How to Cut Down on Utility Costs by Properly Sealing Your Home

Heating and cooling bills probably add up to as much if not more than all of your other household bills combined. The simplest way to cut back on the already-high cost of these utilities is to ensure that your home is as energy efficient as it can be. A home that allows heat and cool air to escape or to enter through cracks and gaps will cost far more than a home that has been properly sealed.

Finding Cracks and Gaps

The good news is, that most cracks and gaps can be found pretty easily by the homeowner. Simply light a candle and hold it close to areas where you suspect there might be air escaping or entering. The air movement will move the flame of the candle.

Exterior

* Check for any cracks or gaps in siding, mortar or foundations.
* Check anyplace where two different building materials meet up on the exterior of the home. For example, where siding or brick meets up with the foundation or roof.

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