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!

What Is A Storm Door? Pros & Cons

Finding the right replacement door and replacement windows Hillsboro, OR, can be difficult for you. There are different replacement door types such as fiberglass doors, vinyl doors, and storm doors. But, what’s a storm door? A door to protect your home from the storm?  

In this article, we will define everything you need to know about storm doors.  

What is a Storm Door? 

A storm door may sound like something to protect you from the harshest weather. But, it is actually much simpler. A storm door acts as a secondary barrier to your entry door. It is usually made a with rectangular door frame with glass panels. A storm door makes up the majority of the door.  

A storm door is backed with insulating foam material within the frame. Aluminum is the best material resistant to weathering. Also, storm doors can be made of fiberglass, vinyl, and wood. Most importantly, you can customize the glass panels depending on your needs and preferences.  

Benefits of a Storm Door 

Here are some of the key benefits of a storm door: 

  • Improved insulation: A storm door can improve the insulation of your home, which is one of the biggest advantages. As a storm door adds another barrier to your home, it can provide insulation. With more insulation, you can make your home warmer during the winter and cooler during the summer.  
  • Proper ventilation: Are you looking for ways to ventilate your home? The best solution is to install a storm door with screens. It can let the fresh air in and allow you to ventilate. Fresh air can result in many health benefits such as a strong immune system.  
  • Added security: A storm door can provide an additional layer of security. It functions as an entry door with standard door locks. So, it is the best way to add a protective layer to your home. As a result, it becomes difficult for intruders to enter your home.  
  • Enhanced aesthetics: Aesthetic value is another great benefit of a storm door. It is made of large panels to make your home more appealing. If you want to bring the outside in, a storm door is a perfect choice.  

Drawbacks of a Storm Door 

Some of the drawbacks include: 

  • Added cost: Cost is one of the major drawbacks of a storm door. It can cost you anywhere between $200 and $1,000. Although this cost is less than the cost of a typical entry door, it is still not cheap.  
  • Less privacy: A storm door can allow more natural light and fresh air. But, it can have a major drawback in terms of privacy. When you want to open your windows and doors to let fresh air in, be aware of what is outside.  

Regardless of the drawbacks, a storm door might be an ideal choice for your home because it improves insulation, adds security, and enhances aesthetic value. An expert window and door contractor can help you choose the right door and replacement windows Hillsboro, OR, for your home. 

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!

Ways to Increase Natural Lighting

Replacement windows Milwaukie, OR, can help you achieve natural light in your home, which has so many benefits. It can bring out the natural beauty of your home, encourage positive emotions, and improve energy efficiency. Natural light can create a positive atmosphere for your whole family, and it can make a room appear bigger. Do you have a small entryway? Increasing natural light in your small entryway is very important. It can completely change how you feel about your property. Extra light exposure can also improve your health.

Here are some of the ways that can help you increase the natural lighting in the entryway of your home.

Add a mirror

Mirrors are function and can be home decorating items as well. Add a mirror to make a room feel brighter because they give an illusion of spacious space. Maximum the mirror effect to increase the natural lighting in your entryway. You can opt for a round-shaped mirror and mount it on the interior wall adjacent or opposite to a window.

Doors with glass panels

A front door can play a pivotal role to let a certain amount of natural light in your entryway. For that reason, it is important to choose the right type of front door. Solid doors without any glass portion installed block all the sunlight. Consider installing replacement doors with glass panels to get more sunshine into your home. A door with a glass panel would be an excellent option. French doors come with glass panels, and these are perfect candidates to increase natural light in your entryway.

Paint your walls white

Although dark and rich colored walls are trendy these days, these are not an ideal choice if you want to increase the natural light in your home. Such colors feel heavy which can make the congested space feel even smaller. Looking for an alternative? Opt for a light color scheme or all-white when painting. Consider a fresh coat of white paint that can brighten up your entryway instantly. It creates an illusion of bigger space as well. So, it’s a win-win situation when painting your walls white.

