Ross and Witmer Regardless of the climate where you live, energy costs probably make up a substantial part of your budget. Your want a home that’s comfortable, and that means having a temperature that’s neither too hot nor too cool. Sealing gaps in your home’s exterior envelope can help you do that by eliminating the unwanted flow of air into and out of your living space. Most homes have at least some minor leaks, and this can add 10 to 15 percent to your energy bills. Weatherstripping is one of the most effective ways to seal air leaks. There are several types of weatherstripping, and they vary in cost, efficiency and installation.
- One of the most common types is a V strip or tension seal. The V strip is relatively easy to install and only requires scissors to cut the strip to the proper length. This type of seal is not expensive and is quite effective at preventing drafts on the sides of sliding or double-hung windows.
- Foam tape is another type of weatherstripping that is very easy for the average homeowner to install. The tape is made of open or closed cell foam and is self-adhesive. It is sold in rolls of varying thicknesses and widths and works well for irregular cracks. The tape is easily applied inside door frames and at the top and bottom of windows.
- Tubular weatherstripping made of rubber, vinyl or silicon is most effective at preventing air leaks at the base of windows and doors, on the interior surface of a door where it comes into contact with the door jamb and at the top and bottom of window sashes. This type of weather barrier may be too complicated for some homeowners to install on their own, so the advice and services of a professional may be necessary.
If you live in the Charlotte area, contact Ross & Witmer for an energy assessment that can identify air leaks and other efficiency issues that should be addressed. We can help your home achieve its potential when it comes to energy efficiency.