NORTEK TO EXPLORE STRATEGIC ALTERNATIVES

FOR ITS WINDOWS, DOORS AND SIDING SEGMENT

PROVIDENCE, RI, October 9, 2003--Nortek, Inc. ("Nortek"), a leading international designer, manufacturer and marketer of high-quality brand name building products, announced today that it is exploring strategic alternatives for its Windows, Doors and Siding (WDS) segment, including its possible sale.

Nortek has retained UBS Securities L.L.C. and Daroth Capital Advisors L.L.C. as financial advisors to assist in exploring strategic alternatives for the WDS segment.

The Company said there can be no assurance that any transaction will result from the exploration process.

The Windows, Doors and Siding segment manufactures and distributes a range of products for use in the residential new construction, do-it-yourself and professional renovation markets. Principle products include vinyl siding, windows, patio doors, fencing, railing, decking and accessories. WDS's 2002 net sales were approximately $504 million.

Nortek* (a wholly owned subsidiary of Nortek Holdings, Inc.) is a leading international manufacturer and distributor of high-quality, competitively priced building, remodeling and indoor environmental control products for the residential and commercial markets.Nortek offers a broad array of products for improving the environments where people live and work. Its products include: range hoods and other spot ventilation products; heating and air conditioning systems; vinyl products, including windows and doors, siding, decking, fencing and accessories; indoor air quality systems; and specialty electronic products.

*As used herein, the term "Nortek" refers to Nortek, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise. This term is used for convenience only and is not intended as a precise description of any of the separate corporations, each of which manages its own affairs.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on the Company's current plans and expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual future activities and results of operations to be materially different from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Important factors impacting such forward-looking statements include the availability and cost of raw materials and purchased components, the level of construction and remodeling activity, changes in general economic conditions, the rate of sales growth, and product liability claims. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. For further information, please refer to the reports and filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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