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What is the Best Way to Insulate Attic “Pull-Down” Folding Stairs?

Question by Boomer: What is the Best Way to Insulate Attic “Pull-Down” Folding Stairs?
The pull-down folding stairs to my attic is located in my upstairs hallway ceiling. During the summer, I can feel the heat coming from the attic through the the attic pull-down stair ceiling door.

I have added weather stripping on 3 sides of the ceiling stair door, which has helped, but I can’t put weather stripping on the hinge side, where I can feel heat coming through.

I have seen thick polystyrene caps (looks like a small up-side-down boat that simply fits over the open hole over the stairs), but they are too wide and won’t fit because part of the roofing frame comes down right next to the attic stair opening.

Any other thoughts on how to insulate attic stair doors?

Best answer:

Answer by Johnny
Build one. If you can find a SIP (self insulating panel) you can cut it to fit over the stair. you might need to build up the sides with sme 2×6 to clear the stairs.

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2 comments on What is the Best Way to Insulate Attic “Pull-Down” Folding Stairs?

  1. Quack Quack says:

    you can buy insulation that has a plastic covering on it. Cut a couple lengths of it a couple feet longer than the door opening. Place them side by side over the opening.Then close the stairs.
    I have a trap door in my ceiling & did the same thing.Keeps the heat from comming thru the door.

  2. Brandsconstruction.com/WordPress says:

    Is No Best Way.
    With the Roof Frame Close to the opening it will take work.

    Building one is easier said than done.

    The amount of work and time it takes for what seems like such a little thing usually stops people. However the Heating and Cooling Savings for a year may be a weeks wage so taking time for this is important.

    It can be done lightweight with foam board insulation and a light weight frame. Using piano hinges you can even make a hinged cover that pivets swinging away from the opening if ya want to go all out.

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