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.

Plan a Roof Replacement This Spring

Roof replacement technician laying out asphalt shingles on a rooftop

It’s easy to forget about your roof until there’s an obvious problem. However, if you wait too long to replace a worn-out roof, it could end up damaging the rest of your home. Thankfully, spring is the best time of year for a roof replacement! If your roof is no longer adequately protecting your home, it may be time to invest in a new one that will keep your property safe and beautiful for years to come.

Signs You Need a Roof Replacement

In general, if your roof is more than 20 years old, it’s probably time to start thinking about a replacement. There are a few indications of wear and tear or damage that you should keep an eye out for. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time for a roof replacement:

  • Missing shingles
  • Leaking or water damage
  • Moss growth
  • Discoloration
  • Sagging or sinking
  • Holes or other damage
  • Pest problems in your home

Still not sure if you need a new roof? The experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors can help! Our team will perform a thorough inspection and discuss their findings with you to help you determine whether repairs or a replacement are the best option for your budget and needs.

Why Spring is the Best Time to Replace Your Roof

Spring is a great time of year to replace your roof because the weather is great. It’s not too hot, the rain is starting to slow down, and the days are longer. All of these factors make for perfect roof replacement conditions. Additionally, spring is when many homeowners get their tax returns. Putting some of that money toward a roof will make the project a lot more financially feasible, while providing you with all the long-term benefits of a new roof – from energy efficiency to increased property value.

Dependable Roof Replacement Services

Your roof is one of the most important components of your home. That’s why at Lifetime Windows & Doors, we go above and beyond to provide you with the very best results possible. By using top-quality and Energy Star-rated Malarkey Roofing Products®, we can deliver exceptional workmanship that will last for years to come. We also offer a variety of roofing styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your aesthetics, budget, and lifestyle.

Want to replace your roof this spring? Turn to Lifetime Windows & Doors in the Portland OR area! With more than two decades serving the Pacific Northwest, we have the roofing expertise you can trust. From the initial quote to the final shingle, we will communicate closely with you and exceed your expectations.

We proudly serve Portland and the surrounding areas of Vancouver WA and Central Oregon. If you’re ready for a new roof, contact our team for a free estimate! We’ll help you build the perfect roof so you can keep your home protected this spring, throughout the year, and for decades to come.

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 You Should Replace Your Roof This Spring

Your building’s roof is vital to the overall reliability of the structure. For this reason, it’s important to have a reliable roof. If your roof is starting to show its wear, or you’ve noticed that it is causing issues in other parts of the building, it is probably time to consider a replacement. Here’s why you should consider a roof replacement this spring.

#1: It protects your work or living space.
Putting off a roof replacement could increase your risk for damage to the interior of your home or business. For example, you could risk ceiling damage, dry rot, or mold. A new roof will protect the space from this kind of harmful destruction. In addition, it will add value to the space and enhance curb appeal! A new roof is an especially good selling point if you plan to list the home or business for sale soon.

#2: The weather is ideal.
Springtime in the Pacific Northwest is unmatched. It’s not too hot and it’s drying out a bit more! While we do have rainy days, the sunlight is here for longer and there are longer stretches of sunny, dry weather. This is perfect roofing replacement weather.

#3: You can use your stimulus money or tax return.
Got some stimulus money set aside for home improvements? Tax returns are also starting to trickle in, and what better way to use it than by investing it in a new roof! A new roof is an investment that will help you – it could save you from future problems or issues that are incredibly costly to fix! So, designate some of your stimulus money or tax return to put toward a roof. Planning to get it replaced before you’re forced to because of a bad leak or other damage, is the best way to go.

A roof replacement installed by our team of professionals at Lifetime Windows and Doors is a great investment for your home or commercial building. We use Malarkey Roofing Products in our roofing jobs, a company committed to protecting the environment in their Energy-Star rated roofing materials. There’s no doubt about it – a high-quality roof will serve you well for many decades! You’ll be confident knowing that the roof above you is doing its job to keep you protected and safe from the outside elements.  Contact us for more details on getting your roof replacement started.

 

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!

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.

3 Things to Do Before Remodeling Your Home

Remodeling your home is a big job, but if you plan well, things will go smoothly, and it can be more exciting than stressful. Here are some important things to do before remodeling your home.

#1: Outline your project goals.
Homeowners have lots of different reasons for remodeling their home. Maybe things are out of date or the style is simply not something they connect with. Maybe there needs to be more added space, or you’re looking to increase the resale value of the home. It’s important to outline what your overall goals are before you pick up the hammer and start demolishing. Perhaps one of your project goals is to enhance your living space and create greater views to the outdoors. If that’s the case, plan for new, updated windows in the space that are energy efficient. Maybe your backyard space is important in your remodel. In that situation, consider what exterior siding could help enhance the home.

