1. Clear the Gutters

You should clean the gutters a couple times a year, but most especially before the cold winter hits. This can help prevent water, snow, and ice from building up and damaging your home.

2. Clean the Chimney

Do you have a wood burning fireplace or stove? If so it doesn’t hurt to sweep the chimney before you light up that first fire.

3. Seal the Driveway

Snow and ice are not friendly on cement, and the salt used for deicing is even more damaging. You want to make sure you protect your driveway and patios this winter. Before the weather gets too cold you should seal your cement.

4. Add Mulch to the FlowerBeds

Gardens and flower beds also need extra protection against the cold. To help protect the soil add a fresh layer of mulch to the garden beds. This will also help give you a head start next spring.

5. Install Fresh Lightbulbs

With days getting shorter and nights getting longer you are going to put your exterior lights to good use. You want to make sure they are working well so you can keep your home safe and well lit.

6. Insulate Hose Bibs

To prevent freezing you want to turn off your sprinkler systems and have them blown out by a professional. You should also disconnect your hoses and insulate your hose bibs. You can pick up a few covers at the hardware store. These will keep your outdoor pipes from freezing and bursting over the winter.

7. Prune Back Trees and Shrubs

The weight of heavy snowfall can cause branches on trees and bushes to snap. This is why it is important to trim off dead branches and keep shrubs well maintained. You might also have to shake the heavy snow off of the branches to keep them from bending.

8. Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture

Late fall is a good time to wipe down your outdoor furniture and put it away until next season. You should also store and organize your yard tools. This will make life much easier come next summer.

9. Repair the Roof

Roof leaks are a nightmare in the winter. So if you have noticed any moisture leaks or damaged shingles, you want to have those things repaired as soon as possible.

10. Check Windows and Doors

You should check your windows and doors for air leaks. Seal what you can with caulk or weather-stripping. If that does not solve the problem it might be time for replacements.

The Importance of Timely Window and Door Replacements Before Winter

Preparing for colder months means ensuring your home is properly sealed and insulated, making replacement windows and doors Portland OR a crucial investment. Old or drafty windows and doors allow heat to escape, leading to higher energy bills and reduced indoor comfort. Modern replacements feature advanced insulation, energy-efficient glass, and durable frames that help keep your home warm and protected against harsh winter conditions. By upgrading before temperatures drop, homeowners can enjoy lower heating costs and a cozier indoor environment all season long.

If you do need replacement windows and doors in Portland OR, replacement windows and doors do not put it off. The sooner you get new windows and doors installed the sooner you can start saving on your energy bills and protect your home against the cold winter. Call EnergyGuard Windows & Doors today at (503) 554-5500. Looking for more details? Go ahead and find us on the web! You can set up a consultation with one of our design experts, or you can visit us at 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.

The post How to Prepare Your Home for Fall and Winter appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

Little do most homeowners know, you can get replacement windows and doors during any season. You don’t have to wait until spring or summer. In fact, each season comes with unique benefits that might be of interest to you. So here is a quick list of the benefits you can expect from getting replacement windows in each season:

Winter

Winter is when most people realize they need new windows and doors. Chill drafts, condensation, and high energy bills make these outdated fenestrations even more obvious. Researchers estimate as much as 70 percent of a home’s energy losses occur through windows and doors. You don’t have to put up with those conditions all winter. Instead, you can choose to get replacement windows and doors installed before the problems get any worse. Also, because winter is typically the slowest season for installers, you can schedule a time that works best for you and get the job done even faster. Best of all, installers have processes and methods to minimize heat loss during the installation so you don’t have to worry about your home being exposed to too much cold air.

Spring

Spring usually indicates the start of the home improvement season. Many homeowners start projects to improve both the inside and outside of their home. This makes spring a busy season for window and door installation. That means you will have to plan ahead and work a little harder to find a time that works for both you and the installation crew. However, the mild weather and longer days can make installation a little faster.

Summer 

Most people agree that summer in Oregon is the best time to get replacement windows. That is why it is the busiest season for window and door companies. While this does make scheduling even more complicated, it also means crews are well in the habit of getting windows and doors installed efficiently. And you don’t have to worry about freezing winds and rains entering your home. If you have your mind made up about scheduling your installation in the summer, shoot for the month of July. School is out many people plan vacations instead of renovations.

Fall

Fall is not as busy as summer, but with more homeowners preparing for the winter ahead it can still make schedules a little tight. But fall also means back to school and regular routines, which doesn’t leave much time for installations. The milder weather of fall is much like spring, and an ideal situation for window installation.

Year-Round Benefits of Upgrading Your Windows and Doors

No matter the season, Newberg, OR window and door replacement offers year-round benefits. New windows and doors improve energy efficiency, enhance home security, and boost curb appeal. They also reduce outside noise and make your home more comfortable in every season. Whether you’re preparing for winter drafts or summer heat, upgrading your windows and doors is always a smart investment.

