Design Checklist for Aging in Place

Elderly couple looking out window thinking about aging in place | Lifetime Windows & Doors

For those who are thinking about retiring or have recently retired, thinking about what you’ll need as you get older is important. Many people want to continue to enjoy their home and the idea of moving into a retirement community or assisted living center is not appealing. That’s why it is critical to look closely at your home and consider its comfort and accessibility for the long term. If you plan to age in place, keep this design checklist in mind.  

Update Windows

As you age in place, it’s important to update your windows and doors to ensure they are energy-efficient and easy to open and close. For example, if your windows are old and difficult to open, they may get harder to open if your muscles weaken or if the windows deteriorate with moisture or continued exposure to the outside elements. Consider adding casement windows that have cranking handles, as they are some of the easiest types of windows to open and close. 

Consider Accessibility 

Make sure your door entryways are wide enough so you can get wheelchairs, crutches, or walkers in and out without a problem. Also, look closely at your entryways or thresholds to make sure there are no obstacles or difficult transitions. This will help prevent falls or trips.  

Maximize your Indoor-Outdoor Space 

Oregon and Washington are wonderful places to enjoy life – especially as you age in place. To get the most out of your space, consider adding a moving glass wall system or a large patio door that introduces fresh air and sunlight to your home. Even if you struggle with mobility at some point down the road, with a setup like this, you’ll be able to get outside or sit nearby and enjoy the scenery in your neighborhood or yard.

Planning for a remodel, or an addition to your home, or do you simply want to update a few things around your home to accommodate yourself as you get older? Using top-quality products that stand the test of time and installing them with a skilled team of contractors is key. Lifetime Windows and Doors has the experience you can trust with your aging-in-place projects. Our 25 years of serving Pacific Northwest homeowners speaks for itself. 

Call us today to schedule your free quote.  

Pros and Cons of a Finished Basement

Finished basement | finished basement pros and cons from Lifetime Windows & Doors

Have you ever considered what it would take to transform your unfinished basement into a home theater, a man cave, a crafting space or workroom, a guest bedroom, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or a game room in your basement? A project of this magnitude requires some planning! Here are some things to consider for this type of home renovation.

Basements can add extra living space

When it comes to hosting guests, family, or friends, this extra square footage will go a long way. It can also be a great selling point that adds more value to the home if you are considering putting your home on the market in the future. You will generate a good return on your investment with a project like this.

Basements can pose a unique set of challenges

  • Moisture issues are common at lower levels, so you may need to add exterior draining, grading, or a dehumidifier. It’s important to think about waterproofing the area so no mold or other moisture issues develop over time. 
  • Darkness can also be an issue. In addition to painting the walls light colors and adding enough overhead lighting, consider adding sizable windows, or sliding glass doors to bring in natural light. 
  • Complexity can also be a factor with all the little details of this type of project. However, our experienced contractors at Lifetime Windows and Doors are skilled in working with remodeling projects of all kinds and will gladly work with you to find the right window and door products that will keep the space feeling comfortable, light, and spacious.

Your Partners in Finished Basements

Once you have decided to take the leap to finish your basement and are looking for help from the experts, our team can help! Whether it’s an egress window, a French door that separates areas around the basement, or siding that needs to be replaced as you finish the space, we can help! We have served Oregon, Central Oregon, and Southwest Washington since 1998. You can trust us to get the job done right so you can reap the benefits of a larger home. Call us today to learn more about our expertise and schedule your consultation!

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t ‘DIY’ Your Roof Replacement

asking a Portland roofer about diy roof replacements - they all say hire a professional

If your roof has seen better days, it might be tempting to tackle the roof replacement project yourself. With do-it-yourself (DIY) videos and tutorials for just about every home improvement project online nowadays, you might think it’s easy enough to do and could save money. So, should you DIY your roof replacement? We don’t think so. While DIY is great for many projects around the house, it can turn into a real disaster for more complicated projects like roof replacements.

Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t DIY your roof replacement project:

Roofing Can Be Very Dangerous

Roofing accidents happen all the time – especially for inexperienced people who don’t have the proper gear or tools. Installing a roof is dangerous work, even for roofing contractors. However, experience and the right equipment minimizes that risk and ensures you get your roof installed safely, accurately, and on-time.

This is especially important if your roof has significant damage such as cracks, leaks, or buckling ceilings. Only professional roofers should tackle jobs like that.

