It’s been said that only 20% of the U.S. housing stock is adequately insulated.
As you look at the insulation, you may see dirty or darkened insulation (see photos). That is an indication that air is leaking from the house, flowing through the insulation, and pulling dust with it. As we learned in http://www.nachi.org/energy-movement.htm, air can move through insulation, making the insulation act like a big air filter.
Adding insulation may be the best way to improve your home’s energy efficiency; however, only adding insulation may just simply increase the thickness of the “air filter.”
There are 19 common air leakage points in a typical existing home. We have a guide that provides descriptions of the areas of the home most likely to have air leakage, when those problems should be addressed, the potential durability and health concerns related to those problems, and sources for more information.
“Air Leakage and Air Sealing” guide is available at http://www.nachi.org/home-energy-inspection.htm (scroll down a little).
Join us in tonight’s free webinar (Aug. 20th, 2012). https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/756487806