ROCKLAND — WindowDressers volunteers are making appointments now in Knox County to measure windows for cost-saving insulating window inserts.

The nonprofit, started at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Rockland four years ago, is now based at the Lincoln Street Center, and is planning three Community Builds there this fall.

Customers can sign up for insert measurements now and then volunteer to help make the inserts at the Community Builds.

WindowDressers inserts help the environment by lowering CO2 emissions levels by almost 25%, and lowering heating fuel costs by an equal amount. Homeowners, landlords and renters can sign up now for the low-cost energy-saving window inserts, and schedule a volunteer team to come measure the windows.

Inserts are available in both white and natural pine finish, and have an average cost of $2 per square foot.

Homeowners can usually recoup their investment in the first year with savings on heating fuel. Special pricing is offered to low-income residents.

Inserts are custom measured and cut, then wrapped with clear polyolefin film and shrunk drum-tight on both sides to create clear views through an insulating dead-air space. Foam weather stripping around the outer edges stops drafts and gives the insert a clean custom fit.

At WindowDressers, customers are also the volunteers, so whether people bring food or skills, everyone makes new friends, creating more warmth in winter, and building new relationships in the community for a lifetime.

This year, hundreds of volunteers will be engaged in week-long Community Builds at churches and community centers from Mount Desert Island to Portland.

Sign up for window measurements by calling (207) 596-3073, or by email at info.windowdressers@gmail.com. A local measuring team will call back to make an appointment.