Builders often refer to the exterior of a home as the "envelope" or the "shell." Sealing the envelope or shell against air infiltration (air leaking into the house from outside) and air exfiltration (air leaking from inside the house to the outside) helps reduce your energy expenditure for space heating and cooling. Besides, no one likes to live in a drafty house.

In this article, we'll show you a variety of ways you can seal leaks and improve insulation to make your home cozier and more energy efficient. Once you've sealed and insulated the weak areas, the work doesn't stop there. We'll show you how routine cleaning and water conservation can increase energy efficiency and save you even more money on your energy bills.

Begin the improvement process with the following basic sealing guidelines to help you secure your home's exterior.

Testing for Leaks

Checking Exterior Sheathing

 Filling Holes Around Lines

 Caulking the Exterior

 Securing the Perimeter

 Baseboards and Floors

 Gaskets Can Block Drafts

 Attics and the Stack Effect

 Door Sweeps and Adjustable Thresholds

 The Garage and House Interface

 Sealing Leaks

For detailed, step by step instructions, and to view this full article visit ; www.howstuffworks.com . ;

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