3 Signs You Need Replacement Windows

Getting new windows in your home or business updates your space, making it feel brighter. Not to mention, it offers great energy saving incentives. Everyone’s home is unique, and perhaps it’s time for replacement windows. Not sure if you need them or not? Here are some signs you need to replace your windows.

#1: Your home or business feels drafty.
Heated air in the fall and winter and air-conditioned air in the summer can leak out of windows, increasing your utility bill. If you stand by your windows and you feel a draft, chances are, your windows are not doing their job. High-quality windows and patio doors are designed nowadays for energy efficiency, so you can keep the weather where it belongs: outside.

#2: The windows are old.
If the windows in your home are decades old, they may be original to the house or they may have been replaced when single pane glass was standard. Today’s windows are crafted with energy savings in mind. That means they are not only thicker, but they are Energy Star® labeled and keep UV rays out. Newer windows also help stabilize the temperature inside your home. This ensures your heating or cooling system doesn’t work harder than necessary to do its job.   

#3: Poor operation.
Do your windows not open well? Perhaps they are damaged from weather over the years, or they simply stick every time you try to open them. Aluminum windows swell during temperature swings and springs in the handles can make it difficult to open. For wood windows, years of paint can cause the windows to stick. Or, if you see issues with the frame or glass like breakage or warping, it’s one of the easiest signs to consider window replacement.

Replacing your windows gives your space a boost in curb appeal. Not only that, but they also provide a great return on investment when you sell your home. Ready to get a quote on new windows for your home or business? Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors has worked with Pacific Northwest customers for more than two decades. You can trust our positive reviews and reputation for quality products and exceptional customer service. So, call us today for a free quote!

Commonly Asked Questions About Window Installation

Is 2022 the year for your home windows to be replaced? You probably have some questions about what the process looks like.  What you need to do to prepare your space for the renovation? What’s the process like? Here are some commonly asked questions and our answers to help guide you.

How long does it take?
This depends on how many windows are being installed. It also depends what type of products are being installed. If you have a custom window, it may take more time to remove or install. This could impact the overall time frame of the project. When our installation technician comes out to do the final measure of your home’s windows, we provide  an estimate on how long it will take, and also give you a timeline on when the products will arrive.

What if I live in an old house?
Older houses have some different things to take into consideration. For example, homes that were built in decades past often have lead paint or window trim that has this type of paint around it. We are a lead-safe company and if your house has lead paint anywhere, we take all precautions to keep you, your family, and our team safe. For each installed window, we tarp it off, so dust and dust particles don’t spread as easily. We also ask that those that are more vulnerable, such as children, pets, or elderly citizens are kept away from the installation area until it is complete and cleaned.

Do all the windows come out at once?
No, we work on one window at a time. Working on one window at a time allows us greater focus, and not to mention, it will keep your home’s interior temperature more comfortable. Also, you can be confident that we won’t ever leave an open space at the end of the day.

Do I have to be there during installation?
That’s up to you. We are okay with either scenario. We often do installation customers while they are away at work or while they are out catching up on errands. No matter what, we treat your home with the utmost care and attention to detail. You can trust that we will respect your space and take good care of it while we’re there.

With more than two decades installing windows for residential or commercial customers, you can be confident that we know what we’re doing. We will help you get your windows installed accurately and on budget. Getting new windows installed by a team of professionals at Lifetime Windows and Doors is one of the best decisions you can make for your home this year. Contact us today to get your free quote scheduled!

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!

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!

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.

Ways to Keep Your Home Warmer This Winter

Winter weather means hunkering down and staying warm. Cold weather will stick around for a while longer, so we’re here to help provide some ideas that will keep your home warmer for the rest of the season.

#1: Don’t ignore drafts.
Did you know that older windows and doors will bring in cold outside air? They’ll also leak out the warm air that your heating system is working hard to pump in. Minimize drafts by upgrading your windows and doors to new, energy efficient ones. This is not only a great way to save energy and stay warm, but they will add value to your home and boost curb appeal. Now is the time to act, too! We are offering a variety of specials that can help you save big!

