A sill sealer is insulation used at the base of exterior walls to compensate for uneven floors and improve energy efficiency. It can prevent insect infestation and reduce moisture. Sill sealers are made from foam or fiberglass and can be used around door and window frames.
A sill sealer is a type of insulation used at the base of exterior walls. During the home building process, the builders first build the wood or concrete floors. As they build the walls, they use a piece of wood or steel as a foundation to support each wall. This base, or sill, is attached to the floor structure with screws or bolts to secure the wall in place. When a sill sealer is used, it is installed between the floor and the sill plate around the perimeter of the structure.
Often the material used to construct the floor of a new building is not perfectly level. This can be attributed to the material itself or sloppy construction techniques. Using a sill sealer compensates for these imperfections and helps ensure that the walls are level. Not only does this result in a better looking building, but it also simplifies the construction process and reduces the risk of costly mistakes.
Like all types of insulation, window sill sealants stop air from leaking between the windowsill and the floor. This improves the overall energy efficiency of the home, which often results in lower heating and cooling costs. A more efficient home also tends to be more comfortable, as there are fewer cold drafts and less need to constantly adjust the thermostat. By filling the space at the base of each wall, sill sealant also helps prevent insect infestation and can also reduce the amount of unwanted moisture entering your home.
Sill sealers are usually made from foam or fiberglass. Sill sealant is typically less than 1 inch thick and should be cut to the same width as the walls. Many come with a built-in adhesive that makes it easy for installers to attach the sill sealer to the floor, although others may require glue or other fasteners. Many are treated with chemicals or borate to improve fire resistance and prevent mold growth if the sealant gets wet.
Some builders also use the same sill sealers around door and window frames. The sealant can be placed between the floor frame and a door sill or around the entire perimeter of a window frame. When used in this way, these products help improve energy efficiency and minimize air infiltration into and out of the home. They also level the door or window in slightly uneven or out-of-plumb openings.
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