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!

How to Prepare Your House for Fall Weather

Autumn in the Pacific Northwest is stunning. The vibrant colors, crisp breeze, and sunny afternoons are all things we love to soak up. However, this time of year is also known for heavy rainfall, which could be detrimental to your home’s exterior. Knowing how to prepare your house for fall weather will allow you to protect your most valuable possessions from the harsh climate while improving your energy efficiency. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming to prepare your property for the cold season – just follow these steps!

Replace Damaged Siding

Great siding does so much more than just improve the visual appeal of your property. It also works to protect every area of your home from wind, rain, and other damaging environmental factors. Before fall is in full swing, go around your home and look for any signs that you need new siding, such as:

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

If you notice any of these problems, it may be time to get new siding. Doing so will ensure your home is properly protected against fall weather. New siding can also increase your home’s energy efficiency by improving insulation, which will keep your house warm while cutting down on your utility bills.

Inspect Your Roof

As autumn rolls in, we’ll start seeing lots of wet and windy days. That means your roof needs to be ready to keep you protected from the changing weather. If your roof is more than 20 years old, has missing shingles, or is otherwise damaged, then it’s a good time to get a quote for a roof replacement. Fall is a popular time for roof replacements, which is why our team at Lifetime Windows & Doors is always prepared to help.

Our experienced team can get your roof replaced in a timely manner, so you are ready for the variety of fall weather that’s on its way. We use local Portland manufacturer Malarkey Roofing products for our roof replacements, which is known for energy efficiency and the utmost quality and durability. Our specialized training and commitment to quality workmanship will leave your home protected and looking beautiful for years to come.

Invest in Quality Windows

Old and outdated windows not only leave your space susceptible to moisture problems, but they also allow cold air to make its way indoors. This means your heating system will have to work twice as hard to keep your space warm and comfortable, which translates to increased energy use and higher utility bills. So, if you live in a historic home or have never replaced your windows, it may be time to invest in quality windows that will keep your space insulated. At Lifetime Windows & Doors, we are proud to offer Energy Star® rated windows that will keep warm air in and cold air out at a superior rate.

Your Local Home Exterior Experts

While it can feel intimidating to get your home ready for fall weather, the experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors strive to make it easy! From roof and siding replacements to window installations, we offer a full range of exterior services that will keep your home looking and performing its best all year long. Our certified craftsmen have served the greater Portland OR area for over 24 years, so we know what it takes to deliver exceptional results and a great customer experience. If you want help getting your house fall-ready, call us today to get your free estimate!

Fall Maintenance Tips For Your Home

September is here and the official beginning of autumn will be here soon. While the weather is still nice, it’s a good idea to get outside and inspect around your home. This gives you the chance to make sure everything is ready for cooler, wetter months. Here are some fall home maintenance tips to keep in mind.

Inspect Your Exterior Doors:
Exterior doors are common sources of air leaks. Ensure the weatherstripping and seals around the doors are secure. That way, they’re able to act as a barrier against cold drafts that try to make their way inside. If your exterior doors have seen better days, now is the time to consider replacing them. At Lifetime Windows and Doors, we have a wide selection of doors that are energy efficient, stylish for any home style, and durable. If you need a custom door, we can accommodate that, too!

Look at Your Roof:
Your roof is the key to keeping you and your family warm, dry, and comfortable during the autumn weather. Now is the time to look closely at your roof to make sure there are no missing shingles or other exposure that could cause moisture accumulation this fall. Maybe your roof is decades old, and a replacement is in order. Fall is a great time to do this – we won’t have freezing temperatures and there are still plenty of dry days ahead. Our roofing experts can get your new roof installed in a timely way so you can head into the fall and winter months with confidence knowing that your home will be protected.

Make Sure Your Windows Aren’t Leaking Air:
Drafty windows? Not only is this a waste of energy, but this will cause expensive heating bills in the fall and winter months. Make sure your windows don’t have loose frames, damaged weatherstripping, cracked panes, or significant drafts. If they do, you should consider getting them replaced with windows that are energy efficient and reliable. This is not only a benefit to your comfort, but it also adds value to your home.

Our experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors are standing by to help with your home renovation projects this fall. So, call us today to learn more about how we can help with window and door replacement, new siding, and new roofs. 

Remodeling Strategies for Aging in Place

Your house is a place that has many special memories attached to it. So, when it comes time to start planning for where you’ll live as you age, it is important to consider what you will need well into the future. Many homeowners have invested their time, money, and creativity into their homes. The thought of leaving it might not seem right! That’s why many people have decided to age in place and accommodate their home so they can do that. Here are some considerations to keep in mind as you start planning.

Make sure your door entryways are wide enough.
As you age, you will need to be sure that the doorways are accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and canes. Also, ensure the entryways and thresholds are clear of obstacles and have smooth transitions This helps prevent trips and falls.

