![]() ![]() ![]() Figure 4. Air sealing wiring holes (Source: Air Barriers - Airtight Drywall Approach, Info-401 2009). Use caulk, gaskets, or spray foam (note that spray foam degrades in sunlight). Seal all wiring holes through the exterior walls of the house, such as holes for electrical wiring, security system wiring, television and telephone cables, porch light fixtures, and exterior electrical outlets.Figure 3. Air sealing a plastic electrical box (Source: Air Barriers - Airtight Drywall Approach, Info-401 2009). EXTERIOR ELECTRICAL PUTTY INSTALLOr, as another option, install standard electrical boxes and caulk all of the openings in the box (including around wire penetrations), then seal the face of the box to the drywall with caulk.Figure 2. Air sealing an electrical box (Source: Air Barriers - Airtight Drywall Approach, Info-401 2009). For wall-mounted electrical boxes, specify that the electrician install prefabricated, airtight electric boxes that have flexible boot seals at wire penetrations and a gasketed flange at the face.Figure 1. Air seal electrical box with fire-retardant material (Source: Courtesy of PNNL). For ceiling-mounted electrical boxes, install the electrical box in the ceiling drywall, then caulk around the base and caulk all holes in the box with fire-retardant caulk. EXTERIOR ELECTRICAL PUTTY HOW TOHow to Air Seal Electrical Boxes and Wiring Responsibility for sealing air leaks around electrical wiring and electrical boxes should be included in the contract for the appropriate trade, depending on the workflow at specific job sites. Holes drilled through studs and top and bottom plates should be caulked or foam sealed to prevent air from following the wiring through wall cavities.īe sure to schedule caulking of electrical penetrations after the wiring has been installed and before the drywall is completed. Air barriers need to be continuous to be effective this means sealing all penetrations in exterior walls and in walls, ceilings, or floors adjoining unconditioned spaces. Conversely, air leaking into the house from the garage or crawlspace can affect indoor air quality and cause drafts. These air leaks represent energy losses, and they could also potentially allow warm, moisture-laden air into unconditioned spaces where it can condense on cold surfaces creating moisture problems. Pressure and temperature differences between conditioned and unconditioned spaces encourage this air flow. ![]() ![]() DescriptionĪir can pass through tiny gaps around electrical wiring and holes in electrical boxes, carrying conditioned air into wall cavities and up into unconditioned attics or allowing air from unconditioned garages and crawlspaces into living spaces. See the Compliance Tab for related codes and standards requirements, and criteria to meet national programs such as DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home program, ENERGY STAR Single-Family New Homes, and Indoor airPLUS.
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