Quick Answer
Okay so here's the quick version. If your house suddenly feels like a barn, you've probably got a new hole somewhere. A big draft. This is usually from storm damage, a critter gettin' in, or maybe some shoddy work from another trade. For a quick fix, you're looking at sealing gaps with spray foam or caulk and maybe taping some rigid foam board over a bigger hole. You can get the materials for under $50. It’s a band-aid, not surgery, but it'll get you through until you can get a proper repair done.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Visual Inspection - Use a flashlight to check the attic, basement, and crawlspace for displaced or damaged insulation, animal droppings, or signs of water leaks. Look for gaps around the foundation.
Step 2
Incense/Smoke Test - On a cool, windy day, turn off any fans and hold a lit incense stick near windows, outlets, and attic hatches. If the smoke wavers, it indicates an air leak.
Step 3
Hand Test - Run your bare hand over exterior walls, floors, and ceilings. Any distinct cold spots suggest a void or failure in the insulation behind the surface.
Step 4
Check Vent Penetrations - Make sure your dryer, bathroom fan, and kitchen hood vents are sealed where they exit the house and are not venting into the attic or crawlspace.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Sealing gaps around windows/outlets (Caulk & Foam) | $10 - $50 | $200 - $500 | 1-3 hours |
Taping up a small hole (Plastic & Tape) | $20 - $60 | $250 - $400 | < 1 hour |
Patching a larger opening (Plywood / Rigid Foam) | $50 - $150 | $400 - $800+ | 2-4 hours |
Repositioning insulation batts in attic (if accessible) | $0 - $20 (for PPE) | $300 - $600 | 1-2 hours |
Full diagnostic with thermal camera (Energy Audit) | N/A | $250 - $600 | 2-3 hours |
When to Call a Professional Insulation
- If you see any signs of mold or suspect the presence of asbestos-containing materials.
- When the damage is structural, such as a large hole in the roof or a damaged wall stud.
- If the source of the heat loss is not obvious and you need a professional energy audit with a thermal camera.
- When the damage is extensive, such as from a major pest infestation or a significant water leak.
- If the repair is in a hard-to-access or dangerous location like a tight crawlspace or a high roof.
- When you simply don't have the right tools, skills, or comfort level to do the job safely and correctly.
Prevention Tips
- Perform a visual inspection of your home's exterior, attic, and basement at least twice a year.
- Keep caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors in good shape, and re-apply as needed.
- Address any pest problems immediately before they have a chance to damage insulation.
- Maintain your roof and gutters to prevent water leaks that can lead to wet, ineffective insulation.
- When doing other projects, make sure any new holes for wires or pipes are properly sealed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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