WindowDressers looking for homes to insulate

DOVER-FOXCROFT — Drafty windows? High heating bills? Would you like to have a warmer home and save money? Now is the time to check out where you are losing heat (and money) while the snow is blowing and it is still cool.

Nonprofit WindowDressers can help. Their insulating window inserts fit inside of your existing windows to let in all the sunlight and views while keeping more heat inside your home. The inserts are high quality and low cost because they are built at barn-raising-style community workshops across Maine. These workshops are fun and a great way to meet people while helping neighbors keep warm.

Once you sign up, trained volunteers will schedule a time to measure your windows for the custom-built inserts. Then, in the fall, you and other community volunteers will gather to build the inserts at one of 30 locations across the state. (special accommodations are made for participants with mobility challenges). The inserts are built of attractive pine frames and wrapped with a durable plastic film to create clear views through an insulating air space. Foam weather stripping around the outer edges stops drafts and aids the insert’s tight, custom fit. The inserts are installed from the inside of windows and held in place by friction. Depending on the efficiency of your windows and home, you could see fuel savings of up to 20 percent with inserts in place.

Pricing is based on size and finish (natural pine or white). A medium-sized 30- by 52-inch insert in pine costs $28 plus tax and in white costs $37 plus tax. WindowDressers offers low-income households up to 10 pine inserts at no charge. Donations of any amount are always welcome.

WindowDressers’ volunteers will begin measuring windows in April, and can show you a sample of the insert. The inserts will be built at community workshops across Maine from September to January, including in Dover-Foxcroft in October. For a full list of locations see www.WindowDressers.org. The number of homes taken on by the local community workshop is limited to about 30, so interested households should sign up right away at www.WindowDressers.org or call 596-3073.