How To Care For Your Windows At Home

Windows are an important feature in your home and caring for them can often be overlooked. Keeping your windows looking and functioning well for as long as possible requires a little bit of care and attention to detail. Here are some tips to get the most out of the windows in your home.

Tip #1: Keep them clean.
This is a basic thing, but keeping your windows cleaned will help you enjoy them to the fullest and allow you to experience what’s happening outdoors. Never use abrasive cleaners or cleaners with harsh chemicals, as this could scratch the glass. Instead, use a generous amount of cleaner that is specifically made for glass and wipe clean with a paper towel, soft cloth, or squeegee.

Tip #2: Be gentle.
When you’re opening or closing your windows, do so gently. You shouldn’t need to use extreme force. If you need to latch the window, be sure that it’s fully closed, because if you force the latch, it could cause strain on the latch itself over time. If you have window stabilizer arms on your casement windows, be sure no one pulls or leans on these.

Tip #3: Stay up on maintenance.
When you’re cleaning your windows, wipe down the inside frame to remove dust and dirt, then dry completely. You can also vacuum and/or lubricate the tracks of the windows to help them open and close easily. In addition, check with the sealing around the inner portion of the window to make sure no water leakage happens.

Tip #4: Be aware of humidity.
When you’re cooking or showering, inside humidity occurs, so if you notice that your windows are forming condensation, it means that the inside humidity is too high, and moisture can drip into the windowsill which could cause mold to develop. Be sure to open a nearby window for cross ventilation or run an exhaust vent or dehumidifier regularly to reduce the amount of humidity that develops inside your home.

Tip #5: Replace old windows.
Are your older windows simply not doing a great job? Old windows are generally not energy efficient and can cause air to leak in or out. In addition, they do not provide the sound barrier that you likely want or need. Lifetime Windows & Doors carries a variety of window styles and brands that will fit well into your specific home’s style. And most importantly, we will work with you to find replacement windows that fits within your budget. New windows are Energy Star certified and come with great ratings, so you know you’re getting the best product for your money. Looking to save money? Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are!

We are proud to serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington.  Our professional and experienced team can help you get your home ready, so you can enjoy the end of summer and upcoming autumn months. Contact us today if you need expert advice on window replacement. Now is the time to act – don’t wait any longer to get your windows updated!

 

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.

 

When Should You Replace Your Sliding Glass Door?

Having a sliding glass door in your home is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors while staying comfortable inside. They’re not only a convenient way to get in and out, but they’re a beautiful addition to a room, allowing natural sunlight and warmth to enter the space. If your sliding glass door has seen better days, we can help with a replacement. Not sure when you should replace your sliding glass door? Here are some signs that it’s time to replace it.

Sign #1: Are there drafts?
If you stand by your sliding glass door, can you feel the outside air seeping in? If it’s cold outside, you should be able to stand by the door and not feel cold wind getting through. If it’s warm, you shouldn’t feel an increase of temperature while you stand near it. If there is any change of temperature, either warm or cold, when you’re next to the door, it’s likely that the door is not as energy efficient as it should be. A sliding glass door that is made of high quality glass should help keep you comfortable year-round, no matter what the temperature is outside.

We can install French in-swing or out-swing doors, stacking glass doors, or bi-folding glass doors that open in an accordion fashion. Contact us today for information on which style would be right for your space.

Sign #2: Is it difficult to open or close?
Does your door get stuck every time you try to open or close it? Or are you finding that you’re yanking on it harder every time to get it to do its job? Sliding glass doors that don’t open or close properly can be annoying and sometimes dangerous. There could be several reasons as to why it’s not functioning well, including a poor installation job at the beginning, misalignment from the tracks, or it’s just old and worn out. If your sliding glass door is not functioning like it should be, consider a replacement for your safety and convenience.

Sign #3: Is it safe?
Gaps in between the door and the frame translate to a lot of wasted energy and lots of wasted money. Not to mention, this could pose a safety risk. If you have an older door and you use a wood stick in the door for extra security, this is simply not a great way to stay safe. A new sliding glass door means you can toss that stick back outside where it belongs, and you and your family will have a sturdy new door to keep you protected.

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 new sliding glass door installed just in time to enjoy the spring weather that is coming! Contact us today for information on how to get started.