What is Covered:  The solar system Tax Credit applies to the total installed cost of a solar gate opener system.  This includes the related solar panel, opener, access control device, remote controls, obstruction detection device(s), etc.

What is Not Covered:  The cost of the gate itself, or wok required to place the physical gate into proper working order (leveling the gate, replacing hinges, etc.)

Qualifications:

• Effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2008.
• You will need to use The Federal Tax Credit form 5695, Residential Energy Efficiency Property Credit.
• You will need to provide a copy of the “Manufacture’s Certification for Credit”
• The dwelling must be located in the United States and be used as a residence by the taxpayer.
• This offer is only available in the United States

This could mean money in your pocket so ask your sales representative to look for Qualified Solar Powered Gate Operators and to get you a copy of the “Manufacturer Certification for Credit” form.  Lastly, make sure you discuss all of this with your Tax Professional to make sure that you and your gate operator qualify for the tax credit.

He explained that pine is a dense moist wood and though it initially looks fine, as it ages it will begin to shrink, warp and split.  The cedar pickets maintain their appearance much longer.  Since the hurricane, I have had pine fences pointed out to me that aren’t even a year old and it is truly amazing how warped they look today. 

My conclusion:  You may pay more up front for a fence made with cedar pickets, but amortized over the life of the fence a well made cedar fence will look better, stand longer and improve your landscaping for far more years and less money.