The nonprofit WindowDressers is offering a high-quality and low-cost solution to keep Midcoast homes warmer and lower energy costs. Its insulating window inserts fit inside existing windows to block drafts but let in sunlight.

The inserts are built at barn-raising-style community builds across Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire. Everyone who orders inserts also participates in the community build; participation is part of the cost of getting inserts.

The WindowDressers volunteer team in Bath is accepting orders now until Sept. 1 for the fall community build season. The Bath community build will take place Oct. 11-16 at the Freight Shed.

The inserts are built with pine frames and wrapped drum-tight with two layers of durable plastic film. These layers create an insulating air space while letting in all the light and views. Foam weather stripping around the outer edges stops drafts and ensures the inserts are snug fit. Depending on the efficiency of the windows and home, residents could see fuel savings of up to 20% with inserts in place.

Once participants sign up, trained volunteers will schedule times to measure windows for the custom-built inserts. Then, participants and community volunteers will gather to build the inserts at the community build.

For people who are experiencing financial hardship, WindowDressers offers up to 10 inserts per year for no cost or whatever the recipient can afford. For middle- and high-income homes and businesses, the price is a fraction of the cost of similar commercial products. Pricing is based on the exact size of the insert. A 30-by-52-inch insert in pine costs $50.98 plus tax.

Interested households should sign up at windowdressers.org or call 596-3073.