Best Ways to Secure Your Front Door

Since the pandemic, property crimes, thefts, and break-ins at homes and businesses are increasing. Unfortunately,  millions of burglaries happen every year and many of them begin at the front door. So, how do you ensure your front door is secure? Here are some tips.

Use the right lock.
Deadbolts use a locking mechanism that only open with a key. There are several different types of deadbolts to choose from – one-sided, single-sided, double-cylinder, or standard. All of them provide reinforcement against kicking. However, a single-sided deadbolt lock prevents someone from picking the lock and getting in.

Install a door alarm.
Door alarms utilize sensors that detect when the door is opened or kicked in. With a loud, blaring alarm, a burglar could be deterred from stepping into your home. Most people don’t want to be caught in the act, and a simple alarm could make them panic and move on.

Check the hinges.
Small screws in the hinges are a significant security threat. Replace small existing screws with 3-inch-long screws. This keeps the door firmly in place and strengthens it. It costs almost nothing to do this, takes just a few minutes, and protects your door.

Replace your front door.
You can have the best deadbolt and door alarm on the market, but if the door itself is weak, it will still be prone to break-ins. Your home’s front door should be solid. It is also best not to have doors with a lot of glass, as this can easily be broken, and a burglar could reach in and unlock the door that way. Not sure if your exterior doors are solid? Knock on it to see if it sounds hollow. And if it’s hollow, just a few simple kicks opens it.

At Lifetime Windows and Doors, we have a variety of door options that are solid, sturdy, and built to stand the test of time. So, whether it’s solid wood, steel, or something else, we can help find a new energy efficient door within your price range that fits your home’s unique style.

 

 

Signs You Need New Exterior Doors

Have you lived in your home a long time? Does your home need a refresh? Perhaps you want to upgrade your newly purchased home. Look closely at your exterior doors. Think about replacing them during your home remodeling project. Not sure you need a new one? Here are some signs that they need replacement.

#1: Visible wear and tear.
Your doors play a big role – they provide protection from the elements and act as a barrier to intruders. Over time, your doors will become worn. If there are dents, chips, cracks, or other visible problems with the door that can’t be fixed, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient door.

#2: There are drafts.
When was the last time you replaced your doors? Chances are, if your door is decades old, it isn’t as energy efficient as it could be. Perhaps there are drafts or gaps coming from underneath it. This allows outside air in and causes your home’s heating and cooling system to work harder. This translates to wasted energy and higher utility bills. New doors today operate with extreme efficiency.

#3: Damage.
Does your door have difficulty locking? Maybe it’s a challenge to open or close the door. This kind of damage is hard to fix and sometimes, it simply isn’t possible. That’s when you’ll need to consider a door replacement.

There are a lot of different benefits to replacing your exterior doors. New doors provide great curb appeal! And in addition to improved functionality, new doors are a great investment that can reap good returns. Not to mention, you can rest comfortably knowing your door is able to help keep you secure.

There are a variety of different door styles to explore. So, whether it’s a simple back door or a custom front entryway door, our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors has the experience you can trust. We’ve been serving customers locally for over 20 years. Contact us today to get your project started!

Why Choose a Custom Door

Looking to make a statement with your home? A custom door can be the perfect way to do that. Personalized entry ways can be beautiful and introduce guests to your unique style. Customized doors are just the beginning. Here’s why you should consider installing a custom door.

Longevity:
A custom, high-quality door will stand the test of time. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors will talk to you about what custom options are available to ensure that your door not only looks amazing but has the performance and functionality you need for it to last.

Inspiration:
The exterior doors in your home are just a glimpse into the rest of your home. Once you determine what style is right for you, you can be inspired to carry the design through the rest of your home.

Options:
Doors come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and paints. But it doesn’t just stop there. Panels, glass designs, and wood species are some of the other custom options available. Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows and Doors will walk you through the variety of options so you can enjoy your door design journey!

Return on investment:
In various cost versus value reports, new entry doors are great investments in your home. That means you can reap future gains if you decide to sell your home. And in the meantime, you will be able to enjoy the beauty, energy efficiency and security that a new door gives you.

Open the door to your imagination! With a variety of sizes, aesthetics, and styles available, your custom door idea can be a reality. If your doors don’t match your home’s style, do not seal properly, or simply lack the energy efficiency that you need, now’s the time to get your door with door frame installed! We are offering a variety of savings offers that can help save on the price of the door. Contact us today for information!

What You Should Know Before Replacing Your Front Door

Your front door serves not only as an entrance and exit, but also as a first impression for your guests. It gives people an invitation to enter your home and see the unique character of the space. So, making sure your front door is practical but also reflects your unique style is important. Here are some things you should know before you replace your front door.

