Do your existing windows and doors protect your family and home while being energy efficient?

August 31st, 2010

There are millions of home owners that have been taking advantage of a $1,500 “Tax Credit” offered for many qualified windows and doors this year. But did you know that there are a handful of manufactures that have a laminated glass package that qualifies for this tax credit as well? There is no question that upgrading your windows with laminated glass will cost more, but take a look at some of the advantages listed below.

  • Added layer of resistance from home invasion and burglary attempts.
  • Burglar bars can be removed to give a home or business better curb appeal.
  • Most glass packages block harmful UV rays and costly energy loss.
  • Reduces exterior noise caused by local airports, train traffic, and highway intersections.
  • Some window manufactures offer up to a $1,000 policy to cover deductibles, if your home was burglarized through their laminated glass windows and doors.

Laminated impact glass is generally used for residential and commercial dwellings located on coastal areas. This technology was needed to keep wind borne projectiles from penetrating into a home or business during severe weather. Similar laminated glass is used for “New Construction” and “Remodeling” projects today. If you would like to receive some additional  information and  links to window and door manufactures that offer these glass packages, please feel free to click our “Contacts” page and submit a request.  As always, keep visiting PlatinumPatio.com for blog posts, advertisements, and listings of available products that qualify.

Energy Star changes took effect on April 1st 2010.

August 16th, 2010

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money through energy efficient products and practices. Energy prices have become a hot news topic and a major concern for consumers. ENERGY STAR provides solutions. ENERGY STAR provides a trustworthy label on many building products categories for the home. These products deliver the same or better performance as comparable models while using less energy and saving money. ENERGY STAR also provides easy-to-use home and building assessment tools so that homeowners and building managers can start down the path to greater efficiency and cost savings.

Due to the standards that became effective in 2010, some products may not be able to meet the Energy Star requirements in all zones. Please verify all products thermal numbers meet or exceed the code to ensure you qualify for credits and pass local inspections and building codes. As always, keep visiting PlatinumPatio.com for blog posts, advertisements, and listings of available products that qualify.

For more Energy Star info click the link below:

http://www.energystar.gov/

Don’t forget about the $1,500 Tax credit for replacement Windows and Doors!

August 3rd, 2010

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). Before you purchase the windows make sure that manufacture has rated them within the tax credit guide lines. The 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. Keep visiting PlatinumPatio.com for blog posts, advertisements, and listings of available products that qualify.

Tax Credit Recap:

The credit is 30% of cost of materials only and does not include installation/ labor cost, up to $1,500.

Credit expires December 31, 2010.

Products must be installed for existing home & your principal residence. New construction and rentals do not qualify.

For more Energy Star info click the link below:

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index