Attic Access Methods

Fine homebuilding as this thermal image shows poorly detailed attic access hatches leak a lot of heat.

Attic access methods.

When the access is located in a ceiling minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall be 30 inches 762 mm at some point above the access measured vertically from the bottom of ceiling framing members. Weatherstrip the attic access hatch or door. You will simply set your access hatch on top of that drywall centre it in the space by shimming between its backside and the framing wherever your screws will be and then fastening it into place. Attach the two layers of foam board together and apply them to the hatch.

Every attic access hatch needs weatherstripping. As can be seen in the picture the hatch frame s bottom edge is caulked to the drywall edge. Cut out two pieces of rigid foam board that are 1 4 inch smaller than the hatch so homeowners can slide the attic access panel open easily. Attic access stairs range from a normally pitched stairway with railings even landings headroom lighting etc.

Wear a dust mask while working in the attic and lay planks or plywood across rafters so you don t step though the drywall ceiling below. It is very important that you detail your attic access hatch properly here with caulking. Use a chef s knife to cut batts some pros prefer it to utility knives because the large blade easily slices through the thick material. Installing a pull down attic ladder is essential for safer easier access to your attic.

Pull down stair or ladder. Attic space is not livible space for purposes of bedrooms in most jurisdictions because of fire egress issues. Some builders make their attic access hatches out of sip scraps. We ll show you how to cut out frame the opening then install a fo.

To pull down folding stairs to ladders to open hatches that must be accessed by a temporary ladder. Use a zippered insulated tent to keep the enclosure draft free attic tent at 7 attic cover insulator 120. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. Install fiberglass batt insulation on top of the foam board.

See section m1305 1 3 for access requirements where mechanical equipment is located in attics. Apply self adhesive foam weatherstrip tape to the top edge of the stop. If your roof peak runs parallel to the street put them on the backside where they ll be less prominent. Cut 1 3 boards to fit the perimeter of the opening and nail them on with 6d finish nails.