Exterior windows

Do you have ample exterior wall space in the entryway? Add exterior windows on either side of your front door. It can increase the flow of natural light in your home to a great extent. You can opt for a pair of double-hung vinyl windows, one on each side of the front door. It will look visually appealing as well. This is something that you can plan with the help of an expert.

These small entryway lighting ideas can increase the natural light at home. Remember, windows and doors play a vital role to allow more sunlight in your home. If you are looking for beautifully designed windows and doors, look no further than our platform. We have a huge collection of premium quality doors and replacement windows Milwaukie, OR that can brighten up any space.

Expert Tips On Choosing A New Front Door

If you are looking for replacement windows Milwaukie, OR, or a new door in the market, choose one that adds to your home’s curb appeal and boosts its performance as well. It is much more than just a point of entry or viewing area. A front door can make a great impact and first good impression on the visitors. Replacing your outdated and drab front door can increase the resale value of your property. Isn’t it a big reason to upgrade your front door today? However, you need to wisely choose the front door that suits your budget and needs.

Here are some expert tips on choosing the right front door for your home.

Always consider your budget

Like any other upgrade project, you need to consider your budget when it comes to replacing your front door.

A front replacement requires proper planning, and the budget is always the first thing you think while planning any project. Choose high-quality products; they may cost more upfront but can be worthy investments because of long-term use and weather resistance they offer. Properly research different brands and come up with quality materials.

Based on your budget, you can ensure purchasing the right door that complements your home. There are endless cost-effective options available in the market. All you need is to explore and pick up the best one. It can be overwhelming for you, but not anymore when you have experts helping you out in each stage from planning to purchasing and installing a front door.

Choose the material you need

Steel, fiberglass, and wood are commonly used materials for wood. Each one provides different advantages and can protect your home effectively. Among these options, fiberglass is more stylish, but steel offers more durability. For that purpose, it is necessary to choose one that suits your home’s architecture, budget, and personal style.

A front door should fulfill your needs in the best possible way. For example, maybe you want more natural light flowing in. That is why you should find the perfect front door for your home that fits your needs.

Go for a unique style

Front doors are available in a range of styles. Choose your unique style to make it stand out. A new entry door will benefit you in many ways, no matter whether you want an oval, arched, or round decorative glass. Moreover, you can also consider other customizable features such as hardware choices, screen options, decorative glass offerings, and stain colors. Customize your front door to ensure seamless integration with your home décor.

Energy-efficient option

An energy-efficient door can ensure lower bills. Choose a door that will not only protect you from the elements but also keep energy bills as low as possible. Moreover, such a door can keep warm or cool air from leaking out of your home. Insulating materials are usually used to improve energy efficiency. You can keep your interior atmosphere comfortable at all times with such energy-saving features. The right replacement windows Milwaukie, OR, will also help.

How Curb Appeal Adds Value to Your Home

Do you want to add value to your home and make it more attractive to buyers? Look no further than adding curb appeal and replacement windows Hillsboro, OR, to make a huge difference. From maintaining a green lawn to lighting up your exterior, you can attract more potential buyers. Whether you have just moved into a new house or want to update your existing home, one of the best ways is to focus on curb appeal. It refers to how much your home’s exterior looks attractive from the street. It comes down to every exterior element of your home including sidewalks, fixtures, driveway, and landscaping. Remember, it leaves the first impression of your home for passersby, guests, and potential buyers.

Here are some affordable ideas that can add instant curb appeal.

Freshen up your front door

One of the best ways to add instant curb appeal is to freshen up your front door entry. You can simply update the look of your home by adding a fresh coat of paint to the outdated front door. It is an easy, cheap, and quick option to create a lasting first impression. Most importantly, buyers often stand at the front door for a couple of minutes. It means upgrading your door can attract more potential buyers. By replacing the drab hardware of the door with the modern ones, you can make those moments count. Make your door complement the other outdoor elements to create a stunning view. An updated front door can, of course, make your home stand out on the block.

A lush and green lawn

Keep the updated look of your lawn all time. Make it look green to add value to your home. Prevent the weeds from overcrowding the plants and keep the grass in tip-top shape. Even with regular maintenance, your yard can still look messy. Therefore, it is necessary to properly use a mower and create attractive patterns with it. It will look aesthetically pleasing and create a healthy environment in your home.

