Stop the Leak: Why Air Sealing Your Building Pays Off
You wouldn't leave your windows open all winter - but if your building isn't well sealed, you might be doing just that without realizing it.
Air infiltration - uncontrolled air leaking in and out of your building - is one of the biggest sources of energy loss. Fortunately, there’s a fix: air sealing.
What is Air Infiltration?
Air infiltration happens when outside air enters your building through cracks, gaps, or holes in the building envelope - think around windows, doors, foundations, and even attic hatches. These leaks make it harder to control indoor temperatures and force your heating and cooling systems to work overtime.
Why It Matters
🔥 Higher Energy Bills: Leaky buildings lose warm air in the winter and cool air in the summer, driving up utility costs.
🌬️ Drafts and Discomfort: You can feel it—those cold spots near windows or that sudden gust by the baseboard.
🌿 More Emissions: The harder your HVAC system works, the more energy it consumes - often from fossil fuels.
🛠️ Wear and Tear on Systems: Constant cycling of HVAC systems shortens their lifespan.
The Benefits of Air Sealing
✅ Lower Energy Costs: A well-sealed building can reduce heating and cooling costs by 5–10%.
🌡️ Improved Comfort: No more drafts. Consistent indoor temperatures make your building more comfortable year-round.
💨 Better Indoor Air Quality: Sealing keeps out dust, pollen, moisture, and even pests - helping improve respiratory health.
♻️ Reduced Environmental Impact: Less wasted energy = fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
🏠 Protects Building Integrity: Air sealing reduces moisture movement, which helps prevent mold, rot, and insulation damage.
How to Get Started
Schedule an Energy Audit to pinpoint potential air leaks.
Seal Key Areas such as attics, basements, and around plumbing/electrical penetrations.
Combine with Insulation for even greater energy savings.
Final Word
Air sealing isn’t glamorous—but it’s one of the most cost-effective steps you can take toward a more comfortable, efficient, and climate-friendly building. Whether you're building new or upgrading an older property, sealing up those hidden leaks will pay off in more ways than one.
Because if you’re not managing your energy, who is?
2-Minute Payback is GRCL’s weekly blog of energy-saving tips and tools for busy building managers. This post was written by Jeremy Lutes.