Know your materials.
Whether it’s aluminum, wood, vinyl, or fiberglass, we carry the type of doors you’re looking for!

Fiberglass:
These are built to withstand for years without showing wear. They come in different colors and can be painted.

Aluminum:
This is one of the most popular door materials because it’s durable and affordable. It’s resistant to weather elements and insects and can be painted whatever color you prefer.

Wood:
One of the best choices for a front entry door, a quality wood door adds classic beauty to any home.

Vinyl:
This is an affordable thermal resistant option that is very durable. These are commonly used for patio doors and are available in folding, swinging, or sliding options.

Know your style.
When looking for a new front entry door, it’s important to look at your home’s overall architectural style. Is it a farmhouse, Craftsman, or modern home? It is helpful to pick a door style that blends into the overall theme of the home rather than picking something that stands out as different.

Know your budget.
Doors can range in price, but our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors is committed to helping you find the best option in your budget! Do you have a unique entry area that may need a customized door option? No problem. We offer a variety of options from Therma-Tru, Milgard or Simonton.

So, whether it’s a standard sized door or something more custom, we can get the job done quickly and on-time. Contact us today for options on what door could be best for your space!

How to Make A Statement with Your Entryway

First impressions matter. Whether your home is an updated Craftsman-style home or a cabin on a beautiful piece of Pacific Northwest land, your space is something that reflects who you are. Your front entryway is a crucial part of your home. The entry door will help express your unique taste and style.

When you’re considering your current entryway and how you can make it stand out, we recommend starting with your entry door. Don’t be afraid to be bold! This allows your home to stand out from others in the neighborhood. It’s okay to do something unique! Especially if the homes around you have similar exteriors or interior layouts. A custom entry door allows you to make a statement about your home. What do you love about your home? Showcase that!

Not sure which door is right for you? Shapes and styles vary, so think outside of the box. If you have arched walkways throughout the home or a foyer with an archway, a square contrast door to contrast could work. Or, consider a door that has similar arches. There are no set rules. Double doors are also a popular option for homes. A stunning single door with paneled glass on the side is also great. Your front entryway can become an inspiration for the rest of your home. It helps set the tone for the rest of the space.

Whether it’s a custom wood door or something more contemporary or rustic, our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help you find the perfect front door. We will work with your budget guidelines, talk to you about what size options could work, and then we’ll get your appointment scheduled for a simple installation by our experts. We proudly serve the Portland Metro area, Central Oregon, and Southwest Washington. Contact us today to get your door replacement project started!

 

Tips for Exterior Door Maintenance

Your doors are some of the first things that people notice about your home. What impression do your doors make? It’s easy to forget about your exterior doors. However, keeping them maintained should be an important part of your home maintenance to-do list. Here are some tips on how to keep them maintained well.

#1: Keep weather changes in mind.
Do you have wood exterior doors? These doors are prone to slight shrinkage in the colder weather and expansion in the hot weather. Your goal should always be to have the doors sealed properly. That way, the door will do its job no matter what the weather does outside. Weather stripping around the door frame is key. Keeping the door sealed with paint that combats moisture is another way to keep it protected.

#2: Clean it.
Cleaning the exterior doors isn’t something you have to do often but wiping it down well at least twice a year is a great idea. Now that our Pacific Northwest weather is changing to be a little colder, it’s a good time to clean your doors well. Simply use a gentle cleaning agent like baby shampoo or diluted dish soap with a soft cloth or sponge to wipe dirt or fingerprints off it. Rinse it with a small amount of water and then let it air dry completely or wipe it clean with a dry towel.

#3: Check for damage.
Your exterior doors play a big role in your home and are put to good use. While you’re cleaning the doors, check for any wear and tear. For example, look for peeled paint or any damages to the frame.

#4: Replace old doors.
When was the last time your exterior doors were replaced? If they are old and energy inefficient, consider replacing them before the coldest days of winter hit. New doors can help keep warm air in and will reduce energy usage.

Our team at Lifetime Windows & Doors has been installing exterior doors for customers around the Pacific Northwest for decades. Doors add curb appeal and will help save energy, too! We have the experience, knowledge, and positive reputation that you expect, so contact us today to get your door replacement project started.

Benefits of A New Front Door Installation

Has your entry door seen better days? Maybe it’s old or not insulated well.  Is it simply not performing as well as it used to? If so, a replacement door is something you should consider! Once you decide it’s time to get your new door, be sure it is professionally installed by an experienced team. This team should be committed to quality workmanship and attention to detail. Here are some of the primary benefits of professional front door installation.

