There are plenty of reasons to get new windows. Maybe yours are in bad shape, or you might be trying to save on energy costs, or maybe you’re renovating the entire home and windows are just part of the process. Regardless, windows can be expensive.
The problem is, windows that are in bad shape can lead to uncomfortable air temperatures and high energy bills. It’s not an expense that can be put off for very long. This is why we’ve put together a list of three things you can do to help save for your new windows below:
- Set a SMART Goal
SMART is an acronym that stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based. Structuring your goals as SMART goals helps you stay motivated and on track.
In the case of purchasing new windows, two of the criteria are already taken care of; specific and relevant. All that’s left to do is design your goal so that it’s measurable, actionable, and time-based.
To make your goal measurable, you need to define it explicitly. An example of a nonmeasurable goal is, “save enough for a new window.” It’s hard to tell what “enough” is, so it’s difficult to know if the steps you’re taking are sufficient to hit your goal. Compare this with an example of a measurable goal of, “save $1,000 for a new window.” Structuring the goal this way allows you to tell if you’re making adequate progress.
The next step is to make sure your goal is attainable. To set an attainable goal, you need to be honest with yourself. The average salary in America is $53,000. For most people, setting a goal to buy a $10,000 set of windows doesn’t make sense. It’s out of reach and can lead to a loss of motivation. Instead, by setting a goal you can attain (i.e. a cheaper set), you’ll be much more motivated to achieve it.
A time-based goal is a goal with a date attached to it; e.g., “$1,000 for new windows within four months.” Structuring your goal this way makes it easier to track your progress. For example, if a month passes by and you haven’t saved $250 yet, you know that you need to change something to hit your goal.
- Pick Up a Side Hustle
Side hustles are becoming more common than ever before. People have become increasingly enthusiastic about using their skills to earn extra money. Just five to ten extra hours a week can make a huge difference in your total income, and consequently make saving new windows a breeze (pun intended).
If you want to get started with a side hustle but don’t know what to do for work, don’t worry. There are plenty of profitable side hustles, and there’s something for everyone. Some examples of popular side hustles include freelance writing, tutoring, consulting, affiliate marketing, working as a virtual assistant, and doing deliveries.
- Take it One Room at a Time
Damaged and inefficient windows can lead to excessively high energy bills. This is why we recommend replacing all of your windows at once if it’s an option. Although, if money is tight, you can buy yourself time by replacing the windows in one room at a time. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to replace all of the windows on the first floor of their home before moving on to the second.
Get Your Windows From Big D Building Center
Founded in 1921, we’ve been in business for 100 years. We understand that affording replacements can be challenging.
If you’re in the market for new windows, doors, or siding, reach out to our professionals today. Or, you can visit our showroom and chat with our team. We’d be happy to talk and see what we can do for you.