sealing

Gives instructions for weatherstripping and caulking houses, indicating which materials are best for different jobs, and comparing prices. Covers jamb weatherstripping for doors and windows, weatherstripping for door bottoms, sealing the joist and attic spaces, and sealing around window and door openings.

Identifies the main categories of seal used in weatherstripping doors and windows. These include compression seals which are compressed during closure to form a seal, wiper seals which form a seal as they slide over a closing surface, and gap fillers and sealants which restore a fit between closing surfaces. Outlines broadly the merits and disadvantages of each, and provides general guidance on seal selection and application.

The use of sealants and gaskets are often recommended as an effective energy saving measure. However, the energy saved depends on the function of building and ventilation as a total system. This paper describes the effect of sealing the outer walls in residential buildings with natural and exhaust ventilation respectively. With natural ventilation, making the walls twice as tight reduces the air exchange by half, whereas with exhaust ventilation the reduction in air exchange is very small.

Demonstrates a simplified energy calculation procedure (suitable for a handheld calculator) developed for the evaluation of home retrofitting with respect to energy conservation. 

Reviews the overall aims and methods of the Conservahome Project, devised under the joint initiative of the Saskatchewan Office of Energy Conservation and the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. The primary aims of the Project are to:< 1. Define the technical and economic problems of retrofit by conducting retrofit work on 6 houses< 2. Use the 6 houses as demonstration centres< 3.

Covers the theory, economics, and practice of draughtproofing existing buildings. The theory section deals with methods of calculating and measuring ventilation losses. The economics section covers financial costs and benefits, while in the practical section various methods of draughtproofing are categorized and described together with their advantages and disadvantages.

Gives results of a statistical survey of energy consumption in British government buildings. Suggests one reason for high consumption may be excessive ventilation. Reports field trial of the effect of reducing natural ventilation in a London office building. Window frames were sealed with a rubber mastic, giving an annual fuel saving of 22%. Finds measure was highly cost effective with a payback period of less than three years.< Discusses problem of heat loss through large doors in hangars and workshops.

Notes that many existing dwellings are inadequately insulated and in need of caulking and weatherstripping. Gives criteria for the selection of retrofit materials which are eligible for the Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program. Materials discussed are insulation, storm windows and doors, caulks and sealants, weatherstripping, vapour barriers, clock thermostats and replacement windows. Discusses the literature on retrofitting. Describes the different caulks and sealants available. Outlines precautions to be taken when applying different retrofit materials.

Reviews results of tests carried out during a joint industry/university project. Discusses characteristics of single and two-component foam, airtightness, condensation and safety regulations since polyurethane foam contains isocyanates. Diagram illustrates typical cross-section through window frame under normal conditions and when conditioned at 15 deg. C and 65% R.H.

Discusses materials and systems for reducing or eliminating air infiltration through identified leakage sources. Methods include caulking, adhesive/glass mat, weatherstripping, vent dampers etc. Gives recommended procedure for treating new and existing construction by pressurizing the building to detect air leaks, then retrofitting to reduce leakage. Cost effectiveness of the methods has not been reliably measured but the evidence suggests that many air infiltration reduction materials are highly cost effective. Gives bibliography of 233 citations.