insulating attic drop down stairs?

Answer 1

OK mate, well good luck.

Answer 2

We actually have two entries for our attic. One has folding stairs and the other you need to use a ladder to get up into it.

On both entries, we used rigid styrofoam attached to the back of the cover. We were also able to do this behind the stairs on the cover that closes because there was a gap there wide enough to hold a panel of it.

You could also set up a secondary cover on the inside of the attic. Simply make a box (from MDF or plywood) that is the same height as the stairs when they are folded and in the attic. Insulate around the edges and place a cover on the box that opens into the attic on a piano hinge. You can then have styrofoam insulation on that too, giving you not one but two barriers (kind of like an inner door and a storm door on your entryway.) If there are drafts coming in, you can add weatherstripping to minimize that.

Answer 3

The easiest solution is to use foil backed foam board. Buy 4 x 8 sheets and make a box that sits over the stairs in the attic. When you need to get into the attic, you simple pull down the stairs, climb up and lift the foam box off the opening.

Use duct tape to make the box. Works great.

Answer 4

Before you install an attic access ladder, choose a spot for your stairs, climb into the attic to look for possible obstructions like ductwork, electrical boxes, and cables....read more

Answer 5

there are covers available at home centers for just this purpose. you could also build one from 1" or larger styrofoam board. ask for the correct adhesive and get some long nails to hold it together with them. it may be a good idea to plan it out with some cardboard before cutting the foam. good luck