10-Insulation and Air Sealing

Overview

Insulation and Air Sealing emphasizes hands-on skill development through residential building envelope improvement projects. Beginning with identifying air leaks and insulation deficiencies, students progress through air sealing techniques, attic improvements, wall and floor insulation installation, vapor control, duct sealing, moisture diagnosis, and a complete practice structure energy upgrade.

Table of Contents

1. Chapter 1: Inspect Air Leaks and Insulation Gaps
2. Chapter 2: Set Up Insulation Work Area
3. Chapter 3: Seal Framing Air Leaks
4. Chapter 4: Seal Service Penetrations
5. Chapter 5: Seal Attic Bypasses and Chases
6. Chapter 6: Install Attic Baffles
7. Chapter 7: Install Fiberglass Batt Wall Insulation
8. Chapter 8: Install Mineral Wool Wall Insulation
9. Chapter 9: Insulate Windows and Exterior Doors
10. Chapter 10: Install Blown-In Attic Insulation
11. Chapter 11: Add Attic Insulation Over Existing
12. Chapter 12: Insulate Crawlspace or Floor Assembly
13. Chapter 13: Seal and Insulate Rim Joists
14. Chapter 14: Install Rigid Foam Insulation Panels
15. Chapter 15: Install Vapor Retarder
16. Chapter 16: Air Seal and Insulate Duct Areas
17. Chapter 17: Build Insulated Attic Hatch
18. Chapter 18: Diagnose Moisture and Insulation Problems
19. Chapter 19: Final Air Sealing and Insulation Inspection
20. Chapter 20: Capstone: Air Seal and Insulate Practice Structure

Learning Outcomes

• Identify air leakage pathways and insulation deficiencies in residential buildings.
• Prepare a safe and organized insulation installation work area.
• Seal common residential air leakage points and service penetrations.
• Install attic ventilation components and insulation systems.
• Install fiberglass, mineral wool, blown-in, and rigid foam insulation.
• Improve insulation performance around windows, doors, floors, and rim joists.
• Apply vapor control and moisture management principles.
• Seal and insulate HVAC duct areas to improve efficiency.
• Diagnose common moisture, comfort, and insulation problems.
• Complete a full air sealing and insulation improvement project.