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I am about to drywall some new construction, and want to ensure
that there is no path for air leaks into the walls and ceiling
cavities. The rest of the framing is sealed up pretty tight –
gaskets, adhesive, caulk, and sealant in all the wiring holes.
Am also planning two coats of vapor barrier paint on the surface.
All that is left are the work boxes. Is there a good way to seal
the outlet and switch boxes to the drywall to ensure there is no
air leakage?
E.
Replies
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Yes, there is:
Don't put any outlets in an exterior wall. ;-)
Aside from that, there's cellulouse insulation (use that in the exterior wall stud bays) which will naturally tend to prevent air flow. That'll help.
There used to be 1/8" thick pre-cut foam pads to put behind the wall plates and try to seal them (I remember my dad installing these things in '74, probably helped some but haven't seen them lately).
Another idea: buy weather-grade boxes for the outlets in exterior walls (no openings except for the wires) and seal the wire holes with caulk before dry walling. But that won't help with the joint between the box and the drywall...
Oh, yeah, and don't use any can lights. They make real good chimneys into the attic. Should be OK on the first floor, as long as there is conditioned (living) space above.
Other than lots of caulk, anybody else got some ideas?
*The Shelter Supply has the product to meet your needs. An electrical box that's sealed. http://www.sheltersupply.com/index.htmlBut I bet your boxes are in already ...... caulk then.
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I am about to drywall some new construction, and want to ensure
that there is no path for air leaks into the walls and ceiling
cavities. The rest of the framing is sealed up pretty tight -
gaskets, adhesive, caulk, and sealant in all the wiring holes.
Am also planning two coats of vapor barrier paint on the surface.
All that is left are the work boxes. Is there a good way to seal
the outlet and switch boxes to the drywall to ensure there is no
air leakage?
E.