If you’re planning a renovation of your home or business, there are a lot of considerations that go into that. Whether it’s a roof replacement, window or door replacement, or new siding, it’s important to do your research before making your decision on which company to hire. Asking the right questions is key to determining which company is the best choice for you. 

Here are some must-ask questions when deciding which home improvement company you should work with.  

1. “How long have you been in business locally?” 

It’s okay to ask them how long they’ve been working in your area specifically. The company should have proven experience in the local area. It’s also a good idea to ask for references. They should be happy to provide those to you or direct you to a place where you can find that information.

2. “What are your online reviews like?”

In our digital era, online reviews are where people go to share their positive or negative experiences. If you ask the company what their online reviews are like, they should be able to answer you honestly. Read through the reviews and if you see a common theme, take note – especially if they are negative reviews. Look closely at customer service experiences, quality of workmanship, pricing, and more. If there are a lot of negative reviews, be aware. 

3. “Do you have a specialty?”

Your home or business is an investment. You want to preserve your investment – that’s why you want to make sure to use products that will last and keep them looking beautiful for years to come. So, if you’re planning to purchase new windows, doors, siding, or a roof, you want to make sure the company specializes in these things and uses durable, top-quality products. This ensures that they’re able to handle any unexpected issues or problems that may arise during the project.  

4. “How do your prices compare?”

It’s a good idea to get quotes from two to three companies and then compare them. If the company is reputable, they should fall in line with other companies’ prices that provide similar services. However, if you get a quote that is astronomically high or low, that should be a red flag. A high price may mean they are trying to take advantage of you, while low may indicate that their quality of workmanship may be not up to standard. 

Find the Best Remodel Contractor for You

Ready to get your home or business improvement project started this spring or summer? 

Lifetime Windows and Doors has 25 years of expertise in the local community installing windows, doors, siding, and roofing. We’ve proudly worked on thousands of commercial and residential projects around Oregon and Washington. 

Visit our specials page to see what our current specials are, then contact us today for information on how to get your quote scheduled!

The post Planning a Remodel? Ask Potential Contractors These Questions appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

If you’ve lived in your home for a while and you’ve decided you want to add on to it or remodel the existing space, you understand how much planning it takes. It’s a big project to tackle. Determining your biggest priorities is the first step. Once that is done, you’ll need to set your budget and find professionals that can get the job done accurately and on time. Here are some additional tips to consider when designing your home addition.

Think About the Future

Designing a space that is not just luxurious, but functional and comfortable for the long-term is key. Adding new siding and roofing are two of the best things to do to ensure your home stands the test of time. A quality roof can last for decades. Siding – especially top-notch fiber cement siding installed by our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors – will protect your home for years, too. Exterior doors also provide the protection you need.

These home improvement items are also important in case you choose to sell your home later. So, when it comes to designing your addition or planning a remodel, consider what your style preferences are, but also keep in mind that things should appeal to other buyers if you have to sell your home somewhere down the line.

Watch Your Budget

Home improvement projects, remodeling, and home additions can get expensive. Whether you’re replacing windows and doors or adding a whole new level to your home, look closely at your budget and determine what things are “must haves” and what are just extras. There will be things that pop up throughout the course of your project that may put a strain on your budget, so make sure to put a buffer in there for those extenuating circumstances, as well. Setting out with a set budget will help you work within it, so when the project wraps up you can enjoy the results and not be anxious about finances.

Do Your Research

Planning for a home addition or large remodeling project that includes replacing windows, doors, roofing, or siding, requires you to do some research beforehand. That means getting quotes from various companies and contractors to determine you’re working with the most qualified team. Unfortunately, there are companies and individuals in the industry who are not honest or simply don’t do quality work. Make sure you read online reviews, ask for photos of completed projects, and read about what their area of expertise is.

Get Professional Insight

At Lifetime Windows and Doors, we have 25 years of industry experience in the home renovation space. We have worked on thousands of residential and commercial projects around Oregon and southwest Washington. Our quality products, commitment to great customer service, and positive online reviews speak for themselves.

