2. Basic Concepts Identify where air leakage occurs in the home Types of materials used to stop air leakage

3. Two conditions needed for air leakage: –A hole –Driving force across the hole AIR

4. Lots Of Driving Forces Image courtesy of Southface Institute humidity rain heat wind humidity StackEffect Fans heat water radon

5. Driving forces move air in predictable directions MorePressureMoistureHot LessPressureMoistureHot

6. You cant do anything about driving forces, so seal the holes! AIR

7. Air seeks the path of least resistance. Air will choose the largest available path.

11. Where is air leakage greatest in the home? Ducts Fireplaces Plumbing penetrations Doors Windows Fans and vents Electrical outlets Floors, walls and ceilings

12. Air Leakage

13. Big Holes Chases Plumbing penetrations Dropped ceilings Access panels Ceiling fixtures Ducts Sill plates Vents Window openings Door openings

14. Air Leakage Results In: Wasted energy Stack effect Drafts Discomfort

15. Floors and Ceilings

18. Stopping the Leaks! Start at the top Seal and insulate duct work Seal low spots Provide combustion air for combustion appliances Use caulk, foam or weatherstripping

20. Caulk

21. Foam

22. Weatherstripping

24. Weatherstripping Doors

25. Outlets and Switches

26. What Caulking to Use?

27. What Kind of Weatherstripping?

28. Chimneys

29. Storm Windows

30. Key Points: Air leakage results = energy loss and discomfort Seal air leaks at top first, then lower and be mindful of combustion equipment Cauling, foam and weatherstipping can be used to seal air leaks

31. For More Information Major Resources: –http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/ building_america/ –http://www.energystar.gov/homes