Air sealing

Caulking and weatherstripping are two simple and effective air-sealing techniques that offer quick returns on investment, often one year or less. Caulk is generally used for cracks and openings between stationary house components such as around door and window frames, and weatherstripping is used to seal components that move, such as doors and operable windows.

Along with insulation, air sealing is one of the most important things you can do to improve your home’s comfort, health, and energy efficiency—and both homeowners and contractors often overlook it.

Many people don’t know the enormous impact that air sealing can have on the comfort of their house—and some homeowners even worry that too much air sealing will make their home stuffy or unsafe.

Not to worry. In this homeowner guide, we’ll look at all the common air sealing questions—including what air sealing is, if air sealing is worth it, air sealing house costs, the air sealing techniques the professionals use, and more. We’ll even debunk a few air-sealing myths along the way.