Why Air Sealing Matters
Air leaks can account for 25-40% of heating and cooling costs in Massachusetts homes. Professional air sealing creates a more comfortable, efficient, and healthy indoor environment.
- Eliminate drafts and cold spots
- Reduce heating and cooling bills
- Improve indoor air quality
- Enhance insulation performance
- Prevent ice dams and moisture problems
Where Homes Leak Most
- Attic Areas - Top plates, penetrations, can lights, attic hatches
- Basement/Foundation - Rim joists, sill plates, foundation cracks
- Walls - Electrical outlets, plumbing penetrations, window/door frames
- Mechanical Systems - Ductwork, furnace/water heater connections
- Plumbing/Electrical - Chases, wire/pipe penetrations, service entrances
We use thermal imaging and blower-door testing to identify hidden air leaks.
Our Air Sealing Process
- Pre-Work Blower Door Test - Establish baseline air leakage rate
- Visual & Thermal Inspection - Identify all major leakage points
- Strategic Sealing - Focus on largest leaks first for maximum impact
- Material Application - Caulk, foam, weatherstripping, gaskets as needed
- Post-Work Testing - Verify improvements and document results
Professional Materials & Methods
- Expanding Foam - For larger gaps and irregular penetrations
- Advanced Caulks - Long-lasting sealants for various applications
- Weatherstripping - Doors, windows, and movable components
- Gaskets & Barriers - Electrical boxes, attic hatches, access panels
- Fire-Safe Materials - Code-compliant sealants around chimneys and flues
Blower Door Testing
We use calibrated blower-door equipment to measure your home's air leakage before and after work. This scientific approach ensures maximum efficiency and program compliance.
- Measures whole-house air changes per hour (ACH50)
- Identifies specific leak locations under controlled pressure
- Documents improvements for rebate program requirements
- Ensures balanced ventilation and indoor air quality
Air Sealing Benefits
- Immediate Comfort - Eliminate drafts and temperature variations
- Energy Savings - Reduce heating/cooling bills by 10-30%
- Enhanced Insulation - Prevent air from bypassing insulation
- Moisture Control - Reduce condensation and ice dam risks
- Air Quality - Less dust, pollen, and outdoor pollutants
- HVAC Efficiency - Systems work less to maintain comfort
Air Sealing Priority Areas
- Attic Plane - Critical thermal boundary between living space and attic
- Basement Ceiling - Rim joists and penetrations to living space
- Mechanical Penetrations - Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC connections
- Windows & Doors - Frames, sashes, and weatherstripping
- Ductwork - Connections, joints, and register boots
When to Focus on Air Sealing
- Before adding insulation (air sealing first maximizes effectiveness)
- Noticeable drafts, especially during windy weather
- Uneven room temperatures throughout the house
- High heating/cooling bills despite adequate insulation
- Dust, allergens, or outdoor odors entering the home
- Ice dams or condensation problems
Mass Save® Air Sealing
Air sealing is a priority measure in Mass Save® programs and often qualifies for significant rebates. We handle all program documentation and ensure work meets performance standards.
- No-cost air sealing for many eligible customers
- Required blower-door testing included
- Professional installation with guaranteed results
- Coordination with insulation improvements
Safety & Code Compliance
- Maintain adequate ventilation for health and safety
- Preserve combustion air supply for gas appliances
- Use fire-rated materials around chimneys and flues
- Comply with Massachusetts building codes
- Document all work for program and permitting requirements
FAQs
Can you seal my house too tightly? We balance air sealing with proper ventilation to maintain healthy indoor air quality.
How long does air sealing take? Most single-family homes take 1 full day, including testing.
Will air sealing help with allergies? Yes, by reducing infiltration of outdoor allergens and dust.
Do you guarantee your air sealing work? Yes, we guarantee measurable improvement verified by blower-door testing.
Ready to Stop Air Leaks?
Professional air sealing is one of the most cost-effective energy improvements you can make. Contact us to schedule your assessment and start saving immediately.