Adding insulation to an attic or basement can be very cost effective, but it is critical that air leaks be sealed first. Large holes and cracks are hidden and insulation will cover up holes, rather than seal them.

Zerodraft Toronto, specializes in air sealing.

Basement Insulation:

Finishing a basement with insulation, vapour barrier and drywall will channel the air leakage into the the joists where it will draft out into the rest of the house. It is critical to do air sealing before finishing a basement.

By fixing air leaks before finishing a basement you are gaining one of the most cost effective ways to reduce your heating bills. The key areas to address are the header, and the gaps around pipes and ducts where they penetrate the ceiling of the basement. Spiral staircase gaps should also be sealed.

Attic insulation

If you have minimal attic insulation, now is the time to do air sealing, before you add more insulation. Fixing air leaks now, before more insulation is added will save you half the price of the job.

The key areas to address are the drain pipe gaps, the shower stall gaps, perimeter cracks, partition wall cracks, electrical wire holes, chimney gaps and exhaust fan gaps. Care should be taken to use high temperature caulking around the chimney and electrical fixtures.

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