The real question is do you need replacement windows in Memphis? As a rule people purchase new replacement windows for one of three reasons: A) their current windows don't look good; b) their current windows don't operate right; or c) their current windows aren't very energy-efficient. If the goal for replacing your windows is either a or b, then you can afford to delay given the economy. If your grounds for getting new replacement windows is c, then the reality is it might just be the best time ever to purchase.

The government's stimulus tax credit is coming to an end December 31, 2010. This allows the consumer a tax credit against taxes owed or paid based on the acquisition of many energy-efficient products including replacement windows. When it comes to replacement windows, the credit is based on the purchase of highly energy-efficient products; not just a window that meets the Energy Star rating, but products that attain even superior energy-efficient ratings. The credit is 30% of the cost of the windows, up to a $1500 cap. The customer needs to make sure they have four things: 1) A duplicate of the bill of sale (provided by the window replacement company); 2) A copy of the Manufacturers Certification Statement (this is a certification from the window manufacturer that the window you are getting qualifies for the tax credit and should also be provided by the company that installs your replacement windows); 3) Copies of the NFRC stickers attached to the windows at the time they are delivered to your home. These function as proof that the windows meet the .30/.30 or better qualification necessary to qualify for the tax credit. (Your window replacement company rep can explain these qualifications in detail); and 4) IRS Form #5695 (available at irs.Gov) for filing purposes. (Please be advised: This is not an attempt to provide tax advice. Discuss your own tax situation, and how this may possibly apply to you, with a tax professional). Also, if you are determined to take advantage of this credit, do so earlier rather than later on. We heard a lot of subjective evidence that many consumers who wanted to take advantage of the credit for the tax year 2009, missed the opportunity because of manufacturers being swamped with orders from June of 2009 on. With the credit actually coming to an end in 2010, the demand could be even greater. Added governmental programs, such as Cash for Caulkers, and other green initiatives, are working their way through Congress. Regardless of your political leanings, there can be no doubt that energy efficient products in the Memphis area are going to be championed going forward.

A different, strictly economical explanation for moving forward might be the cost of replacement windows. Because of the collapse of the new construction industry, window manufacturers have been scared to increase prices to their dealers, out of concern of losing those dealers in an already contracting marketplace. The whispers in the industry are that with the expansion in demand, may come price increases in manufactured goods as well.