For Michael Gentile , one of the best real estate specialists in Los Angeles, tax credits for storm windows and storm doors are the most economical option if you plan to replace the window and doors of your house. Energy-saving doors and windows that meet efficiency standards can give homeowners a 30% tax credit of total material cost. The federal tax credit has a cap of $1,500.
Cost-Effective Storm Windows and Doors
It is cost-effective to have storm windows, especially for house with single-pane windows. They’re easier to fit, and reduce energy costs. Storm windows are almost as effective as double-pane windows in terms of insulation gain. You can save up to $900 and a day or two of installation when you choose storm windows over tax credit-eligible replacement window. A storm door that helps buffer energy loss is priced at $200 to $300 each. A storm door with a retractable screen lets in air during a nice weather, allowing you to cut on energy costs.
Energy Tax Credit Eligibility
By filing IRS Form 5695, you can get a tax credit when you add storm windows and doors in your primary residence. You need an itemized bill from your contractor. Two-thirds of your payment settles the material cost, and one-third on labor. Check the 
Pasadena REALTOR reiterates that you can qualify if your window or door opening has a 0.30 or less Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and total U-factor. SHGC determines the efficiency of a window or a door in keeping out the heat from sunlight, while U-factor is the efficiency in keeping the heat in.
You should check in with your contractor about the insulation value of the storm window’s opening to make sure you get that credit. Although IRS does not ask for proof of insulation, it’s always better to write a formal letter. Save all receipts and the product’s certification statement from the manufacturer.
People who live in a colder climate benefits more since they cut energy cost when they keep drafts out and heat in. Except for storm windows made from reflective glass to deflect sunlight heat, people in warm climate have limited wins. A home with 2,000 square feet in size and single pane windows can save 15% to 40% on energy costs.
Storm windows are cheaper than replacement windows so you can get a shorter payback period. The downside: storm windows are not as valuable as full replacement windows in resale. Replacement windows recover three-fourths of their cost at resale. Such windows are more pleasing to the eyes, more convenient to use, and less susceptible to moisture.
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