Window Care and Maintenance Tips

Cleaning a Window | Window Care Tips from Lifetime Windows & Doors

Windows play a big part in the overall look and comfort of your home. But, if you’re like most people, maintenance is probably not at the top of your mind each day. That said, taking a little bit of time to care for your windows can keep them looking great and functioning well for years into the future. To maintain the beauty, energy efficiency, and functionality of your windows, follow these window care tips:

Keep Your Windows Clean

As with any other household object, dirt and grime can degrade the look of your windows and eventually impact their performance. However, it’s also important to carefully clean your windows to avoid accidentally damaging them. To clean your windows like a professional, use these guidelines:

  • Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals: Harsh cleaners can stain or damage the glass. Be sure to use a cleaner that is crafted specifically for glass.
  • Use a soft rag, paper towel, or window squeegee: Rough cleaning tools could lead to scratches. Soft rags or squeegees can help maintain the glass while avoiding streaks.
  • Remember to check the window tracks: Dirty window tracks can make it difficult to open or close your windows without causing damage to the frame. Routinely clean this part, too.

Watch For Condensation

When you cook or shower, do you notice that your windows form condensation? That often means the inside humidity is high and moisture could build up and drip into the windowsill. Over time, this is a recipe for mold or other problems. To avoid this, open a nearby window or door for cross ventilation, or run an exhaust vent to help equalize humidity.

Use Your Windows Gently

If you want to open your windows for some fresh air, be sure to do so carefully. The same goes when closing them. Don’t be heavy-handed when using them, such as forcing the latch or slamming the window to get it to seal properly. If there are arms on the window to help stabilize them, be sure not to strain them by pulling or leaning on them.

If you find that your windows get stuck easily, the latch isn’t working, or they simply aren’t sealing properly, it might be time to consider the age of the product. You may need a replacement if your windows are no longer working properly.

Consider Upgrading or Replacing Your Windows

New windows add value to your home. Not to mention, they help save energy in the long run, and even provide an enhanced sound barrier. Lifetime Windows & Doors carries a variety of window styles and brands that will fit well into your specific home’s aesthetic. And, most importantly, we aim to find replacement windows that fits within your budget guidelines. Not to mention, new windows are Energy Star® certified and come with great ratings, so you know you’re getting the best product that will help you save money each year.

Need More Care Tips or Want a New Window?

Contact us for expert advice or a free quote for your home improvement project! We have the experience you can trust and regularly offer specials that can help save you money! We proudly serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Call us today to schedule your appointment.

How a Garden Window Can Transform Your Kitchen

Plants in a windowsill ready to go into a garden window

Your kitchen is the heart of your home – it’s often where people congregate and where you spent a lot of time preparing meals for your family and guests. If the windows in your kitchen need an upgrade, garden windows are a simple way to change the look of the room and enrich it with your own flowers or herbs.

What is a Garden Window?

Garden windows are a variation of a bay window, which extends out from the walls of your house. Garden windows are at a 90-degree angle and bay windows are at a 45-degree angle. Garden windows are usually wider and deeper than traditional window designs, which allows for more light to enter the space. This is an ideal location for plants, herbs, or flowers – which is where the term garden window comes from.

Benefits of Having a Garden Window in Your Kitchen

Garden Windows Bring Additional Light Indoors

If your kitchen is dark or dreary, a garden window is a great option for opening the space and letting more natural light in. With four glass panes and a gorgeous, framed view, you’re sure to have a well-lit and open kitchen.

Garden Windows Give You a Panoramic View

Maybe you’ll have a better view of the park, or of your children running around in the yard. No matter what your kitchen window view is, with more light and better views, you might enjoy the space even more. And who knows, it might even make washing dishes or cooking more enjoyable for you, too.

Garden Windows Help You Grow Fresh Foods

You might not have room for a full garden in your backyard, but if you have a garden window, you can start your own mini greenhouse with potted herbs or vegetables that need just a small area to grow. These fresh foods will not only help keep your body healthier, but they’ll also enhance the inside of your home with herbal scents.

