DIY Projects

Project File #4
SKILL LEVEL
Do It Yourself
PRIORITY LEVEL
As Soon As Possible
THE BIG PAYOFF
Energy savings and a more comfortable living space

Stop air leaks in their tracks and keep that attic air out of your home.

Air sealing is a great way to reduce air infiltration between your attic and your living spaces. That means you’ll save energy and protect your home’s temperatures, so that you’re more comfortable all year long.

Project Overview

Tools and Materials:

  • Hammer
  • Screw-gun
  • Utility knife
  • Table or circular saw
  • Caulk gun
  • Measuring tape
  • Lights
  • Straight edge
  • Markers
  • Foam/caulk construction adhesive
  • Cavity insulation—batts
  • Rigid foam—blocking material
  • Sheathing—drywall, OSB/plywood, code-approved foam board or bubble-wrap radiant barrier
  • Fasteners—screws with washers, or button-capped nails

Safety:

  • Gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Kneepads
  • Dust mask/respirator
  1. Work big to small; find the largest gaps and penetrations in your ceiling and fill those first, working your way down to the smallest ones.
  2. Block the big holes using plywood, drywall, or other materials to cover the largest gaps that allow air to pass from the attic to your home.
  3. To seal smaller gaps, such as those around electrical or plumbing components, use caulk or canned spray foam. Be sure to keep an eye out for dirty streaks in existing insulation that may identify the existence of a long-term leak path that needs to be addressed.

Download Project File

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