#2: Keep your heating system tuned up.
Professional preventative maintenance on your heating and cooling system is an important part of keeping your home warm all winter long. Professional HVAC companies will make sure all of the internal components of the heating system are working at peak efficiency and they will also make sure the filters are cleaned, which helps prolong the life of the system and keep the air clean. So, don’t neglect this important task of keeping the system professionally maintained annually.

#3: Don’t forget about your roof.
Your roof is a critical part of your home’s protection. Be sure it’s inspected well, checking to ensure that there are no missing shingles or cracks in flashing or gutters. These could lead to leaks or other areas where cold air could penetrate it. That opens your home up to cold air and increases the risk for potential damage. This could cause expensive repairs or even a full roof replacement later down the road. If you do need a roof replacement, our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help with that, too! We specialize in installing shingled roofs, metal roofs, and tile roofs. Choosing the right material depends on your home’s architecture as well as performance factors. Not sure which one is best? We will help you find the material that meets your needs.

Winter is cold, but you can stay warm! So, contact us today to get your home improvement project started. That way, you can keep your home protected and warm no matter what Jack Frost decides to throw our way!

 

3 Tips to Winterize Your Home

Winter is right around the corner and that means your home should be ready. Local forecasters are predicting some major winter events this year, so it’s best to be prepared well ahead of time. Here are some helpful tips that can help winterize your home so you can stay comfortable all season long.

#1: Seal your windows and doors.
Windows or doors that are old or not energy efficient will leak precious warm air outside. That not only makes your heating system work harder, but it will also cause your utility bills to increase significantly. Make sure your windows and doors have proper seals and weather-stripping.  Maybe your windows and doors are decades old. If that’s the case, they just simply are not up for the task of helping keep your home warm this winter. New Energy Star® certified windows and doors are a worthwhile investment that will save you money in the long run. They also add value to your home!

#2: Ensure you have enough insulation.
Does your home have the right amount of insulation? Adding insulation is one of the best ways to save money and energy at the same time. Consider adding insulation to your basement ceiling and your attic floor. This keeps warm air inside your home better and will keep you comfortable all winter.

#3: Do your research.
Oftentimes, winterizing your home requires working with companies or contractors in the area. Research before you hire. This is key! Read online reviews, ask for pictures of recently completed jobs, and take note of any red flags that you see either online or in person. Replacing your windows, doors, roof, or siding should be left to the professionals. Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors has been helping customers of all kinds around the Pacific Northwest for more than two decades. Our reviews and experience speak for itself and we are glad to answer any questions you have about your home winterization projects. You can trust our hands-on experience.

Winterizing your home is important. We offer free quotes on replacing your inefficient windows or doors with new ones that are insulated and maximize energy use! We are proud to serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. No matter what your winterizing project requires, our professional team can help you get your home ready to go. Don’t delay and contact us today for information on how to get your appointment on the books!

What’s Your Window’s Story?

Every day we work with customers of all kinds looking to replace their windows that are new and energy efficient. Whether it’s a historic home that needs new windows or a contemporary home that is being completely remodeled, we love the variety of windows that are out there and enjoy what part the windows play in the home’s story.  Your windows have a story. Here’s how:

Windows that love to maximize light:
Some windows are placed strategically to maximize the outside view and the daylight that enters a space. Whether it’s a big picture window in the front living room of a home, or a small window in a bedroom that needs more sunlight, windows are all about bringing the outside in.

Windows that allow ventilation:
Whether it’s a window in a bathroom or a kitchen, we can find the right window that provides the ventilation you need for the space. There are windows that slide from up to down or side to side, in addition to those that turn in or out.

Windows that mute sound:
New windows will keep the inside of your home quieter than you ever dreamed! We have a variety of window options that will help keep pounding rain and wind at bay, in addition to keeping outside noisy traffic quieter, too! Not to mention, new windows are insulated well and provide the thermal control that you need to keep the temperature in your home the way you want it.

Windows that need to meet code:
Maybe you’re updating your basement and putting an egress window is a necessary addition. We understand the variety of codes and what complexities come with them, so if you have a window that needs to meet a specific code requirement, we can help!

The windows in your home tell a story and play a big role in your overall comfort!   Springtime and early summer are great times to consider getting your windows replaced with new, energy efficient options from Milgard or Simonton. Our experienced team of window installation professionals can help get your windows replaced quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to enjoying the spring weather! New, energy efficient windows not only add curb appeal to your home, but they will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Ready to get your window installation project started? Contact us today for a free estimate!