If your windows and doors are failing you don’t have to wait for warm weather. You can get replacement windows and doors in Newberg, OR during any season of the year. Call the professionals at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors for a hassle-free quote. Call us at (503) 554-5500 or stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.

The post Benefits of Getting Replacement Windows and Doors in Any Season appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

1. Swelling or Sticking

Temperature fluctuations and humidity can cause building materials, especially wood, to expand and contract. This can periodically cause sticking and is not usually something to be concerned about. But if it is a recurring problem, and doors and windows reach a point where they stick even more, you might have to sand or plane them down. Doors and windows can also stick because of loose screws or fresh paint.

2. Sagging

Occasionally doors and windows can start to sag under their weight. If this isn’t repaired the problem will worsen and eventually it might become impossible to open or close the door or window. Sanding will only be a temporary fix. Instead, you might have to remove the screws from the upper hinge and use three-inch screws to tighten the hinge through the jamb and into the studs. But don’t go too tight, or you might bow the jamb.

3. Rattling

Do you notice rattling when you open and close your windows or doors? This is usually a problem with the hardware or mechanics. For doors, the strike plate or latch bolt might not align properly. This can be a fairly straightforward fix. If the strike plate is recessed you can remove the screws and shim it to bring it flush with the jamb. If the latch bolt doesn’t fit you might be able to fill the strike plate. And if neither fixes the problem you might have to use a chisel to cut a mortise and enlarge the hole to move the strike plate.

4. Moisture Leaks

Notice water coming in through the windows and doors? This is a big concern because moisture can cause rot, mold, warping, and other types of damage. What starts out as a small problem can lead to larger, structural issues if you are not careful. The minute you notice spots, stains, or peeling paint around your window and door frames you want to check to make sure the weather stripping is intact. If not, replace it. If that does not solve the problem you should call for professional repair.

5. Heavy Drafts

Drafty doors and windows can make any room feel uncomfortable, especially in colder climates. Again, this could be a problem with weather stripping. Or you might try adding storm doors and windows to your home for the winter. But if these don’t solve the problem you might need to upgrade.

There are several things you can do to repair windows and doors, but if all else fails it might be time for replacement windows and doors in Hillsboro, OR. They can offer higher efficiency, better protection, and a greater return on your investment. For more information about these products contact (503) 554-5500. The team at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors can walk you through new window and door technologies and help you find the right upgrades for your home. Stop by to check some of these products out today.

The post Common Window and Door Problems appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

1. More Flexible Scheduling and Availability

One of the biggest benefits of getting replacement windows and doors in the “off-season” is reduced wait times. Because jobs and projects slow down in the fall, most window companies have greater availability. They can provide faster scheduling and installation.

2. MildTemperatures

Installers work very hard to protect your home against the elements during installation. They try to work from one fenestration to the next, removing one window and immediately installing the replacement before moving on to the next one. But even with quick and efficient installation, your home does suffer limited exposure to the outdoors and outside air will come through. This is why it is better to install windows and doors when the weather is not too hot and not too cold.

3. Optimized Caulking

The caulk used to seal your new windows and doors can be sensitive to temperature. For most brands, the ideal warmth for the caulk to set is between 40 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows for the best adhesion. Also in winter, building materials shrink and in summer they expand. Installing new windows at these temperature extremes could impact the stability of the caulk and result in seal failure.

4. Deals and Promotions

When business slows down many companies use discounts and promotions to help maximize sales and fulfill quotas. Fall is often a time where you can find the best deals on replacement windows and doors. You might even be able to snag more flexible or low-cost financing options. That is why before you make a decision you shop around and compare price quotes on products, services, and financing to make sure you are getting the best value.

5. Energy Savings inWinter

Another reason you want to get new windows and doors installed in the fall is so your home is ready to face the winter. Putting off installation could cost you in energy losses over the winter. Upgrading before the first cold snap will make your home more comfortable this winter and save money on your energy bills each month.

Contact EnergyGuard Windows & Doors

If you think you need replacement windows and doors in Wilsonville, OR call us today at (503) 554-5500. The professionals at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors can meet with you for an easy, hassle free consultation to assess your needs. We offer a variety of top quality windows and doors and show you which products might work best for your home. Stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.

The post Is Fall the Best Time for Replacement Windows and Doors? appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

Drafts 

If you enter a room and feel a significant difference in temperature it is probably because outside air is making its way in. If you look you might notice visible cracks around your windows and doors. Or you can easily test for air leaks. Close all doors and windows and turn on the exhaust fans in your home. Then run a lit incense stick around the windows and doors. If the smoke pulls inward it means you have seal failures.  

