"Cash for Caulkers": Potentially Good News for Construction Pros

The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010, often referred to as the “Cash for Caulkers” rebate program, was approved by the House in May. If passed by the Senate, construction pros will benefit from a new round of tax-reducing incentives for their customers.

Houston Neal, director of marketing for Software Advice, has done a very nice job of summarizing the opportunities available to consumers. Check out his list of 13 retrofits that will be eligible for rebates, which range from $150 to $1,500, by visiting www.softwareadvice.com/articles/construction/cash-for-caulkers-the-definitive-guide-to-the-home-star-bill-1061110/.

According to Neal, the proposed bill will make $6 billion available for energy-saving retrofits like: air seal, duct sealing, insulation, window/door/skylight replacement, HVAC and water heating system replacement, and geothermal system installation.

There is no firm date on when the Senate might pass the bill. Hopefully, it will pass before the fall heating season – time when consumers are thinking seriously about lowering their heating bills.

In the mean time, some states offer tax rebates or credits that also exist for solar, wind and geothermal retrofits.

As we head into the Independence Day weekend, I want to personally thank all those who have served our country so valiantly, past and present. And for those of you in the construction trades, my best wishes for a safe and relaxing holiday, to be followed by a boom in business!