ee structions He JES p eae 72007, ending S Tax wor taxRet year BEGINNING eae =] For the. and init Yourfirst name i8 | t on(Pe oe . — rnoer and Ve [m7 ; NN Bill Stimulates Interest In More Efficient Windows (NAPS)—Anew tax credit may help homeowners invest in home improvements and pay dividends whenit comes to saving energy. Between 25 and 50 percent of energy used in a home can go right out the window—literally. Much depends on the workmanship and quality of the window systems. In most homes, windows provide the biggest openings between ambient indoor air and the elements outside—and the biggest opportunity for valuable energy to escape. The economic stimulus bill signed by President Obama includes a 30 percent tax credit for qualified energy-related home improvements, including energy- efficient windows. According to the bill, windows must achieve at least a .30 UValue to qualify for the credit. U- Value is an industry measurement used to determine the rate of heat transmission through a window system. Lower U-Value numbers mean better insulating properties in a window. “A .30 or better U-Value is very strict; so strict that many avail- able window systems do not cur- rently meet that standard,” said Erin Johnson, window expert and spokesperson for Edgetech I.G. According to Johnson, “Many window manufacturers are redesigning their products to include energy-efficient components to meet the new ENERGY STARstandards.” For example, creating triple- pane, rather than double-pane, window systems is gaining in popularity as a means for meeting ENERGY STAR and tax credit guidelines. Triple-pane windows i lel The stimulusbill signed by Presi- dent Obama includes a 30 percent tax credit for qualified energy-related home improvements, including energy-efficient windows. are most effective when constructed with high-performance materials, such as nonconductive, dual seal foam spacer systems, low-emissivity (low-e) coatings and argon or kryptongasfilling. The spacer system is a key ele- ment to promoting energyefficiency and sustainability in window systems because it provides the seal between the indoor and outdoorair. Also, these super-efficient windows often contain other nonconductive components, such as framing and sashes. Wood, composite and fiberglass frames are time tested and proven to be the most sustainable and energyefficient, standing up to a wide range of temperatures, UV light and the deteriorating effects of condensation. For more information, visit www.sustainaview.com.
