5 Signs of Air Leaks That Mean You Need Better Insulation

1. 5 Signs of Air Leaks That Mean You Need Better Insulation Most homeowners think of insulation and air leaks as two separate issues — but they’re directly connected. When you notice signs of air leakage in your home, it’s often a clue that your current insulation is no longer performing as it should. Air leaks allow unwanted air movement, and traditional insulation materials like fiberglass or cellulose do little to stop it. As a result, your heated or cooled air escapes, outside air gets in, and your home becomes less comfortable and less energy-efficient. Recognizing the signs of air leaks is the first step toward finding a lasting professional insulation solution. This guide highlights five clear signs of air leakage, based on building science and the real-world experience of home performance contractors. 1. Rising Energy Bills Without Explanation If your energy bills keep climbing even though your usage habits haven’t changed, you could be losing air through hidden leaks. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air leaks can waste up to 25–40% of a home’s heating and cooling energy. When conditioned air escapes

2. and outdoor air seeps in, your HVAC system has to work overtime. This means higher energy use and higher costs — even if your insulation’s R-value seems adequate. Without proper air sealing, your insulation can’t do its job effectively. 2. Drafts and Uneven Temperatures If certain rooms feel cold in the winter or overly hot in the summer, air leakage is likely to blame. Drafts near windows, baseboards, and outlets indicate that outside air is sneaking in. In warm weather, hot attic air can enter through ceiling fixtures or vents, creating uncomfortable hot spots. Using space heaters or extra AC units to compensate is a sign that your home’s thermal envelope is compromised and needs a stronger insulation and air sealing approach. Pro Tip: Try the “incense stick test.” On a windy day, hold a lit incense stick near windows, outlets, and joints between walls and floors. If the smoke wavers or blows sideways, you’ve found an air leak. 3. Too Much Dust and Worsening Allergies Constant dust buildup and increased allergy symptoms can both signal air leaks. Gaps and cracks allow outdoor air — along with dust, pollen, and other pollutants — to enter your living space. In areas like Fresno, airborne agricultural dust can easily find its way inside through these leaks. Traditional insulation does nothing to filter or block this air, leading to poor indoor air quality and increased allergy triggers. 4. Frequent Pest Problems If you’re finding insects or small rodents inside your home, it’s a sign of unsealed entry points — the same ones that let air leak in and out. Tiny cracks around plumbing or gaps in the foundation are easy access points. While fiberglass and cellulose insulation offer no defense, spray foam insulation both seals these openings and eliminates nesting spots, making your home less inviting to pests. Insulation Type Stop Air Leaks? Deters Pests? Spray Foam Yes (creates an airtight seal) Yes (blocks entry points, not a food source) Fiberglass Batts No (air moves freely) No (pests can nest inside) Blown-In Cellulose No (slows air but doesn’t stop it) Somewhat (borate treatment deters pests) 5. Moisture or Frost in the Attic

3. Warm, humid air from living areas naturally rises. If your ceiling has leaks, that moisture travels into your attic and condenses when it meets cold surfaces — forming frost or water droplets. Over time, this can cause wood rot, mold growth, and insulation damage. Any visible moisture or frost in your attic means air is leaking upward and must be sealed immediately. What to Do If You Notice These Signs If these issues sound familiar, adding more insulation won’t solve the problem unless you address air leaks first. The best approach is a combination of air sealing and high-performance insulation. Here’s what to do next: ● Schedule a professional assessment: Energy auditors use tools like blower doors to locate exact leak points. ● Seal before insulating: Fixing air leaks first maximizes insulation effectiveness. ● Upgrade to spray foam: Spray foam both seals and insulates, creating a durable, airtight thermal barrier in one step. Pro Tip: Major leaks often occur where the foundation meets the framing (rim joist) and where walls connect to the attic (top plates).

4. Common Questions About Air Leaks and Insulation What’s the difference between air sealing and insulation? Insulation slows heat transfer (conduction), while air sealing stops air movement (convection). Spray foam handles both, unlike traditional materials. Where are the most common air leaks? Around windows and doors, recessed lights, electrical outlets, attic hatches, and where plumbing or wiring enters the home. Can I seal the leaks myself? Caulk and weatherstripping can handle small leaks, but structural gaps require professional sealing with materials like spray foam. Will new insulation eliminate drafts? Not if it’s fiberglass or cellulose. Only insulation that also air seals — such as spray foam — can stop drafts entirely. How do energy audits detect leaks? Experts use a blower door and infrared camera to locate leaks by creating pressure differences inside your home. Build a More Comfortable, Efficient Home Air leaks are more than a comfort issue — they’re a sign your home is underperforming. Recognizing these warning signs lets you take control of your comfort, indoor air quality, and energy costs. Investing in proper air sealing and modern insulation provides lasting comfort, healthier air, and lower utility bills. Professional Home Evaluation in Fresno, CA If you’re seeing these signs in your Fresno-area home, it’s time for a professional inspection. The team at Supreme Spray Foam – Fresno specializes in diagnosing and fixing air leaks with advanced spray foam insulation. Contact us today for a comprehensive home evaluation: ?info@supremesprayfoamfresno.com ?(559) 545-0800 Content reviewed by Emma Robinson, drawing on 8 years of experience in the spray foam industry and a deep understanding of what truly matters to homeowners and contractors. Learn more about at:

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