Go Green with Old Capitol Exteriors!
Learn how you can qualify for a Federal Energy Tax Credit up to $1500!
Replacement Windows: The Time is Now!
New windows and doors help increase your home's comfort, value and energy efficiency. And now, with new federal incentives, replacement windows are more affordable than ever. Call Old Capitol Exteriors to schedule a free, no-obligation in-home window consultation today. There's never been a smarter time to invest in energy savings!
Federal Energy Tax CreditThe recently passed Economic Stimulus package (the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) includes federal tax credits that encourage homeowners to make energy efficient improvements to their homes. Among those products that are included in this tax credit are energy efficient roofing materials and replacement windows and doors.
The maximum amount of homeowner credit for all improvements combined (including roofing, insulation, HVAC, and water heaters) is $1,500 during 2009 and 2010. The improvement must be made to an existing home & your principal residence. New construction and rentals do not qualify. The Energy Tax Credit does NOT include installation costs.
Replacement Windows & Doors
Qualifying products purchased between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010 are eligible for a tax credit equal to 30 percent of the product cost.
Windows, doors, and skylights purchased on or after June 1, 2009 must have U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings of 0.30 or less. These ratings must be certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). Look for the NFRC label. NFRC is the only federally recognized organization for determining the energy performance of windows, doors and skylights.
Homeowners must obtain a manufacturer certification statement to document window, door, or skylight eligibility for the tax credit. If the retailer or installer cannot provide this document, it may be available on the manufacturer's Web site.
Roofing
Qualified roof products reflect more of the sun's rays, which can lower roof surface temperature by up to 100F, decreasing the amount of heat transferred into your home." Metal roofs with appropriate pigmented coatings" and "asphalt roofs with appropriate cooling granules" also meet ENERGY STAR requirements.
How To Qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credit
1. Purchase a qualifying roof, window or door (see above for qualifications).
2. Save your sales receipt and each roofing, window or door performance label (NFRC/ENERGY STAR® label) with your tax documents.
3. Purchase and install qualifying products beginning January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010 and meet all other requirements outlined in the federal tax code.
4. Claim the tax credit associated with your qualifying purchase on your Federal filing for the 2009 and/or 2010 tax year.
This summary information is provided as a convenience and may not be relied upon as a substitute for professional tax advice. Old Capitol Exteriors disclaims all responsibility for determining whether a particular product qualifies for this or any other tax credit. All purchasers are advised to consult a professional tax advisor to determine whether the products they purchase qualify for the tax credit. More information is available at www.energystar.gov/taxcredit.
For more information, contact your Old Capitol Exteriors representative who is available to help you choose the best products to suit your needs.
Frequently asked Questions Regarding the Tax Credit Program
What qualifies as an "energy efficient replacement window"?
A replacement window is a newer, more modern upgrade to an existing window. Replacement windows are specifically crafted for the perfect fit of the older window. New replacement windows are installed with no damage to existing walls or exteriors, and will make the home look more sleek and modern. In order to be energy efficient, windows must carry a U-Factor rating of 0.3 or lower.
How do I know if my home needs new replacement windows?
There are many warning signs that hint new replacement windows are necessary:
Windows are difficult to open/close.
Windows are dropping, and will not stay in a locked position.
Drafts, leaks, or gaps around the edges of window frames.
Fogging and icing on the inner edges of window panes.
Excessive outside noise not being filtered out when window is shut.
Paint is missing, chipped, peeled, or cracked around the window frames.
Wind causes windows to rattle, vibrate, or clatter.
Home seems too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter months.
Breezes are felt near the window, even when closed.
How can I find out the energy efficiency of a replacement window?
Every window sold by Old Capitol Exteriors is labeled with a NFRC rating. The National Fenestration Rating Council is an independent organization that tests how well windows transfer (or insulate against) heat and cold. The rating is known as the "U-Factor" and the lower the factor, the better insulating rating of the window.
How much money can I save with the Tax Credit Program?
The Federal Government allows for a 30% tax credit up to a maximum of $1,500. For example, a $4,000 purchase would allow for the maximum $1,200 credit, while a $3,000 purchase would allow for a $900 tax credit. Credits are to be filed with the homeowner's 2010 taxes.
Why would I purchase Energy Efficient windows instead of standard quality windows?
Energy Efficient windows offer various benefits over standard windows, including:
Better home insulation, creating more comfortable summer and winter months.
Lower energy bills, due to a reduction in energy used to heat & cool the home.
Government Tax Credits of up to $1,500.
Increased property value, because of a higher quality replacement window.
What causes the fogginess inside my windows? Are they not insulating properly?
The fog inside windows is actually condensation, caused by humidity in the air. Leaks or cracks within the glass can cause excess fogging, which is a common problem in older windows. New replacement windows are better insulated than older windows, and will therefore reduce the condensation on the glass as much as possible. Especially in high-humidity areas like Georgia, window condensation will likely not be completely removed, but our windows will minimize the issue.
How do I begin my Tax Credit Program?
The first step is to contact Old Capitol Exteriors for a free in-home consultation. One of our certified replacement window consultation specialists will discuss your window options, and help you select a style and design best for your home's needs. Please complete the contact form to schedule your free consultation.
Things To Know About Energy Efficiency
Understanding these common terms will help you select the right windows and doors.
U-factor - This measures the rate of heat loss and how well a product insulates. The lower the number, the better a product is at keeping heat inside a building. The U-factor is key in the winter months, and important to consider in choosing a window.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) - This measures how well a product blocks heat from the sun. The lower the number, the better. In southern climates or high sun intensity areas, you might actually want to keep the sun's heat out of your house. Windows can help do that.
R-value - This measures resistance to heat loss. Many people are familiar with the R-value because of its use in home insulation. But actually, for windows and doors, U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient are more important measurements.
Design Pressure Rating - The "DP" measures the amount of pressure a door or window will withstand when closed and locked. Each DP rating also establishes other performance factors such as water penetration; air infiltration; structural pressure; forced entry; and operational force. The higher the DP numbers, the better the performance. Look for the certified hallmark of the Window and Door Manufacturers Association.
To request more information about Old Capitol Exteriors' energy-efficient product offerings, click here.