Don’t forget about window hardware.
Aging can cause arthritis or other health problems that make your muscles weaker. So, when it comes to hardware for your windows, make sure you choose hardware that allows you to easily twist and open your windows and doors. Casement windows with cranking handles are often one of the easiest types of windows to have.

Consider adding or expanding your indoor-outdoor space.
The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place to retire and age in place. To get the most out of your living space, consider adding a moving glass wall system or large patio door. These help bring in fresh air and sunlight. That way, even if your mobility is limited, you can still get outside or sit nearby to enjoy the scenery in your yard or neighborhood.  

Whether you are building an addition to your home, or you are revamping your lower level to accommodate living in your home as you get older, using top quality window, door, siding, and roof products is important. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors has the experience you can trust with your home renovation projects. Whether it’s replacing all the windows in your home or adding new doors with wider frames, our two decades of serving Pacific Northwest homeowners is unrivaled. Call us today to schedule your free quote. 

Exterior Home Trends to Look for This Spring and Summer

Does your home need a new look? Maybe you’ve lived in it for many years and it’s time to give it an update. Or perhaps you’ve purchased your first fixer-upper and it needs renovation. Here are some exterior home trends to watch for and how our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help.

Real wood.
The look and feel of real wood on a home is a classic look that can’t be replicated. More and more homeowners are adding wood elements to their home, including real wood doors.  Wood doors provide the highest level of insulation, making them an incredibly energy efficient option. Wood can also be painted any color that you want to match the rest of your exterior, or you can keep it natural. This versatility is a great selling point for homeowners that want options. We proudly carry wood door products from Milgard and Simpson.

Minimalist design.
Less is more in today’s exterior home trends. Excessive decorative elements, details that overwhelm the space, and bold colors are not as common right now. Instead, homeowners are going for simple, neutral, natural looks. Larger open spaces with big, panoramic windows are common. This brings natural light and helps spaces look and feel bigger. We carry a variety of top-quality window products from Simonton and Milgard. So, whether it’s a big picture window, a garden window, or a combination of windows replace everything currently in your home, we can help!

Indoor-outdoor living spaces.
Once the weather warms up and the days get longer, there’s nothing better than getting outside to enjoy the Pacific Northwest beauty. That’s why homeowners are finding ways to combine indoor and outdoor living spaces. Moving glass walls are one of the best ways to do that. These can be customized to fit your space and are a great replacement option for patio doors!

They come in 3 to 6-panel configurations with pocket, stacking, and bi-fold doors. They are crafted with aluminum on the structure and frame and are fully weather stripped. And, because of their unique tandem stainless steel ball bearing rollers, they can be opened and closed seamlessly.

Moving glass wall systems bring the outside in. Not to mention, you’ll be able to take advantage of the natural light in the home, reducing your use of electricity. Over time, this saves money!

Ready to launch your home renovation project this spring or summer? You can trust our experience and commitment to carry the best products for your home. So, call us today for an estimate.

Is Spring the Best Time for Siding Replacement?

The siding of your home or commercial building serves as a protective layer, keeping it safe from a variety of elements. However, it can take a beating over time. Dents, cracks, holes, or other damage – man-made or nature – can cause your siding to wear down. Take a close look at the interior of your home. Has the siding seen better days? Spring is a great time to replace the siding. Here’s why.

The days are longer and warmer.  
Although it’s not impossible to replace siding in the winter, extreme cold weather conditions make outside siding replacement difficult. The warmer temperatures and longer days that come with spring make it an ideal time for siding installation experts to get a new exterior installed quickly and efficiently without any weather-related delays.

It helps save money and conserve the Earth’s resources.
Not only does siding protect your home, but it also helps insulate it from extreme cold or hot temperatures. New siding helps you keep the inside of your home at a comfortable temperature. Homes with poor insulation and worn siding will have higher utility bills. New siding on the other hand, will help you save money in energy bills, simply because your heating system won’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable. Springtime siding installation ensures your home will be insulated to keep cool air inside during the summer, and warm air in during the cold winter.

Safer working conditions.
It can be very dangerous for siding installers to be up on ladders during the cold, wet, and slippery weather of the winter. At the same time, working in the heat of summer can also pose risks. Spring is the ideal time for siding replacement because the weather is drier and cooler, allowing for safer working conditions.  

New siding works wonders in giving your home or commercial building a facelift. It is an investment that not only bolsters curb appeal, but protects the structure for many years. Our experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help with your siding project! We are a leading installer and supplier of premium siding from James Hardie. This cement-based siding is fire resistant, insect proof, and won’t rot. It is built to stand the test of time. Call us today to get an estimate!  

Home Winterization Tips

The official start of winter is right around the corner and cold weather is already here. Now is the time to start winterizing your home, so you can be prepared for the drop in temperatures.

#1: Add insulation.
Having enough insulation in your home is a critical part of keeping your home warm during the winter. This is also one of the best ways to winterize the space. The right amount of insulation will additionally help you save money and energy. Add insulation to your attic floor, basement ceiling, walls, or any other areas where insulation is lacking or missing.