Ready to start your renovation or home addition project? Contact us for a free quote for your home addition or home improvement project! We have the experience you can trust and regularly offer specials that can help save you money.

The post Tips for Designing Your Home Addition appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

Looking to add more natural light to your home or office space? A French door could be the perfect option! Stunning glass panes that run the length of the door bring in outside light and open any room that they’re in. No matter what your style preference – modern, cozy, rustic, or a little bit of everything – there is a bright, beautiful French door waiting to make your living or workspace even more magical.

Benefits of French Doors

In addition to filling your home with gorgeous natural light and scenery, these doors are great for showcasing your unique aesthetic. Want to revamp your living area? Make it feel larger and more welcoming by adding a French door. Trying to boost your office productivity? Use these doors to make your space feel more serene and focused. No matter what your goals, these doors will upgrade your aesthetic while enhancing ventilation and bringing in that cool Pacific Northwest air.

French Door Styles

There are various options when it comes to materials, styles, and designs. When you work with our experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors, we can help you customize your options, too, adding sidelights (other glass panels on the sides of the door) or a panel of glass above the door(s). Here are some of the most common style options.

• Center-hinged: A center-hinged door has two doors, one on a fixed pane and the other one able to swing open.
• In or out-swinging: Whether it’s one or two doors, you can choose to have your door swing in or out. The type you determine will likely depend on your room’s layout and which one will function most conveniently in the space.

French Door Installation Experts

A French door installation is an upgrade to any home or office space. We are your local French door installation experts and have been installing these products for over 25 years. Your French doors will enhance your space like nothing else can! Call us today to get your quote scheduled.

The post Is a French Door Right for Your Space? appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

Windows play a big part in the overall look and comfort of your home. But, if you’re like most people, maintenance is probably not at the top of your mind each day. That said, taking a little bit of time to care for your windows can keep them looking great and functioning well for years into the future. To maintain the beauty, energy efficiency, and functionality of your windows, follow these window care tips:

Keep Your Windows Clean

As with any other household object, dirt and grime can degrade the look of your windows and eventually impact their performance. However, it’s also important to carefully clean your windows to avoid accidentally damaging them. To clean your windows like a professional, use these guidelines:

• Never use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals: Harsh cleaners can stain or damage the glass. Be sure to use a cleaner that is crafted specifically for glass.
• Use a soft rag, paper towel, or window squeegee: Rough cleaning tools could lead to scratches. Soft rags or squeegees can help maintain the glass while avoiding streaks.
• Remember to check the window tracks: Dirty window tracks can make it difficult to open or close your windows without causing damage to the frame. Routinely clean this part, too.

Watch For Condensation

When you cook or shower, do you notice that your windows form condensation? That often means the inside humidity is high and moisture could build up and drip into the windowsill. Over time, this is a recipe for mold or other problems. To avoid this, open a nearby window or door for cross ventilation, or run an exhaust vent to help equalize humidity.

Use Your Windows Gently

If you want to open your windows for some fresh air, be sure to do so carefully. The same goes when closing them. Don’t be heavy-handed when using them, such as forcing the latch or slamming the window to get it to seal properly. If there are arms on the window to help stabilize them, be sure not to strain them by pulling or leaning on them.

If you find that your windows get stuck easily, the latch isn’t working, or they simply aren’t sealing properly, it might be time to consider the age of the product. You may need a replacement if your windows are no longer working properly.

Consider Upgrading or Replacing Your Windows

New windows add value to your home. Not to mention, they help save energy in the long run, and even provide an enhanced sound barrier. Lifetime Windows & Doors carries a variety of window styles and brands that will fit well into your specific home’s aesthetic. And, most importantly, we aim to find replacement windows that fits within your budget guidelines. Not to mention, new windows are Energy Star® certified and come with great ratings, so you know you’re getting the best product that will help you save money each year.

Need More Care Tips or Want a New Window?

Contact us for expert advice or a free quote for your home improvement project! We have the experience you can trust and regularly offer specials that can help save you money! We proudly serve Portland, Oregon and the surrounding areas, as well as Central Oregon and Southwest Washington. Call us today to schedule your appointment.