It’s Easy to Miss Potential Roofing Problems

If you’re tempted to simply shingle over your existing roof, think again. While this might help bolster your home’s curb appeal, you might be ignoring potential problem spots underneath the shingles.

This is where water damage creeps in, which could cause mold or dry rot, or even structural damage. Working with professional roofers gives you the peace of mind that everything is fixed and installed, so your roof can easily protect you and your home for the next several decades.

DIY Roofing Projects Don’t Come with Warranties

Roofing material manufacturers don’t guarantee materials unless they’re installed by licensed professionals. So, if you attempt a DIY roof replacement, you will likely forfeit guarantees and warranties that come with the roofing materials. That means, if something goes wrong in the future and you need to repair or replace the roof again, you will probably have to pay more out of pocket. This can be extremely expensive.

Roof Replacement Cost Analysis

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of DIY roof replacement, consider the upside. You may be able to successfully complete the project on your own and save some money. However, you’re introducing considerable risk to your home and the possibility that you’ll pay much more later.

On the other hand, when you hire a professional roofer, the job will be completed properly, and your new roof will add style, beauty, and protection to your home. Yes, a quality roof can be expensive, but it’s absolutely a home improvement project worth investing in.

Schedule a Professional Roof Replacement Today

DIY roofing is not a good idea for most people. It’s labor intensive, detail oriented, and dangerous. Simply put, professionals have the skills and experience needed to do a great job.

Save time and money by calling the team at Lifetime Windows and Doors and learn about our expertise in roof replacements. You can trust your home to our licensed roofers.

Planning a Remodel? Ask Potential Contractors These Questions

If you’re planning a renovation of your home or business, there are a lot of considerations that go into that. Whether it’s a roof replacement, window or door replacement, or new siding, it’s important to do your research before making your decision on which company to hire. Asking the right questions is key to determining which company is the best choice for you. 

Here are some must-ask questions when deciding which home improvement company you should work with.  

  1. “How long have you been in business locally?” 

It’s okay to ask them how long they’ve been working in your area specifically. The company should have proven experience in the local area. It’s also a good idea to ask for references. They should be happy to provide those to you or direct you to a place where you can find that information.

  1. “What are your online reviews like?”

In our digital era, online reviews are where people go to share their positive or negative experiences. If you ask the company what their online reviews are like, they should be able to answer you honestly. Read through the reviews and if you see a common theme, take note – especially if they are negative reviews. Look closely at customer service experiences, quality of workmanship, pricing, and more. If there are a lot of negative reviews, be aware. 

  1. “Do you have a specialty?”

Your home or business is an investment. You want to preserve your investment – that’s why you want to make sure to use products that will last and keep them looking beautiful for years to come. So, if you’re planning to purchase new windows, doors, siding, or a roof, you want to make sure the company specializes in these things and uses durable, top-quality products. This ensures that they’re able to handle any unexpected issues or problems that may arise during the project.  

  1. “How do your prices compare?”

It’s a good idea to get quotes from two to three companies and then compare them. If the company is reputable, they should fall in line with other companies’ prices that provide similar services. However, if you get a quote that is astronomically high or low, that should be a red flag. A high price may mean they are trying to take advantage of you, while low may indicate that their quality of workmanship may be not up to standard. 

Find the Best Remodel Contractor for You

Ready to get your home or business improvement project started this spring or summer? 

Lifetime Windows and Doors has 25 years of expertise in the local community installing windows, doors, siding, and roofing. We’ve proudly worked on thousands of commercial and residential projects around Oregon and Washington. 

Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how to get your quote scheduled!

Home Improvement Ideas for Your Fixer Upper

Summer is one of the most popular time for Pacific Northwest residents to tackle their list of home improvement projects. Whether you are looking just to boost your curb appeal, or you want to make some improvements to increase your home’s value, here are some of ideas for making your fixer upper a beautiful place to live.

Window Replacement:
Summer weather is ideal for window replacement. Your installation experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors won’t be delayed due to inclement weather. Also, mild temperatures allow for the windows to go in quickly and easily. Replacement windows not only make your home more energy efficient. That way, you can keep that cool air-conditioned air inside where it belongs. New windows also help eliminate drafts from old, leaky windows. This translates to less wasted energy, and it will keep your home more comfortable all year long. Energy bill savings also mean more money in your pocket. That’s helpful for your budget! We proudly carry windows from Milgard and Simonton and can custom order sizes and style options as needed.

Siding Replacement:
Siding is one of the most important parts of your home, but if it is not well maintained, it can become an eyesore. Replacing your siding not only gives your home a facelift, but it also protects your home from the different weather conditions that we have in Oregon and Washington. If you have peeling or chipped paint, warped or bubbled siding, or have obvious signs of mold or water damage, don’t delay in getting a replacement. This could cause more significant damage to your home that could be expensive to repair. We install James Hardie fiber cement siding, which is one of the strongest, weather-resistant products on the market today.  It is also resistant to pests and fire and requires little maintenance.

Now is a great time to learn more about how our experienced team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can get your fixer upper looking beautifully updated. You can save on our summer window special and have everything installed just in time to enjoy the rest of the summer weather in your home!

Why You Should Replace Your Entry Doors

If you want to improve the curb appeal of your home and save energy at the same time – without spending a ton of money – look no further than replacing your exterior doors. New doors, especially your front door, welcome people and give them a glimpse into the style and character of your home.

At Lifetime Windows and Doors, we love helping homeowners transform their homes. These are an energy efficient addition to your property, ultimately saving you money on your monthly heating and cooling bills. Exterior fiberglass doors meet all Energy Star® requirements, too. This translates to saved money and increased comfort – all year long. New doors also add to the value of your home. This small investment can yield great returns when it comes time to sell it.  

If you are looking for enhanced safety for your home, new doors are part of the solution. Does your current door have problems locking? Maybe it sticks or you have issues opening or closing it. This kind of damage can be difficult to fix, and a new door is the best way to ensure you are kept as safe and protected as possible.

Not sure which style or design is best for your home? We can help! There are hundreds of door options to choose from in all colors, styles, and budgets. Whether it’s an entry door, patio door, French door, or a moving glass wall system that helps bring the outside in, we have many different options for you to choose from, from trusted brands like Milgard, Simpson, Codel, and more.

There are a lot of different benefits to replacing your exterior doors. Not to mention, the doors are some of the first things that people notice when they see your home. For more than 20 years, Lifetime Windows and Doors has been serving customers around Oregon and Washington with quality door installation services. Contact us today to schedule your free quote. You can learn more about getting your new doors installed this summer!

Summer Weatherization Tips for Your Home

As Oregon and Washington residents, we live for the warmer, longer days of summer weather. However, it is important to make sure your home is weatherized so it can withstand the extreme temperatures that are bound to happen outside. Here are some things that you should do to weatherize your living space so you can stay comfortable all season long.

#1: Keep blinds closed during the day.
The sun is wonderful, but it can also cause significant heat gain during the summer. To combat this, keep your shades, curtains, or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day.

#2: Open windows and doors early in the morning for cool air.
Before the heat kicks in, open your windows and doors early in the morning to bring that cool air inside. This keeps your inside temperatures down and helps you reduce your air conditioning usage, too. Over time, that saves you money on your energy bill.

#3: Seal your windows and doors.
Have you checked the seal or caulking around your windows and doors? If you haven’t, now is the time to look. If there are gaps where warm air will get in, and cool air-conditioned air will make its way out, then you could be facing high utility bills and a more uncomfortable house.  

#4: Replace your older windows and doors.
New, energy efficient windows and doors will work in tandem with your heating and cooling system to keep warm air out and the cool air-conditioned air inside where it belongs. Heat gain and heat loss through old single pane windows take up to 25 to 35% of heating and cooling energy use. Think about how much money that accounts for throughout the year. New EnergyStar® rated windows and doors will ensure you save energy and do your part to create a healthier environment.

If you aren’t prepared to pay for major upgrades for your home in cash quite yet, that’s okay. We have financing options that can help make your windows, doors, siding, or roof replacement more affordable. So, contact us to learn more about our two decades of experience serving residential and commercial clients around the Northwest. We look forward to helping make your home comfortable and beautiful this summer!  

Signs You Need a New Roof This Spring

Now that springtime is here, most homeowners are outside tackling those long-awaited home improvement projects that were neglected during the winter. Your roof is an important thing to look at this spring, too. Here are some signs that you may need a roof replacement this spring.

#1: Water damage or leaks.
Leaking water in your roof or obvious signs of water damage is never a good sign. In fact, this is a major indicator that there is a problem with your roof that may require replacement. Even the smallest leak can grow and become a bigger problem. Eventually, this could cause damage to your property as well as your belongings inside.

