How to Seal Air Leaks & Save Money on Energy Bills This Winter
Winter is in full swing. And, if you’re feeling the draft inside your home, there are several things you can do now to seal those air leaks and ensure that your energy bills don’t get too out of hand.
The High Cost of Air Leaks
Did you know that 15 to 35 percent of the energy used to heat the average home is lost due to air leaks? Yes, those annoying air leaks are costing you money every month on your utility bill. The good news is, in most cases, you can easily seal them up by picking up a few supplies from your neighborhood hardware store.
What You’ll Need
To Seal Windows:
– Caulk
– Storm windows offer an added level of sealing when it’s cold outside, particularly if you have an older home with single-pane windows
To Seal Doors:
– Add weather strips to the sides and top of exterior doors
– Install a door sweep to the bottom of the door
– Use caulk to seal leaks along the outside of the door frame
To Seal Attics:
– Beef up existing insulation where needed by adding rolled fiberglass insulation
– Expanding spray foam insulation can help fill in closed areas and walls.
To Seal Basements:
– Add caulk to seal joints and other holes
– Use high-temperature caulk to seal cracks around the furnace flue
– Expanding spray foam insulation can help seal larger areas
If you have any questions, concerns or require more information, please contact your Insurance Broker.