NEWARK Blog

A Brief Guide to the Stack Effect

When talking to your insulation contractor, you may have heard them mention something called the stack effect. This effect is an essential aspect of understanding thermal exchange in your home. It can also determine whether you have additional insulation needs to keep your house comfortable.

What Is the Stack Effect?

The stack effect, which is also sometimes referred to as the chimney effect, describes the process of how air moves in and out of buildings. During colder months, warm air is drawn upwards. This allows it to escape from the house through any gaps that exist. Meanwhile, colder air is drawn into the house from the ground. This can create a chillier home and raise energy bills as you try to combat the cooling effect and keep your house at a comfortable temperature.

The more air leaks in your home, the worse this effect will be. Air leaks can occur where there are cracks along walls, ceilings, or floors. They can also happen anywhere that gaps may occur, such as around windows and doors or anywhere that is under insulated.

How Can Air Sealing Help?

Air sealing is a process that involves checking for areas of air leak concern in the house and then using different sealing methods to ensure that no future air will be lost.

Common areas of concern are the gaps around windows and doors, where weather stripping may be used as a sealant. The other main concern areas are usually attics, where the warm air escapes, and basements, where the cold air gets inside. There may be cracks in the walls or ceilings that need to be fixed, exposed pipes that need to be covered, or even places where additional insulation is needed. Many of these home areas are often under insulated, which can considerably contribute to the stack effect since insulation protects against leaks by slowing airflow as it passes through the insulation itself.

If you are concerned that your home may be affected by the stack effect, turn to the experts at Koala Insulation of Newark in Delaware. With over 15 years of experience, these insulation professionals will ensure that your home is well insulated. Every installation is undertaken with care, high-quality products, and exceptional service. Call (302) 273-8476 to schedule a free evaluation and estimate. You can also visit their website to learn more.