Apples and Oranges: Air Sealing and Insulation Can Help Inefficient Homes in Delmarva

The standard has changed.

No longer is it acceptable to just add more insulation to your home before properly air sealing. So after all these years what has changed? Is it Knowledge? During the 1973 energy crisis Energy Audits became popular and have continued to grow in popularity. Why are so many homes built today and in the last 30 years so inefficient?

Today, during a home energy audit the homeowner, “just wanted a quote for insulation." He requested an “apples to apples” quote. Several other “insulation” companies had already given a quote just for that.

After talking with the homeowner about the issues with the home “upstairs hot in the summer and cold in the winter” we talked about the quotes he received. Each company quoted Fiberglass Insulation at what they thought was adequate (Building Code R38) but nothing was mentioned about air sealing.

A building Inspector once told me that the building code, if equated to a letter grade, would be a “D-“ the lowest grade before failing. Many builders and insulators are proud to build to code. At the time this home was built, insulation wasn’t required-- but was available. In today’s code minimal air sealing is required but not to the extent that’s needed.

According to the Department of Energy, “Air sealing is one of the most significant energy efficiency improvements you can make to your home. Air sealing will not just reduce energy costs; it will also improve your home's comfort and durability.” Energy Star states “When correctly installed with air sealing, each type of insulation can deliver comfort and lower energy bills during the hottest and coldest times of the year.”

At Dr. Energy Saver, we want to help you get the most from your money by investing in the most efficient repairs and upgrades. That is why we provide a home energy audit-- to identify the source of problems and to then correct those issues! Contact us today for more information about a home energy audit and our many services including home insulation, air sealing, and more!

We offer our services throughout Delmarva including: Wilmington, Hockessin, Middletown, West Dover, and all surrounding cities and towns!