Old Home Air Infiltration Problems

Eliminating Air Infiltration Cracks

Introduction:

Old homes are like wind tunnels when it comes to air infiltration. Air infiltration is the process whereby air enters through cracks and crevices in the house siding, through roof overhangs, and around door and window frames. Infiltration, more commonly referred to as drafts, is simply the direct result of loose construction where there are little to no seals between the outside of the home and the inside of the home.

In the days of old home construction air infiltration was not a big concern because there were several fireplaces or wood stoves to wane off the cold drafts. In addition, fuel (wood) was cheap.

Many of these old homes have survived the decades with a lot of tender loving care. In some cases they have undergone a completely home renovation using modern building materials that have eliminated air infiltration. There are many older homes that have not been refurbished and the infiltration problem is the same today as it was when the houses were built many decades ago. This results in a significant heat loss and high energy cost to the homeowner. Most of these problems can be resolved by the homeowner at very little cost.

Reducing Air Infiltration:

Infiltration is caused by cracks or unsealed areas around doors, windows, chimneys and siding. When added together the total open space can be significant. The total crack space can be as much as several square feet. Essentially this is the same as having an open window. Cold air comes in and warm air escapes through these cracks.

The objective is to reduce or eliminate these cracks. Short of a total refurbishment of the house you will never be able to totally eliminate all the drafts, but you can reduce the amount of air infiltration.

Wherever there is a crack that lets air infiltrate into the house, stuff the crack with insulation. The higher the R-values the better. The higher the R-value the harder it is for heated or cooled air to pass through it.

The smallest amount of insulating can make a big difference. Of course the more insulation you can stuff in the cracks the better. More insulation means more energy savings.

For small cracks, fill them with caulking compound. Use a putty knife to smooth the surface and compress the calk into the caulk. Spray foam insulation works well too.

You can’t necessarily eliminate all the cracks but you can stuff them with insulation, spray foam insulation or caulking compound to reduce if not eliminate air infiltration. This will go a long way in saving you a lot of money on heating cost and make your old home more comfortable.

Home Wall R-values

Installing Batt Insulation

Insulating Your Home

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