Air Sealing Attic Edges

Most people just add insulation to their attic this will not stop the escaping warm air.

Air sealing attic edges.

Air seal the trim the first step is air sealing the finish trim and enclosure around the attic hatch. Even though most of the gaps spilling warm air into your attic are buried in insulation you ll still see evidence of the escaping air. Pray that the installer used finish nails and not say ring shank nails. Let s review some of the most common spots in the attic that must be sealed.

If you are not a do it yourself type of person there are plenty of contractors who are able to seal your attic. Air seal the attic baffle once the attic baffle is fixed in place seal the drywall edge against the interior wall with a bead of foam sealant then fit one of the foam blocks horizontally over it. Install drywall then seal the seam from the attic side with caulk foam or drywall adhesive but not other construction adhesives. Air seal drywall to top plates at all attic wall interfaces to minimize air leakage.

Attic air sealing the attic is prone to holes and cracks at its access points. The foam block should sit flush over the exterior sheathing on the outside and the interior drywall on the inside. Combined with attic insulation air sealing can help to alleviate the formation of dangerous ice dams in the winter. The attic is usually where you can find some of the largest opportunities to save energy in your home.

While in your attic look for areas where the insulation is darkened see photo a result of filtering dusty air from the house.