#2: Age.
Do you know how old your roof is? If it’s at least 20 years old, it’s likely due for a replacement. It’s a fact: roofs that are over two decades old are likely at the end of their lifespan. Shingles can break down over time, becoming brittle, curled, or cracked. This causes exposure underneath, which could create mold, dry rot, or other issues to your home’s structure.

#3: Missing shingles.
With the amount of rain and wind that we get in the Pacific Northwest, it is common to have shingles go missing. However, if you have a significant number of shingles gone, your roof is not providing enough protection. Missing shingles could allow moisture to creep in, which leads to leaks and potential damage.

#4: Poor installation.
Roofing is a critical part of your home. If it is not installed correctly, or it was installed sloppily, then the roof may deteriorate or break down prematurely. If you suspect your roof was not installed to the standard of professionalism, it may be time to get a quote for a roof replacement.

Springtime is one of the best times to replace your roof. The weather is drier and warmer, and the days are longer. Our professionals at Lifetime Windows and Doors are experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to roof replacements. We also proudly carry and install Malarkey Roofing Products, a local Oregon company that crafts top notch materials that will keep your home protected for a long time.

So, call us today to learn more about our roofing expertise or to schedule your free quote on a roof replacement. 
 

Should You Replace Windows Before Selling Your House?

Spring is the most popular time of year to sell a home. The days are longer, the demand is higher, and buyers often want to time their move with the end of the school year. Thinking of selling your home this spring? You want to get top dollar! Clearing out clutter, cleaning up the yard, and making home improvements are likely high on your priority list. But which home improvements will give you the biggest bang for your buck? Window replacement is one of the best things you can do before listing your home. Here’s why.

#1: Curb appeal.
The first thing potential buyers notice is the outside of your home. When people drive or walk past it, or if they see it online it should stand out so they’re interested in seeing more. In other words, you want them to fall in love with it. Attract prospective buyers with new, energy efficient windows.

#2: Energy savings.
Today’s home buyers want to save money on energy usage. They also want a home with energy efficient products. New, updated windows are a big selling point, especially since they can save significant money during the year in energy costs. Buyers need to estimate what their heating and cooling costs will be and knowing that new windows will help keep their home more comfortable, is a selling point.

#3: Recuperated cost.
Home improvements require money. However, investing in upgrades for your home will help you get more money for your home and ultimately, you will recoup some of those costs. If your home already has the improvements that buyers are looking for – like energy efficient windows, doors, and siding – they won’t need to negotiate with you to come down in price so they can do the upgrades themselves.

Selling your home is a big decision. Ensuring that it is as move-in ready as possible is one of the best ways to make your home appealing to buyers. So, if you are planning to list your home soon, let us help with the improvements beforehand. We proudly carry Simonton and Milgard Windows. These brands are known for their exceptional quality and durability. Our team of experienced window installation professionals will get the job done with superior attention to detail! That way, you can get your home selling process rolling. So, call us today for a free quote! 

Which Sliding Glass Doors Are Right for Your Home?

Does the patio door in your home look and function how you want it to? Perhaps it’s time to consider a replacement. A new sliding glass door can bring in natural light and enhance your home’s beauty. Here are some things to consider when you are figuring out which patio door is best for you.

Fiberglass Doors:
These are very durable doors that are low maintenance and highly efficient. Some fiberglass sliding glass doors come in exterior frame colors so you can match them to your home’s style.

Moving Glass Walls:
Moving glass walls add affordable luxury to homes and are customized to fit your space. We carry moving glass wall systems 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 completely weather stripped to ensure no cold air leaks in or warm air leaks out. Opening and closing is seamless because of the tandem stainless steel ball bearing rollers. These are perfect for homeowners that love to entertain, because they provide easy access to the inside and outside of the home.

Vinyl Doors:
These doors are a wonderful option for replacement patio doors. They work well in tight spaces or in rooms where furniture is close to the door. Vinyl is a very versatile material that works well with different architectural home styles. It is also incredibly energy efficient and requires little maintenance.

Aluminum Doors:
For contemporary or modern homes, aluminum sliding glass doors are a popular option. If you are replacing your current patio door, consider adding another small window to the side of the patio door to create a wall of windows. This allows for enhanced light and an even more unique look.

Our experienced professionals at Lifetime Windows and Doors are ready to help with your replacement patio door project. We’re happy to provide free quotes! We proudly serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington.  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.