So You Found the Leak, Now What?

Doors:

• If leaks are present around operable doors, address them by installing proper weather-stripping, typically a compressible vinyl strip that fits into a groove on the door jamb.

• For leaks at the bottom of the door, consider adjusting or replacing the door sweep.

• Seal visible cracks and gaps between non-operable parts of the doors, especially around the door trim and threshold.

Windows:

• Address leaks around the operable part of the window with appropriate weather-stripping.

• Remember that window latches are primarily for weather sealing, not security.

• Caulk visible cracks and gaps between non-operable parts of the window, particularly around the window trim and beneath the windowsill.

• Older windows with counterbalance weights can be upgraded with Spring-Sash counterbalances to enhance energy efficiency.

Electrical Outlets:

• For homes with aluminum or older-style wiring, consult a licensed electrician.

• To seal air leaks around outlets, you have three options:

• Use expanding foam for wider gaps around the outlet box.

• Install foam gaskets behind outlet and switch covers.

• Employ Painter's Caulk, applying a bead around the inside of the cover where it meets the drywall (recommended for older wiring).

• If air escapes from the electrical outlet itself, use child safety plugs to block it.

Baseboards:

• Caulk the top of the baseboard where it meets the wall.

• For linoleum or ceramic tile floors, caulk where the baseboard meets the flooring.

• If you have carpet or floating laminate floors, seal leaks from underneath.

• Avoid using expandable spray foam or caulking between the drywall and subfloor once your final flooring is in place.

Recessed Lights and Bathroom Fans:

• Install the proper gasket for these fixtures.

• If there is a gap around the fixture and the recessed light is IC rated, use Fire-Block expanding foam if necessary.

• As a last resort, caulk around the inside of the covers from below with high-temperature flexible caulking.

Other Penetrations:

• Depending on the size of the penetration, use appropriate spray foam or caulking for:

• Pipe penetrations under sinks

• Electrical and gas service entrances

• Cable TV and phone line penetrations

• Outdoor water faucets

• Medicine cabinets

Bricks, Siding, Stucco, and Foundation:

• Use appropriate caulk for small cracks.

• For large cracks or missing sections, it's advisable to consult a professional.

• Do not fill the holes at the bottom of brick walls or stucco; these are weep holes designed to release moisture.

Mail Chutes:

• If not in use, consider removing them properly, or mount a faux cover plate to maintain the house's style.

• For active mail chutes, ensure they close securely on proper weather-stripping.

Fireplace:

• Verify the damper's proper functioning; if it's faulty, get it repaired or replaced.

• During the summer months, consider purchasing and using a Chimney Balloon to seal the chimney.

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