Tax credits available on 2006 replacement windows and doors
If you have been thinking about replacing your drafty old
windows with energy efficient vinyl replacement windows, now is
a good time to stop procrastinating and just do it. The federal
Government is offering tax credits through their energy star
program to homeowners who replace their windows and doors with
energy star rated products in 2006 and 2007. What exactly is an
energy star rated window and door? Well, the simplest
explanation is that each window goes through a series of tests
to determine it's effectiveness at insulating your home from
heat and cold. A bunch of numbers are then attached to the
window. In order to be considered energy star rated, the numbers
have to be a certain level. I can tell you that a window will
not be energy star rated unless it is made up of dual pane LowE
glass. Now, just because the window does have the LowE Glass
doesn't necessarily mean it rates as energy star. You then have
to look for the energy star label. If you don't see the label,
you need to have the dealer confirm to you that the product is
energy star rated. Don't just take his or her word for it. Have
them produce some sort of proof.
When the windows are delivered, each one should have a
specification label. You should carefully peel off the label on
one of the windows and stick it on a piece of paper. You can
then make a copy to show proof that the windows meet the energy
star requirements. Now, this is not a write off, it's a direct
deduction from the amount of tax you owe. BIG DIFFERENCE! The
maximum allowable deduction on windows and doors combined is
$500. You can learn all about the program by going to the
Energy Star website. Another program to look into is the
utility company rebates. In some areas of the country, the
electric company will give you a rebate based on the total
square footage of the windows and doors installed. I have seen
it range from as little as .50 a square foot up to $1.50 per sq.
ft. That can really add up when you consider that one sliding
glass door that is 8 ft. wide and 6ft 8 inches tall equals 53
square feet. You need to contact your local electric company to
inquire about any energy star rebates they might have.
As you can see, now is as good a time as ever to get rid of
those outdated windows and upgrade to modern energy efficient
vinyl windows. Not only can you save money now, but your energy
bills will be reduced during the summer and winter months. And
if you purchase a window with style like the
C
ertainteed Somerton II Model, the overall appearance of
your home will be improved dramatically.
About the author:
John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978.
To learn more, visit
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