Making Sure You Get Your $1500 Tax Credit for Windows or Doors

By now you’ve heard about the Federal Tax Credit for 30%

off energy efficient improvements for up to $1500.  The question is do you know how to maximize it?

Here is a quick check list to help you make sure you do not miss out on the tax credit for windows and doors:

• Does the window or door being installed qualify for the tax credit?
• Can the installer order the materials before December 31st 2010?
• Are there any other incentives from the manufacturer or dealer/installer?

1. Does the window or door qualify for the tax credit?

Be careful, In many cases you’ll find the answer is NO. Verify that the the U-factor and SHGC is less than or equal to .30. In other cases you’ll find the manufacturer has used easy and low-quality measures to increase the insulating value of the window or door in order to get it to a point of meeting the federal standards for U-value and SHGC. Such methods include filling air space with foam, adding extra layers of dark Low-E, and adding cheap weatherstripping.  An excellent question to ask the dealer or installer is “Did the product being installed meet the Tax Credit qualifications before the qualifications even existed?” Obtain a detailed scope of work for the products being used, and ask how you can receive verification from the manufacturer of their products compliance with the Tax Credit standards.

2.  Can the installer order the materials before December 31st 2010

We anticipate a unprecedented volume of window orders over the final 4 months of 2010.  This means many companies’ installation capacity will be overwhelmed and order will get overlooked.  Make sure you have verification that the windows or doors will be ordered before December 31st.

3.  Are there any other incentives from the manufacturer or dealer / installer?

Since many of the large manufacturers are trying to cash in on the rush of window and door orders, they are passing on additional incentives to the dealers, contractors, and installers.  Make sure you understand all the discounts that are available and when they expire.  As always, make sure any details discussed are in writing.

These 3 things should help you maximize your tax credit.  Feel free to contact us here with any specific questions.