A recent article from Builder Magazine, provides some insight on what areas of a home should be sealed in order to get the biggest return on your air sealing investment. According to the article, Dave Wolf, a senior research and development project leader for Owens Corning Science and Technology has identified the 5 leaks in a house that will have the biggest effect on air infiltration.
Wolf's research determined that sealing these 5 areas will have the biggest impact:
- Recessed lights
- Duct boots
- Top plate to drywall at attic
- Garage wall
- Band joists
A blower door test and visual inspection will determine if in fact these areas are properly sealed, and if they aren't the builder can correct the issue(s) to comply with 2012 IECC requirements or simply to make the home more comfortable and efficient for the occupant.