The post Window Care and Maintenance Tips appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

If your roof has seen better days, it might be tempting to tackle the roof replacement project yourself. With do-it-yourself (DIY) videos and tutorials for just about every home improvement project online nowadays, you might think it’s easy enough to do and could save money. So, should you DIY your roof replacement? We don’t think so. While DIY is great for many projects around the house, it can turn into a real disaster for more complicated projects like roof replacements.

Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t DIY your roof replacement project:

Roofing Can Be Very Dangerous

Roofing accidents happen all the time – especially for inexperienced people who don’t have the proper gear or tools. Installing a roof is dangerous work, even for roofing contractors. However, experience and the right equipment minimizes that risk and ensures you get your roof installed safely, accurately, and on-time.

This is especially important if your roof has significant damage such as cracks, leaks, or buckling ceilings. Only professional roofers should tackle jobs like that.

It’s Easy to Miss Potential Roofing Problems

If you’re tempted to simply shingle over your existing roof, think again. While this might help bolster your home’s curb appeal, you might be ignoring potential problem spots underneath the shingles.

This is where water damage creeps in, which could cause mold or dry rot, or even structural damage. Working with professional roofers gives you the peace of mind that everything is fixed and installed, so your roof can easily protect you and your home for the next several decades.

DIY Roofing Projects Don’t Come with Warranties

Roofing material manufacturers don’t guarantee materials unless they’re installed by licensed professionals. So, if you attempt a DIY roof replacement, you will likely forfeit guarantees and warranties that come with the roofing materials. That means, if something goes wrong in the future and you need to repair or replace the roof again, you will probably have to pay more out of pocket. This can be extremely expensive.

Roof Replacement Cost Analysis

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of DIY roof replacement, consider the upside. You may be able to successfully complete the project on your own and save some money. However, you’re introducing considerable risk to your home and the possibility that you’ll pay much more later.

On the other hand, when you hire a professional roofer, the job will be completed properly, and your new roof will add style, beauty, and protection to your home. Yes, a quality roof can be expensive, but it’s absolutely a home improvement project worth investing in.

Schedule a Professional Roof Replacement Today

DIY roofing is not a good idea for most people. It’s labor intensive, detail oriented, and dangerous. Simply put, professionals have the skills and experience needed to do a great job.

Save time and money by calling the team at Lifetime Windows and Doors and learn about our expertise in roof replacements. You can trust your home to our licensed roofers.

The post Reasons Why You Shouldn’t ‘DIY’ Your Roof Replacement appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

Have you ever considered what it would take to transform your unfinished basement into a home theater, a man cave, a crafting space or workroom, a guest bedroom, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or a game room in your basement? A project of this magnitude requires some planning! Here are some things to consider for this type of home renovation.

Basements can add extra living space

When it comes to hosting guests, family, or friends, this extra square footage will go a long way. It can also be a great selling point that adds more value to the home if you are considering putting your home on the market in the future. You will generate a good return on your investment with a project like this.

Basements can pose a unique set of challenges

• Moisture issues are common at lower levels, so you may need to add exterior draining, grading, or a dehumidifier. It’s important to think about waterproofing the area so no mold or other moisture issues develop over time. 
• Darkness can also be an issue. In addition to painting the walls light colors and adding enough overhead lighting, consider adding sizable windows, or sliding glass doors to bring in natural light. 
• Complexity can also be a factor with all the little details of this type of project. However, our experienced contractors at Lifetime Windows and Doors are skilled in working with remodeling projects of all kinds and will gladly work with you to find the right window and door products that will keep the space feeling comfortable, light, and spacious.

Your Partners in Finished Basements

Once you have decided to take the leap to finish your basement and are looking for help from the experts, our team can help! Whether it’s an egress window, a French door that separates areas around the basement, or siding that needs to be replaced as you finish the space, we can help! We have served Oregon, Central Oregon, and Southwest Washington since 1998. You can trust us to get the job done right so you can reap the benefits of a larger home. Call us today to learn more about our expertise and schedule your consultation!

