Ways to Avoid Winter Roof Damage

As winter weather arrives, your roof has an important job: to keep you and your family protected and comfortable. Is your roof ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws its way during the cold season? Here are some ways to keep your roof in good shape this winter!

Clean Your Roof

The Pacific Northwest is no stranger to wind and rain. When those winter storms roll in, tree branches, twigs, dirt, leaves, and other debris can gather on your roof’s surface. If that debris stays piled up, it could cause mold to grow, and may even invite pests to the area. So, be sure that roof debris is regularly cleaned off and cleared to minimize any potential issues. 

Keep Nearby Landscaping Trimmed

If you have tall trees or other landscaping that hangs over your roof, be sure to keep everything trimmed. Having things fall on your roof can cause holes, punctured areas, or other damage that could be costly to repair or replace. 

Check Gutters

Wet weather will be here for a while and with that, water will roll off your roof and route into the gutter system. If your gutters are full of outside debris or if they’re broken, they’re unable to do their job. This translates to standing water on your roof, which will create a host of problems over time, such as mildew, mold, or even dry rot formation.  

Repair or Replace Your Roof

If there is considerable damage to your roof, don’t ignore it. Significant roof troubles can turn into a big headache that also negatively impacts the inside of your home –especially if your roof is already old and needs replacement. Did you know the average home roof will last about two decades? If your roof is that old – or older – it’s time to plan a replacement. We use Malarkey Roofing Products® for our roof replacements, which offers an array of durable Energy Star-rated roofing materials.

Our factory-trained installers have served the greater Portland OR area since 1998 and replace roofs all year long, even in the winter! A new roof is an important investment in the life and longevity of your home, so call us today to get your free roof estimate!

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!

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!

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!

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!

 

Reasons to Replace Windows During Winter

The cold, wet weather is here and it’s easy to feel like you should stay inside all the time. When it comes to taking on a home renovation project during this time of year, it might feel a bit daunting. But we have good news! Replacing your windows during the winter can be easy and cost effective!

Your old windows will show their true colors.
Winter is the best time to identify problems with your existing windows. Window materials contract in the colder weather and your windows are exposed to significant wet weather and other elements. That’s oftentimes when you will start noticing any drafts or leaks.

Scheduling is more flexible.
Summer is incredibly busy for our team and other home renovation specialists in the Northwest. Getting your replacement windows done during the winter means you will have greater flexibility on installation dates. We will work with you year-round to find the best time for installation but planning your installation early will help you accommodate any other projects that you might have.

Save money!
Winter promotions are happening right now, so it’s time to act! We are offering a variety of specials that will help you save big money on the price of your window replacement project. For example, buy any two windows and receive your third free!*

Replacing your windows doesn’t mean you’ll be losing heat and energy as the old windows come out and the new ones go in. Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors will work to install one window at a time to ensure that your home stays as comfortable as possible throughout the process.

Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows & Doors can install your replacement windows on time and with superior attention to detail. Whether it’s Simonton or Milgard windows you choose, we have a variety 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!

*Cannot be combined with other promotions. Must set appointment by Dec 31, 2019. Not valid on completed jobs or jobs in progress. Details provided at time of quote.

Tips on Reducing Winter Energy Bills

December is here and the official start of winter is right around the corner. It’s likely that you’re already seeing a steady increase in your utility bills, because the weather is already colder, and the days are already shorter. If you’re looking for ways to reduce your winter energy bills, here are some helpful ideas.

#1: Replace your windows and doors.
Tired of feeling drafts every time you walk by or sit near your windows and doors? These drafts are not only chilly, but they’re allowing warm air outside and cool air in. That means you’re wasting energy and causing your heating system to work harder than it needs to. New, energy efficient doors and windows will keep you comfortable all year long, because they’ll also keep air-conditioned air inside during the summer! New doors and windows also keep outside noise down, so you’ll be able to relax in a quiet home! We are proud carriers of a variety of quality window and door products, including 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.

#2: Don’t waste electricity.
The simple unplugging of unused small appliances or electronics can help reduce your energy bill this winter. It might sound small, but it can mean big savings in the long run. Microwaves, toasters, battery chargers, DVD players, and gaming consoles are just some of the items that can be unplugged when not in use.

#3: Stay on top of furnace maintenance.
Regular heating system maintenance not only helps prolong the life of your system, but it helps with energy efficiency. Professional HVAC maintenance will ensure that internal components of the system are working at peak efficiency and that no issues could cause a potential breakdown. Another simple way you can save energy is by changing or cleaning your air filters, so they don’t cause your system to work harder and use more energy.

We love helping homeowners beautify their home and make it more energy efficient at the same time! Make energy conservation a priority by contacting us to talk about new window or door replacement options. You’ll notice a significant difference!

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!

Two Ways To Keep Your Home Protected During Winter Weather

We just had our first snow this week and with that comes lots of talk about how to keep your home protected from cold weather elements. There are some precautions you can take to keep your property protected and avoid costly repairs or replacements. Here are two helpful tips.

#1: Make sure screens on windows are removed.
If you haven’t done this already, you can do it now. Remove the screens until after snow and ice is gone. You likely won’t be opening your windows during the winter so you don’t need to use the screens until the weather warms up anyway. Screen removal helps ensure that there is no snow or ice that gets caught in between the window and screen, which could cause damage over time.

#2: Stay on top of regular door and window maintenance.
Clear snow and icicles away from windows and doors, especially those that could be prone to wind damage. Significant ice or snow buildup around window or door seals or frames could cause damage if left unattended, especially if they are wooden. Damaged frames could cause misalignment and cracks could form, allowing air into the home. If the windows or doors in your home are leaking and inefficient, it is best to completely replace them. New windows and doors will not only look great and add value to the home, but they will help increase energy efficiency so you will see a savings on your utility bills.

Pacific Northwest winters vary from year to year but being proactive will help add years to the lifespan of your doors and windows and also help save you money on heating costs or unexpected repairs caused from water or air leakage. Ready to replace your windows and doors? Our experienced team at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help find the right windows and doors for your home within the right budget. Contact us today!

 

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.