If you’ve ever read up on how to prepare your house for winter, you’ve likely come across this common tip: “Seal air leaks and cracks around your home.”
That sounds great in theory, but here’s the catch: How do you actually find these leaks? After all, you can’t seal what you can’t see! Most blogs give you the tip but never explain how to detect these hidden leaks.
Today, we’re not going to leave you hanging. We’ll show you exactly how to become an expert at finding air leaks in your home so you can actually be prepared for winter and save on energy costs.
Now, let’s dive deeper into how you can detect and seal air leaks in your home.
Sealing air leaks isn’t just about staying warm in the winter—it’s also about keeping your energy bills under control. Even small leaks can cause drafts, making your heating system work harder to keep your home warm. By sealing leaks, you can save money and increase your home’s comfort.
The most accurate way to detect air leaks is to hire a professional to conduct an energy audit. During this audit, they perform what’s called a blower door test. This involves blowing air into your home with a fan, which depressurizes the air, allowing the professional to measure how much air is leaking before and after sealing.
However, professional energy audits can be expensive. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly solution, you can detect many air leaks yourself using the following tips.
While you may not have fancy equipment, you can still spot air leaks with these simple methods:
Pay close attention to areas where one building material meets another. For example, if you have vinyl siding, check where it meets your brick chimney. Air leaks often occur in these transitions between materials.
Leaks aren’t just found on the outside of your home. Inside, you’ll want to check:
By carefully inspecting these areas, you might find spots that need sealing.
Here’s a neat hack: Shut a dollar bill in the door or window. Try pulling it out. If it easily slides out, chances are you need to weatherstrip that door or window. Just try not to rip the bill! (We’re not responsible if you do!)
Don’t forget to check these notorious trouble spots where air leaks frequently occur:
These areas are often overlooked, but they’re critical for keeping your home sealed.
Once you’ve identified the leaks, here’s how to seal them:
Weatherstrip Doors and Windows
Caulk Cracks and Gaps
Insulate Larger Gaps
Seal Around Electrical Outlets
Sealing air leaks may seem intimidating at first, but with these tips, you’ll have your home airtight in no time. Not only will you stay cozy this winter, but you’ll also save money while being prepared for whatever weather comes your way!
If you have questions or want to learn more about preparing your home for winter, Parker & Sons is always here to help. Contact us today for more tips or to schedule a professional inspection.
Q: How do I know if my home has air leaks?
A: Common signs include drafts near windows and doors, higher-than-usual energy bills, and uneven heating throughout your home. If you notice these, it’s time to inspect for leaks.
Q: Is it worth hiring a professional for an energy audit?
A: If you want the most accurate and thorough leak detection, a professional energy audit is the best option. They can identify leaks that may be hard to spot on your own and ensure your home is properly sealed.
Q: How much can I save by sealing air leaks?
A: Sealing air leaks can lead to 10-20% savings on your energy bill, depending on the size of your home and how many leaks you have.
Q: How often should I check for air leaks?
A: It’s a good idea to inspect for air leaks once a year, especially before winter. Small leaks can develop over time, so regular checks can save you money and hassle down the road.
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