WORK STOPPAGE AT NORTEK SUBSIDIARY SETTLED

PROVIDENCE, RI, August 4, 1998--Nortek, Inc.(NYSE:NTK) announced today that the work stoppage at the Chaska, Minnesota, facility of Mammoth, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Nortek, has ended. Mammoth produces commercial HVAC systems.

The work stoppage involved approximately 220 union employees. A Nortek spokesman indicated that management does not believe that either the work stoppage or the terms of the new labor contract will have a material adverse impact on Nortek's financial position or results of operations.

Richard L. Bready, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Nortek, stated that "we are pleased that the issues involved in the strike have been amicably resolved with a new three-year agreement and all the employees of Mammoth are back working together as of this morning."

Nortek is a leading international manufacturer and distributor of high-quality, competitively priced building, remodeling and indoor environmental control products for the residential, commercial and industrial markets. The Company offers a broad array of products for improving the environments where people live and work. Its products include range hoods and spot ventilation products, heating and air conditioning systems, wood and vinyl siding products, air quality systems, and specialty electronic, wood and decorating products.

This release contains forward-looking statements relating to future financial results. Actual financial performance may differ as a result of factors over which the Company has no control. Additional information which could affect the company's financial results is included in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings, copies of which are available from Nortek at no charge.

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