The post Pros and Cons of a Finished Basement appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

For those who are thinking about retiring or have recently retired, thinking about what you’ll need as you get older is important. Many people want to continue to enjoy their home and the idea of moving into a retirement community or assisted living center is not appealing. That’s why it is critical to look closely at your home and consider its comfort and accessibility for the long term. If you plan to age in place, keep this design checklist in mind.  

Update Windows

As you age in place, it’s important to update your windows and doors to ensure they are energy-efficient and easy to open and close. For example, if your windows are old and difficult to open, they may get harder to open if your muscles weaken or if the windows deteriorate with moisture or continued exposure to the outside elements. Consider adding casement windows that have cranking handles, as they are some of the easiest types of windows to open and close. 

Consider Accessibility 

Make sure your door entryways are wide enough so you can get wheelchairs, crutches, or walkers in and out without a problem. Also, look closely at your entryways or thresholds to make sure there are no obstacles or difficult transitions. This will help prevent falls or trips.  

Maximize your Indoor-Outdoor Space 

Oregon and Washington are wonderful places to enjoy life – especially as you age in place. To get the most out of your space, consider adding a moving glass wall system or a large patio door that introduces fresh air and sunlight to your home. Even if you struggle with mobility at some point down the road, with a setup like this, you’ll be able to get outside or sit nearby and enjoy the scenery in your neighborhood or yard.

Planning for a remodel, or an addition to your home, or do you simply want to update a few things around your home to accommodate yourself as you get older? Using top-quality products that stand the test of time and installing them with a skilled team of contractors is key. Lifetime Windows and Doors has the experience you can trust with your aging-in-place projects. Our 25 years of serving Pacific Northwest homeowners speaks for itself. 

Call us today to schedule your free quote.  

The post Design Checklist for Aging in Place appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

If you’re planning a home remodel, you know how much thought and preparation goes into it. Determining what changes are most important, which companies will complete the work, and ensuring you can stay within your designated time frame and budget are all important. If you plan on remodeling your home, here’s how to avoid costly mistakes. 

Set a Budget

Renovations can get expensive, especially if you don’t plan your funding accordingly. So, set a realistic budget with a buffer in place. Building up to 20 percent extra into your overall budget can help you better prepare for any surprises that happen along the way. 

Choose the Right Company

Unfortunately, there are many companies, contractors, or fly-by-night workers claiming to be the “best” and most experienced in their field. If you don’t research, you could be in for a big – and expensive – headache later down the road. Be sure to ask potential home contractors direct questions before you hire them. These might include ‘How long have you been in business?’, ‘What is your specialty?’, or ‘Do you have references’? It’s also important to read online reviews. If you notice a significant number of negative reviews or if you see a recurring theme about their quality of workmanship, ethics, or customer service, take note. Don’t rush your decision: an honest company or contractor will take the time to answer your questions with no complaints. 

Don’t Forget Functionality

When considering windows, doors, siding, or roofing, don’t forget to keep functionality in mind. For example, you don’t want doors to ding or damage other doors or countertops, and you want to make sure you can access and open and close windows easily. Talk to your contractor about how you want the space to flow so you can ensure it functions exactly how you want it to. 

Buying the Right Materials

The changes you make during a home remodel are things you’ll want to enjoy for many years to come. That’s why it’s important to select high-quality, durable materials that are built to last. Our team at Lifetime Windows and Doors is proud to install top-quality products from Milgard, Malarkey Roofing, James Hardie, and more. We focus on installing everything accurately with attention to the details. Whether you live in a historic home that needs modern touches, or you have a newer home that simply requires some updates to old windows or doors, we pride ourselves in doing the job right with materials you can count on. 

Ready to Get Started?

Our team has industry-leading experience and has been serving the Portland OR area since 1998. We take pride in delivering exceptional workmanship and providing a great customer experience, so you know you’ll be in good hands. Call us today to schedule your free quote.  

