MyFinancialPrograms

There are 5 California window replacement programs & grants, plus 60 resources. You can find them below, along with their description, how the programs work and where to get more information and apply in 2024.

Updated:  May 16, 2024

California homeowners need to replace windows for many reasons: broken window, windows at the end of their life span, upgrading aesthetics or energy efficiency.  But homeowners often have difficulty paying new windows.

The fact is windows are expensive in California. The Homeowners Major Repairs Survey shows many Californians struggle to find money to pay for new window(s):

• > 33% of California homeowners planning repairs want to change window(s) in the next 3 years.
• > 23% of California homeowners who want to replace window(s) have to postpone.
• > 59% postpone changing window(s) for financial reason.

This means you’re not alone maybe wondering how to pay new window(s).

The good news; there are government programs in California helping homeowners replace windows.

>  Windows Issues in California

> California Programs

> Eligibility Overview

> HERO/PACE

> Weatherization Assistance Program

> Rural residents

> LIHEAP

> Taxes  Incentives: Windows Credits

> FAQ: Windows Replacement

Common home windows issues in California

California’s climate varies a lot among the state’s different regions. Weather affect windows differently in the north and in mountains compared to the south and its dryer areas.

• Seal failure: Temperature swings in the north can cause seals on double-pane windows to break, allowing moisture in and fogging the window. These typically need replacing.
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• Warped frames: Heat and cool cycles can warp window frames, making them stick or impossible to open. Minor warping might be fixable, but severe cases require replacements.
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• Weatherstripping damage: Dry summers can crack window seals, letting in drafts. But weatherstripping is usually a cheap fix. However, if the window frame itself is damaged, a replacement might be needed.
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• Broken panes: Extreme event, like an earthquake, fires, debris or strong winds can break a window panes. Small cracks might be repairable, but larger ones require replacements.
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• Outdated windows: Older, inefficient windows on older homes can lead to high energy bills. Replacing them with energy-efficient options can save you money in the long run.

If you didn’t make your mind to replace a window yet, you can first see if the window(s) can be repaired since it’s often cheaper. If you are a little handy, can DIY: there are many good videos from This Old House.

If you’re already decided to purchase new windows, you first need to decide which model to choose and who will install your windows.

Next step: paying for your windows. When you have a limited budget or simply can’t afford them, government programs are useful. You can find them below.

Window replacement programs in California

There are a few official government programs available for window replacement. 

Each program provides funding their own ways, target different groups of homeowners and help you fund window replacement in various ways. It’s important to know, there’s no program only for window replacement. Each program usually allow you to update or repair many part of your home, including windows.

If you live in a county or city with a decent size population, your local housing department or community development probably provide funding for window repair and replacement for certain groups. Since each city/county have their own eligibility, you should contact them directly.

Window programs eligibility

Programs eligibility varies based on income and where you live but you can start with this simple table as reference: 

Important reminder: Programs such as Weatherization, LIHEAP, and city or county assistance programs determine eligibility based on the median income of your location. This means that even if you have a moderate income, you might qualify for these programs if you live in a wealthier area, which would otherwise be considered low-income programs.

California HERO (PACE) (1 program)

The HERO Program (Home Energy Renovation Opportunity) help any homeowners to finance energy-efficient improvement, including windows replacement, by offering financing options that are repaid through property taxes. In California this program is not available in all county and cities. Verify with yours or your contractor to see if HERO is available.

Eligibility: You must own your home. No bankruptcy. Not behind on your mortgage and property taxes.

HERO Eligibility

How the program’s steps work:

1. 1- Pre-approval.
2. 2- Select an approved contractor.
3. 3- Contractor helps you determine your renovation cost.
4. 4- Your approval to the programs. Also determines your repayments.
5. 6- Renovation and installation.
6. 7- A third party come to verify the work have been done.
7. 8- Repayment start.

Weatherization Assistance – WAP (60 resources)

What is WAP?

WAP aims to reduce energy costs for homeowners, and one of the measures is window replacement for energy efficient windows. To learn more about eligibility or to apply for the California window replacement program, contact your local WAP organization (see below).

Who is WAP for?

The program target low-income families, including the elderly and disabled, by making their homes more energy-efficient.

What else WAP can do for your home?

It can help replace or fix the following:

• – Air infiltration with weather stripping, caulking, thresholds, minor repairs to walls, ceilings and floors, and doors and windows replacement.
• – Install attic and floor insulation
• – Install attic ventilation
• – Apply solar reflective coating to manufactured homes
• – Install solar screens
• – Repair or replace inefficient heating and cooling units
• – Repair or replace water heaters

Find more details here.

Where can I apply?