Install Access Door and Finish Trim

What happens in this clip

With the trim installed, take the piece of drywall that was originally cut out. Gently slide it back up into the opening in the ceiling, allowing it to rest on top of the newly installed wooden trim. This piece now functions as the removable attic access door. The trim may have been pre-primed, but to achieve a fully finished look, apply caulk to fill in any cracks, gaps, or nail holes between the trim and the ceiling. Smooth out the caulk for a seamless finish. Once the caulk is dry, the trim can be painted to match the ceiling or a contrasting color, if desired. The attic access is now complete and ready for insulation contractors to utilize for blowing in new insulation.

Goal: Complete the attic access door installation and apply finishing touches to the trim.

What's used

Tools

• Caulk Gun

Materials

• Caulk
• cracks
• and nail holes in the trim.
• Drywall Piece (original cut-out)

About the full video

This project guides you through the process of cutting a new attic access door into a drywall ceiling, installing supporting wooden braces in the attic, and finishing the ceiling opening with decorative wooden trim for a clean, finished look. The project is undertaken to improve attic insulation access.

Step 6 of 6: Install Trim and Finish

Measure and cut trim pieces to fit around the perimeter of the attic ladder opening, covering the gap between the ladder frame and the ceiling. Secure the trim with finish nails and fill any nail holes. Sand, prime, and paint or stain the trim to match the surrounding ceiling.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Install Wooden Trim Around Opening
• Apply Trim and Test Ladder