Washington winters bring their share of challenges—cold air, continuous rain or snow, and gusty winds that can make your home feel chilly and drafty. Beyond being numbingly cold and wet, these difficult conditions can also make you glaringly aware of tiny gaps, crevices, and open seams throughout your home, which lead to valuable air leakage. These gaps and cracks not only hike up your heating and cooling costs but also reduce your indoor air quality.
Fortunately, eliminating these pesky spots with proper air sealing offers a solution that provides increased comfort, lower energy bills, and a smaller environmental footprint. Here’s how you can transform your house into an energy efficient home this winter.
Common Air Leak Areas in Washington Homes
Homes in our area, especially older homes, face unique air leakage challenges.
Common culprits include:
• Single-pane windows that struggle to keep out the chill.
• Crawl spaces that trap moisture and allow drafts.
• Poorly insulated attics where gaps in the attic floor and ceiling let warm air escape.
• Plumbing penetrations, electrical outlets, and improperly sealed doors and windows.
For a visual of the biggest air sealing trouble spots in your home, check out this detailed diagram from the U.S. Department of Energy.
When to Call Specialty Group
By recognizing your limitations and knowing when to seek professional help, you can make sure your air sealing project is completed safely and effectively. That’s where experts like Specialty Group come in. Our team’s thorough approach to air sealing a home ensures that the cost of air sealing delivers high returns in energy savings and comfort.
We specialize in:
Comprehensive Air Sealing
Our team identifies and seals even the most hidden air leaks throughout your home, including in crawl spaces, walls, and attics.
Expert Insulation Installation
Proper insulation is a crucial part of your home’s energy efficiency. Our expert installers ensure your insulation meets optimal R-value and is paired with effective air sealing for peak performance.
Advanced Diagnostics
Using blower doors and infrared cameras, we identify every source of air leakage and assess your home’s overall energy performance to ensure no gaps go unnoticed and you receive the largest ROI.
Safety and Efficiency
Our highly trained team prioritizes safety and efficiency. We handle all aspects of air sealing and insulation to ensure proper ventilation, eliminate risks, and maximize energy efficiency.
Long-Term Solutions
We deliver long-lasting air sealing and insulation solutions with our high-quality materials, comprehensive approach, and strong work ethic.
When to Call a Professional: Accessing Local Resources
For extensive air leaks or complex areas like attics and roofs, seeking professional help from places like Specialty Group is essential. Take the time to access and explore local resources to find reputable energy auditors and contractors in your neighborhood.
Find out if you qualify for help with weatherizing your home through local programs from:
• Puget Sound Energy
• Washington State Department of Commerce
Don’t forget about federal programs too. Find out what energy efficiency tax credits and incentives you may qualify for through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
Beyond Air Sealing
Air sealing techniques work wonders but combining them with other energy saving measures enhances your home’s efficiency even more.
Consider these options:
Insulation upgrades
Think of insulation as a blanket that keeps you warm and air sealing as a windbreaker that blocks the wind. They just go better together. Consider insulation options such as spray foam insulation for maximum energy efficiency.
Energy efficient windows
Replacing your single pane windows with Energy Star-rated options will help combat drafts.
Energy-saving technology
Devices such as smart thermostats help reduce energy waste while optimizing your indoor comfort.
Your Partner in Energy Saving Solutions
Sealing out cold air and improving your home’s air quality through proper air sealing unlocks countless benefits for you and other local homeowners, from reduced heating and cooling costs to a greener footprint. At Specialty Group, your comfort is our priority. We’re here to ensure our local greater Spokane-Coeur d’Alene community is energy efficient, one home at a time.
Take the first step towards a cozier, more cost-effective home this winter and contact us today. Our friendly team is here to answer all your air sealing questions.
Interested in learning more? Here are some extra resources to check out:
• Carbon footprint calculator: Find out how much energy you use and how much you can save.
• Washington State Department of Commerce: Explore even more residential energy incentives you may qualify for.