Sometimes I wonder if I’m overdoing it with the spray foam...
Funny you mention that—I've definitely gone a bit wild with the spray foam in the past, especially after finding a mouse nest tucked behind some loose insulation. Ever since, I tend to err on the side of “more is better,” but then I end up scraping off the excess when it starts bulging out. Haven’t had any major moisture issues, but I do check for condensation every fall, just in case. One time I missed a tiny gap around a dryer vent and it led to a patch of mold behind the drywall. Lesson learned: even the smallest gaps can cause headaches.
Did you use any kind of vapor barrier, or just rely on the insulation and foam? I’ve heard mixed things about whether a full barrier is necessary in older homes, especially if the walls already “breathe” a bit. Sometimes I feel like the more I seal things up, the more I’m just trapping problems inside...
Sometimes I feel like the more I seal things up, the more I’m just trapping problems inside...
Man, I get this. I went a little nuts with the spray foam last winter—thought I was being clever, but then my basement started smelling like a chemistry set. Turns out, if you seal up every single crack, your house gets weirdly stuffy and you start wondering if you’re living in a giant Tupperware container. Not exactly the “cozy” vibe I was going for.
I didn’t bother with a vapor barrier because my place is old and the walls are already doing their own thing. Plus, I read somewhere that too much plastic can actually make moisture issues worse in these old houses. Maybe that’s just me trying to justify being lazy, but so far, no major problems (knock on wood). I do check behind the washer and under the sinks every season, though. One time I found a tiny leak that had been dripping for who knows how long—only noticed because the cat kept sniffing around back there. Guess she’s my unofficial home inspector now.
Honestly, I think there’s a fine line between “well-sealed” and “hermetically sealed.” If you start seeing condensation on your windows or your bathroom mirror fogs up for hours, maybe it’s time to back off on the foam. Or open a window once in a while. Either way, I’d rather deal with a draft than another science experiment growing behind my drywall.
Anyway, just my two cents as someone who’s still figuring this stuff out. If anyone invents a spray foam that only goes where you want it and doesn’t expand like crazy, sign me up...
Totally get where you’re coming from. I used to think more sealing = better, but after a winter of stale air and mystery damp spots, I realized it’s more about balance. Old houses especially need to “breathe” a bit. I started using weatherstripping and caulk only where drafts were worst, then added a small dehumidifier in the basement. It’s not perfect, but it keeps things from getting too stuffy or too damp. Honestly, your cat’s probably onto something—sometimes the best leak detectors are the ones with four legs.
Ever tried those moisture sensors you can stick under sinks or near the water heater? I’ve been debating if they’re worth it, especially in older homes where leaks can be sneaky. Also, does anyone actually shut off outdoor spigots for winter, or is that just overkill?
Title: Plumbing tips that change with the seasons
Those moisture sensors can be a real game-changer, especially in older homes where leaks like to hide out until they've already caused damage. I've seen them save folks a lot of hassle—one client had a slow drip behind their water heater for months and only caught it because the sensor finally chirped. The investment is pretty minor compared to what you might pay if you need mold remediation or floor repairs down the line. They're not perfect, but they're a solid layer of early warning.
As for the outdoor spigots, I wouldn’t call shutting them off overkill at all, particularly if you’re anywhere that gets legit freezing temps. Burst pipes from frozen outdoor lines are way more common than people realize, and the aftermath isn’t fun... water everywhere, ruined drywall, sometimes even structural headaches. Even if you have frost-free hose bibs, it’s just good practice to turn off the supply from inside and drain the line before winter sets in. It takes maybe five minutes and can save you a weekend of emergency repairs.
If you’re not sure whether your house has shutoffs for those spigots—older homes sometimes don’t—it’s worth checking or having someone take a look. I’ve come across setups where folks thought they were protected, only to find out too late.
All in all, both those steps are about stacking the odds in your favor. You might get by fine without them for years, but when things go wrong, they go wrong fast. I’d say moisture sensors and winterizing outdoor faucets are both smart moves, especially if you want to sleep a little easier when the weather turns or if you leave town for any length of time.
