How to Insulate a Loft Hatch

A hand pulling down a loft hatch.
  • 1-2 hours
  • Beginner
  • 35-50
What You'll Need
Tape measure
Utility knife
Straightedge
Silicone caulk
Upholstery foam
What You'll Need
Tape measure
Utility knife
Straightedge
Silicone caulk
Upholstery foam

You can use upholstery foam to insulate your loft hatch and decrease your heating costs. Generally, loft pull-down ladders are not insulated, but adding insulation should only take about ten minutes and can save you a lot on your heating bill. There are a variety of insulating foams available. The best one for insulating a loft hatch is upholstery foam because it can be made to fit any shape and size.

Measure the Hatch

Use the tape measure to determine the dimensions of the loft hatch. Write the dimensions down on a piece of paper.

Cut the Upholstery Foam

Put the upholstery foam on the floor. Mark the dimensions of the loft hatch door on the foam. Use the straightedge to be sure the corners you have marked are square. This will ensure that the foam fits snugly. Use the utility knife to cut the piece that you have marked from the foam.

Secure the Upholstery Foam to the Hatch Door

Apply a layer of the silicone caulk to the upholstery foam, making sure to read the directions first. Press the foam onto the back of the loft hatch door. Allow the caulk about thirty minutes to dry completely before moving the hatch.

Measure the Loft Hatch Opening Border

Push back any excess insulation from the opening of the loft hatch. Use the tape measure to determine the total length of all of the sides of the opening. Write the dimensions down.

Cut the Upholstery Foam for the Hatch Opening Border

Measure and mark a five-inch border of foam to insert around the hatch opening. Use the utility knife to cut the piece that you have marked from the foam.

Secure the Upholstery Foam to the Hatch Opening Border

Apply a layer of silicone caulk to the upholstery foam. Press the foam into the area around the hatch opening. Allow the caulk about thirty minutes to dry completely.

Measure the Hatch Opening

Use the tape measure to determine the length from one side of the border to the other. Add 10 inches for each of the borders to the length.

Cut the Upholstery Foam for the Hatch Opening

Measure and mark the dimensions onto the upholstery foam. Use the utility knife to cut the marked piece from the foam.

Secure the Upholstery Foam to the Hatch Opening

Apply the silicone caulk to the foam on the back of the hatch door. Press the large piece of foam onto the hatch door insulation. This will prevent the foam from sticking to the border of the hatch.