In a normal unsealed, wood framed house, 45% of the air infiltration comes where wall meets the floor, 27% where ceiling meets the wall, 11% from exterior window framing, 13% from electrical outlets on the exterior walls, 3% from pipe and wire penetrations and 1% from exterior doors. To minimize these air infiltration paths, Quail Homes applies Owens Corning EnergyComplete Whole Home Insulation and Air Sealing System. See photo to the left of Owen Corning sealing foam application. EnergyComplete sealants help improve indoor air quality by helping to seal out allergens and pollutants. The sealant also helps prevent moisture from entering walls to reduce conditions that can lead to mold growth. By blocking gaps and holes, you have a first line of defense against insects, rodents and other pests that can cause health problems for your family.

Insulating ceilings, walls, and floors decreases the heating or cooling needed by providing an effective resistance to the flow of heat. Insulation saves money. Besides insulation and EnergyComplete sealant, Du Pont Tyvek air barrier house wrap and metal flashing in strategical location also play an very import part in stopping air and moisture infiltration into your home.

To qualify for Earth Advantage Platinum Certification, each new house constructed by Quail Homes has to pass the whole house and ductwork blow test for air leakage, see photo to the right, and a third-party energy inspection.

The Quail High Performance drawing above shows strategic locations where the Owens Corning EnergyComplete, Tyvek air barrier, crack and joint foam caulking is being applied by Quail Homes insulation subcontractor to prevent air and moisture infiltration. Please click to download a more readable drawing.

See videos to the right by Jeff Steffl of Probuild Building Supply, commenting on the Owen Corning EnergyComplete sealing system, flashing at siding butt joints and Du Pont Tyvek house wrap.