If you’ve been on the London Tube, you know “mind the gap” is a warning to watch your step when you get on the train.
- It should be the mantra for every contractor making any kind of hole in the building envelope.
Why it matters: After running plumbing or wiring through your walls or ceilings, the gaps and holes need to be air sealed.
- Failure to air seal lets the outside air in.
- Which leads to higher electricity costs, trouble controlling temperature and decreased indoor air quality.
🔬 Zoom in: This weekend I replaced my front porch light.
- When I took off the old light, I saw significant gaps around the junction box.
- Those gaps lead to air infiltration on the other side of the wall through similar gaps around the light switch.
- Before installing the new light, I used a fire rated closed cell foam to completely seal the gaps around and inside the junction box. I used this one.
✅ For your Smart Homeowner list
- Anytime you have a plumber, electrician, HVAC tech or anyone drilling through or cutting your walls or ceiling or framing, find out how they plan to “mind the gap.”
- Depending on the application, foam, caulk or special tapes can adequately air seal the gaps.
Best,
Travis