-
Step 1
Identify the leak. There are a few ways to identify air leaks, and they vary in sophistication and accuracy. The most simple of the methods, though, is to try observe any air flow out of the house. Identify typical problem areas such as attics and crawl spaces. Light a stick of incense and hold it to suspect areas to see if there's a draft. Also, have someone else stand outside or in adjoining rooms while the doors and windows are closed and see if they can detect the scent of the incense.
-
Step 2
Seal from largest to smallest leak. Identify which of your leaks is the largest and then look to see what kind of leak it is. You should seal the leaks before you add any insulation and after you've done a ventilation assessment of the house. For cracks in the walls that are less than half an inch wide use a hardware store bought caulk.
-
Step 3
Use sealing spray foam for cracks that are larger than half an inch wide. Apply the foam from about two inches away from the crack and make sure that there are no flames present that could ignite the foam. Also, use the spray foam only an cracks and not on doors and windows.
-
Step 4
Select and apply a good weatherstripping to seal leaky windows and doors. You can use thin-spring metal weatherstripping for a durable solution that comes at the cost of easy installation. A flexible vinyl weatherstripping will be much easier to install, even if it doesn't last as long. Decide what's right for your home and follow the instructions on the packaging to seal movable parts that leak.
Comments
banders1 said
on 11/19/2007 Good advice. Someone at Home Depot told me that you can buy the foam in the blue can for windows & doors (the stuff in the red can is for other cracks). The stuff in the blue can doesn't expand as much and is more flexible (so it won't bow your windows and doors).