Energy Efficiency - Extra Sealing Techniques
Pierce Homes Energy Program

The photos below demonstrates the superior air sealing benefits of the foam insulation used in all Pierce EFL homes.  The first photo is of a typical electrical outlet box after sheetrock installation using typical insulation products. Note the gaps between the edge of the box and the surrounding sheetrock.  This gap is basically an open hole into the wall cavity and represents an air leakage path.



Pierce EFL homes, using foam insulation, have all these air leakage paths sealed, as shown in the photo below.  Note that the foam has even infiltrated into the electrical box where the electrical cables enter or exit.



The following photo demonstrates the extent to which the foam insulation infiltrates the smallest spaces to provide superior air sealing. The photo shows a typical framed corner and how the foam has completely filled the voids in the framing.  Details such as this account for the very low air leakage of all Pierce EFL homes.

Foam insulation is also used under all bath tubs as shown below.   When a tub is located on an exterior wall, it becomes a major source of air infiltration.  The foam effectively seals this area as well as maintaining hot water in the tub for a longer period of time.