Doors and Windows

Dollars & Sense

• Incentives. Get incentives and professional help to make your home more efficient, comfortable, and healthy.
• Federal tax credits. Cover 30% of the cost for your project, up to $600 per year for windows and up to $500 for doors (up to $250 each).
• Low-interest loans. Get loans starting at 4% to help finance your weatherization project.
• Save money on your monthly bills by reducing drafts when you install energy-efficient windows and doors.

Benefits & Considerations

• Comfort: Get rid of drafts, cold floors, stuffy rooms, and other comfort problems in your home.
• Savings: Lower monthly energy bills by preventing energy loss.
• Health: Improve air quality by keeping allergens, dust, and pollutants from entering your home.
• Protection: Energy-efficient windows can reduce UV sun damage to floors, carpets, and furniture.
• Style: Energy-efficient windows can improve the overall aesthetics of your home.

Questions for Your Contractor

• Are you licensed and insured to do weatherization work in New York State?
• Is it more cost-effective to replace my windows and doors or make repairs to the existing ones?
• Should I consider storm windows?
• How will you ensure the windows and doors are properly sealed?
• Should I pair the window/door upgrades with other weatherization improvements — like air sealing and insulation?
• What is the anticipated return on investment of replacing my windows and doors?
• What type of windows/doors do you recommend for my home? What type of glass is used in the window?
• What warranty or guarantee do you provide for your work?
• Can you please provide references?
• Do you offer financing through your company?
• Do the windows and doors you are recommending qualify for federal tax credits?

Find a qualified contractor to help you with your weatherization project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my windows/doors need to be replaced?

There are many signs to tell if windows/doors need to be replaced. Are they visibly damaged? Are there uncomfortable drafts? Are you noticing damage/fading to the interior of your home (carpets, wood floor, furniture)? Do you have unwanted noise coming in from the outside? Is condensation forming on the inside of your windows?

Working with a qualified contractor is the safest way to determine if your doors and windows need to be replaced.

Is it more cost-effective to buy new windows/doors or improve the efficiency of my existing ones?

Improving the efficiency of your existing windows and doors is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If your windows and doors still function, consider adding weatherstripping around them.

How can I improve the efficiency of my existing windows/doors?

Start by fixing some common sources of air leaks — like replacing any old weatherstripping, adding caulking around window casings, installing storm windows, and hanging energy-efficient window treatments.

What are the most energy-efficient types of windows?

ENERGY STAR® certified windows that have been rated for your climate region are the best choice for energy efficiency.