Seal Air Leaks and Save Energy

Air Sealing Checklists

The USDE also provides an extensive air sealing checklist which can vary from situation to situation. Here is a small excerpt from those checklists:

Before Drywall

• Seal bottom plate of exterior walls with caulk or gasket; seal inside edge with caulk after walls are up.
• Seal band joist with caulk, spray foam, or gasketing between top plate and band joist, and between band joist and subfloor.
• For bath tubs on outside walls, insulate the exterior wall and air seal behind tub with sheet goods or plastic before tub is installed. After the drain is installed, seal the tub drain penetration with sheet goods and caulk or spray foam.

During Drywall

• Seal drywall to top and bottom plates using gaskets, adhesive, or caulk.

After Drywall

• Seal electrical switch, outlet, and circuit breaker boxes to drywall with caulk or foam.
• Seal light fixture boxes, medicine cabinets, and bath and kitchen ventilation fans to drywall with caulk or foam.
• Seal all duct boots to floor or drywall with caulk, foam, or mastic.

Air Seal Exterior

• Repair any damaged sheathing pieces.
• Seal all exterior penetrations, such as porch light fixtures, phone, security, cable and electric service holes, with caulk or spray foam.
• If not using housewrap, seal all sheathing seams with housewrap tape or caulk.