1. Horizontal access on thermal boundary 

• Includes steps 1a. - 1e.

1a. Secure panel 

• Secure panel by adhering a weight such as a brick to interior ceiling accesses, or a latch. 

1b. Insulate panel 

• Insulate panel to same R-value as adjoining insulated assembly using rigid foam board & ignition barrier or fiberglass batts and attach with construction adhesive.

1c. Repair/Install casing 

• Repair or install casing to allow for installation of gasket. 

1d. Airseal attic panel 

• Install foam tape or weatherstripping on panel and ensure air tight seal.

1e. Build a insulation dam 

• Build an insulation dam to allow for maximum attic insulation R-value that extends 2" above height of insulation using rigid materials like plywood so that the dam supports the weight of a person entering the attic. 

2. Vertical access on thermal boundary 

• Follow steps 2a. -2 e.

2a. Secure panel 

• Secure panel with latches, fasteners, and or hinges. 

2b. Insulate panel 

• Insulate panel to the same R-value as the adjoining insulated assembly per SWS 3.0103.1 using rigid foam board & ignition barrier or fiberglass batts and attach with construction adhesive.

2c. Repair/Install jam 

• Repair or install jam to allow for installation of continuous gasket around the edges of the panel. 

2d. Airseal access door 

• Install foam tape or weatherstripping on door or jam to ensure air tight seal.

2e. Insulation dam 

• Build an insulation dam to allow for maximum attic insulation R-value that extends 2" above height of insulation using rigid materials like plywood so that the dam supports the weight of a person entering the attic.  

3. Access not on thermal boundary 

• Follow step 3a. Air sealing and insulation is not necessary. 

3a. Latch access panel 

• Install latch to secure Access panel in garages and on vertical access panels. 

4. Access with attic ladder on thermal boundary 

• Follow Steps 4a. - 4d. 

4a. Build a insulation dam 

• Dam shall be made of rigid material and high enough that the insulation will be inside the walls of the dam and above the stairs. (see image)

4b. Air seal insulation dam 

• Seal all joints with mastic or one part foam.

4c. Build & insulate panel 

• Per SWS 3.0103.1 , the access must be insulated to the same R-Value as the adjoining  insulated assembly.

4d. Airseal between top of dam and panel 

• Install foam tape on panel, be sure to wipe panel before installing foam tape to ensure proper adhesion.

5. Worst Case Draft

• Conduct a Worst Case Draft Test to verify Category I, II and III appliances are venting safely before leaving home for the day. 

• Testing shall be recorded using the WAP Worst Case Draft Test from.