Why is Air Sealing Important?

October 31, 2022

Air infiltration is the exchange of conditioned air from inside the house to the outside and vice versa. Air leaks can cause problems such as occupant discomfort, poor indoor air quality and moisture issues. Air sealing is the most effective solution not only to mitigate these problems but also to reduce your energy use by as much as 30%.

What is A Knee Wall?

knee wall transition drawers cape cod house massachusetts
A typical knee wall with built-in draws. When the draws are closed they are relatively snug but when opened they leak conditioned air to the attic space and vice versa.

A knee wall is a short interior wall usually located at the base of a sloped ceiling. The attic space behind the wall is often used for storage. They are typical in Cape Cod style homes. 

knee wall floor transition cape cod style home massachusetts
A typical knee wall floor transition as viewed from within the knee wall area. Notice how the open floor joists allow the exchange of conditioned air with unconditioned air making the floor feel cold.

Why Air Sealing a Knee Wall can Lower Your Energy Bills

Typically, floor joists extend under the knee wall and are wide open to the cold attic space. In the winter cold air enters under the finished floor making the floor feel cold and the room feels drafty. Properly blocking these open floor cavities will stop all air movement and is a precursor to installing knee wall insulation. This is a welcome feature to homeowners in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, especially during the long winter months

Knee Wall Insulation

After air sealing, the next step is to apply fiberglass batt and rigid board insulation which will have a combined R-value of 25. 

Air Sealing A Knee Wall in New Bedford, MA

Watch as the Energy Geeks team adds insulation and then air seals a knee wall space in an older home in New Bedford, Ma.

How Much Does Air Sealing a Knee Wall Cost?

Surprisingly little when compared to the increased comfort and energy saving benefits you can expect.

Want to Receive Home Efficiency Rebates to Offset the Cost of Air Sealing a Knee Wall?

  • If you live in Massachusetts have an energy assessment performed through the Mass Save Program. 
  • If you live in Rhode Island have an energy assessment performed through the Energy Wise Program.

Contact Energy Geeks to expedite the process. If you’d like more information on how you can minimize energy consumption and maximize savings while making your home more comfortable all year round, then contact Energy Geeks. Our mission is to provide the most comprehensive and efficient solutions to reduce energy use in your home. 

Call: 401-766-1540  |  508-444-9800  |  Get No A Cost Estimate

the staff at anergy geeks
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