Many homeowners don't understand that having gaps and cracks in their home's insulation can create air leaks, which cost them extra money on their energy bills. We asked our insulation experts for their advice on the best way to reduce air leakage in a home.
See what they said below.
What Causes Air Leaks in Homes
It is known that 40% of a home's energy loss is caused by air leakage through walls, floors, and the roof. Having drafty windows and doors cause air leakage. This kind of air leakage can damage your home, increase energy costs and make a room uncomfortable. Air leaks can also occur through electrical areas, plumbing holes in the wall and attic, and basement rim joists. Mostly in the winter, you will have warm, moist air flow escape through these holes. The warm air will come into contact with cold surfaces and causes condensation, which will reduce the flow of air and slow down the process of protecting your home.
DIY Air Leak Detection
The easiest way to detect air leaks is by clipping a soft tissue onto a coat hanger. Next, put the coat hanger in front of a closed window, door, and in front of an electrical outlet. If you see the tissue move, there is an air leak. It is recommended to have a professional insulation contractor do a free in-home evaluation and air leak test to know for sure. Then they can advise you on the next steps to resolve the problem.
The Best Solution for Air Leaks
The best solution for air leaks is High R-value spray foam insulation because it can get into hard-to-reach spaces, gaps, walls, ceilings, crawl spaces, light fixtures, electrical outlets, other openings and holes to create a seal. The most cost-effective way to do air sealing is to have it done while the walls or attic are being insulated.
Some of the Benefits of Air Sealing
It is in your best interest to seal leaks. Spray foam insulation can improve the overall comfort of your home and help to fix common problems.
The Benefits of Professionally Installed Spray Foam Insulation:
- Increase Comfort
- Reduced noise
- Prevention of pests getting into your home
- Less pollen and dust
- Reduced noise
- Humidity control
- Decrease ice dams
- Limit cold spots
- Reduction of household carbon emissions
Who Will Benefit from Air Sealing
Many homes in Ontario do not have enough insulation and can have serious air leaks. Unfortunately, even new homes recently built can have air leak issues. It can be considered the same as having a window open every day of the year when you add up all the leaks, holes and gaps found in a regular home.
Choose Reitzel Insulation
We recommend that you should have spray foam insulation and air sealing is done by a professional insulation contractor to help reduce airflow throughout your home.
At Reitzel, we always provide a free in-home assessment. You can expect a fair and reliable estimate. Throughout the Waterloo, Hamilton, and the Toronto area (GTA). We are known for our reputation for delivering quality work and our outstanding customer service and support. Call us today at 1-800-265-8869 or request an estimate by clicking the button below. We will give you a no-obligation in-home assessment. Please mention this article.
GET A FREE QUOTE
.png)