#1: Style.
Your front door helps give guests a good first impression! The entry door is your home’s introduction to the rest of it! Something that is visually appealing will catch the eye of neighbors and other passersby, as well as friends and family.  If your front door is dented, scratched, or off color, this will also make an impression – but not a good one. Bolster curb appeal with a new, stylish front door!
#2: Energy efficiency.
Saving energy is important – not only for the earth, but for your checking account! A new door is energy efficient, which means you won’t need to rely as heavily on your heating and cooling system.  It will help keep cold air out and warm air in.  And during the summer, it will keep summer weather outside and cool air in! That means you will see a cost savings on your utility bill. That could translate to saving hundreds at the end of the year.
#3: Security.
A new front door will protect your home from outside elements as well as home invasion. If your old door is weak and of poor quality, this doesn’t do much in the way of protection. We offer a variety of doors in different materials ranging from wood to fiberglass and more. We also provide custom doors that are beautiful and strong! When you combine this with a solid professional door installation, you can rest knowing that your door is functioning as it was intended.

Spring is almost here and it’s a great time to spruce up your home! Our experienced team of installation professionals are ready to help get your home to look and feel how you want it. Whether it’s quality products from Therma-Tru, Buffelen, Simonton, or Codel, you’re bound to find something that you love! Contact us today to get an appointment scheduled so you can determine what new front door works for your home and budget!

How to Decorate Your Front Door

Fall weather is here and for many homeowners, it’s time to start decorating their front entryways for autumn. Whether it is pumpkins lining the walkway, scary ghosts or gobbling décor, or hay bales, getting your outside looking festive is fun. Don’t forget to include your front door in your decorating, because this is one of the first things that guests notice when they come to visit you!  Here are some fun fall door decorating ideas:

  1.  Adding a wreath to your front door to ring in the fall season is a great idea. Make one yourself or find a store-bought wreath that is made of grapevines or greenery. If you want to make it more colorful, you can attach white mini pumpkins or colorful fall leaves with florist picks and secure it tightly with wire.
  2.  Old wooden signs with your house number or your family’s last name can be a fun way to welcome guests to your home. Paint the number or name on there or stencil it and attach. If you don’t want to put it directly on the door itself, consider hanging it to the left or right of the front door and keep it up all year long!
  3.  The fall weather brings plenty of rain and mud, so when guests head up to your entryway, be sure there is a nice doormat in front of the doorway. Consider a harvest-themed monogrammed doormat or floor rug that is eye-catching and usable so after guests knock on your front door, they have a place to wipe their feet before stepping inside.

If the doors in your home or old and inefficient, it may be time to start thinking about replacement doors. A new door will not only look great all year long – especially when it comes to decorating for all of those special holidays. Not to mention, new doors will save energy. Old doors can leak cold autumn air inside and let warm air outside, causing your utility bills to rise.  Need a new front door installed? We have a variety of door options that will match your home’s specific style and most importantly, your budget.  We’re happy to provide free quotes and service 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 updated so you can enjoy autumn. Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how to get your appointment scheduled.

Is Your Patio Ready for Patio Season?

The Pacific Northwest is known for the rain, but when springtime weather starts, it means longer days and sunnier weather! Now is the perfect time to spruce up your patio space so you can enjoy the time outside. Here are some great ways to get your patio ready for patio season.

Tip #1: Pressure wash the patio and steps.
Looking to improve curb appeal with minimal work? Pressure washing can do the job! A thorough pressure washing job is an effective and inexpensive way to remove mildew and dirt buildup that has accumulated throughout the winter and early spring months.

Tip #2: Get a sliding glass door installed.
What better way to enjoy the great weather than by installing a new sliding glass door? These doors allow bright natural light to make its way through your home and on warm days, you can open it to bring in fresh air! Not to mention, when you’re entertaining on the patio, you can have the ease and convenience of keeping the door opened so you can go in and out. We install a variety of sliding glass doors, including French in-swing or out-swing doors, stacking glass doors, and bi-folding glass doors that open like an accordion.  Not sure which style would look best in your home? Contact us today for recommendations on which one fits your space best.

Tip #3: Get new windows.
The beauty of springtime in the Northwest is unmatched. It’s green, things are blooming, and the sun is out! What better way to enjoy the outside scenery than with spacious new windows? Windows that are cracked, old, and leaky can hinder your outlook! Replacement windows will help minimize energy bill costs, keep you comfortable, and will reduce noise. We are proud to carry several window brands and styles that work well with your home’s style, and we will work within your budget.

Patio weather is here, so get ready to enjoy it and let us help you get everything ready. 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’s exterior updated and beautiful. Ready to get started? 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.