Expert report: Air sealing essential prior to home insulation
HelloNation highlights the technical necessity of sealing air leaks before installing insulation to improve building thermal performance and moisture control.
In a report featured on HelloNation, industry expert Mike Mancuso outlines why air sealing must precede the installation of insulation in residential buildings. Mancuso argues that insulation materials function optimally only when the building envelope is sufficiently airtight, preventing uncontrolled air exchange.
Air leaks not only compromise thermal efficiency but also introduce moisture risks within structural cavities. Addressing these gaps ensures that insulation remains dry and effective, directly impacting the energy performance of a property. This sequence of operations is considered fundamental to modern building science.
The report cautions against the common practice of applying insulation over leaking structures, which fails to address underlying energy losses. By prioritizing the sealing of air paths, property owners can achieve better climate control and long-term structural integrity.