Category: air seal

Want an Efficient Home? Manage Airflow.

Airflow is a key component of the study of building science. When a building has improper airflow, it can impact both the building and…

Control Airflow for Home Ventilation in Baltimore, MD

Looking to build (or own) a home that is efficient and comfortable? The key is airflow, and we have building science to thank.

Airflow is a key component of the study of building science. When a building has improper airflow, it can impact both the building and its residents. Improper airflow can result in a variety of problems including mold growth, energy loss, and can encourage the infiltration and spread of pollutants. When airflow is properly managed each of these can be reduced, and the home’s HVAC system can operate more efficiently.

There are two common types of building airflow. Uncontrolled airflow is the type many people are familiar with. Years ago, uncontrolled airflow was also known as having a “leaky” home. Uncontrolled airflow is when air enters and leaves the home in a random fashion. This type of airflow doesn’t work in conjunction with the HVAC system, which can impact both energy use and home comfort.

On the other type is controlled airflow. This is when airflow is managed in a way that works with the home’s HVAC system. Sealing air leaks and adding mechanical ventilation allows airflow to be controlled to create a comfortable and efficient home environment.

Have questions about your home’s ventilation and overall energy efficiency? Contact our office to speak with one of our insulation professionals.

Energy Saving Projects for Spring

Spring weather is the perfect time to start saving money on energy bills. Don’t let comfortable temps fool you!

Energy Saving Projects for Spring by DeVere Insulation in Baltimore, MD

Spring weather is the perfect time to start saving money on energy bills. Don’t let comfortable temps fool you — the heat of summer isn’t far away and a cold winter is sure to follow. Here are five ways to help keep your energy bills in line this summer, and throughout the year:

  1. Tune up your HVAC system. A home’s HVAC gets a lot of use — it runs all winter to heat your home and often during the summer to combat heat and humidity. Call your local HVAC contractor and schedule a tune up.
  2. Install a programmable thermostat. Setting a programmable thermostat to a higher setting during the day when your family is at work or school can save roughly 10 percent on annual energy bills. If your home doesn’t have a programmable thermostat, visit your local hardware store and pick one up.
  3. Check your ceiling fans. It’s easy to forget to reverse ceiling fans when the seasons change. During summer, reversing your ceiling fans can help properly draw cool air throughout the home and create a slight breeze to make your home comfortable.
  4. Air seal. Air sealing your home keeps cooled air inside during summer and helps keep summer air pollutants like dust and pollen out of your home. Once air leaks are sealed this pays off year-round by keeping warm air inside during winter. It’s best to have air sealing done by a qualified contractor.
  5. Upgrade attic insulation. Most homes lack adequate insulation. As building codes change and require higher levels of energy efficiency, even newer homes can benefit from adding insulation. Blowing a fresh layer of insulation over your existing insulation is an easy and cost-effective way to reduce energy bills.

Don’t let another year of high energy bills take extra money out of your wallet. Contact our office with questions on these tips or to schedule a free insulating and air sealing estimate.

Why Air Seal?

Building science and sealing air leaks are newer concepts in the insulation industry. Did you know that sealing air leaks is as important as insulating?

Benefits of Air Sealing from DeVere Insulation in Baltimore

Building science and sealing air leaks are newer concepts in the insulation industry. Did you know that sealing air leaks is as important as insulating?
Here are just some of the benefits of air sealing:

  • eliminate allergies,
  • stop energy loss, 
  • keep your home cool.

How does air sealing work?

Sealing the “envelope” or “shell” of your home — its outer walls, ceiling, windows, doors, and floors — is often the most cost effective way to improve energy efficiency and comfort. ENERGY STAR estimates that a knowledgeable homeowner or skilled contractor can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs (or up to 10% on their total annual energy bill) by sealing and insulating. To Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR:

  • Seal air leaks throughout the home to stop drafts,
  • Add insulation to block heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Where are air leaks?

Many air leaks and drafts are easy to find because they are easy to feel — like those around windows and doors. But holes hidden in attics, basements, and crawlspaces are usually bigger problems. Sealing these leaks with caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping will have a great impact on improving your comfort and reducing utility bills.
SOURCE: ENERGYSTAR

Contact us to learn about the benefits of air sealing, or call us: 410-317-4342.