Weatherization

You want to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient, but mother nature has other plans. That’s why weatherization is an important step for homeowners. Weatherization helps your home stay more energy efficient by reinforcing what’s called the thermal envelope. That’s the parts of your home that separate the indoors from the outdoors, including the roof, walls, windows, doors, insulation, caulking and weather-stripping.

When climate-controlled air leaks out or outdoor air sneaks in, your heating and cooling systems must work harder to keep up. That extra work can increase energy use and lead to higher utility costs. Weatherizing your home helps reduce drafts, improve comfort from room to room and make better use of the energy you’re already paying for.

Insulation

Insulation slows the movement of heat through your home and can make a big difference in comfort and energy efficiency. During winter, it helps keep warm air inside, and helps keep heat out in the summer. Experts estimate that 40 million single-family homes in the United States need more insulation. If yours is one of them, you may notice cold floors, hot upstairs rooms or higher-than-expected energy bills.

The attic is often the best place to start. More insulation in your attic or top floor could reduce your energy costs by as much as 30%. You may also lower heating and cooling costs by insulating exterior walls and floors over unheated spaces such as crawl spaces, basements and garages.

Many insulation and thermal envelope improvements may qualify for a rebate, including attic, wall and foundation insulation, air sealing, caulking and window film.

Take the time to learn about the best insulation options for your home and how they can help improve energy efficiency.

Weather stripping

Many doors and windows have little gaps, especially if they’re a little older. These gaps may be small, but they can lead to noticeable energy loss. Weatherstripping seals those gaps.

Most weatherstripping projects don’t cost much and are easy to do. There are different kinds of weatherstripping, and before you apply them, consider how often you use the door or window; high-traffic areas may need something more durable.

Common types of weather stripping

Door-bottom weatherstripping: Aluminum or vinyl strips that attach to the bottom of the door. These are inexpensive, easy to install and can last several years.
Tubular vinyl gasket stripping: This flexible option seals uneven gaps and a flexible option for doors and windows that seals uneven gaps and joints.
Thin spring metal stripping: Very durable and nearly invisible when installed correctly. This option often works best when installed by a professional.
Foam-backed tape: Easy to install and low cost, but it wears out more quickly. Best for doors or windows that aren’t used often.
Garage door weather-stripping: Garage doors are a common source of air leaks. Thick, durable weather-stripping can help block drafts. Fiberglass duct wrap works well for sealing larger gaps.

ENERGY STAR also recommends sealing air leaks around window frames and door casings before adding weather-stripping. This extra step can improve performance and comfort.

Caulking

Weatherstripping is used to close gaps around parts of your house that move, like windows and doors. Caulk is used to seal cracks and joints in parts of your house that don’t move, including:

Around windowsills and door frames
Where siding meets a concrete foundation
Around chimneys
Outdoor water faucets
Intake and exhaust vents

Types of caulk

Oil-based caulk: This is the least expensive option, but also the least durable. It’s best used in small, narrow cracks.
Butyl-based caulk: Moderately priced and a bit more durable, this is best suited for projects like sealing around roofing, siding, windows and doors for a weather-resistant seal.
Acrylic latex caulk: This is easy to apply and works great for sealing interior gaps, especially in areas that may get painted.
Silicone-based caulk: While this tends to be the most expensive, silicone-based caulk is also the most durable and flexible. Use in areas exposed to moisture or temperature changes, like bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior joints that require a long-lasting waterproof seal.

How much caulk you’ll need

As a general guideline, plan on about half of a cartridge or tube for each windowsill, two for a two-story chimney and about four for a foundation sill. If it’s your first time caulking, buying a little extra gives you room to practice.

Preparing and storing caulk

Before starting, remove old caulk, clean the surface and allow it to dry. Avoid caulking when temperatures are below 40 degrees. When finished, store unused caulk by placing a large nail in the nozzle and wrapping it with aluminum foil.

Other weatherization tips

Seal and insulate ductwork

According to ENERGY STAR, leaky ducts can lose a significant amount of heated or cooled air, especially when ducts run through attics, basements or garages. Seal duct joints with mastic or metal-backed tape, then insulate ducts in unheated areas.

Seal outlets and switches

Foam gaskets placed behind outlet and light switch covers on exterior walls can help reduce drafts. These are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores.

Short-term window solutions

If you have older or drafty windows, clear plastic window coverings can help reduce drafts during the heating season.

Landscaping for energy savings

Planting trees and shrubs can support comfort and energy savings over time. Deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home provide shade in summer and allow sunlight through in winter. Evergreens planted on the north side can help block cold winter winds. Shrubs placed about a foot away from the foundation can create a pocket of still air that helps insulate your home.

Help paying for weatherization

If larger upgrades feel out of reach, the federal Weatherization Assistance Program helps income-qualified households reduce energy use and improve comfort at no cost. Services may include insulation, air sealing and heating system improvements. Learn how to apply for weatherization assistance.