You can make the panel one-half inch smaller in both length and width, so that when you do go into the attic, the panel will be easy to remove.

Q–My new home has an access panel that leads to the attic area. I am tired of using a dangerous stepladder to get to this part of my home. A folding attic ladder is of some interest to me. Ho… ...

Should home inspectors open up "sealed" attic access panels? Heck yes. Every time, unless the owner or buyer specifically says not to. That's my story, always has been, and I'm sticking to it.

If you're buying a new construction home and the construction permit was pulled on or after Feb. 14, 2015, the attic access panel is supposed to be weatherstripped.