4.1001.1 Non-Insulation Contact (IC) Recessed Light

Topic: 
Attics
Subtopic: 
General Preparation
Desired Outcome: 
Ensure safety from fire and prevent air leakage
For supporting material, see Referenced Standards and Building America Solution Center.
TitleSpecification(s)Objective(s)
4.1001.1a
Air barrier Air barrier The separation between the interior and exterior environments of a building that slows air flow to the point that no smoke movement is visible at 50 pascals of pressure difference across the boundary system

A fire-rated air barrier Air barrier The separation between the interior and exterior environments of a building that slows air flow to the point that no smoke movement is visible at 50 pascals of pressure difference across the boundary system (i.e., equivalent to 5/8 fire code gypsum wallboard) will be used to separate non- IC IC Insulation contact rated recessed lights from insulation, using one of the methods below:

A fire-rated airtight closure taller than surrounding attic insulation will be placed over non- IC IC Insulation contact rated recessed lights

OR

The non- IC IC Insulation contact rated light fixture will be replaced with an airtight IC IC Insulation contact - rated fixture or insert 

OR

The fixture(s) may be replaced with surface mounted fixture and opening sealed

OR
Air sealing measures as approved by the authority having jurisdiction
 

Prevent a fire hazard

Prevent air leakage through fixture
4.1001.1b
Enclosure top

The top-fire rated enclosure material will have an R-value of 0.56 or less

The top of the enclosure will be left free of insulation 
 

Prevent heat build up
4.1001.1c
Clearance

The entire closure will maintain a 3" clearance between the closure and the fixture including wiring, box, and ballast

Keep an air space around the fixture
4.1001.1d
Sealants and weather stripping

Caulk, mastic, or foam will be used on all edges, gaps, cracks, holes, and penetrations of closure material only

To prevent air leakage, completely adhere the sealant to all surfaces to be sealed