How much does insulation cost?
The cost of insulation will vary significantly, with prices as high as $2,800. However, homeowners spend an average of $350 for insulation installation and upgrades (keep in mind this average cost includes small and big spaces).
The actual cost you pay will depend on a number of factors, including where you live, the total square footage of your space, the cost of labor and any preparation and cleanup work needed to complete the job. The type of insulation is one of the biggest factors. Contact insulation contractors near you to get price estimates.
What are the advantages of insulating a house?
Insulating your home has many benefits and is worth the time, energy and money. Here’s why:
- Insulation reduces energy and heating costs.
- Less energy consumption also results in a reduction of pollutant emissions.
- Insulation prevents condensation from moisture and stark temperature differentials.
- And it reduces noise from passing through the walls.
How do I hire someone to insulate my home?
The best way to hire someone to insulate your home is by searching for contractors near you online or using the Thumbtack app. Start by entering your zip code to find a list of top-rated insulation contractors in your area. Then, whittle down the search results by customer ratings and reviews. Pay special attention to the positive (and negative) reviews, and check out the contractors’ photos — these can give you an idea of the contractors’ quality of work on past insulation projects.
Also, check licensing requirements in your state and ensure that whoever you work with has a license (if needed). The final step is reaching out to at least three or more contractors to receive cost estimates and compare bids.
What is insulation?
Insulation is a material that slows or inhibits heat flow from one area to another. It can take many forms. A common type is fiberglass or mineral wool (aka rock wool and sag wool). Another is cellulose insulation, an environmentally friendly option that is blown into wall cavities. Sprayed foam insulation is a go-to option if you need to add insulation to existing areas and around obstructions.
What is r-value insulation?
R-value — or thermal resistance value — is a measure of any surface or material’s resistance to heat flow. The greater the R-value, the more insulation the material provides. R-value depends on the thickness, density and type of insulation, as well as the moisture accumulation, age and temperature.
What are some common types of insulation?
There are several common types of insulation, including:
- Batts and rolls, which are usually made from fiberglass or mineral wool and can be placed between wall studs and ceiling/floor joists.
- Concrete block insulation, which protects the outside of concrete walls from significant heat loss.
- Blown-in insulation, which is made from fiberglass, cellulose or mineral wool and can fill in irregularly shaped areas.
- Spray foam, which has a high R-value and is great at stopping air from leaking through holes and cracks.
If you’re not sure which type of insulation you should install in your home, an insulation contractor can help you decide.
Can insulation be added to existing walls?
It can be difficult to add insulation to existing walls, but it’s not impossible. If you’re finishing your basement or adding siding to your house, you might want to add new insulation to the existing wall. Contact an insulation contractor to find out what your walls require — and how much it will cost.
What are the signs I need new insulation?
There are several signs you might need new insulation. For example, you may need to upgrade your insulation if:
- Your electricity, heating and cooling bills continue to rise.
- An auditor notes during your whole-house energy assessment that you need insulation in certain areas.
- Your rooms have uneven (and uncomfortable) temperatures.
- Drafts of cold air are entering your house.
- You’re having moisture, mold or mildew issues.
If you think your home might be under-insulated or it’s time for some better insulation, hire an insulation contractor
near you.
Can you put insulation over existing insulation?
There are many cases in which it is acceptable to place new insulation over old insulation. The main instance in which you shouldn’t place new insulation over old insulation is when the old insulation is wet or decayed. Also, keep in mind where the vapor barrier is. If there is a layer of vapor barrier between the new and old insulation, it can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.
If you're not experienced in insulation installation, hire an insulation contractor near you to take on this job.
What areas should I insulate in my home?
There are several absolutely critical parts of your home you should insulate to save on energy costs, retain heat, reduce noise and protect your pipes and ductwork. The first is the attic and roof. Because heat rises, it will naturally tend to escape through the top of a house. Insulating the attic or roof can prevent heat loss. Insulating the walls is next on the list. You can also insulate your flooring, crawlspace and basement.
To find someone to help you insulate these areas in your home, start searching for insulation contractors near you on Thumbtack.