A local volunteer organization is accepting orders for custom window inserts designed to help area residents lower heating costs and improve home energy efficiency ahead of next winter.
Monadnock WindowDressers, a nonprofit initiative, builds high-quality, low-cost insulating inserts using a collaborative “barn-raising” model. Customers and community volunteers work together to construct the inserts, which feature pine frames wrapped in two layers of clear plastic film and sealed with foam weather stripping.
The inserts are designed to stop drafts and create an insulating dead-air space while letting in full light. Depending on the existing efficiency of a home, the inserts can reduce fuel savings by up to 20%.
Because the inserts are built entirely by volunteers, they are priced at a fraction of commercial alternatives. A medium-sized insert (30 inches by 52 inches) in unfinished pine costs approximately $60. To ensure accessibility, the organization offers up to 10 inserts per year on a “pay what you can afford” basis for households experiencing financial hardship.
The community build will take place from Oct. 15 to 22 at the Peterborough Unitarian Universalist Church. All customers are required to participate by signing up for at least one four-hour shift, though accommodations can be made for those physically unable to build. Volunteers are also needed to help measure windows, construct the inserts, and provide hearty lunches for the build teams.
Orders are currently being accepted from residents living within the ConVal and Conant school districts, as well as those in Nelson and Harrisville.
Residents can place an order online at WindowDressers.org. For more information or to volunteer, contact windowdressersmonad@gmail.com.