Case Studies

The Case of the Cold Wall

Situation:

A homeowner contacted his legal counsel to bring in EnergyLogic in order to identify the source of a comfort problem on the windward side of his home.

Solution:

Using the blower door, infrared camera and extensive field experience with residential construction, EnergyLogic found the problem. Though the home was relatively well-sealed, there were leakage paths at the top of exterior walls. Infrared images revealed that air was being drawn between the drywall and the top plate, cooling the wall, particularly during windy conditions (the house sits on a ridge). The builder removed the trim between the drywall and the tongue and groove ceiling and sealed the drywall to the top plate. A post improvement inspection showed a dramatic reduction in leakage between drywall and top plates. The homeowner reported that the walls feel warmer.

Winner:

Almost everyone. The builder fixed a problem that had been plaguing both him and the homeowner for some time. Destructive testing was avoided by using the infrared camera and a good solution was found for both parties.

Who didn't win? Well, the lawyer of course!

The Case of the Frozen Coffee Cup

Situation:

An insulation company contacted EnergyLogic to help find the source of air in a north facing wall that contained kitchen cabinets. The homeowner's coffee cups were freezing to the shelves.

Solution:

Using a blower door, infrared camera and extensive field experience with residential construction, EnergyLogic found the problem. Infrared thermography showed that air was entering the north facing exterior wall at several locations. After crawling through the attic to the area over the exterior wall (a location previously inspected by other parties), EnergyLogic moved attic insulation away and found multiple penetrations that were left unsealed by the insulator, cooling the wall whenever the wind blew.

Winner:

This home was the 'dream house' of the homeowner. However, they were ready to sell it because of the problem with the kitchen being so cold. Fixing the wall turned a 'nightmare' back into a dream.

When EnergyLogic arrived on the scene, the insulator was ready to tear off all of the drywall from the wall to find the problem. Fortunately, we found the problem without destroying the drywall, which was a benefit to everyone.

The Case of the Leaking Window

Situation:

A window supplier called EnergyLogic to help find a water leak around a window unit. The window had already been replaced once.

Solution:

EnergyLogic visited the home and using a combination of infrared thermography, a blower door, a garden hose and our experience, determined that the leakage was around the window unit, not through it. Improper flashing and moisture control on a north-facing wall were the culprits.

Additional window replacements would have been a waste of time and money for everyone involved. The builder wanted to fix the problem, but needed to know how extensive it might be and where to focus the work. The window supplier didn't want to be blamed for a faulty product when it wasn't his fault.

Winner:

Everyone. The builder fixed the problem without further delays and frustration, the supplier was cleared of blame for a problem that wasn't his and the homeowner got the leaking wall fixed correctly.