Unless a house has the proper weather stripping, caulking, and storm windows, most of its heat is going to the surroundings. However, a house should never be fully airtight. Even with considerable weatherproofing, that’s not an issue in older homes, but newer ones need to “breathe” to avoid health and structural problems.
ESSENTIAL CHECKLIST
(1) Are the seams between the house and window or door moldings sealed with caulk?
(2) Do the windows have weather stripping on the top, bottom, and sides? Double-hung windows should have weather stripping between the two sashes.
(3) Is the putty around the windows cracked or missing?
(4) With regards to storm windows, is the weep hole on the bottom of the frame open? A clogged hole traps moisture,
causing fogged windows, paint failure, and rot.
(5) Are all exterior doors weatherstripped on both sides and at the top? There should be a sweep across the bottom to prevent
air leakage at the threshold.
(6) Are there leaks around openings in the foundation or siding? Typical suspects comprise of plumbing and gas pipes, wiring, telephone lines, and TV antenna wires or cable. Caulk and seal any available openings.
(7) Are there foam gaskets behind the switch and receptacle plates on exterior walls? Switches and outlets are notorious for letting in air.
(8) When not in use, is the fireplace flue kept shut?
Home Improvement: Understanding Energy Loss
Home Improvement: Understanding R-Values
IS YOUR ATTIC SUFFICIENTLY INSULATED?
Insulation is measured in R-values—the ability to withstand heat transfer. In a cold climate, the following R-values are preferable: R-38 in the roof, R-19 in the wall, and R-22 in the floor. In moderate climates, the following values are desirable:
R-26 in the roof, R-19 in the wall, and R-11 in the floor.
R-VALUES OF COMMON INSULATION:
FIBERGLASS
3 1/2 inches R-13
5 1/4 inches R-21
7 1/4 inches R-25
10 inches R-30
12 inches R-38
MOLDED EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE
1 inch R-4
1 1/2 inches R-6
2 inches R-8
EXTRUDED POLYSTYRENE
1 inch R-5
2 inches R-10
POLYURETHANE AND POLYISOCYANURATE
1 inch R-7 to R-8
CELLULOSE
1 inch R-3.4 to R-3.8