Weatherproofing Your Windows
Gotta love it! Today President Obama proposed a program to give homeowners cash incentives to improve their energy efficiency by replacing windows, caulking leaks and modernizing heaters and air conditioners. Quickly dubbed “cash for caulkers,” the idea has lots more potential than the already expired “cash for clunkers.” Just last night I was wondering what it would cost me to replace our 31-year-old windows. Although double insulated, most of the seals were broken long ago and I cringe at the moisture that shows up between the panes.
I also dream of a new, more energy efficient heat pump, another item on our list of deferred home repairs. I’ll need a new roof soon, too, and we have been contemplating having siding installed over the T-111 exterior of the house. Certainly, that should add more R-factor to our home. All in all, we have tens of thousands of dollars that should be invested in energy saving updates, but we have been reluctant to do so in the shaky economy. Would we proceed now if there were a tax incentive to do so. You betcha!
The President is right. This has to create jobs. You can’t outsource the installation of your windows. (I suppose you can do it yourself, but most people won’t.)
I hope Congress is listening. This is the best idea I’ve heard from anyone in a long time.
