Fine homebuilding as this thermal image shows poorly detailed attic access hatches leak a lot of heat.
Attic access hatch seal.
We are going to show you step by step in less than 2 and 1.
Finish up by sealing the access hatch with self sticking weather stripping.
The part of the new energy code that requires weatherstripping at the attic access hatch is section r402 2 4 which says access doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces e g attics.
The stops provide a wider surface for attaching the weatherstrip and a space to mount hook and eye fasteners.
If your hatch rests directly on the moldings add 2 1 2 inch wide stops around the opening.
When you re done sealing your attic bypasses push the insulation back into place with an old broom handle or stick as you back out of the attic.
5 3 2 attic access panels and drop down stairs equipped with a durable r 10 or greater insulated cover that is gasketed i e not caulked to produce continuous air seal when occupant is not accessing the attic unfortunately they list some of the items i listed above in the what not to.
Every attic access hatch needs weatherstripping.
Once installed the attic access cover creates a tight seal around the hatch.
Sealing the attic hatch or door.
Then finish up by sealing the access hatch with self sticking foam weatherstrip photos 10 and 11.
The insulating material helps reduce heat transfer between the floor below and the attic.
The insulation and sealing opportunities created through attic access covers are unparalleled compared to more do it yourself solutions.
Before installing the attic access hatch you will want to insulate the backside of it before putting everything in place.
The newest version of energy star v3 requires.
Here in canada our minimum attic insulation requirement is r 40 that s a metric u value of 0 142 if you re in europe or actually using the units we re supposed to be in canada.
Some builders make their attic access hatches out of sip scraps.