Attic insulation will help you save up on energy bills. Here’s a quick overview of the factors that influence your attic insulation costs.
According to the Department of Energy, proper insulation can save up to 11% of your home’s energy bill.1 As a homeowner looking to save up on energy bills, you’re probably wondering, “how much does attic insulation cost?” Here are the top factors that influence attic insulation costs.
- Type of Insulation
There are various types of attic insulation, all of which have varying prices based on their R-value. Blanket and batt Insulation comprises of insulating fibers held together in a reflective foil, which are then rolled over the attic
Loose-fill insulation requires a blowing machine to spread loose insulating material over the attic. It is best for attics with irregular spaces or many obstructions.
Spray foam insulation is usually the most expensive of these options and is available in a closed-cell option that provides a barrier against air and water.
All these types of insulation are priced differently and the costs will be determined by which insulation you choose.
- Attic Space
The square footage of your attic is an important factor in determining the cost of the insulation project. A large attic will require a bigger budget for insulating while a smaller one will cost less.
The number of access points, including chimneys, windows, and doors are also a factor as the areas around these access points have to be insulated.
If you are planning to use the attic space for storage, you may need to add boards on top of the insulation as any obstructions may reduce their efficiency. This will require additional costs.
- Condition of the attic
Assessing the current condition of the attic can be used to gauge the amount of work to be done and has an effect on the overall cost of the project. A wet or damp attic with moldy or rotten rafters, for example, would give an indication of moisture problems that may have stemmed from a leak.
This problem has to be addressed before insulation installation. If the attic has no such problems, less work has to be done in preparation for the installation, and so the insulation costs should be lower.
- Local climate
The department of energy recommends different minimum R-values across different climate zones.2
Houses in warmer climates have a lower minimum recommended R-value while that of houses in cold climates is higher. This makes it more expensive to insulate a house in the cold climate zones.
Professional Attic Insulation Costs: Is it Expensive to Insulate Your Attic?
Initial installation costs may seem a bit expensive, but they are a worthy long-term investment. Different contractors have varying charges, but you should pay more attention to professional contractors with more experience.
While DIY insulation is cheaper, you would have to overlook important factors like the effectiveness of work done, exposure to hazardous materials, and access to quality materials.
Links to sources used
- Methodology for Estimated Energy Savings from Cost-Effective Air Sealing and Insulating- https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate/methodology
- Insulation | Department of Energy – Energy.gov- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/insulation
