Sealing Leaks Before Adding Insulation

Sealing Leaks Before Adding Insulation

Air commercial insulation is the process of reducing gaps and cracks that let air escape your home, which makes a huge difference in energy savings. It is often done in conjunction with insulation upgrades, as insulation helps to trap conditioned air and keep unconditioned air out, which can help lower your heating and cooling bills.

There are a lot of different methods that can be used to seal your house, but caulk and weatherstripping are typically the most effective. These materials can be applied around your windows, doors, and any other areas where pipes, wires, ducts, or vents penetrate walls and floors. They are also commonly used to stop air leaks in attics, basements, and crawlspaces, where leakage is more common.

Why Fixing Uneven Attic Insulation Coverage Matters

The biggest leaks are usually found in the attic, where a variety of factors can cause conditioned air to escape and unconditioned air to enter. Some of the most common sources are recessed lighting, plumbing vents, chimneys, attic hatches or doors, and the spaces around joists. Adding insulation to the attic will help minimize leaks, but it’s essential to first air seal these areas to maximize your energy savings and comfort.

Leaks in the basement and crawlspace are the next largest area of air leakage, which is also important to address. This leaking air can carry radon gas, mold spores, pesticide treatment fumes, water vapor, and other subsoil nasties into the living space. The most efficient way to seal these leaks is to use a combination of visual inspection and specialized tools like a smoke pencil or stick of incense. By holding the tool near potential leaks, you can see how the smoke moves, indicating where air movement is most prevalent.

Noble Insulation Inc
1201 Pennsylvania Ave Unit D, Richmond, CA 94801
650-686-2965