#2: Don’t ignore drafty windows or doors.
Drafts from old, inefficient doors and windows will waste energy. Caulking windows or doors can help in the short term to keep cold air from getting in, but this isn’t something that will help in the long run. It might be time to consider replacing your windows and doors instead. New Energy Star ® certified windows and doors are an investment that will not only keep you more comfortable for years to come, but they will save you money and add value to your home, too.

#3: Check the gutters.
Winter is wet and rainy in the Northwest. Make sure your gutters are cleaned out, so you don’t end up having standing water around the roof line. Clean gutters allow melting snow and rainfall to drain properly. Standing water that is left unattended could cause damage to your roof over time.

#4: Hire a trusted contractor.
Take the time to read online reviews of home improvement companies in the area. Ask them for pictures of jobs that they have recently completed and take note of any red flags that come up during your reading or discussions. Some home improvement projects need to be left only to the professionals. Whether it’s replacing your windows or doors, doing a complete roof replacement, or talking to us about new siding for your home, our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors has the expertise you can trust. For over two decades, we have served the Pacific Northwest and have the reputation for quality workmanship to prove it.

Ready to work through your home winterization task list? We provide free quotes on replacing worn windows or doors with new ones that are energy efficient and insulated. We also replace roofs and siding. We proudly serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Don’t delay and contact us today for information on how to get your appointment on the books!

Autumn Home Improvement Ideas

Autumn in the Northwest is one of the most beautiful times of year! Because the cooler months keep us indoors more often, now is a great time to ensure you have all of your home improvement projects done. Here are some ideas on what things you should tackle.

#1: Spruce up your front door.
Dramatically improve your curb appeal by painting your front door! Add a pop of color to the door or go with a classic look of white or black to freshen it up. The mild days of autumn are a perfect time to paint the door, then let it dry in the sun! If your door has seen better days and a coat of paint simply won’t cut it, a door replacement is probably in order. Our experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help you pick out the right door within your budget. Whether it’s a custom door, or something more basic, we have lots of styles to choose from.

#2: Make sure your windows and doors are sealed.
Water, bugs, and cold autumn drafts love to make their way into unsealed nooks and crannies. Make sure all of the sealing and caulking around your windows and doors is complete this autumn. Tightly sealed windows and doors will also help you save money on your utility bills. This is an easy home maintenance project and keeps you more comfortable this season!

#3: Check your roof.
Autumn weather gets breezy and rainy. Now is the time to make sure your roof is up to the challenge of keeping you dry and protected. Make sure your roof doesn’t have missing shingles or any other issues that could cause significant damage in the coming months. Perhaps your roof is more than 20 years old, and you’ve considered a replacement. We can help! You can trust our roofing professionals to get a roof replacement completed efficiently and with attention to detail. Contact us for a quote.

At Lifetime Windows and Doors, we have the team and experience that you need to tackle your exterior home improvement projects! Whether it’s a new roof, replacement siding, or new windows and doors, you can trust us to get the job done right. So, call us today to learn more about our services and specials.

How to Design a Luxury Home Addition

If you are considering adding on to your home or simply remodeling the space to make it updated or more aesthetically pleasing, you know how much planning will go into the project. You will need to consider some of your biggest priorities, while working with your budget and a contractor that you trust. Here are some tips on how to design a space that is not just luxurious, but comfortable and usable.

#1: Think long-term.
Investing in a home addition or remodel is a huge undertaking that can get expensive quickly. So, think long-term and how you can maximize your dollars for the greatest return. Adding new siding and a roof are some of the best things you can do when it comes to the long-term investment in your home. A quality roof will last for decades. Not to mention, fiber cement siding installed by the professionals at Lifetime Windows and Doors means your home has the protection it needs for years to come. It’s also important to plan for resale. If you end up wanting to relocate, think about what potential buyers will appreciate in your home and the updates you’ve made. Design a home that fits your preferences and lifestyle, but keep in mind that it should also still appeal to other buyers in the event you want to sell it.

#2: Think about your budget.
Whether you’re adding on a whole new room to your home or just updating various parts of the exterior, it is important to think through each aspect of your budget. Take your time to figure out what you are determining as a ‘must have’ and what is just ‘nice to have.’ Once you get near the end of your project, it’s better to be within your budget rather than way over it – as this can cause added stress.

#3: Choose the right company.
When you are planning for a large home addition or a project that includes updating your windows, doors or roofing, you will have some research to do. There are unfortunately a lot of companies out there that are dishonest or simply don’t pay attention to their quality of work. Make sure you read online reviews, ask for pictures of completed jobs, and make sure their expertise aligns with what you’re looking for. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors has decades of industry expertise in home renovation space. We have worked on thousands of residential and commercial projects throughout the Pacific Northwest and our positive reviews speak for themselves.

Contact us for a free quote for your home addition or home improvement project! We have the experience you can trust and are offering specials that can help save you money! contact us today for information on how to get your appointment on the books with us

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!