Install a Garden Window in Your Kitchen

Whether it’s a new garden window, a big picture window in your living room, a bay window to highlight a panoramic view, or simply new, energy efficient windows throughout, your home will benefit greatly from window replacements. For 25 years, we’ve worked with clients across Oregon and Washington to replace their exterior doors, windows, siding, and roofing, so they can enjoy their homes and businesses. Call us today for a free estimate!

How to Make Your Home Brighter

light coming in through the windows of an empty interior

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

Get a Window Replacement:

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

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

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

Pick the Right Window Treatments

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

  • White
  • Cream
  • Grey
  • Beige
  • Taupe

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

Add a Moving Glass Wall System:

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

Get Help from an Expert

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

What to Know Before Buying Patio Doors

Sleek patio doors with dark windows and dark trim

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

What to Consider When Choosing Patio Doors

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

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

Material Options for Patio Doors

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

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

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

What Are Moving Glass Wall Systems?

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

Your Local Experts

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

Window Replacements: Worth the Investment?

Technician upgrading a home with a window replacement

Whether you plan to stay settled in your home for the next several decades or you want to sell it soon, investing in window replacements is always worth it. New windows don’t just minimize noise and add curb appeal; they’re also very energy efficient and will boost your property value. If you want to save money and increase the comfort of your home, Lifetime Windows and Doors is here to help! With our top-quality window products and years of experience, we know how to deliver beautiful workmanship with long-lasting results.

Why Replace Your Windows?

Many people think that the best time for window replacements is right before selling a home. However, new windows can benefit any house. Older properties often have single pane windows, which lose a lot of thermal energy and don’t protect against drafts. Even if you caulk the panes, old windows simply can’t offer the same comfort and efficiency as new options. Window replacements offer a number of benefits, including:

  • High energy efficiency: Did you know that the average home loses roughly 30% of its energy through the windows? Double pane, Energy Star® rated windows are designed to keep warmth in and cold out to reduce your energy consumption.
  • Money savings: Highly efficient windows will cut down on your monthly utility bills by keeping your home comfortable without relying as heavily on a heating and cooling system. Many homeowners save between $100 and $600 per year by switching to more efficient windows.
  • Noise reduction: If you live by a busy street, then you know how easily sounds can travel through a thin sheet of glass. Newer windows are designed to insulate against noise in addition to energy, which will keep your house quieter and more relaxing.
  • Boosted curb appeal: Many old windows have discolored frames, peeling paint, or other aesthetic issues. Replacements will give your home a facelift, making it look sharper and more modern.

Replacing Windows Before Selling Your Home

If you plan to sell your home, then now is a great time to invest in new windows if you haven’t recently! In addition to all of the reasons listed above, new windows will make your home stand out on the market. As a renovation to make your property more efficient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing, window replacements have a great return on investment. Prospective homeowners are looking to save money wherever possible – so if that means they don’t need to replace the windows themselves AND they know their energy bill will be affordable, it’s a win-win!

Get New Windows for Your Home

Whether you’re staying or selling, Lifetime Windows and Doors has the products and expertise you can count on. For the best results possible, we proudly sell and install products from Simonton Windows and Doors or Milgard. From the initial design process 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.

Home Office Trends to Watch for This Year

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

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

Calming Space

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

Natural Light

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

Access to Outside Living

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

Transform Your Office Space

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

Going Green This Spring

an open window letting in natural light

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

Take advantage of natural light.

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

Unplug what you’re not using.

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

Plant a garden.

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

Say goodbye to drafty windows and doors.

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

Start Your ‘GREEN’ Project Today

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

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!

Home Improvements Worth Investing In

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

Updated Siding

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

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

New roof

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

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

Energy Efficient Windows

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

You Can Trust Our Home Exterior Experts!

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