Summer Project 2011

Well everyone, we've done it. We've been debating on when to replace the windows in our house for the last 3 years and today, we bought them. We have to do it now.

Last year, we decided our windows needed to be replaced and they couldn't wait any longer. They are very worn-out looking on the outside and not the best at keeping the cold out in the winter. We called 3 different companies to come out and give us quotes for replacing the windows. We knew it wouldn't be pretty, but when they sent quotes of 18,0000-21,000 dollars our way, we decided it might have to wait a few years. :)

This spring, we somehow got the idea that we didn't need to pay someone else to put them in. We are smart, young, and totally capable of putting in new windows in our house. (We will see if we still believe this in a few weeks.)

Yesterday, we decided to head to Menards to order our new windows. Chris took some measurements of our windows (after watching a few how-to videos on you tube, of course) and we were on our way feeling ready to tackle this new project.

We begin this adventure wandering around the Windows section of Menards for an hour before we find someone to help us. During that hour, Chris and I have had multiple fights because we realize neither of us know what we are doing. Right before I am ready to head out the door, we meet Rick. Rick is a very knowledgeable member of the millwork team at Menards--he may be a lifesaver before this is all over. He explains to Chris how to properly measure the windows, builds our confidence up a bit and we head home.

Demolition time! Chris starts pulling off all of the trim around our windows and our house now looks like a construction zone. After two more trips and around 41/2 hours spent in Menards, we finally got the correct measurements for our windows and ordered them along with a new patio door.

As this project progresses, I will update you with all of the successes and the failures with this project. Even though I am not looking forward to the headaches, fights, and messes, I am looking for to the finished product: a beautiful looking house. Do we know what we are doing? No. Will we end up with huge holes in our house? Maybe. Only time will tell. :)