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Air-seal exterior doors to minimize air leakage.

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Air Sealing Doors Adjacent to Unconditioned Space

Guide

Guide describing how to air-seal doors that are next to unconditioned spaces.

Retrofit Techniques and Technologies: Air Sealing, Volume 10

Reference

Report identifying the steps to take, with the help of a qualified home performance contractor, to seal unwanted air leaks while ensuring healthy levels of ventilation and avoiding sources of indoor air pollution.

CAD image for roof pipe penetration water and air sealing details

CAD File

Air seal door and window rough openings with backer rod, caulk, or nonexpanding foam

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Plan view of electric box installation in exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Section view of electric box installation in exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Provide flashing and sealing integrated with the air and water control layers for vents and other roof penetrations

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Plan view of duct or pipe penetration through exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Section view of duct or pipe penetration through exterior wall showing flashing and air sealing details

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Right - The duct shows redundant sealing including the caulk, tape, and flashing

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Right - The water and air control layers are properly integrated around the hose bib

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Right - This duct penetration is properly flashed and integrated with the taped, foil-faced foam sheathing layer, which serves as the air and water barrier

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Install an ENERGY STAR labeled insulated door with an automatic closer. Weather strip the door frame

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Right - The vent hood is flashed

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Right - The pipe penetration is properly flashed and furring strips are installed on each side in preparation for installing cladding

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A piece of siding is used as sill extension and to provide slope in the opening for the window, which is deeper because exterior rigid foam has been added

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New Whole-House Solutions Case Study: Nelson Construction: Hamilton Way, Farmington, CT

Case Study

Case study describing the design and testing of 10 high-performance homes in Farmington, Connecticut.

Right – Weatherstripping has been installed and remains in contact when the door is closed.

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Wire hardware mesh is fastened with a staple gun and screws to the wall to prevent pests from entering the building through small holes and cracks

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Wrong – There is visible light around the door because no weather stripping has been installed.

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Flashing of Penetrations in Existing Roofs

Guide

Guide describing how to provide a continuous water control layer across the roof assembly by sealing all penetrations for pipes, vents, etc. in existing roofs.

Exterior Doors Are Insulated, Impact Rated, and Fire Rated

Guide

Guide describing the use of doors that are insulated and are impact rated or have protective coverings for resistance to hurricane, high winds, wildfires, and thermal losses.

Screens and Other Deterrents for Birds, Rodents, and Other Pests

Guide

Guide describing methods to keep birds, rodents, and other pests out of vent openings and other locations in new and existing homes.