Air Sealing Recessed Can Lights
Hi, it’s Brian Freeman. Today, we are air-sealing the Halo can lights being installed in a custom home. The model used is a Halo H7ICAT—the IC stands for insulation contact, and the AT means airtight. It comes with a gasket designed for the dropper to seal against.
Even with this feature, there’s still a small gap—about 8 to 3/16 of an inch—that allows air to leak. In addition, seams around the metal rim can also be weak points that need extra sealing to prevent unwanted airflow.
The Top-Side Leak Problem and Cable Entry Points
Another common issue is at the top of the can light where the armored cable enters. Many times, the seal here is pulled back, leaving an open path for air to leak into the fixture and escape into the attic. Repositioning the seal properly ensures that this entry point is secure.
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Air Sealing Around the Rim with Foil Tape
Foil tape can be applied around the rim of the Halo H7ICAT can light to prevent air from leaking. This allows the drywall to seal tightly to the edge, or, if preferred, a smart vapor retarder can be installed and taped directly to the can for additional sealing. While some builders use boxes over the fixtures, sealing directly around the rim with tape provides a quicker and effective solution.
Using RectorSeal for the Cable Connector
At the cable entry point, RectorSeal is applied to fill gaps. This pliable material, similar to putty, stays flexible over time rather than hardening, making it effective for long-term sealing around connectors.
Wrapping the Upper Seam for Complete Airtightness
Finally, wrap foil tape around the top seam of the can light to close off any remaining leaks. It’s also important to inspect the inside of the fixture for small pinholes or gaps that may require additional tape. These steps ensure that air stays in the conditioned living space instead of escaping into the attic, improving the overall efficiency of the home.
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