I'm looking to install DH windows in my home. I understand there is a tax credit of 30 percent of the windows cost (not the installation) limited to a max of $1,500 under the recently passed Stimulus Plan. The first estimate for 7 DH windows was $8,700+....I would get a manufacturer's certification that would entitle me to a $600 tax credit. Doing the math it tells me that the manufacturers cost is $2,000....(30 percent of 2,000 is 600). Thus the installation cost would be $6,750.
Are my figures wrong? Where are my calculations awry? $6,750 for a day and a half's work? These are Andersen windows. I know you get what you pay for but have I missed something....? I'm in the Northeast.
your math looks right...that equates to about $285 per window (I don't know window size, but Anderson windwos can be more or less expensive than this). Labor price seems high, but that's why I DIY - I can't stand to pay for something I can do!
We're looking at windows now, and Dave's right, some qualify, some don't. This can be especially interesting when you get into a combination unit, say double hungs on the side and a picture window in the middle. The double hungs might qualify w/one type of glass, but the picture window, because of the glass size, may need a different type of glass. So if you upgrade the picture, do you also upgrade the others so they look the same?
The nice thing about the credit (and remember, it's a credit, not a deduction :thumbsup is that it can actually make more expensive windows cheaper than cheaper windows. eg: A $500 window w/$150 back is now cheaper than a $400 window.
I ordered 3 Anderson windows (2 TW double hung to flank a picture window) & the upgraded glass was $20 more per window
I had fractional grille on the picture window - exterior/interior
If I had the seperated grille "between" the glass then it would not qualify
Many companies mark up their material cost to the consumer to cover overhead expenses.,
That's the cost he's selling the windows to you for.
He should give you a receipt for the marked up cost of the window to you,plus the cost of any related and qualifying material costs.
Caulks and spray foam and other material used to install the window can qualify for the credit;
Check this link: http://energystar.custhelp.com/cgi-...nBfc2VhcmNoX3RleHQ9NjQ1MQ**&p_li=&p_topview=1
So the cost I get to multiply by 0.3 is the cost I, the consumer, pay? Great! Can I cut a deal w/the installer that the installation is free, but the window is darn expensive? :whistling2:
Many companies mark up their material cost to the consumer to cover overhead expenses.,
That's the cost he's selling the windows to you for.
He should give you a receipt for the marked up cost of the window to you,plus the cost of any related and qualifying material costs.
Caulks and spray foam and other material used to install the window can qualify for the credit;
Check this link: http://energystar.custhelp.com/cgi-...nBfc2VhcmNoX3RleHQ9NjQ1MQ**&p_li=&p_topview=1
The total cost of installing the windows may include alterations to existing siding and/or interior finish.
The openings may have to be enlarged and headers installed,complicating the installation,therefore it is hard to determine wether the price is in line ,without more facts.
Oldfrt, was #8 in response to #7? I was being sarcastic (was I?) that I (the proverbial consumer) could cut a deal where the installer didn't charge me for the installation, but instead just had be pay a huge markup on the window. Since installation doesn't qualify for the credit, but the markup does. :whistling2:
I believe that the windows will be 'custom' made. I say that with tongue in cheek as I live in a pre-war (2nd) colonial and I think the DH's are a pretty standard size. Also these are replacement windows and relatively little work will be required except for some capping around the windows (replacing the existing capping). Of course, there will be insulation and caulking done. I don't question the overall price as much as only getting a $600 tax credit for an $8,700+ job. The manufacturers cost ($2,000) just doesn't make sense to me....but maybe there is a logical explanation as I recognize that the process of installation is just as important as the quality of the window.
7 windows at HD would run me about $2k
If it's a simple install then $6700 is a crazy price for installation
I've heard of costs average around $125 per window for installation
Your install cost is $300 per window
Also, if the cost of the 7 windows are $2,000 then the installation per window is roughly $950. Remember, I've based the cost per window by backing up from the tax credit of $600....now if the tax credit was $1,200 that might make the window cost $4,000 or about $570 per. If they are custom made... well, etc. etc. there are a lot of variables here.
Also, if the cost of the 7 windows are $2,000 then the installation per window is roughly $950. Remember, I've based the cost per window by backing up from the tax credit of $600....now if the tax credit was $1,200 that might make the window cost $4,000 or about $570 per. If they are custom made... well, etc. etc. there are a lot of variables here.
No, nothing has been verified yet. When I next speak to the contractor I'll have mucho questions....I know these are tough economic times for contractors....but they're tough for the consumer too:-(
Lets not confuse Energy Star and the tax credit. Not all Energy Star compliant windows and doors meet the criteria. What you need to look for is the U value and the Solar Heat Gain coefficient of .30 or lower.
Thanks for your imput fenestrationman (nice e-mail address) I've decided to kill the project for the present time. I'm aware of the difference between energy star and tax credits and the requirements therein. I know it can get confusing but the stimulus package is interesting and there are lots of positives with it....I was hoping to take advantage of a tax credit this year and also, at the same time, put a few replacement windows in....but I have time as the tax credit advantage
is good through 2010....Dec. 31st.
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