One gallon of paint Can Work Better

Are you looking for instant curb appeal? One gallon of make can make a huge difference when it comes to increasing your home’s curb appeal. It can transform your home’s exterior and give it a new shiny look. A bold color can make your home stand out from your neighbors’ home.

Light up your exterior

Transform the look of your exterior by updating the light fixtures. It can amplify your home’s curb appeal. When buying new fixtures for your home, make sure they are practical and attractive at the same time. Moreover, a light fixture should provide an adequate amount for your entryway.

Install stunning water features

Adding a new element to your home’s exterior can take it to the next level. Water features can bring more life to your outdoor area. Fountains, ponds, birdbaths, and waterfalls can make your home more serene. The chirping birds lured in by birdbaths create a breath-taking view. They create a perfect view to be seen out of replacement windows Hillsboro, OR.

Why DIY Window Replacement is a Bad Idea

“Do it yourself” (DIY) projects are popular. But that doesn’t mean they are all a good idea. Home improvement projects can be expensive and doing them yourself can save money. However, when it comes to window replacement, relying on experienced window installation contractors is key. Here’s why.

#1: It can get complicated.
Measuring for windows is more complicated than you might think. Incorrect measurements could cause big problems including gaps or leaks around the windows. Windows that won’t fit into existing frames can be a difficult problem to fix. In addition, removing existing frames means cutting through connectors and caulk. Without the right tools and training, you could bend or chip the framing or damage another important area around the new window space.

#2: Do you know how to level?
Leveling your windows is critical. If they are not leveled accurately, they will be installed crooked. The crooked windows will sink, settle, and shift. Over time, that could pull away from the frame and leave leaks and gaps that allow heat, cold air, or humidity into your home. And this wastes energy and lets out your heated or air-conditioned air, too. This in turn, makes your heating or cooling system work harder than necessary.

#3: Mistakes can be costly.
Unfortunately, DIY mistakes are common. Improper installation could cause water to get inside your windows or window frames which could lead to mold or dry rot later down the road. All of this translates to expensive fixes and even health problems.

#4: Industry standards must be adhered to.
Did you know that certain home improvement projects require permits or code inspections? If you don’t have the proper paperwork done, you could be looking at a fine later. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors are trained to install windows according to proper building codes outlined by city and state requirements.

Our professional window contractors are expertly trained for proper assembly and careful installation. So, save yourself time, hassle and potential stress by hiring our team to do the work for you. Our work and positive reviews speak for themselves. Whether you choose Milgard or Simonton Windows, our product selections are of the highest quality in both energy efficiency and innovation ratings! We will work with your budget and your style preferences. So call us today for more details on getting your window replacement project started this autumn!

How to Stay Comfortable While Working from Home

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people go about their daily lives. It’s also changed work environments around the country. Many offices have shut down and told their employees that working from home is the new norm. If you are working from home, you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help. Here’s how.

#1: We can update your space.
Did you know that your windows play a key role in keeping your home’s heating and cooling evenly distributed? Old, energy inefficient windows can leak outside air in. That means your heat during the fall and winter months can make its way outside and cold outside air could create cold spots in your home. That means your heating and cooling system must work harder to keep the temperatures evenly distributed. Because of that, your utility bills will likely increase. So, consider window replacement for your home! We have a variety of options that will fit your home’s unique style and most importantly, your budget.

#2: Replace your doors.
Your exterior doors are also an important part of creating a comfortable home and work environment. We carry a variety of brands including Simonton, ThermaTru, Simpson! These doors are affordably priced and can even be ordered custom. Our team of installation specialists can take a look at your current doors and make recommendations for replacement based on your style preferences and budget guidelines.

Home renovations like these will not only make the space your beautiful and comfortable, but they can help increase your home’s value! That means when it comes time to sell it, you will have a greater return. The money you spend now is well worth it, because it will create an opportunity for a easier, smoother home sale later down the road.

