Reasons to Invest in Energy Efficient Windows

Energy efficiency is not just a trend anymore. It is a necessity in our daily lives. Many of the products and services that we use every day – from hybrid vehicles to our heating and cooling systems, boast incredible energy efficiency.

Not sure where to start when it comes to energy efficiency? Your home’s windows are a great place to begin. When installed by our professional team at Lifetime Windows and Doors, new, energy efficient windows benefit both your wallet and the planet. Here are some benefits of investing in energy efficient windows.

#1: You’ll save money in heating and cooling costs.
Whether it is the heat of the summer or the cold days of winter, your home’s heating and cooling system works hard to keep you comfortable. New windows keep the temperature inside your home tightly sealed, so no air will leak in or out. This enhanced insulation allows for reduced utility bills. Also, it helps prolong the life of your HVAC system, because it doesn’t have to work harder than necessary to heat or cool your home.

#2: You’ll have more natural light.
Natural light transforms the space in your home! With natural light, your mood and focus improve. Natural light also brings in warmth, so on the cool fall and winter days, you can benefit from the sunlight streaming through your windows.

#3: Protected furniture.
Energy efficient windows have special coating that provide protection from the sun’s UV rays. This preserves objects such as couches, chairs, rugs, and paintings.

#4: Your home will be quieter.
Because new windows are insulated and airtight, they provide incredible soundproofing. This keeps exterior noise at bay and allows you to relax and unwind comfortably in a quiet space.

New windows are an investment that you will enjoy immediately! Not to mention, they add to the value of your home. Not sure which windows are right for your space? We carry various window brands, including Milgard and Simonton products. We are happy to provide free quotes for your window replacement project and our fall special provides up to 15% off new windows and doors. So, contact us today to learn more!

Window Features and How They Work

Every day, we have the honor of working with customers of all kinds looking to replace their windows in their home or commercial space. Whether it’s a large office space, or a home that is being remodeled, there are plenty of window options out there that have great benefits. Here are some important window features and how they can work for you.

Light:
Beautiful, natural light is something that we crave as humans. Windows that are placed strategically to maximize outside views will benefit your home and your state of mind! Whether it’s a big picture window to welcome the daylight in your living room, or a skylight or small window in a bedroom that brings the outside in, windows have the unique ability to bring in the light.

Privacy:
Privacy windows are a great option for spaces that still want light and air but want the option of enhanced privacy. These types of windows are available through custom ordering with obscured glass to ensure you have the privacy you want. These are especially popular in bathrooms.

Sound:
Do you want your home to be a peaceful oasis? Do you want your office kept as distraction-free as possible? Keeping outside noise out is the ticket! New windows can help with just that. Whether it is cars traveling by on a busy road or keeping rain sounds minimized on a stormy fall or winter day, new, insulated windows have foam spacers and laminated glass to keep your office or home quieter.

Ventilation:
New windows in your kitchen or bathroom are a great way to enhance ventilation. There are a variety of window options that are easy to open! Some include those that slide horizontally, or those that swing into the room or out. Casement and awning windows are hinged options that can be opened for ventilation with a simple crank, no matter what the weather’s doing outside.

We’re heading into the winter months! It’s a great time to replace your windows! Our team of window experts will replace your windows quickly and efficiently so you can enjoy them all year long! Contact us today to learn more about our winter special and to set up your free estimate!

Can Windows Be Replaced During the Winter?

December and January bring cold temperatures – windy days and nights, frost on the car windshield, and layers of clothing to keep warm. When temperatures drop during the winter, it is easy to get cold easily, even inside your home. This is especially true if you have windows or doors that are leaking cold air inside. If you have been contemplating window replacement and you are wondering if doing that during the winter is a possibility, we have good news.

Winter weather won’t prevent you from getting new windows installed in your home.

Our team of experienced installation experts take extra precautions to ensure your home stays as warm as possible during the install. We work as quickly as possible while still maintaining superior accuracy.

Why should you replace your windows this winter?

Comfort: Winter weather can be cold and uncomfortable. New windows will reduce air leaks and help keep your home more evenly heated. Also, you’ll be able to save money in energy usage. Why? Because your heating system won’t be working harder than it needs to in order to keep you warm. If your windows need to be replaced, you don’t need to wait for warm spring or summer weather.

Schedule: Spring and summer months are some of the busiest for home improvement companies like ours. Winter weather often means a more open schedule, making it easier to get your windows installed as soon as possible.

Deals: We understand that replacement windows are an investment for your home. That’s why we regularly provide deals and specials that help save you money! In fact, we are currently offering $350 off each installed window with a 5-window minimum. We are also offering a zero down, zero payment, and zero interest plan until 2021 on approved credit. Questions? Our team can provide additional details and information for you.

If you are considering new windows for your living space, now is the time to act! We will work with your budget so you can find the perfect windows that fit your home’s specific style and layout. Contact our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors today for a free estimate!

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.

Spring Energy Savings Tips

Springtime is here! With the current health crisis around the world, most of us are homebound more often and many of us are trying to find ways to cut energy costs. Saving money is important and that means you will need to look for ways to curb your energy usage. Here are some tips.

Tip #1: Keep your heating and cooling system maintained.
This is an important homeowner to-do. However, keeping your system tuned up will help you save significant energy through the year. Regular maintenance by a team of heating and cooling specialists will ensure that all the internal components are working correctly. In addition, they will look at the energy consumption of the machine and make sure it’s working at peak efficiency. Old heating systems, or those that have not been tuned up regularly, tend to work a lot harder than they have to. This causes the system to work harder, which puts unnecessary strain on the machine. And, it also drives your utility bills up.

Tip #2: Replace your doors and windows.
Does your home have drafty doors or windows? Chilly air can make its way through them, which wastes energy and causes your heating system to work harder. If your home’s windows or doors are decades old, chances are, they are not energy efficient. Consider replacing them with new, EnergyStar® rated products! This is a great choice that will help keep you comfortable year-round and help reduce energy costs. We carry a variety of quality window and door products from Milgard, Simonton, ThermaTru, Simpson, and more! We will work with you on which product fits your space best and most importantly, we’ll work within your budget.

Tip #3: Unplug products that you’re not using.
If you are not using certain electronics or appliances, there is no need to keep them plugged in. This is a small thing to remember that can translate to saved money at the end of the year. Battery chargers, microwaves, toasters, and video game consoles are just some of the things you can unplug. So, walk around your house and determine which things you can unplug when not in use.

Conserving energy is not only great for your checking account, but it’s also great for the environment. As you head into the rest of springtime, let us help with those home improvement projects that can help reduce energy waste while keeping you comfortable all year long. We are open as an essential business helping homeowners around the Northwest get their home improvement projects completed. We are taking every precaution to stay safe and healthy. So, contact our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors for information on getting new windows and doors installed in your home. You’ll notice a big difference right away!

 

Tips on Reducing Winter Energy Bills

December is here and the official start of winter is right around the corner. It’s likely that you’re already seeing a steady increase in your utility bills, because the weather is already colder, and the days are already shorter. If you’re looking for ways to reduce your winter energy bills, here are some helpful ideas.

#1: Replace your windows and doors.
Tired of feeling drafts every time you walk by or sit near your windows and doors? These drafts are not only chilly, but they’re allowing warm air outside and cool air in. That means you’re wasting energy and causing your heating system to work harder than it needs to. New, energy efficient doors and windows will keep you comfortable all year long, because they’ll also keep air-conditioned air inside during the summer! New doors and windows also keep outside noise down, so you’ll be able to relax in a quiet home! We are proud carriers of a variety of quality window and door products, including Milgard, Simonton, ThermaTru, Simpson, and more! We will work with you on which product fits your space best and most importantly, we’ll work within your budget.

#2: Don’t waste electricity.
The simple unplugging of unused small appliances or electronics can help reduce your energy bill this winter. It might sound small, but it can mean big savings in the long run. Microwaves, toasters, battery chargers, DVD players, and gaming consoles are just some of the items that can be unplugged when not in use.

#3: Stay on top of furnace maintenance.
Regular heating system maintenance not only helps prolong the life of your system, but it helps with energy efficiency. Professional HVAC maintenance will ensure that internal components of the system are working at peak efficiency and that no issues could cause a potential breakdown. Another simple way you can save energy is by changing or cleaning your air filters, so they don’t cause your system to work harder and use more energy.

We love helping homeowners beautify their home and make it more energy efficient at the same time! Make energy conservation a priority by contacting us to talk about new window or door replacement options. You’ll notice a significant difference!

Reasons for Avoiding DIY Window Installation

Whether it’s installing a dishwasher or working on a larger home renovation project, do it yourself (DIY) projects are everywhere. It’s tempting to take on some of these projects to save money. But, when it comes to projects like window replacement, it’s not a good idea to do it yourself. Here are some of the main reasons why.

#1: The project will be less than best.
Homeowners sometimes think they can easily remove an old window and just pop in a new one. However, this is simply not the case. Usually, DIY window installation projects are harder than originally anticipated. Other times, the job simply won’t be completed as precisely as it could be. It’s common for homeowners to start the project then realize that they are in over their heads. So, if you want the windows to look and function at their best, hiring our team of professionals is key.
#2: Mistakes can get expensive.
Mistakes with DIY window projects are common. Without the right skill and training for replacing windows, you could make some expensive mistakes and not even know it. Improper installation could create leaking windows that  not only leak energy out the window, but also leak water in. This might causelong term damage to your home with mold or dry rot. All of this translates to wasted dollars.
#3: Installation isn’t up to industry standards.
Certain home improvement projects require building codes. And, if you don’t get the proper paperwork done, you could be looking at a fine later down the road. Our experienced installers are professionally trained to install windows according to proper building codes that are outlined by the state and city.

Save yourself the time and hassle of a do it yourself window installation project. Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors will install your replacement windows on time and with superior attention to detail. Our work is reliable and efficient! Not to mention, we  work within your budget to get the project done. Whether it’s Simonton or Milgard windows you choose, we have a range of innovative and energy efficient windows that will fit your home’s style and your budget! Contact us today for information on getting your window replacement project started!

 

How Natural Light Impacts Your Mood

We’ve all heard that poor lighting could cause eye damage or give you a headache from eye strain over time. But did you know that absence of natural light will also impact your mood and overall physical health? The lack of natural light has been found to contribute to depression as well as vitamin D deficiency, but it can also impact how energetic you feel. Bright natural light is good to help wake you up in the morning, whereas dim lights will help with your body’s natural rhythm, helping you sleep.

In the office, poor lighting can negatively impact productivity and can even make employees feel drowsy. That translates to a lack of motivation and focus! Light truly impacts your health, affecting behavior, mood, and hormone balances.

Have you noticed that your home lacks clean, energy efficient windows and doors that can bring in this beautiful natural light?  Don’t delay in starting your window replacement project. We are proud dealers of Milgard and Simonton window and door products. Our team of professionals can help get your new windows installed just in time for the change to autumn, so you can enjoy the light and see the changing leaves. New, energy efficient windows will not only boost your health and well being, but they will add curb appeal and value to your home. That means you’ll get a good return on your investment when it comes time to sell your home later down the road. In the meantime, you can enjoy the quietness, lower utility bills, and natural light that comes from having new windows.

Ready to talk to us about what window options are available within your budget? Your home deserves a facelift and your health will thank you for it. Contact us today for more information!