Prime Locations
for unwanted airflow
Is your home adequately insulated? Click on the to start and view key spots where leaky air is most prevalent and proper insulation is essential.
The spot where the top of the basement wall meets the wood from the floor above it. Often an airy spot when not properly protected by insulation. The presence of spiders here indicates air — and bugs — are unnecessarily being pulled through. An easy place for a spider to nab dinner.
Basement Rim Joists
When a door is closed, it
should be tightly intact with the weather-stripping at the base. If light is visible or air can be felt, the protection is inadequate.
Doors
windows
Using the backside of the
hand because it’s more sensitive, run it along the edge of each window to better feel any air leaking in.
Switch Plates,
Electrical Outlets'
Fireplace Dampers
Check for any cracks and gaps that could be causing air leaks.
Outside Areas
Air leaks can usually be found in areas where different building materials meet: exterior bricks, outdoor faucets, utility hookups, siding and chimneys.
Attic Hatch/Door
Weather-stripping should be tightly adhered to all edges of an attic door or hatch.
Attic floor
Peel a piece of existing
insulation away from the floor to locate electrical wiring or plumbing vents. These are the leakiest areas of a home and should be sealed with a good insulated spray foam, with additional insulation laid on top of it.
Attic Insulation Height
While an R-Factor of 49 is required in Wisconsin, Larson Home Services recommends R-60, 17 inches of insulation, be installed in the attic.
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