Stimulus may boost Minn. window makers

The federal economic stimulus package could prove quite stimulating for two big Minnesota-based window manufacturers.

The stimulus bill gives homeowners a 30 percent tax credit for several energy-saving purchases, including the replacement of leaky windows.

That is good news for Warroad-based Marvin Windows and Doors and Bayport-based Andersen Corporation.

John Kirchner of Marvin says it's a bit too early to speculate how much of kick the company could get from the tax credit for homeowners. But he says Marvin is encouraged.

It's good news for everybody. There's a lot of housing stock out there with very inefficient windows. And we will welcome any incentive and opportunity to provide windows to make these homes and communities more energy efficient.

Both Anderson and Marvin have been hurt by the recession and steep drop in home construction. But neither firm discloses sales.