If you’re looking for ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, air sealing your attic is a great place to start.
At ARC Insulation, we’re an insulation and air sealing company that’s been improving homes in Illinois since 1993. Here’s a closer look at how air sealing works and the key benefits we’ve seen it deliver to thousands of our customers throughout Naperville and the Chicagoland area.
What Is Air Sealing?
Air is constantly entering your house one way or another. Gaps and cracks in your attic are one of the most common entry points, where heated or cooled air seeps out and outside air flows in.
That constant movement of air can be a problem. It wastes energy, brings outdoor air pollutants inside, and can even lead to moisture damage, especially when it’s humid outside.
Air sealing closes up those gaps, so conditioned (heated and cooled) air stays inside and outside air stays out.
Air Sealing vs Insulation: What’s the Difference?
Air sealing and insulation go hand-in-hand, but they’re not the same thing.
Think of air sealing your home like putting on a wind breaker for a windy day — it closes up the gaps that let air move freely into and out of your home. . Common air sealing materials can include caulk, foam, and weatherstripping.
Insulation, on the other hand, is more like a heavy down jacket when its freezing outside — it slows down heat transfer and keeps your heat inside your home. It’s most effective at stopping heat that moves by conduction. But it can’t stop air movement, which is why you need both. Common insulation materials include cellulose insulation and spray foam.
What are the Benefits of Air Sealing?
Air sealing is one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make. When completed by an expired air sealing contractor, it will provide many benefits for your home, including:
1. Lower Energy Bills
Air sealing your attic reduces energy loss, which translates to lower energy bills. If you live in a new home, you save about 5-15% on your energy bill just by air sealing key areas in your attic. If you live in an older home, you can save even more—up to 20%—just by getting your attic sealed.
2. Healthier Air Quality
Air isn’t the only thing that comes in through gaps and cracks in your attic. You’re also pulling in pollutants and allergens that can hurt your indoor air quality and make you sick. Air sealing keeps your home cleaner and healthier by blocking out allergens like dust and pollen.
3. Comfort Boost
Attic air sealing, especially when paired with insulation, will help your home stay more comfortable all year round. In the winter, hot air will stay inside where you want it, and cold drafts will be blocked out. In the summer, air conditioning won’t be able to leak out, so your house stays cooler and more comfortable.
4. Moisture & Mold Prevention
Air carries moisture with it, which is a major problem for any home. When humid air gets inside your attic, it can condense on cooler surfaces, leading to serious problems like mold growth. Air sealing helps control moisture, preventing moisture and mold.
5. Rebates Reduce Costs
In many cases, attic air sealing qualifies for rebates that reduce your installation costs, making it more affordable to improve your home. The air sealing rebates you’re eligible for can vary based on utility company, income level, and more.
At ARC Insulation, we make it easy to take advantage of rebates. We’ll help you find out what savings you qualify for and handle the application process for you.
Is Attic Air Sealing Worth it for Your Home?
Attic air sealing is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and save money on your utility bills. But every home is different. At ARC Insulation, we help you decide what upgrades make the most sense for your home so you can maximize your benefits and savings.
