Attic Access Methods

Some builders make their attic access hatches out of sip scraps.

Attic access methods.

As can be seen in the picture the hatch frame s bottom edge is caulked to the drywall edge. Fine homebuilding as this thermal image shows poorly detailed attic access hatches leak a lot of heat. 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. To fix this energy nosebleed the hatch needs thicker insulation good weatherstripping and tight latches.

Intake vents located at the lowest part of the roof under the eaves allow cool. Use a zippered insulated tent to keep the enclosure draft free attic tent at 7 attic cover insulator 120. Attic access stairs range from a normally pitched stairway with railings even landings headroom lighting etc. 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.

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. Space attic vents evenly and mark the locations by driving nails up through the shingles photo 1. If your roof peak runs parallel to the street put them on the backside where they ll be less prominent. We ll show you how to cut out frame the opening then install a fo.

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. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. It is very important that you detail your attic access hatch properly here with caulking.

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. 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 space is not livible space for purposes of bedrooms in most jurisdictions because of fire egress issues. To pull down folding stairs to ladders to open hatches that must be accessed by a temporary ladder.

Every attic access hatch needs weatherstripping. Installing a pull down attic ladder is essential for safer easier access to your attic. Weatherstrip the attic access hatch or door. Apply self adhesive foam weatherstrip tape to the top edge of the stop.