Home Winterization Tips

The official start of winter is right around the corner and cold weather is already here. Now is the time to start winterizing your home, so you can be prepared for the drop in temperatures.

#1: Add insulation.
Having enough insulation in your home is a critical part of keeping your home warm during the winter. This is also one of the best ways to winterize the space. The right amount of insulation will additionally help you save money and energy. Add insulation to your attic floor, basement ceiling, walls, or any other areas where insulation is lacking or missing.

#2: Don’t ignore drafty windows or doors.
Drafts from old, inefficient doors and windows will waste energy. Caulking windows or doors can help in the short term to keep cold air from getting in, but this isn’t something that will help in the long run. It might be time to consider replacing your windows and doors instead. New Energy Star ® certified windows and doors are an investment that will not only keep you more comfortable for years to come, but they will save you money and add value to your home, too.

#3: Check the gutters.
Winter is wet and rainy in the Northwest. Make sure your gutters are cleaned out, so you don’t end up having standing water around the roof line. Clean gutters allow melting snow and rainfall to drain properly. Standing water that is left unattended could cause damage to your roof over time.

#4: Hire a trusted contractor.
Take the time to read online reviews of home improvement companies in the area. Ask them for pictures of jobs that they have recently completed and take note of any red flags that come up during your reading or discussions. Some home improvement projects need to be left only to the professionals. Whether it’s replacing your windows or doors, doing a complete roof replacement, or talking to us about new siding for your home, our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors has the expertise you can trust. For over two decades, we have served the Pacific Northwest and have the reputation for quality workmanship to prove it.

Ready to work through your home winterization task list? We provide free quotes on replacing worn windows or doors with new ones that are energy efficient and insulated. We also replace roofs and siding. We proudly serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Don’t delay and contact us today for information on how to get your appointment on the books!

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!

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!

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!

4 Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Windows

Your windows are a key component to your home and if you’ve noticed that they have seen better years, it may be time to consider window replacements. Quality windows can last decades, depending on the type of window and how well they’re taken care of. Not sure if it’s time to get new ones installed? Here are some signs that it is time to replace your windows.

#1: They are drafty.
If you stand by your windows and you feel cold air blowing through them, then you know you have drafty windows. Over time, normal wear and tear will cause your windows to stop protecting your home like it should, and drafts are one sign that they are not functioning as well as they could be.

#2: They are old and out of date.
New windows will improve your home’s exterior and add value. Windows that have faded paint or are made of old aluminum simply are not providing the curb appeal that your home deserves and not to mention, they are not energy efficient! New Energy Star ® rated windows will end up saving you money later down the road and they can complement the overall look of your home!

#3: Your energy bill is increasing.
If you dread the winter heating bills because they skyrocket, chances are, your windows are not operating at peak efficiency. They are likely letting cold air in and warm air out. That makes your heater work harder to compensate for unevenly distributed heat, which causes high utility bills. Energy efficient windows are great for the environment and you will have more money in your wallet during the cold winter months.

#4: You can hear things outside easily.
Your home is your oasis, so when you step inside, you will want to find peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the world. If you can still hear everything that is happening outside even when your windows and doors are closed, it’s likely that your windows are poorly sealed and/or the glass is low quality. Sound-reducing windows will keep all of that unwanted traffic or neighbor noise outside, keeping things peaceful for you inside.

Window replacements are a great way to add value and beauty to your home. 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!

Two Ways to Save Money This Spring

The Pacific Northwest is beautiful this time of year and it’s a great time to get outside and explore. And now with the warmer weather here, there are opportunities to save money and conserve energy, too. Here are two helpful ways that can save money this spring.

#1: Let the outdoors in.
Once the weather hits the 70s and 80s, it’s the perfect time to turn off your HVAC system and open up your windows. Not only will you save money on your utility bill, you’ll help your home feel fresh and aired out! If your windows are difficult to open or they’re so old and inefficient that you can’t stand the sight of them any longer, we can help upgrade your windows, so you can enjoy the rest of the spring and the upcoming summer season. We carry a variety of top quality window brands including Milgard and Simonton. New windows are quiet and will save significant amounts of energy because they won’t leak air in or out! This saves a lot of money over time!  In addition, we offer 12 months 0% interest and can help with financing options that can help you save money, too.

#2: Check for leaks.
Once the temperatures really start creeping up, you’ll likely turn for the air conditioner remote and turn it on. Before you do that, be sure the ductwork is clear of debris and that there are no leaking ducts. In addition, check your window seals and doors as well to make sure there are no gaps that could cause leakage. Leaking air is not only bad for the environment because of the waste, but it will also cause your energy bill to be higher, which translates to lost money. Save money by checking for leaks around the house!

Saving money will reduce your stress level and allow you to better enjoy the beauty of each spring day in the Northwest. We love this part of the country and 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 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.

Spring Patio Design Tips

We’ve set the clocks forward and the springtime season officially begins this week. Spring is a great time to get outside and your home ready to enjoy the longer days and the sunnier weather. Here are some of our spring patio design tips that will get everything looking great, so you can enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest months ahead.

Tip #1: Install a new sliding glass door.
Want to enjoy the outdoors while staying cozy inside? A beautiful new sliding glass door is the perfect answer. A quality sliding glass door allows for natural sunlight to enter your home and it also allows the convenience of going in and out. In addition, new doors are energy efficient and won’t leak cool air in or warm air out. We install a variety of different sliding doors, including 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.

Tip #2: Update old exterior siding.
New siding can work wonders for your curb appeal, add value to your home, and it will be great to look at when you sit on your patio and enjoy the weather with your family or guests. If your exterior siding has areas of damage or dry rot, it’s important to replace it right away so it doesn’t cause damage to the inside. Our team at Lifetime Windows & Doors works with customers in replacing exterior siding and we’re proud to carry outstanding products from James Hardie Siding. New siding adds a new layer of energy efficiency to your home and can help you with heating and cooling bills over time.

Tip #3: Replace windows.
The windows in your home allow you to see the beauty of springtime. But if your windows are old, leaky, or noisy, it may inhibit your enjoyment. Replacement windows can reduce noise, help reduce utility bill costs, and will also keep you more comfortable!  Lifetime Windows & Doors carries a variety of window styles and brands that will fit well into your specific home’s style and most importantly, the budget you have set.

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.