Contact us today to talk about your home improvement projects. We have been working with customers around Oregon and Washington since 1998. We have the products you need and the experience you can count on.

How to Design Your Living Room

Replacement windows Vancouver, WA, is part of a great living room design. Designing the living room always comes first when it comes to decorating your home. The living room should always be your topmost priority, and interior designers do their 100% to make it more appealing for you and your guests. There are several things that you need to consider for designing your living room. From the paint color to set the furniture, you have to be very careful.

If you are looking for the perfect guideline to design your living room, you have come to the right place. With specific tips and tricks, you may add to the beauty of your living room. Here are some design ideas you need to follow.

1. Arrange Your Furniture 

You can enhance the beauty of the living room by properly arranging the furniture. Your furniture should represent the nature of your living room. It includes the living room for outside view, a space to play, and arranging the party in the living room.

If you have a focal point in the room or outside the window, you should consider arranging the furniture. It could be a TV, a fireplace, or a painted wall. Place the furniture wisely so that it is convenient to maneuver around the living room.

2. Pick a Color Scheme of the Room 

Always take some time to choose an attractive, persuasive, and appealing color for the living room. The living room’s color depends on various things: If your furniture leather is brown, go for brown color for almost everything, such as a chair, fireplace, and the wall.

3. Lush Leaves 

Plants and leaves add to the beauty of the living room; therefore, try adding some lush leaves in the corner of the room. For this purpose, always make sure your room has adequate sunshine.

Swiss cheese plant, aloe vera, wax plant, and cast-iron plant are excellent options for the living room. When you have the right plants, choose the right pot for the plant. Always place the plant to its right place and make sure there is enough place left in the room to move around.

4. Keep Entrance Clear & Spacious 

The entrance to the living room should be clean and bright. There should be no plant and furniture at the entrance of the room. This is how the guests will enter the room without fighting with the plant and other items. Always group the furniture in the opposite wall instead of placing it in front of the door.

5. Art and Lighting 

Art and lighting are the two main things you should not forget at all. Empty walls don’t put a strong impression, but you can add art to empty walls to enhance their beauty and look. Art is essential for a living room, but it shouldn’t be so expensive. Again, don’t forget to consider the color schema of the room when you incorporate art.

Similarly, don’t ignore the importance of lighting for a room. There are several things to consider when it comes to lighting the room. Only the experienced interior designer can tell you the best lighting according to the color scheme, placement, overall look, and of course, your budget. Your replacement windows Vancouver, WA, plays a role in this as well.

Summer Window Weatherizing Tips

August is here and the hot weather will be here for the foreseeable future. Did you know that weatherizing your windows could help keep you cooler this month? It can also help increase energy efficiency, which can save money on your monthly utility bill. Here are some helpful window weatherization tips.

#1: Check your windows regularly.
Homeowners have various home maintenance tasks to keep up with. Checking your windows is one of them. Look for any chips or cracks and ensure that there are no issues with sealing. If you spot anything, make sure they are fixed right away. This will help prevent damage to the outside structure of your home and it could save you money on a costly window repair or replacement later down the road.

#2: Caulk windows.
Windows that leak air in and out can cost you big money. Windows are one of the primary places that air is lost, so caulk well around the seams.

#3: Utilize shades and fans.
Window coverings will help block hot incoming sun and work with your AC system to keep your home cool and comfortable this August. Keep blinds or curtains closed at the hottest and sunniest parts of the day so the temperatures inside can stay balanced.

#4: Replace old windows.
If the windows in your home are decades old, chances are, they are inefficient. We offer free quotes on replacing your outdated windows! New windows are EnergyStar® rated and insulated. Many windows use glass made of high efficiency low-E coatings which can reduce the amount of heat that is transmitted through your windows. And it will also help protect you from ultraviolet rays.

Ready to get your window replacement project started? We proudly carry and install Simonton and Milgard products and can help you find the right windows for your budget. We serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington.  We are currently offering a variety of specials, so visit our specials page to see what our deals are available, then contact us today to get your free consultation scheduled.