3 Reasons to Seal Points of Entry in Your Home

From far away your home may appear to be in immaculate condition with no visible cracks or holes. Closer inspection may reveal that these things do exist, even if they look relatively small. But even small cracks and holes in your home can end up causing big and costly problems, so here’s why you should seal them!

Better Insulation

Sealing points of entry to your home will make sure your home is better insulated. Small holes down to tiny cracks can cause outside air to enter your home, affecting your climate control. Be sure to also seal gaps or cracks in doors and windows, as drafts in your home can drive up your energy bill. Regularly check around the exterior of your house for holes in siding or exterior cladding that need to be patched. According to Natran, using steel wool is a good way to temporarily stuff these holes before making more permanent repairs, because most rodents cannot chew through it.

Keep Out Pests

Holes, cracks around your house and gaps in points of entry look like welcome mats to small bugs and insects. According to Proterra Pest Control, pests like ants can make their way into your home through the smallest points of entry. If you want to prevent these critters from nesting in your home, good exterior sealing is key. If you have a basement, be sure and check the foundation walls there as well. Sealing the exterior of your home can also help eliminate any habitats critters have created in your yard.

Keep Out Water

Another benefit of sealing your home is it prevents water intrusion. A home that is not properly sealed is susceptible to water seeping in, even through tiny cracks. When water enters your home it threatens the materials of your home including your foundation, and can also attract pests in search of a drink. According to Ooma, water repairs in your home can be extremely costly not only in physical repairs to your home but also through replacing furniture and finishes. Depending on the damage, your home insurance may not cover the full cost of these repairs. The cost of sealing your exterior is tiny in comparison!

Your home is your investment and the last thing you want to welcome inside is water, weather, or unwanted critters. Sealing your home makes it more energy efficient and prevents you from having to make more costly repairs in the future. Make the effort now to avoid a disaster later!

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