does anyone have a good way to make an insulated box to cover folding attic stairs?
The cold air pours thru these things. something that is light and can be lifted out of the way
does anyone have a good way to make an insulated box to cover folding attic stairs?
The cold air pours thru these things. something that is light and can be lifted out of the way
There are a number of ways to achieve a level foundation and mudsill.
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Replies
There was a good article in FHB about a year ago by Mike Guertin, I think. See if you can search the back issues on the main FHB site.
Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell'em "Certainly, I can!" Then get busy and find out how to do it. T. Roosevelt
You can make one out of plywood and rigid foam. Garage door gasket or fat EPDM can be used around the base. Fancy ones are hinged, and have gas struts for easy operation. Once saw one that was counterbalanced with a pulley, and a sash weight. Weight is something of an advantage, since it crushes the gasket nicely. A lightweight unit might require some sort of catch or straps for a positive seal.
For $90, you can buy one pre-made from here:
http://www.energyfederation.org/consumer/default.php/cPath/21_391_57
Looks like this:
View Image
Edited 4/7/2004 1:44 pm ET by csnow
Several years ago I made one from plywood, rigid foam, and an EPDM gasket. It is hinged and it works great. I used sash locks to pull it tight, but the weight does the trick. Most code requires rigid EPS or XPS foam to be covered with a fire barrier such as 1/2 inch drywall.
Billy
>Most code requires rigid EPS or XPS foam to be covered with a fire barrier such as >1/2 inch drywall
Can you expand on that, Billy? I have used this product several times to fabricate ductwork. It was not permitted work so I guess I didn't get an inspectors feedback (only new duct installation is permitted in my area for residential).
Remodeler
I don't have a code link for you, but here's what it says on the Owens-Corning website:
http://www.owenscorning.com/around/insulation/project/foamular.asp
Also, the printing on the face of the sheets states that it should be covered with 1/2 inch gypsum. I have called my local permitting agency and they say it is required as well. Your code could differ.
The foam can support a fire and I hear that the smoke is poisonous.
Are you sure that you didn't use the foamboard that is made for ducts? It is made from different stuff than the polystyrene foam.
Billy
Edited 4/10/2004 11:14 pm ET by Billy
Make yourself a 2x4 frame and nail it to the perimeter of the opening(up in the attic) foam any gaps. Then make a cover as seen in the pic in the third post to fit over your 2x4 frame. I held my foam board together with clear packing tape, works great. Use a 2" thick foam board, better insul and stronger.
Freddy, easiest way is to put insulation in cardboard box or boxes. Slide out of way to enter, slide back before closing stairs. I'm assuming you use the folding stairs infrequently.
mike
Our attic ladder is over the attached garage, that is not in the house envelope, so not heated/cooled.
Could you not reinstall the ladder in a space that is not heated? Then you would not need to insulate it, or worry with drafts.