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What can I put around a non-IC recessed light can so I can cheaply 1) cover it with insulation in my attic and 2) seal it up pretty airtight?
My problem is I want to add 4 4″ recessed lighting fixtures in my living room (remodel). For some reason 4″ is more expensive than 6″, and of course I want to be energy efficient and insulate over the cans. But the ICTH cans cost $20 and the trim I want $15. That’s $140 for 4. AND, even the $20 IC cans aren’t really airtight – weird slots all over them. If I go with non-IC (needs 3″ airspace around it), I can by can and trim for $16 (different brand). So I’m thinking I’ll by the $16 units and put something over the non-IC housing. Can I use a cheap plastic bucket? A more expensive galvanized bucket? Some cheap ductwork fittings? a box made of 1/4 plywood?
Secondly, how best to make it airtight? of course it’s filthy in the attic (combo of fiberglass batts and blown cellulose) so I can’t picture tape holding. How about tie wire from the top of the IC housing to the top of the jury-rigged housing, kind of pulled tight? Some sort of foam rubber between the bucket and drywall to boot? Thanks for any ideas.
Finally, if I need to break down and shell out the extra $20, how can I seal that can to make it airtight? Would aluminum tape over all the slots be OK?
Replies
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What can I put around a non-IC recessed light can so I can cheaply 1) cover it with insulation in my attic and 2) seal it up pretty airtight?
My problem is I want to add 4 4" recessed lighting fixtures in my living room (remodel). For some reason 4" is more expensive than 6", and of course I want to be energy efficient and insulate over the cans. But the ICTH cans cost $20 and the trim I want $15. That's $140 for 4. AND, even the $20 IC cans aren't really airtight - weird slots all over them. If I go with non-IC (needs 3" airspace around it), I can by can and trim for $16 (different brand). So I'm thinking I'll by the $16 units and put something over the non-IC housing. Can I use a cheap plastic bucket? A more expensive galvanized bucket? Some cheap ductwork fittings? a box made of 1/4 plywood?
Secondly, how best to make it airtight? of course it's filthy in the attic (combo of fiberglass batts and blown cellulose) so I can't picture tape holding. How about tie wire from the top of the IC housing to the top of the jury-rigged housing, kind of pulled tight? Some sort of foam rubber between the bucket and drywall to boot? Thanks for any ideas.
Finally, if I need to break down and shell out the extra $20, how can I seal that can to make it airtight? Would aluminum tape over all the slots be OK?