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!

Tips to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer

Summer in the Pacific Northwest is stunning. The weather is warmer, the days are longer, and it’s a great time to sit outside in your yard and enjoy the day. But when you come inside, you want a place to cool off. Here are some tips on how to keep your home cool, while minimizing your use of air conditioning.

Reduce sunlight:
Sunlight lifts the spirits, but direct sunlight heading into your home for hours on end could increase your home’s temperature. Adding some drapes, blinds, or reflective panels to your windows can minimize amount of sunlight that goes into your home. That will help decrease your home’s temperature and make it more comfortable.

Make sure your ceiling fan is rotating the right way.
Did you know that if you set your ceiling fan to rotate counter clockwise during the summer, it will help move heat away from the room and push the heat to the ceiling rather than down toward you? This will keep things cooler and more comfortable.

Utilize cross ventilation early in the morning.
Fresh air is great. But, if your doors are open while the temperature is hot outside, that heat will make its way inside. Open the doors in the morning when the temperatures are cooler, then keep them closed for the remainder of the day as the temps heat up. At the same time in the morning, open windows on both ends of your home. This will allow for cross ventilation, and cooler air will be able to move freely throughout the home.

Maybe your windows and doors are not energy efficient or easily opened. Perhaps they are decades old, have cracks or other damage, or leak that precious cold air inside your home out. The solution: new replacement windows Portland, OR. Contact the experts at Lifetime Windows & Doors today for more information!

How to Make Your Porch or Patio Stand Out

During the summer, many homeowners find themselves spending more time outdoors in their yards. The weather is warmer and there is more daylight to enjoy, so being outside to experience the beauty of nature and their yards is energizing. If you are looking for some ways to beautify your porch or patio to make it stand out, here are some tips.

#1: Focus on curb appeal.
Have you ever driven down a street where all the homes had well-manicured lawns, or well-decorated porches? Your front porch is often the first thing people notice when driving by or walking near your house. Creating curb appeal is easy. A brand new, energy efficient door is a great place to start. It will not only look great, but it will help make the space fresh and updated. Don’t forget the details on and around the door, as well. A new handle, a new door mat, or some bright potted plants around the exterior or on the entryway all work together to create an eye-catching porch.

#2: Focus on functionality and beauty.
What better way to enjoy summer weather than with a new sliding glass door installation? These are functional, allowing you to get in and out of your home, but they also allow for bright, natural light! 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.

#3: Invest in some upgrades.
When was the last time the windows in your home have been replaced? New windows will help reduce your energy use and give you a glimpse to the beautiful outdoors when you are not able to get outside. Not to mention, they add value to your home and can minimize sound. We are proud dealers of Milgard and Simonton Windows and Doors products. We can work with you to find windows that match your home’s style and most importantly, your budget.

Ready to get your home’s exterior upgraded to enjoy the rest of summer and into the cooler fall? 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! Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how to get your virtual appointment set up.

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!

 

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!

Tips to Improve Your Home’s Exterior Before Selling

If you are thinking about putting your home on the market this winter or spring, you are likely considering what things will need to get done in order to sell it for full asking price. Here are some tips to improve your home’s exterior before selling.

Tip #1: Create curb appeal.
Have you ever driven down a street where each house exuded charm? Houses with great curb appeal grab your attention and make you want to see more of what the inside holds. This is the exact reaction you want a potential buyer to have when they see your home! One of the best ways you can do this is by giving your front door a makeover. A brand-new door that is not only energy efficient but looks great will help compliment the rest of your house. Don’t forget the details on and around your door too. A new handle, a fresh door mat, or some flowers or plants around the exterior entryway or porch are all great ideas.

#2: Invest in some upgrades.
How old are the windows in your home? This is something that buyers will notice right away. If you have single pane windows that are from decades past, they simply won’t be energy efficient. We have a variety of new window options that fit your home’s style and most importantly, your budget. Once they are installed, you can reap the benefits of a quieter home, lower utility bills, and enhanced beauty. And when it comes time to sell the house, you will be able to add that to the list of features which can help you get back a little bit of your investment.

#3: Replace the siding.
Your siding not only adds to your home’s curb appeal, but it also helps keeps you protected from the varying elements of the Pacific Northwest. We proudly install fiber cement siding which offers some of the following benefits:

  • No expanding in hot or cold weather
  • Does not crack, warp, or split
  • Moisture and rot resistant
  • Long-term durability
  • Low maintenance
  • Won’t ignite or add fuel to a fire like other materials
  • Insusceptible to pests
  • Withstands extreme weather like wind and storms
  • Features a baked-on pre-finish that’s UV resistant and won’t fade

So, before you list your home for sale, contact our team of specialists at Lifetime Windows and Doors. We will help you get the exterior of your home in pristine condition so you can sell your home quickly! We proudly serve Southwest Washington, the Portland metro area, and Central Oregon.

Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding

Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. So, making sure the exterior is maintained and kept up well is important. Siding is one of the first things that people notice about your home. If you are considering replacing the siding in your home, fiber cement siding is one of the best options out there. Here are some of the primary benefits of this siding option.

#1: Life span.
Fiber cement is composite of wood fiber and cement, along with other additives that help it stand the test of time. It can last 50 years or more and is resistant to all types of weather, wear, and insects. It is also fire resistant

#2: Durability.
It’s no secret that the Pacific Northwest gets a lot of different weather throughout the year. While fiber cement siding looks like wood, it doesn’t have the issues that wood does. It won’t swell, split, rot, or warp with water exposure, humidity, or heat. That means, no matter how hot or cold the weather gets your home’s exterior will stay in pristine condition.

#3: Versatility.
Fiber cement is beautiful and aesthetically appealing for a variety of home styles. It uses ColorPlus® technology, which is baked-on pre-finish that is UV-resistant and won’t fade. In addition to this, on it requires minimal maintenance. No pressure washing is required to keep it looking stunning!

Our team of professional installers at Lifetime Windows & Doors have been factory-trained to install fiber cement siding quickly for our customers. We understand that each home is unique, and your project is something that requires an individual plan. We’ll remove your old siding and debris, too! In no time, you will have a gorgeous new home exterior. Ready to talk about the next steps on your siding project? Contact us today for a free in-home estimate.

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!

4 Benefits of Window Cleaning

Your windows are a huge part of your family home, adding value and style to it. But, when it comes to keeping them clean, there are more benefits beyond the aesthetics. Here are some additional reasons why keeping your windows clean is important.

Benefit #1: Clean windows prevent window damage.
Keeping the sliding tracks and other window hinges free of dirt and buildup will ensure that the windows will stay working well. A full functioning window system that isn’t caked with dirt is less likely to break down.

Benefit #2: Clean windows keep indoor air cleaner.
If you burn candles, smoke inside the home, or have a fireplace, your windows will accumulate smoke film build up. Over time, this can negatively impact your indoor air quality. Keeping the windows cleaned regularly will keep the air cleaner and prevent mold growth, which can severely impact your health.

Benefit #3: Clean windows enhance curb appeal.
Your home is one of your biggest investments and keeping it looking great is important. Clean windows will leave a great impression on guests and other visitors that see your home. Not to mention, it will enhance your curb appeal and catch the eyes of passersby.

Benefit #4: Clean windows help you enjoy the great outdoors.
The scenery of the Pacific Northwest is unlike any other part of the world. Without clean windows, you won’t be able to enjoy the beauty and sights that await you outside. Natural light will work wonders for your mood and productivity, and it will help make your rooms feel more welcoming. The more beauty that you can see from your windows, the better!

Are your windows worn, inefficient or out of date? We are proud dealers of Simonton and Milgard products and have a variety of stunning new window options.  These can beautify your home and add monetary value to your home. We service homes around Portland, Central Oregon, and Southwest Washington. We look forward to talking to you about your new window installation project.

What Home Improvements Add Value?

When it comes to renovating your home, every dollar you put into it counts. Most homeowners want to get the best value for their money, so before you launch into a series of home improvement projects, consider which to-dos are the best for your investment. Here are some remodeling ideas that can help you add value to your home.

#1: New windows.
Do some of the rooms in your home feel dark and out of date? Adding new windows to your space will increase light, make the area look bigger, and will help bolster energy efficiency! Saving money on energy costs is not only great for you as you live in the home, but when it comes time to list your home for sale, this will be a big selling point, as prospective homebuyers are looking for things that won’t have to replace themselves! Not to mention, new windows will add significant curb appeal to your home making it look fresh and updated.

#2: New doors.
When was the last time you’ve looked closely at your doors? Have they seen better days? New exterior doors help set the stage for the rest of your home. Not only will they help your home look better from the outside, but they will help prevent air leakage, which can contribute to wasted energy and increased utility bills. We have many choices available for doors and carry a variety of brands including Therma-Tru, Buffelen, Simonton, Codel, and more!  Whether you need a simple replacement or something more custom, we can help!

#3: New rooms.
Whether it’s creating a bedroom addition or finishing your basement and adding an extra bathroom or play space, remodels like this will add significant value to your home. If you take on a large renovation project like this, we can help with adding what you need when it comes to windows, exterior doors, and even outdoor siding! Once your remodel project is underway, our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors can talk to you about options that can help finish the space completely.

Your home is your oasis and getting the most out of your remodeling project will help you enjoy it for years to come! Contact us today to get an appointment scheduled so you can start started!