Here’s how to spot the air leaks in each area of your homeand how to fix them yourself.
What is Air-Sealing?
You’re looking for gaps or cracks that might let air in or out of your home.
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Choose an exterior caulking that allows for movement as wood expands and contracts with the seasons.
Where metal flashings are missing, installing them will both stop air leaks and possible water infiltration.
Warning
Some siding materials depend on intentional gaps to allow trapped moisture to escape.
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Similarly, brick facing is usually constructed with weep holes that allow trapped moisture to escape.
These weep openings should never be sealed up.
Consult the technical literature for your siding material to learn proper maintenance.
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Consider installing child-proof plug covers on all your unused outlets to keep cold air from coming through the plugs.
If you have window or wall-mounted air conditioners, be sure to check around those, also.
Tip
Do you have windows that are more than 20 years old?
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Consider replacing them (or adding storm windows) to increase their efficiency.
Living in an older home?
If you suspect your walls aren’t insulated, consult a professional to see what your options are.
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Caulk or foam spray should be sufficient to address these types of issues.
Check for any holes around ducts, electrical cables, plumbing pipes etc.
that run vertically upward to the rest of the house.
Fill any gaps you find with caulk or foam.
Use foil tape or mastic to seal any leaks that you find.
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Seal the Attic Space
Inspect your attic.
They’ll be able to tell you if your attic is insulated adequately.
However, never seal up existing vents penetrating the roof itself or the end gables.
While you’re poking around your attic, look for dirty spots on theinsulation.
That’s a sign that you have an air leak, and maybe even a water leak.
Why Should You Air-Seal Your House?
There are a multitude of benefits to air sealing your home.
It’s also a myth that air sealing will make your home feel stuffy.
In reality, it keeps hot and humid air out in summer and frigid air outside during winter.
When to Call a Professional
Many utility companies offer free home energy audits.
If yours does, schedule an appointment to have your home checked out by a pro.
That’s when they depressurize your home to see where the air is escaping.
It’s likely to catch issues that you might otherwise miss.
Methodology for Estimated Energy Savings.
Energy Star, United States Environmental Protection Agency.
