6 Common Attic leaks

Your attic is leaking air find out where in this post!

Everyone knows that insulating their attic will help lower bills and make their home more comfortable BUT most homeowners don’t know that their attic can be incredibly leaky! These leaks occur whenever there is a penetration or connection between the top floor ceiling and the attic. This post will list common examples that our pros will find during an energy audit.

Attic Entrance

The first area to address is either the push up hatch (pictured above) or the pulldown staircase.

Junction Boxes

Visible gaps around the junction box show light from the second floor. The light from this photo is the warm air escaping your home in the winter.

Recessed Lights

The above picture shows light from the top floor visible through the gaps in the attic.

Bathroom Exhaust Fans

Visible gaps around the bath fan show light from the second floor. The light from this photo shows where your cool air escapes during the summer.

Top Plates

Exterior and interior walls have gaps within them that extend to and open into the attic. The infrared picture shows hot attic air being pulled into this interior wall when the blower door is on.

Chaseways

A chaseway is a large vertical cavity that opens up to the attic. This cavity holds wires, plumbing pipes, or in this case a fireplace flue. These are incredibly leaky.

Conclusion

A comprehensive attic job with the goal to lower bills and improve comfort MUST include sealing leaks. The best way to find these leaks and others that aren’t listed is to use a blower door test and infrared scan during an energy audit. Schedule an energy audit today, or contact us if you have questions!