Homeowners who could use a little help buttoning up a drafty house for the coming winter may qualify for some weatherization work if their income falls within the guidelines used for the low income energy assistance program, known as LIHEAP.

Habitat for Humanity York County plans, with the help of volunteers, to weatherize 40 homes this season, in an effort to help low income homeowners lower their heating costs.

Keep York County Warm volunteers will be assessing homes and installing door sweeps, pipe insulation, weather-stripping and interior storm windows starting Oct. 29 in homes throughout York County.

Alana Shapiro of Habitat for Humanity York County said training for volunteers is set for Oct. 15.

Last year, she said a in a telephone interview, Habitat for Humanity York County volunteers weatherized 37 York County homes.

So far, the agency has received a handful of applications – and are looking for more.

Homeowners may apply for the program through York County Community Action Corp. or their local General Assistance office. Shapiro said folks may also be referred through their local food pantry.

“The process of weatherization reduces drafts and air leakage, which lowers the homeowner’s energy bills and helps create a safer, more comfortable home,” said Shapiro in a news release. The program applies to stick built as well as manufactured homes.

Those who would like to help but can’t volunteer on weatherization days are invited to “adopt” a home – Shapiro said a $250 donation buys all basic weatherization materials and includes six interior storm windows for one home.

Those who can volunteer will learn how to build interior storm windows, install other weatherization materials and more. The first weatherization training will be offered at 9 a.m. Oct. 15 at the Habitat Restore, 4 Industrial Drive, Kennebunk.

Materials are funded through donations and grants.

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 282- 1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.