Whole House Solutions - Insulation & Air Sealing
When you are looking at insulation and air sealing as one of the ways you plan on lowering your utility bills, you must make sure you have a balance in the home for your solution to be effective.
You can lower your heating and cooling bills through proper insulation and air sealing techniques. You can reach the optimal energy efficiency by using air sealing, insulation, moisture control and ventilation all together. It is a balancing act to make sure all 4 components are working together.
Air Sealing:
Air leakage, or infiltration, occurs when outside air enters a house uncontrollably through cracks and openings. Properly 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. It is unwise to rely on air leakage for ventilation because it can't be controlled. During cold or windy weather, too much air may enter the house. When it's warmer and less windy, not enough air may enter. Air infiltration also can contribute to problems with moisture control. Moldy and dusty air can enter a leaky house through such areas as attics or foundations. This air in the house could cause health problems.
Insulation:
Properly insulating your home will not only help reduce your heating and cooling costs but also make your home more comfortable.
Moisture Control:
Properly controlling moisture in your home will improve the effectiveness of your air sealing and insulation efforts, and vice versa. Thus, moisture control contributes to a home's overall energy efficiency. The best strategy for controlling moisture in your home depends on your climate and how your home is constructed.
Ventilation:
When creating an energy-efficient, airtight home through air sealing techniques, it's very important to consider ventilation. Unless properly ventilated, an airtight home can seal in indoor air pollutants. Ventilation also helps control moisture—another important consideration for a healthy, energy-efficient home.