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Helpful hint - air infiltration at window panels NEXT to the door

While performing Thermal Scans with infrared camera here in the Central Ohio area, (it is cold right now) clients are complaining of cold areas at the front door.

What I have been finding on a regular basis is that these nice panels next to the doors are the problem, not the door and weather strippling.

It's not the window or glass either, it's actually the frames have not been properly sealed and/or insulated.

Sorry the image is poor but had to reduce.

Posted by Rick Harrington Specialist--Infrared Residential on 01/10/2009 01:11 PM

Comments (6)

heat loss, central ohio energy savings, columbus ohio home inspection

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6 Comments on Helpful hint - air infiltration at window panels NEXT to the door

JAN

I agree, those panels are not constructed up to the same standards as the door or a regualr window in many cases.

Good information Rick. I agree, it is often I find the panels stuck in the door frame without thought to possible leakage.

JAN

Looks pretty but also looks cold. Probably not much can be done at this point.

I'm trying to get an insulation company to evaluate... they might be able to remove some of the framing trim and add insulation and put the trim back and the insulation will not bee seen.

JAN

How much infiltration is there? maybe it is beneficial if the rest of the house is pretty tight. I have air infiltration at my doors, but I like that. Helps me ventilate the house. House are becoming so tight these days that it is creating high indoor pollution levels. Houses need to breathe and have some air exchange, even in the winter. Just my humble opinion. Great post, I like what the IR cams can do.

JAN

The only true way to know what amount of air each device would allow to pass would need to be measured probably by a blower door attached to a computer and add/remove the threshold and measure the difference.

I agree that house need to breath. Unless they are set up specifically tight then making sure the normal weather stripping, caulking and insulation should be in place and working properly should positively affect the heat loss.

Great question.

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