High Energy Bills 

Air leaks and drafts don’t just impact comfort. These leaks also mean the money you pay for heating and cooling goes right out the window. You want windows and doors that seal tight and provide optimal insulation so you can cut down on your energy costs.   

Mold 

Moisture leads to mildew, mold, and rot. Initially, you might notice signs of discoloration on the sills or around the frame. But if a leak continues eventually the damage will spread to walls and floors, and can result in major structural problems if not repaired.   

Condensation 

Have you noticed moisture trapped between the double pane glass on your windows or doors?  This is the result of seal failure. Moisture riddled air leaked into the space between the glass and the best way to get rid of it is with replacement windows and doors.   

Difficult Operation 

Do the hinges squeak when you open your door? Does the bottom of the door scrape on the floor? Do you have to muscle your windows open every time you want a breeze? Windows and doors get stuck for many reasons. It shouldn’t feel like a workout every time you have to get one open. Not only is it inconvenient and frustrating, but it can also be a safety hazard. Time for a new one.   

Weathered, Warped or Cracked 

Sunshine and moisture are the common culprits in window and door damage. These aspects of your home take a beating from the elements and from regular use. Eventually, the damage compromises the integrity of windows and doors.   

Dings and Rust 

Ever had an armful of groceries and kicked the door open with your foot? Did it leave it good sized dent? This means your door is not structurally sound and you deserve something better protecting your home. Also, the hardware helps keep your door secure. If you notice locks, hinges, or handles compromised by rust you will want to swap those out as soon as possible.   

Call EnergyGuard Windows and Doors Today  

If you notice any of the above signs contact (503) 554-5500 for a quote on replacement windows and doors in Lake Oswego, OR. Stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132 to talk with one of our experts today.  

The post When Do I Need Replacement Windows and Doors in Lake Oswego, OR? appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

Floor to Ceiling Picture Windows 

Looking for dramatic impact with your home’s interior? Windows that are both tall and wide will not only improve your home’s natural light but make a statement in a big way. Larger window installations are a stunning addition to modern design. And with improved insulation, you can still save energy, even with expansive panes of glass.   

Corner of Windows 

Windows aren’t just for small segments of your wall. Joining walls of windows in the corner adds visual interest and amps up the natural light in a dramatic way. And if you are concerned about exposing your home’s interior with a full length of windows, you can add partially frosted glass for more privacy.   

French Doors 

If only one side of your home has good Southern exposure you can capitalize on it by installing French Doors instead of using solid doors. Try them for both interior and exterior doors. They come in a variety of colors, styles, and glazing options. You will easily find something to compliment the aesthetic of your home.   

Windows Flanking a Doorway 

Already have French Doors, but still want more natural light? Add a pair of casement or double hung windows to either side of the doorway and flood your home with daylight. You can also place a pair of matching windows to either side of an entry door, fireplace, or another architectural element. The symmetry, along with the natural light will enhance the charm and beauty of the space.   

Glass Panel Entry Doors 

Elegant and interesting, glass panel doors are a great way to welcome your guests. Again, you can use frosted, etched, or tinted glass to help maintain privacy but still allow plenty of sunlight to transmit through.   

Other Ways to Capitalize on Natural Light 

These tips will also help you let in as much natural light as possible: 

• Choose lighter, thinner window treatments 
• Paint and decorate with lighter colors 
• Strategically place mirrors across the room from a window 
• Install smoother, more reflective counters and floors 
• Trim trees and shrubs that block natural light 
• Routinely clean the glass on your windows and doors 

Maximizing Natural Light with Replacement Windows and Doors

Upgrading to Tigard replacement doors and windows is one of the best ways to brighten up your home and create a more inviting space. Large picture windows, sliding glass doors, and French doors allow for maximum sunlight while enhancing your home’s energy efficiency. Modern replacement windows come with advanced glazing options that reduce glare and UV exposure, helping to protect your interior while still letting in plenty of natural light. With the right window and door upgrades, you can transform dark, enclosed spaces into open, sun-filled areas that feel more spacious and welcoming.

If you want more sunlight with replacement windows and doors in Tigard, OR contact us at (503) 554-5500. The professionals of EnergyGuard Windows and Doors can show you the different window and doors styles that are best for natural light. To see some of these products firsthand stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132. 

The post Best Windows and Doors to Increase Natural Light appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

Make a Good First Impression 

Your front yard and porch are the first things guests get a good look at. Welcome them right from the start with a freshly painted front door, clean windows, and a simple welcome mat. Also, make sure your front porch is well lit and the house numbers are in a prominent position. And if your windows and doors look pretty dilapidated, you might consider replacing them.   

Make Room for Guests’ Belongings 

Aside from the front stoop, the entryway gives the next most important first impression. You want to give guests an obvious place to put their bags and coats. If there isn’t a coat closet in your entry, there are plenty of creative coat racks you can install. You also want to solve the shoe dilemma by supplying a special space for guests to remove and store shoes. Add a decorated side table with some small snacks and a beautiful mirror and you will have them at hello.   

