Done well, air sealing is the most cost-effective energy-saving measure you can take in a new home. Air sealing saves heating dollars. It reduces drafts and winter dryness. Ventilation systems work better in well-sealed homes. Sealing also blocks noise, making the house quieter. The key to successful, cost-effective air sealing lies in organization. You need to structure the many small tasks that make up the whole job. An hour of advance planning will pay large dividends by avoiding hassles, reducing costs, and increasing the quality of work. Many firms find it makes sense to put one person in charge of air sealing. At Medinger Construction in Ashland, Ore., Ron Medinger doubles as a finish carpenter and air
