliable siding.
Is the exterior siding of your home showing any signs of failing? If so, don’t ignore this. This could expose your home to water, which could lead to dry rot and mold. Not to mention, it can take a hit from the sun and cold weather in the winter. Be proactive and make sure your siding is ready to go for your retirement years. If it isn’t, consider replacement with fiber cement siding. This type of siding installed by our professionals at Lifetime Windows and Doors is one of the best things you can do for your home’s exterior. It is moisture and rot resistant, doesn’t crack, split, or warp, and is resistant to pests.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your home’s aging-in-place projects! We proudly serve the Portland metro area, Southwest Washington, and Central Oregon. Our experience is something you can count on, so call 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!

What You Should Ask When Researching Home Improvement Companies

When you are planning for a home renovation or a project that includes updating your windows, doors or roofing, you’ll have some research to do. You work hard for your money and making sure that it’s being put to good use with a reliable company that does great work is important. Taking the time to do some important research, which includes asking good questions, is key. There are some places out there that claim to be the best, but they may not be honest or ethical. This could cause a real headache for you later down the road. Here are some important questions that you should ask home improvement companies before you consider hiring them.

  1. How long have you been in business?
    The company or contractor should have experience working in the field. They don’t necessarily have to be in business for decades, but they do need to have proven hands on experience that they can prove. It is okay to ask for references. They should be happy to provide you with some without any complaints.
  2. What do their online reviews look like?
    Negative reviews online speak a lot. If there are a lot of these, pay attention – this could be a red flag. Read through the reviews and if there is a common, recurring theme that causes concern, don’t ignore it. Take time to read through the positive reviews, too. You will want to hear about other customer’s experience in quality products, workmanship, great customer service, pricing, and more. Reviews reflect the company and provides insight into how they operate and how they treat their customers.
  3. What do they specialize in?
    When it comes to your home, you want durable, lasting products and quality workmanship. This especially rings true with siding, roofing, or your window and door replacements. Know what the contractor specializes in and pick a place that is specific to what you need done. That means they are able to handle unexpected issues with ease and ensure that the project is completed the right way.

Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors brings decades of industry expertise to each and every project. No matter how big or small your home improvement project is, we can help! We have worked on thousands of residential and commercial projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. We get the job done confidently and as quick as possible.

We gladly offer free virtual quotes on replacing your worn windows or doors with new ones that are energy efficient and insulated. Need new siding? We do that too! Ready to get your project started? Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how to get your appointment on the books with us.