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Insulation

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How-To

Part 4: Air-Seal and Insulate a Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap

Spray foam and high-quality sealant bridge all of the gaps between the framing, shims, and window for a durable and energy-efficient installation.

By Jake Bruton
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Part 4: Air-Seal and Insulate a Nail Fin Window Over Housewrap
Spray foam and high-quality sealant bridge all of the gaps between the framing, shims, and window for a durable and energy-efficient installation.
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      With window flashing done, the next step in any window installation is to air-seal and insulate. This work happens from the inside, and is the same regardless of water-resistive barrier (WRB). In this video, builder Jake Bruton walks through the theory of air-sealing and insulating, its importance to the overall function of a window installation and the comfort of the home, and the materials and methods needed to do the work well. Highlights include tips about how much foam to spray into the gap between window frame and rough opening, and how to tackle problematic details, like air-sealing around shims.

      Videos in the Series

      • Part 1: Prepare a Rough Opening for a Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap

        After installing the water-resistive barrier, cut the window opening and then use bevel siding and tape to create a positive-slope sill.

      • Part 2: Install a Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap

        Use a manufacturer-approved type of sealant to bond the window to the water-resistive barrier before setting, squaring, and fastening the window to the framing.

      • Part 3: Flash a Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap

        Apply and roll strips of a compatible flashing tape up the sides and across the head of the window for a weathertight installation.

      • Part 4: Air-Seal and Insulate a Nail-Fin Window over Housewrap

        Spray foam and high-quality sealant bridge all of the gaps between the framing, shims, and window for a durable and energy-efficient installation.

      • Have a different type of wall? Check out the full video series

        See additional window-flashing details for walls with Exterior Rigid Foam, Zip System sheathing, Peel-and-stick Membranes, and Fluid-applied WRBs

      Previous: How to Air-Seal Doors with a Spray-Foam Gun Next: Simple Air-Sealed Ceiling for a High-Performance Home

      Guide

      Insulation

      Chapter

      Air-Sealing

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      View Comments

      1. Haverlock2022 | Jan 30, 2023 07:19pm | #1

        So no? Let’s go back to my grandfathers way, maybe not the backer rod, which is ingenious, but to follow that backer with mineral wool, Knauf, or other fiber insulation!

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