Homes are ideally designed to be free of leaks to keep airflow in, but this is not often the case. Small cracks and gaps can develop over time, which can either be visible or hidden under flooring or behind walls and cause negative effects to a home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
Noticing a cold draft circulating inside the home, especially near windows and doors, may indicate the presence of air leaks. Fortunately, most of these leaks can be fixed. Before the holidays kick in, learn about how to locate and seal air leaks inside the home in this article by ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief, a professional damage restoration company in Pinellas County, Florida.
Effects of Air Leaks
- Increased heating and cooling costs. Like how water leaks cause an increase in water bills, air leaks may be the primary cause of an increased energy bill. This is because the HVAC system has to work overtime to compensate for the leak.
- Decreased comfort and durability. Leaks allow outside air in and airconditioned air out, causing discomfort to household occupants.
- Unhealthy indoor environment. Air contaminants that enter the home through leaks could be a problem, especially during pollen season.
How to Spot and Stop Air Leaks
ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief discusses steps to detect, locate, and stop air leaks below.
- Find the source of air leaks. Improperly applied weather stripping or caulking can be a source of air leaks. Drafts can also come from gaps in doors or windows. Make sure to check these areas for cracks, gaps, or drafts:
- Foundation Seals
- Exterior Corners
- Door and Window Frames
- Weather Stripping Around Doors
- Electrical Outlets and Gas Service Entrances
- Basements
- Baseboards
- Air Conditioners
- Cable TV and Phone Lines
- Vents and Fans
- Attic and Attic Hatches
- Switch Plates
- Any Area Where Pipes or Wires Run Into The House
- Test for air leaks. Testing for leaks can be done using a lit incense stick and holding it near the area where the leak is supposedly located. There's a confirmed air leak if the smoke rushes out or gets blown back to the room.
- Use caulk and foam sealant to close gaps. Openings less than 1/4 of an inch wide should be caulked. Utilize high-temperature caulks around hot pipes. For gaps that are 1/4 of an inch to 3 inches wide, use a foam sealant. Gaps of this size are usually found around plumbing and vents.
- Weatherstrip doors and windows to seal air leaks. While you're weatherstripping, check your door hinges to ensure they're tightly screwed as well. If they're loose, they could allow more air to enter the home.
Got an Emergency? Call ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief, Pinellas County, Florida's Trusted Property Damage Restoration Company
Follow the tips above to prevent additional household expenses due to air leaks. Homeowners face property damage every day, from minor issues such as leaks to major problems such as large-scale water, fire, or mold damage. When it comes to disaster restoration and emergency cleanup services, ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief has the team for the job.
For over 30 years, we’ve helped thousands of customers recover from a variety of disasters, using a combination of experience, state-of-the-art cleaning and drying technology methods, and commitment to client satisfaction to ensure that those affected are able to return their properties in no time.
ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief Pinellas is also an IICRC-certified firm and an insurance-preferred vendor. We offer comprehensive water mitigation services and have a long history of working with insurance companies to help get your claims processed as quickly as possible.
Contact ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief at (813) 295-7797 or message us to know more about our restoration services. We service Oldsmar, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Pinellas Park, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, Florida and surrounding areas.
