Successful air sealing requires matching appropriate materials to specific applications and gap sizes. Understanding material properties and limitations ensures durable repairs that maintain effectiveness over time.
Sealant Types and Applications
Acrylic Latex Caulk:
Best for: Interior gaps 1/4" or smaller
Advantages: Paintable, easy cleanup, moderate cost
Limitations: Not suitable for expansion joints or exterior use
Cost: $2-4 per tube
Applications: Interior electrical outlet gaps, baseboards, window trim
Silicone Caulk:
Best for: Wet areas, exterior applications, expansion joints
Advantages: Excellent adhesion, weather resistance, flexibility
Limitations: Cannot be painted, higher cost, difficult cleanup
Cost: $3-6 per tube
Applications: Bathroom fixtures, exterior window frames, foundation penetrations
Polyurethane Caulk:
Best for: High-movement joints, exterior applications
Advantages: Superior durability, paintable after curing, excellent adhesion
Limitations: Higher cost, strong odor during application
Cost: $4-8 per tube
Applications: Window and door frames, siding joints, roofing penetrations
Expanding Foam Sealant:
Best for: Gaps 1/4" to 3" wide, irregular openings
Advantages: Fills complex shapes, provides some insulation value
Limitations: Continues expanding after application, difficult to control
Cost: $4-8 per can
Applications: Rim joist gaps, plumbing penetrations, electrical chases
Weatherstripping Materials
Foam Tape:
Best for: Regular gaps 1/8" to 1/2" wide
Advantages: Easy installation, good for flat surfaces
Limitations: Shorter lifespan, compresses over time
Cost: $0.25-0.75 per linear foot
Applications: Window sashes, door stops, electrical panels
V-Strip (Tension Seal):
Best for: Sliding surfaces, variable gap widths
Advantages: Long-lasting, accommodates movement
Limitations: More difficult installation, visible when applied
Cost: $0.50-1.50 per linear foot
Applications: Double-hung windows, sliding doors, attic hatches
Door Sweeps and Thresholds:
Best for: Bottom of doors, large horizontal gaps
Advantages: Handles significant air flow areas
Limitations: May interfere with door operation
Cost: $8-25 per door
Applications: Exterior doors, basement doors, attic access doors
Specialized Air Sealing Materials
Gasket Materials:
Pre-formed gaskets for electrical outlets, switches, and recessed lights provide consistent sealing around standard building components.
Cost: $0.10-0.50 each
Applications: Outlet boxes, switch plates, recessed lighting fixtures
Plastic Sheeting and Tape:
Creates air barriers over large areas or temporarily seals spaces during air sealing work.
Cost: $0.10-0.30 per sq ft
Applications: Attic floor air barriers, temporary sealing during testing
Fire-Rated Sealants:
Required around fire-rated assemblies and penetrations through fire walls.
Cost: $8-15 per tube
Applications: Furnace flue penetrations, electrical panel connections, fire-rated wall penetrations