Why You Should Consider Installing Vinyl Windows

If you are remodeling your home and you’re doing research on window replacement for your home, it’s likely that you are seeing a lot of different options out there and it can be confusing. Vinyl windows are very popular options for homeowners today, but why? Here, we will talk about some of the details about vinyl windows and you can determine if they’re right for your home.

Vinyl windows were originally created many decades ago as an alternative to wood windows. They are created with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are available in different grades. There are several advantages of having vinyl windows in your home.

  1. Energy efficiency.
    If the windows in your home are decades old, they simply are not as energy efficient as the windows on the market today. Old windows are drafty and can leak precious warm air outside during the fall and winter months, which can not only make it feel cooler inside, but it can also increase your energy bill. Vinyl windows that come with Energy Star® ratings and that are manufactured with Low-E glass or filled with argon gas, are the most energy efficient windows out there. They will reflect heat in the summer and keep warm air inside during the cold winter months. That means you’ll save money on your utility bill AND stay more comfortable!
  2. Affordability.
    Vinyl windows are a cost-effective window option, costing less than wood windows or fiberglass windows. We recognize that replacing the windows in your home is a big investment, so we will be sure to help provide vinyl window options that are within your price range. We carry a variety of window styles from brands such as Milgard and Simonton, which means you are getting high quality options at a reasonable price.
  3. Easy to maintain.
    Once your windows are professionally installed, there is nothing else you need to do except for keep the windows cleaned. Use a soft cloth to clean the inside and outside of the windows, rather than using high-pressured hoses. Vinyl windows are easy to clean, and they won’t rot, peel, or chip, even during the yuckiest of Pacific Northwest weather.

Ready to get your window replacement project started? We’re happy to provide free quotes on replacing your worn windows with new ones that are energy efficient and insulated. We are proud to serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Our professional team can help you get your home updated and beautifully contemporary. Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how to get your appointment on the books with us.

 

Tips for Keeping Your Home Protected from Cold Weather

Fall is here in the Pacific Northwest and so far, it has been beautiful and mild with plenty of sunny days. But before we know it, we will be seeing plenty of clouds, wind and rain, and temperatures will start dropping. Winterizing your home – getting your home prepared for the upcoming cold season – is important. Here are some important tips for keeping your home protected from cold weather.

Tip #1: Don’t ignore roof problems.
Your roof serves an important purpose and keeping you and your family protected from wet, cold weather is one of its main jobs. If you have been putting off a roof replacement, don’t delay any longer. Fall is the perfect time to get your new roof installed because it will be good to go in time for the upcoming cold months. A roof replacement is a great way to save energy in your home and it will also add resale value to it, almost instantly.  Installing a new roof should happen every 15 to 20 years, so if it’s been that long, chances are, a roof replacement is in the cards soon. Not sure? Our professionals at Lifetime Windows & Doors can look at it and offer advice. If a new roof is necessary, you can rest assured that we are experienced in roofing and only use Hardie products in our roof replacements, which is one of the best roofing products on the market today.

Tip #2:  Make sure your windows and doors are up to the cold weather challenge.
If you’re living in a home with single pane glass windows or doors that are old and leaking air in and out, you are unfortunately wasting a lot of energy every year. When the cold weather starts, you will want to crank up your thermostat to stay warm, but if your windows and doors are allowing that warm air to creep out and the cool air to seep in, your heating system must work harder and that translates to higher energy bills. Window and door replacements will not only save you money, but you will also notice a big difference in noise reduction!  New doors and windows in your home also add value to the home so if you plan on selling it in the future, you can count on that being a great selling point.

Now is the time to act on updating your home in time for cooler weather, so don’t hesitate in starting your project! We are glad to provide free quotes on replacing your old, inefficient windows or doors with new ones that are Energy Star rated and insulated. If your doors have seen better days, let us talk to you about options on a beautiful new door that will not only look great, but will also keep you out of the weather elements this year.

We are proud to serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Whether it’s new windows or doors, new siding, or a roof replacement, our professional team can help you get your home ready for fall and winter weather. Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how an appointment scheduled.