The post How to Avoid Costly Mistakes When Renovating Your Home appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

Brisk autumn weather has arrived in the Pacific Northwest. It’s such a beautiful time of year here. It’s also a great time to continue to work around your home or business to ensure your to-dos are completed before the cold winter days arrive. Fall is a great time to clean and care for your windows. Here are some tips on how to care for your windows this autumn. 

REMOVE SCREENS AND CLEAN

Remove screens on the windows and make sure they are tear-free. Once the screens are off, you can hose them down with soap and water. While you let them air dry, clean the windows inside and out with a residue-free glass cleaner. It’s also a good time to check the sills or tracks of the windows, wiping them clean of any dirt or other debris that has started to build up over time. 

DUST

Take some time to dust the blinds and clean the draperies on or around the windows. This will help with seasonal allergies and help the space feel cleaner and brighter. 

CHECK FOR LEAKS

Are the seals around your windows tight? Worn seals are a major source of heat loss when the weather cools down. This translates to wasted energy and higher utility bills. 

ADD NEW WINDOWS

The sunniest days of summertime are gone and overcast Pacific Northwest days are here to stay for a while. That’s why bringing in as much natural light to your home as possible is important. Adding a new skylight, a large picture window, or other smaller windows to dark rooms can lighten and enlarge the space. Extra daylight can even make you feel happier and improve your mental outlook in life! 

REPLACE OLD WINDOWS

Perhaps your windows are single-pane and simply not up to today’s energy efficiency standards. Now’s a great time to get a quote for replacement windows. Whether you need custom windows, bay windows, egress windows, or a combination of all of those, our experts at Lifetime Windows and Doors can help today. With more than 25 years of industry-leading expertise, you can count on us to get the job done right with top-rated brands. Considering replacing your windows this autumn? Call us today to learn more about our expertise and to schedule your consultation!

The post Autumn Window Cleaning and Care Checklist appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.

Winter weather is right around the corner – chilly and wet days and nights, the potential for snow and ice – it could all arrive soon. When temperatures drop outside, you’ll want to enjoy the warmth and coziness of the inside of your home. But, if your windows or doors are old and inefficient, they could be allowing cold air in, and leaking that precious warm air out.

Are you considering replacing your windows or doors this winter, but aren’t sure that it can be done while still protecting your home? We have great news. Winter weather shouldn’t stop your plans to install new windows in your home this year!

Why Is Winter a Good Time to Replace Your Windows and Doors?

While many people wonder if door and window replacement is possible during the winter, the big secret is that wintertime may actually be the best time to get this type of work completed. In many ways, it’s easier than waiting for spring or summer to do it.

Winter Savings Mean Lower Costs

We recognize that replacement windows are an investment for your home and its longevity.
Many times, the best deals and promotions of the year happen during the winter months and right before many manufacturers raise their pricing, so you could potentially save A-LOT of money on your home improvement project.

Contact our team today to learn about seasonal specials that are happening right now and to learn about our great lending options, so you can enjoy new windows and doors and save your hard-earned cash.

It’s Easier to Schedule Your Window Replacement Project

Spring and summer are the busiest months for home improvement companies. Our schedule usually lightens a little bit in the winter and this means we can start on your project sooner. That way, you can get your window installation or door installation project done quickly and enjoy your new windows and doors sooner!

Superior Comfort When You Need It Most

Winter weather can be brutally cold at times. New windows will help minimize air leakage from old windows and keep your home more evenly heated. This not only translates to better comfort but also saves money! That’s because your heating system isn’t working overtime, using expensive energy or electricity, to keep you warm.

Schedule Your Window and Door Replacement Project This Winter

If you need new windows or doors in Portland, Bend, Salem, and Vancouver, you don’t need to wait for spring or summer weather. Now is a great time to launch your window replacement project. We love working with homeowners of all kinds to find the right windows that fit the home’s specific style and layout.

Contact us today and our team of installation experts will get your windows and door replacement completed as soon as possible – no matter the weather. And don’t worry, we always take extra precautions to ensure your home stays as warm as possible during the installation process.

The post Can You Replace Windows and Doors in the Winter? appeared first on Lifetime Windows & Doors - Window and Door Replacement in Portland OR and Bend Oregon.