Q. I have old triple groove aluminum storms screwed in place over very old wood double hung windows.Can I just leave them in place for added protection and install replacement windows. The storms are in good shape.

A. The problem is, your new windows are a little bit smaller. You won't be able to remove the storm windows for cleaning.

Q. We are a residential contractor and have been receiving inquiries for replacement windows which meet the Federal Tax Credit guidelines. We are aware of the Energy Performance ratings required, and understand that the Tax Credit is only on the cost of the windows and not the installation labor. We buy from our supplier at a cost, and mark-up that cost to our customer during the sale. My question is: Does my customer get a tax credit on what my firm paid for the window ( before mark-up) or do they receive the tax credit on the marked-up cost for the window?

A. If you buy the window at $400 and sell it for $600, the credit is 30% of the $600. Please do *not* give any tax advice to your customers. Direct them to their preparer or the www.energystar.gov website. I really detest breaking the news to elderly/poor people that since they *don't* pay income taxes, the $1500 tax break the sales told them they'd get doesn't apply to them.

Q. I have 7 windows that are the same size and one bigger picture window to replace. i am purchasing the windows and am wondering what is fair cost to pay for labor to replace. this is in the midwest and the contractor will also be making extension jambs. the new windows will be same size as old ones and are andersen brand windows.

A. I don't have a lot of experience dealing directly with installers, I am more familiar with companies selling and installing in one package. I would say that between $50-75 is a reasonable estimate. Have you purchased your windows yet? Because you can typically get a better deal if you go to a contractor to buy and install the windows.

Q. I am putting new windows in my house, the house was built in 1920 or so and we are looking to replace the windows, would it be easier for me to do new windows or replacement windows, I am fairly good are home repairs.

A. REALLY NEED MORE INFORMATION BUT USUALLY EASIER TO INSTALL RE-PLACEMENT WINDOWS.IF HOME IS CIRCA 1920 YOU HAVE WOOD SASH.REMOVE WINDOW STOP THE LITTLE PIECES OF WOOD THAT SEPERATE THE WINDOWS FROM EACH OTHER.THEY USUALL BREAK BUT WILL NOT BE NEEDEDTO FINISH INSTALLATION PRY OUT FROM THE BOTTOM FIRST WORK YOUR WAY UP THE WINDOW A LITTLE AT A TIME AFTER REMOVAL TAKE OUT INNER SASH PEREAT FOR OUTER SASH,SLIDE PROPER WINDOW IN ANCHOR DONE NO TRIM NO PAINT IT'S BEER THIRTY

Q. I need to replace old windows in my new home, but the old windows have either broken coverings or none at all. New windows cost a lot more than coverings so financially it would be easier to buy new window coverings and wait a year or more. However, if I buy nice window coverings first, will they be obsoleted if the new windows are a different size? For example, what if the new windows require new window frames? Or would I have to get the windows sized to the coverings? Should I just hang up temporary fabric as covering until I can get new windows?

A. Every window offers a different size and challenge for draperies or other window treatments. It depends on their overall size and their framing. It depends on whether you will be doing blinds and if you do will you hang them on the inside or outside of the frame. There are many variables. If you are not replacing the windows for a year or more and still need treatments due to privacy issues, buy something that works now. Just don't spend too much money as there is a good chance your new windows will require different window treatments.

Q. Share your knowledge, tips, advice, cautions, etc. about replacement windows. I have a 3 bedroom ranch and am considering a window company to do it. What kind of windows should I get? Vinyl? Double pane? I know nothing HELP ME!

A. Get the aluminum (painted or anodized finish), double pane glass (for energy savings), and have them supply the screens with the windows. You will probably get a better deal if you have them do the whole house. You may have to replace the basic framing at the same time that you replace the windows - I would ask the window dealer about a reputable installer (they usually have some on file). Changing to the right windows will give you lower power bills and make your life easier in cleaning and operating the windows. Good luck with your project.

Q. My bedroom has two sliding doors to the patio for which I already have gorgeous silk draperies. I added two windows and don't want to go to the expense of getting silk draperies for two small windows. Besides, I think it would be too much fabric. Has anyone seen two different types of window treatments in one room?

A. Usually windows need to be "dressed" alike, but I think it your case keeping the sliding doors different from the other two windows, is fine. Be sure that what you use on the other windows has the same feel as the sliding doors. For example, try to find something in the same tone and texture.

Q. Also the previous owner replaced 4 of the old windows with vinyl replacement and 3 of them have cracked because they weren't installed correctly. The estimated cost to replace all the windows is around $17,000. Would it really be worth it? The current windows are in good shape, though they could use some minor repairs to chains and need a few stops to be replaced. Is it worth the time and effort to fix repair/remove the paint, or not worth the hassle and buy new vinyl windows. My other issue is the way the vinyl windows will look on the exterior since they can't be painted, and the victorian trim. Efficiency isn't a problem with them. My heating and electric bills are actually quite cheap compared to some people, and my home with the 42 windows that it has is actually warmer in the winter months than a friends home that is a row and has new windows.

A. I don't think it would be worth the $17,000. That's a lot of money and the house would look so beautiful if you simply restored the old windows.