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!

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.