The Difference Between Insulation and Air Sealing

The Difference Between Insulation and Air Sealing

Air sealing is the process of reducing air flow through building envelopes and ductwork. Spray foam insulation can be done by caulking and weatherstripping areas where plumbing, electrical wiring, vents, and ducts enter or leave walls, floors, and ceilings, as well as around doors and windows.

A home or commercial structure that leaks air can be expensive and inefficient. The energy used to heat or cool a leaky house is lost, which drives up utility bills and wastes money. Air leaks also allow moisture and pollutants into unconditioned spaces, causing indoor allergies and other health problems.

What Is Air Sealing? The Key to Energy Efficiency

While many people are capable of performing some level of air sealing themselves, this highly technical and specialized work is best left to a professional. Professionals use depressurizing blower doors and smoke pencils to locate leaks, then employ specialty caulking and sealants to reduce air leakage. They may also install insulation in the attic or crawl space to minimize the stack effect and improve overall comfort.

Some people worry that air sealing will make their homes stuffy or prevent healthy airflow. In fact, properly done air sealing keeps hot, humid air out in summer and frigid air out in winter, which results in beautiful, regulated airflow.

Homeowners and builders should plan to perform both air sealing and insulation at the same time to get maximum benefits from these projects. Insulation works like a down-liner in a winter coat, locking in warm air and keeping it out in the cold; air sealing is the wind-breaker layer that stops excessive energy loss from unwanted air movement.

Keystone Premier Spray Foam Insulation
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