Around 18% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings, including our homes. To help residents make their homes more energy-efficient, comfortable, and affordable, the Canadian government has come up with the Canada Greener Homes Grant.
The grant includes numerous retrofits and upgrades that can make a home more energy-efficient. These can be better insulation, air sealing, resilience measures, window and door replacement, and much more. The government offers around 700,000 grants of up to $5,000 to make your home greener. Plus, you can get up to $600 for a home evaluation.
Since window and door replacement can be expensive, especially if you want to do it all at once, this grant can be extremely helpful. When it comes to the replacement, homeowners have three options:
- Replace windows or sliding doors with Energy Star-certified models for $125 per rough opening. The energy rating needs to be greater than or equal to 34.
- Replace windows or sliding doors with Energy Star-certified models for $250 per rough opening. In this case, the windows or doors need to have an energy rating of 40 or more. These are the most efficient models.
- Replace hinged doors with Energy Star-certified models for $125 per rough opening. The energy rating needs to be at least 34.
How to Apply?
Applying for the Greener Canada Grant requires only a few steps. Firstly, you need to gather documentation that proves the home you want to upgrade is your primary residence. Then, you can register online and schedule a pre-fit evaluation. Once a certified energy advisor evaluates your home, you’ll get a list of recommendations for upgrades, and you can decide what to get.
After completing the upgrades, you need to schedule a post-retrofit evaluation. A certified energy adviser will calculate the improved energy efficiency and inform you of the final reimbursement.
Who Can Apply?
Every homeowner can apply for this grant. However, it’s essential to clarify that the grant is provided after completing the upgrades. This means you’ll need to pay for them before receiving the grant. Also, there are other factors to consider:
- Everything used in the upgrade needs to be purchased in Canada.
- You can purchase the products online, but only from official distributors in Canada.
- The products you buy need to be on the eligible list.
- You need to keep the Energy Star labels on your doors and windows until you’ve passed the post-retrofit inspection.
- Keep all reports and receipts related to the upgrade.
- You can insert a new window unit into an existing window frame.
- However, you can’t replace only the glass, sash, or door with no frame.
- Only one person per household can apply for the grant.
- You can’t apply if your home was built six months previously.
- You can’t get the grant for upgrades completed in the past.
Best Windows Cambridge Can Help
If you want to take advantage of the Canada Greener Homes Grant, we can help. You can find the approved window and door models at competitive prices in our selection. Plus, we know what we need to do to ensure your home passes the post-fit evaluation.
Please reach out to us for a consultation.