A lot of contractors have an all-or-nothing mentality; “less is more” doesn’t quite compute. So the concept of simply sealing the perimeter areas of a home can generate some odd looks.
Whether in your attic, crawlspace or walls, every home that wasn’t originally air sealed with spray foam has at least some air leakage. We know your builder told you how sturdy he built the place, but the simple fact is that there are some areas of air leakage. Most homes have a known cold closet, hot bedroom or drafty bathroom. That’s where Atlantic Insulation and Construction Services (A.I.C.S.) comes in.
Windows, exterior doors and any external penetration, if unsealed, leave areas for your conditioned air to exit and the outside air to infiltrate. Some homes’ attic eaves are simply open. They look great from the street, but when you step inside the attic there’s daylight in every direction. Better yet, first floor plumbing often has large holes cut into the sub-flooring. Hidden by cabinetry, tubs and toilets, you can’t see the open spaces, but you can certainly feel the cold air in bathrooms, kitchens and floors.
Each of these issues can be alleviated with a limited application of spray foam insulation. Windows and doors can be caulked, or their trim can be safely removed so that low-rise spray foam can be installed between the window/door and its framing (with the trim then reinstalled). Attic and crawlspace openings can be blocked off with foam board and then sprayed and sealed in place, stopping the air flow.
Additionally, homeowners looking to increase the comfort of their home by targeting the crawlspace can save on time and money by insulating the home’s rim board (the vertical perimeter board that the floor joists are nailed to). By insulating and air-sealing the rim board, you cut down on wind getting directly to your flooring and insulation.
In older homes, balloon framing allows air to funnel directly from the crawlspace into the home’s exterior walls. In these situations, blocking off the balloon framed areas from below by installing spray foam to the open areas stops the air infiltration, allowing homeowners to increase efficiency and comfort without tearing out walls or spraying the entire crawlspace.
Sometimes less is more. At A.I.C.S., we pride ourselves on finding the right solution for you and your home. Get your free, personalized estimate today at www.AICSNJ.com, or call (609) 465-6670.
