air sealing materials

There are several types of air sealing materials: caulks, foams, weather-stripping, air barriers… Air sealing demands different materials, depending on the dimensions of gaps and openings and their type and location.

Caulks

Caulks are used to seal small gaps and joints: less than 1/2'' wide.

See, for details: Sealing Caulks and Caulk Application

Weatherstripping

To seal small gaps in movable parts of windows and doors, you don't use caulks: you should use weatherstripping materials: V-strip seals, gaskets, door bottoms, thresholds, sweeps, etc.

See: Weatherstripping basics

Foams

For medium and large cracks, instead of caulks, you should use foams.

See: Sealing Foams

Rigid sealing materials

Plywood, drywall and rigid foam insulation can be used for surfaces and very large unsealed penetrations. These materials are the core of the continuous air barrier that every home should have (they are commonly known as sheet goods), but they can also be used to air seal large holes, cracks and cavities.

See also: