TAX CREDITS FOR REMODELING

The stimulus offers a nice tax credit for energy-efficient remodeling. Categories Include:

• Windows, Skylights & Doors
• Metal & Asphalt Roofs
• Water Heaters (non-solar)
• HVAC Systems
• Insulation
• Biomass Stoves

If you purchase an energy-efficient product or renewable energy system for your home, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. Click on this link to find out what's included in the Federal Tax Credit.

WINDOWS

The tax credit will pay 30% of costs,

minus labor, for qualified window upgrades in 2009 and 2010.

The credit is capped at $1,500.

ROOFS

Any metal or asphalt roofing product with an Energy Star rating qualifies for the tax credit. The roofing material must be expected to last five years or have a two-year warranty.

The IRS will give you back 30% of what you spend on this in 2009 or 2010. The giveback is capped at $1,500 and does not include the cost of labor.

HVAC, WATER HEATERS & BIOMASS STOVES

When it comes to biomass stoves, nonsolar water heaters, and eligible heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning units, the government will allow homeowners to include the cost of installation as well as the price of the products to reach the $1,500 tax credit in 2009 or 2010.

INSULATION

The Tax Credit does NOT include installation costs. But, you can install the insulation/home sealing yourself and get the credit. Click on the link for details.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Advanced technology in renewable energy takes home improvement to another level.

The tax credit will cover 30% of the cost, including installation, with no upper limit.

In most cases, the window for the tax credit has been extended to 2016. Eligible systems include solar water heaters, solar panels, geothermal heat pumps, and wind energy systems.