I agree with a recent letter in VTDigger that said home window replacement is not usually the most efficient use of resources. I applaud his work to make existing windows more efficient. There is another program in Vermont that works toward the same goal.
WindowDressers insulating window inserts are a Maine-based program that is spreading into Vermont through the work of local city and town energy committees. The inserts are a pine frame wrapped on both sides with a heat-shrink plastic film. They are custo- fit for the inside of a window and are assembled by volunteers in a pop-up community build.
Nonprofit WindowDressers provides training, support and materials and Efficiency Vermont offers a $100 rebate to any Vermonter who purchases three or more inserts.
The insert functions as a double-glazed interior storm window with air-sealing provided by a foam weatherstrip and friction fit. Funds raised through grants and donations provide up to 10 free inserts to qualifying households. In 2022, twenty-two groups in Vermont built and installed over 4,000 inserts and about 30% of those were provided for free.
More info is available at https://windowdressers.org/ on the Community Builds tab.
Jack Sumberg
Glover Energy Committee
