The window wait

You know you’ve become an adult when you get excited about new windows!  Ever since Andrew and I purchased our home almost 2 1/2 years ago we knew that new windows were at the top of the home improvement list.  Although we always knew that it’s a pricey investment, we were sick of holding windows open with a piece of wood, chipping paint and rotting window sills.  It was worth being patient and saving up.  And we were finally ready and excited to go for it!

The problem came when we invited a sales rep into our home for an estimate.  You see, at some point in our house’s nearly 80 year history, someone replaced about half of the windows to double-paned.  When they did this, they didn’t replace the exterior wrapping or screens.  So when we did our own estimations of the windows cost, we assumed only about half of the windows would need complete replacing.  But the sales rep informed us that it’s not possible, and that it’s actually preferable to just replace a screen or the wrapping.  So we quickly realized we are going to have to replace all of our windows.  Needless to say, when it was all said and done, the estimate was about double of what we had expected (and saved for).

After much thought and discussion, we decided to take the following steps to our project:

1.  Re-evaluate.  With the savings scoreboard, we are saving for several different categories at the same time, but some of those categories aren’t needed for several months, or even a year.  So instead of setting that money aside already, it will be transferred to the windows account.  After the windows are done, we’ll be able to allocate more money to those other accounts.

2.  Wait on the current project.  Since we have a strict no-debt policy in our home, we know that we do not want to make a commitment until we have all of the money needed to do the project well.  If it means waiting another few months to do it debt (and stress) free, it’s worth it!

3.  Defer gratification on other things.  In addition to getting new windows, we were also hoping to build a deck or patio this summer.  But with the increase in the window project budget, we just won’t be able do both.  So we decided that it won’t kill us to wait one more year before enjoying outdoor dining.

Whether it’s a big ol’ home improvement purchase or just an item on our grocery list, the two of us are in constant communication and discussion about where are money is going.  We think it’s really the only way to win with money as a couple.  We’ll keep you posted on the progress of this home improvement project!