Declutter 

Making your home feel more hospitable isn’t always about home décor or windows and doors. One of the most important things you can do is get rid of clutter. Because clutter builds up so quickly, take 15 minutes every day decluttering your home. Pick a room or a spot and get rid of all the stuff that has piled up. This is a good way to stay on top of the mess without going crazy.   

Clean Up 

Guests are not going to come through and give your home the white glove treatment. That said, it is still important to keep your home looking clean. Perform simple daily chores like sweeping the floors, wiping down counters and sinks, and vacuuming the rugs and carpets. Then, when you have more time, you can break down chores for deeper cleaning.   

Boost Natural Light 

When guests walk into your home it shouldn’t feel like walking into a dark cave. Most people crave natural light. It has a way of opening up your space and making it feel warmer and more inviting. You can replace windows and doors with better designs that let in ample amounts of light while still preserving the energy efficiency of your home.   

Make Your Place More Comfortable 

When you do add furniture and home decor choose items for functionality and comfort. Is your seating comfy? Do you have throws and pillows on hand if guests want to cozy up? Are there soft rugs to break up hard, cold flooring? You also want to consider if your arrangement of furniture encourages conversation.   

Play With Texture 

One of the easiest things to do to make your home more welcoming is add texture. Fill the space with items you are almost drawn to touch. Thick carpets, smooth wood, wavy wallpaper—these can help make your space feel less rigid and more comfortable.   

How Vinyl Windows and Doors Enhance Comfort and Style

Upgrading to Beaverton, OR replacement windows and doors can significantly improve both the comfort and aesthetic of your home. Vinyl windows and doors provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures while reducing outside noise. They also come in various styles and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize their space while maintaining a sleek, modern look. Plus, their low-maintenance nature means you can enjoy long-lasting beauty without constant upkeep, making your home feel welcoming and well cared for.

Making your home more welcoming doesn’t take much. But if replacement windows and doors in Beaverton, OR are on your list of improvements, contact (503) 554-5500. The experts at EnergyGuard Windows and Doors will know just what products you need to give your home that extra boost. Stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132 to check out some of our top quality products.  

The post Tips to Make Your Home More Welcoming appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

1. Organize a Burglary

Ask a trusted neighbor to walk through your home and take as many small valuables as they can in three minutes. The imitation burglar shows you how easy it is to find valuables so you can hide them from real burglars. This might mean stashing things in unorthodox places or buying a small safe to bolt to the floor.    

2. LockUp the Ladder 

Do you store a ladder outside or in the garage? An intruder can pose as a contractor or repairman and use your own ladder to gain access to your home from the second floor or a balcony.   

3. Add Foreboding Signs

Even if you don’t have a security system you can post signs or window stickers from a security company. You might have some on hand from a previous contract, or get some from a friend. Another option is to post “Beware of Dog” signs on the front gate or near the front of the home.   

4. Place Keys in a Smart Spot

You probably have a drop-zone for keys and garage door openers when you first walk in the door. While convenient, this can be risky if an intruder gains access to your home. Even if those are the only things they grab, they can make off with your car with little effort.   

5. Give a Key to a Trusted Neighbor

Speaking of keys, don’t hide a spare key outside. Under mats, under rocks, in potted plants—good burglars know the hiding places. Instead, give your spare key to a trusted neighbor.   

6.  Lock Every Door and Window

A third of burglaries are considered “unlawful entry” instead of “forced entry,” because all the intruder had to do was open an unlocked window or door. So sit down with family members and put together a security plan. Make a habit of locking all the windows and doors when you leave and before bedtime. It is a routine that costs nothing extra, takes very little energy, and reduces the likelihood of someone getting in.   

7. Replace Windows and Doors

Assess your windows and doors. Are the locks operable? Are the materials sound? If your old windows are doors are not up to the task, it might be time for an upgrade. Replacement windows can offer stronger window locks and thicker, laminated glass that is more difficult to break. And modern doors come with more secure locks, frames, and materials too.   

Enhancing Home Security with Replacement Windows and Doors

Upgrading to replacement windows and doors in Portland, OR is a smart way to strengthen your home’s security while improving energy efficiency and curb appeal. Modern replacement windows come with reinforced frames, impact-resistant glass, and multi-point locking systems that make break-ins much more difficult. Likewise, new entry doors are designed with stronger materials and advanced locking mechanisms, providing an extra layer of protection. Investing in high-quality replacements not only deters intruders but also ensures long-term durability and peace of mind for homeowners.

Your security is important and you need quality products. For more information about replacement windows and doors in Portland, OR contact EnergyGaurd Windows and Doors. Call us at (503) 554-5500 or stop by 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132 to talk with one of our professionals today.  

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