If not insulated and weatherstripped, attic access covers can be a big source of energy loss for a home. Not only can conditioned air escape around the access panel’s perimeter, but uninsulated access hatches also facilitate heat gain and loss through the opening itself. Moisture-laden air from the house can condense on attic surfaces and deteriorate sheathing and insulation. To reduce energy loss and enhance a home’s durability, there are several prefabricated systems designed to insulate attic access hatches and to prevent drafts through them. In addition, there are many do-it-yourself methods and materials available for customized thermal sealing of attic openings.
The various systems and methods for insulating and sealing the attic access utilize zippers, hinges, and an insulative box and cover. Several sizes are available from each manufacturer to fit different opening dimensions. Some attic stair units come with integral insulation for an all-in-one system that can be installed in one step.
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Dependent on climate, cost of energy, and method used, attic access insulation systems can provide simple paybacks between one and ten years.
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Estimates are that 250,000 Btus of energy can be lost through a two foot by four foot insulation void in the ceiling.
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Most attic insulation and sealing systems require minimal time to install using simple tools and techniques. Combination attic stairways that have integral insulation and sealing mechanisms will take the same amount of time to install as conventional pull-down stair units.
The cost of attic hatch insulation kits ranges from $45 to $250. Insulated units with integral pull-down ladders can cost between $750 and $1000.
A well-insulated and sealed attic stairway system will prevent a common source of air leakage in homes, thereby reducing energy costs and preventing discomfort associated with drafts. An uninsulated 2’x 4’ opening in the ceiling can be responsible for the loss of 55 Btus of heat per hour when the inside temperature is 30 degrees greater than the attic. Similarly, the opening will allow about 37 Btus of cooling loss with a 20 degree temperature differential. In a five month heating and three month cooling climate energy losses through an uninsulated ceiling hatch can aggregate to more than 250,000 Btus, annually.
Chapter 11 of the IRC 2003, covering Energy Efficiency requires that all penetrations and other sources of air leakage (like attic hatches) be caulked, sealed, or gasketed. Materials should meet the code requirements for insulation in exposed attics.
Not Applicable
For the attic stairs with integral insulation and weatherstripping, installation is performed in a similar manner to conventional attic stairs. For add-on insulation and sealing products, a typical installation is very simple and involves only determining the appropriate size to cover the opening, attaching the product to the framing, and sealing joints with caulk.
Builders interested in using in-house labor to tighten up openings and Do-It-Yourselfers will benefit from the Attic Access – Technology Fact Sheet published by the Department of Energy, available online (see Resources tab).
Warranties vary by manufacturer. Warranties of up to 20 years are available.
Attic stair insulation and sealing systems can reduce air infiltration between the attic and the top story of a home, can reduce heat loss through an otherwise uninsulated area and improve indoor comfort and air quality.
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