Increase your homes efficiency and air quality

Attic Air Sealing

Most homes in the United States don’t have enough insulation and have significant air leaks. In fact, if you added up all the leaks, holes and gaps in a typical home’s envelope, it would be the equivalent of having a window open every day of the year! The majority of air leakage in a home takes place in the attic.

Air Sealing measures are required on all new construction projects by Code. It is also a required measure to qualify for the Xcel Energy Rebate Programs.

Why is Air Sealing so important?

  • Air leakage in homes account for 15% to 40% of heat loss and gain

  • Air moving through insulation reduces its R-value by as much as 80%

  • Less pollen, allergens, dust and contaminants entering the home

  • Greatly reduce humidity migrating into the attic causing mold and mildew

  • Lowers chances of ice dams on roofs

  • Increases comfort by reducing drafts

  • Reduces pathways in which fire and smoke can move the structure

Do you need Air Sealing?

  • High heating or cooling bills?
  • Uneven temperatures between rooms / floors?
  • Drafty rooms or areas of the home?
  • Difficulty maintaining humidity levels?
  • Dusty rooms?

Common Areas to Air Seal

  • Top plates of interior and exterior walls
  • Electrical / Mechanical penetrations
  • Drop soffits
  • Recessed lighting and fixtures
  • Attic hatch
  • Kneewalls
  • Balloon Framing

In some instances, it may be more economical or necessary for complete accessibility to remove the existing attic insulation prior to air sealing. This provides us 100% visibility to all penetrations such as vent pipes, flues, chimneys, electrical access holes, chases and wall top plates.

We will often remove insulation prior to remodeling work beginning. Especially when the home is occupied during the remodel. It makes it much easier for the different trades to work in the attic and they are not tracking the insulation back into the home.

Lastly, we sometimes remove insulation do better gain access to air sealing. Depending on the depth of the current insulation, roof pitch and access, removing the old, dirty insulation allows 100% access to all areas for air sealing. Having a “clean slate” so to speak, ensures nothing is missed during the air sealing process.

New 2025 Xcel Rebates are here! Great news, rebate amounts have INCREASED! It is possible to save thousands of dollars on your project.

Insulation and Air Sealing | Residential Services | Residential Services | Xcel Energy

In addition, the federal government offers clean energy tax credits for upgrading the efficiency of your home using the IRS 5695 form.

Making Our Homes More Efficient: Clean Energy Tax Credits for Consumers | Department of Energy

Our team at NetZero Insulation can help you with any rebate or tax credit questions you may have.