Sealing your Home

Air sealing is the most important energy efficient improvement you can make to your home. Doing so does not only creates big energy saving opportunities, but it will also make for a more comfortable and durable home.

Air leakage, or infiltration/exfiltration, occurs when outside air enters or exits a house uncontrollably through cracks and openings in the thermal envelope of your home. Properly and safely air sealing such cracks and openings in your home can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, improve building durability, and create a healthier indoor environment.

The Need for Proper Ventilation

Utilizing air leakage for ventilation purposes is not very effective because it can't be controlled. In cold or windy weather, too much air may enter your home, and during warmer and less windy months, too little air may enter. Because natural air infiltration cannot be controlled or conditioned, it can also contribute to excess moisture issues and ultimately mold. In an overly leaky home, moist air can enter through areas in your home such as the attic or foundation, and cause major health issues.

Your home needs proper ventilation—the exchange of indoor air with outdoor air—to reduce indoor pollutants, moisture, and odors. A poorly ventilated home can cause an overabundance of dangerous contaminants such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and radon that can cause health problems and possibly even death. It is extremely important to hire a certified weatherization contractor when contemplating whether to air seal your home.