Air Sealing
The process of identifying and sealing unintentional air leaks in a building envelope — including gaps around pipes, wires, ducts, windows, and the attic hatch.
Why It Matters
Air leakage accounts for 25-40% of heating and cooling energy loss in typical homes. Air sealing is the single most cost-effective energy upgrade, often costing $200-$500 for DIY.
Related Topics
Related Terms
Blower Door Test
A diagnostic test that uses a calibrated fan mounted in an exterior doorway to depressurize the house and measure the total air leakage rate, expressed in CFM50 or ACH50.
R-Value
A measure of thermal resistance — how well a material resists heat flow. Higher R-values mean better insulation. Recommended attic R-values range from R-38 to R-60 depending on climate zone.
Energy Audit
A professional assessment of a home's energy performance, including blower door testing, thermal imaging, duct leakage testing, insulation evaluation, and appliance efficiency review.