What Is An Attic Tent? And Is It Worth It?

If you’re picturing an actual tent in your attic, don’t worry, we did, too. Alas, an attic tent is not some ready-made fort on your top floor.

Let’s learn the ins and outs of attic tents and check whether it’s worth it or not.

What is an attic tent?

All an attic tent is an attic insulation cover that keeps pesky insulation particles from invading your living space and lungs by creating a barrier. And it can cover different types of openings.

• Attic stairs
• Knee-wall doors
• Scuttle holes
• Full-size doors

How much does an attic tent cost?

The price of a quality attic tent doesn’t vary much. One will typically cost between $150 and $250.

It might feel like a hefty investment, but installing an attic tent will save money in the long run.

Who invented the attic tent?

The Attic Tent, Incorporated invented the attic tent. It’s because a majority owner in the company, Steve Williams, invented the energy-saving technology in 1996.

It all came about because of an astronomical light bill and the urgency to find a solution.

How do you install an attic tent?

You’ll quickly realize that Amazon has tons of attic tent options that you can install DIY-style. Let’s look at a handful of basic steps you will follow when installing a stair attic tent specifically.

And, of course, follow any manufacturer’s instructions. 

1. Practice Run

The first thing you want to do is ensure that it fits. Measure the height of the attic stairs, inside width, and length.

A dry fit of the attic cover makes the process less complicated. You’re checking for enough clearance for the stairs, too. 

2. Fit the Cover

Place the attic tent at the end of the stair box. Make sure you put the zipper on the low side where your stairs are connected to the attic space.

3. Staples

Staples are the primary fastening method. You are sealing up the attic tent to get the optimal insulation.

Use a staple gun and staple the rough frame to the mounting hinge. Typically you will want to staple every 2 to 3 inches along the edges.

4. Silicone Caulking – Optional

Laying caulk on the wooden frame is not a must, but it is a why not. It is an extra layer of sealant that works with secure staples to prevent leaky leaks.

Clean the wooden attic stair frame with a simple cleaner or degreaser before applying the caulk. It will prevent future peeling and repairs.

If using a caulking bead, just smooth it along the rough frame and the mounting flange.

Why is an attic tent worth it?

First and foremost, an attic tent will save you money. You can easily install one in a couple of hours and start saving your hard-earned cash today.

Brings Your Energy Bill Down

Unseal attics are a nightmare for the wallet. You could be losing up to 20% more energy than you should be. 

Installing an attic tent will lower heating and cooling costs by just sealing it up.

Breathe Cleaner

Unhealthy insulation and dust particles collect in the attic and make their way into living spaces. When you put up a barrier, you’re ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for your family.

Create More Comfort

We don’t even realize the weird things that an unsealed attic does. You reduce all sorts of disruptive things when you establish a barrier.

• Spooky drafts
• Reduces scary attic noise
• Establishes a consistent temperature throughout a home

Cost Effective

It doesn’t take long to recoup your investment in an attic tent. 

You’ll see your energy bill go down, and often, an attic tent will pay for itself within a year or two. If not, most attic tents come with a solid warranty of up to 10 years.

Managing Mold

Mold is its own category because it has its unique challenges.

Mold thrives in the presence of humidity, so chances are, you’re growing little fungi in the attic.

An attack tent prevents the grossness from seeping into living areas, triggering allergic reactions and other breathing issues.

Ease-of-installation

Most basic attic tents are incredibly easy to install. Expect it to take anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour or two. As with all things, it all depends on materials, manpower, and mistakes.

Follow the attic tent manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a more seamless installation.

FAQs about Attic Tents