Cellulose in Supply Lines?? Must be grabbing from Return Air in Attic?

[mgh1983]

wondering what it would cost for basically a 1700 sq ft home? any idea's?

[jimj]

I do. But no pricing is allowed as per site rules. Look at there dealer locater and get a couple of quotes.

[jimj]

Also check out the BPI site and maybe make a few calls there as well.

[mgh1983]

Just wondering if i could run mastic paste over the tape and go happy with it, aeroseal if over $1000 is not an option for me right now financially. bpi does not have a provider near me, or within my state - MI

[jimj]

Mastic and YOUR labor is a lot cheaper than Aeroseal!

[energy_rater_La]

aeroseal doesn't seal gaps over a certain size..3/4..5/8??
never can remember what exact size air leakage site the product
does not seal. but if you have big leaks...don't aeroseal.

www.resnet.us is the source for energy raters
bpi is source for energy auditors.

standard testing for energy raters is blower door for house leakage
& duct testing for duct/return leakage.

these are the tests you need to invest in.

duct testing, where ducts are depressurized calculates
leakage amont. if the rater/auditor reverses the fan and
pressurized the ducts/returns then you can feel the leakage
sites. this is the best way to find leakage.

finding return air leakage is hard without duct testing.
where are the returns? ceiling? return chase with filter
low on wall? knowing what type of return helps to advise
on how to seal.

ceiling returns can be sealed from inside the house.
so can return air chases if big enough to fit a person inside.
but you might need to hire a hvac worker who is small!

when you pulled off supply grill...was the cut for the box tight or
was there gaps around the supply box that are hidden by the grill?
if so, you need to seal these also.
see attached picture, for the method I use to address this leakage site.

using the right product, mastic tape rather than foil or duct tape
will give you a long lasting seal. duct & foil tapes fail in extreme
temps. mastic tapes & paint on mastics work well for a long long
time. I use only Hardcast brand #1402 mastic tape, having tried
other brands I find this to be the best.
note that all surfaces need to be both clean and dry.

painting mastic over tape...I've never been a fan of it, but thats
just my opinion. IF the tape is adhering well then painting the
mastic will keep it in place.

best of luck