#2: Bring in the pros.
Maybe you will work with a contractor or you plan on doing a lot of the work yourself. However, bringing in the professional for some of the biggest jobs like window or door installation or roof replacement is very important. These people have the experience and knowledge that it takes to get the job done with accuracy, attention to detail and efficiency. These professionals will also help advise you on what windows or doors will help you improve the overall design of the home while adding value and curb appeal.

#3: Narrow down timelines.
Home renovations take time, so figuring out a general timeline is key. Working with professionals on the project will help, as they will see if there are any limitations or restrictions on the timeline you’ve proposed. They will be able to talk to you about that and come up with a reasonable completion date so you can stay on track and minimize frustrations along the way.

Your home is a sacred place that should be cared for well. A home renovation project should be planned carefully so the result is exactly how you envisioned it. We work with homeowners from around Portland, southwest Washington, and central Oregon to install beautiful, updated windows, doors, roofs, and siding! No matter what your budget, we will work with you to find top quality products that will help you enjoy your home for years to come. Contact us today to talk to us about your upcoming project!

 

Why We Love Malarkey Roofing Products

We understand that the roof is one of the most important components of your home. That’s why we are proud to use Malarkey Roofing Products® for our roofing jobs.

Founded by Herbert Malarkey, and based out of Portland, Oregon, the company has built their brand on the value of quality, honest interactions with employees, vendors, and customers, and a commitment to the community.  The company has also made it their mission to protect the environment. In partnership with the city of Portland, Marlarkey Roofing Products has received the state of Oregon’s Governor’s Award for energy conservation for installing a methane recovery pipeline, which has helped reduce natural gas consumption by more than 80%. Today, the company provides many Energy Start-rated roofing materials for customers, which can help consumers that qualify for LEED points.

The company also works regularly with non-profit organizations and gives back by raising money to help them. Malarkey also provides building materials for Habitat for Humanity and has also worked regularly with Feeding America, No Kid Hungry, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and more.

If your roof is leaking and has been repaired significantly over the years, it’s likely that you will need to consider a full roof replacement.  A new roof will keep your home protected throughout the various seasons of the year, including the springtime when we get a lot of wind and rain. In addition, a new roof will help add value to your home. We use only factory-trained installers for our roof replacements, so that means you’ll get the job done right the first time and you won’t need to worry about a thing.

Contact us today to see how we can help with your roof replacement. We are proud to serve Portland and the surrounding areas, Vancouver, and Central Oregon and can work with you to get your new roof installed soon!  Contact our team of experienced professionals so you can keep your home protected this spring and through the rest of the seasons for decades to come!

Ways to Help Reduce Your Energy Costs

This time of year, utility bills tend to increase because the weather is colder and we’re inside more often! We use our heaters more and it gets dark sooner, so we turn on our lights for longer. This means our energy usage increases and we likely are looking for ways to keep those costs down. Here are some helpful tips.

Tip #1: Consider Upgrading Your Windows and Doors.  
Brrr! Drafty windows and doors leak amazing warm air to the outside, rather than keeping it inside! Not only will you be chilly, but you’ll be wasting energy by making your heating system work harder than it must. If your home has old, inefficient doors or windows, it may be time to consider replacing them for newer, energy efficient ones. This is a great choice, because it will keep you comfortable year-round, not just in the winter, but when the summer weather hits and you want to keep the cool, air-conditioned air inside.  We carry a variety of quality window and door products from Milgard, Simonton, ThermaTru, Simpson, and more! We will work with you on which product fits your space best and most importantly, we’ll work within your budget.

Tip #2: Keep Your Heating System Maintained.
This is something that people oftentimes forget to do, but it’s very important in helping to reduce your energy costs. Regular maintenance of your HVAC system will not only help ensure that all of the parts are working correctly, but you’ll also be sure that the system is working at its peak efficiency. Old heating systems or those that have not been taken care of regularly with routine cleanings and air filter changes, could be working a lot harder than they need to be, which drives your utility bill up even higher!

Tip #3: Replace Your Roof and Siding.
An old and leaky roof or cracked siding throughout your home could not only cause structural damage to your home, but it could also be causing air leakage, which is extremely inefficient. A new roof and updated siding will add curb appeal and instant value to your home. Even though the weather is cold, our team can work with you to get your roof and siding replaced so you’re ready to tackle the upcoming months of cold winter weather.

Tip #4: Unplug.
Unplug unused electronics or other small appliances that are not being used regularly. This may sound like something small, but it can translate to big savings at the end of the year. Video game consoles, microwaves, and battery chargers are just some of the things that can be unplugged when not in use.

Conserving energy is not just great on your wallet, but it’s good for the environment, too. As you head into 2018 and are looking to make some resolutions for the new year, contact us for information on getting new windows, roofing, doors, or doors installed in your home. You’ll notice a big difference!