The cost to insulate your home varies depending on several factors, including the type of insulation used and where it's needed. You can estimate the total cost of the project with our insulation costs estimator.

Insulation costs are based on materials, labor and equipment. They can vary from region to region and can also be dependent on how easy it is to access the space.

Costs

Insulation is a worthwhile investment that will save you money on energy costs and reduce your reliance on fossil fuels for home heating. It also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve indoor air quality, and increase your home's value when you are ready to sell.

Costs for insulation vary depending on the type of material and installation method used. Fiberglass batt and roll insulation are typically the most inexpensive option, while polyurethane spray foam costs more.

Additional costs include site prep and cleanup. These costs include any repairs needed to the walls, attic, basement, or crawl space and removal of any old insulation or materials. Mold remediation may also be required. These costs can add to the overall cost of the project, especially if the home needs to be cleaned up before the work begins.

Materials

There are several different types of materials that insulation is made of. The type of material you choose will have an impact on the cost of your project.

Fiberglass batts are the cheapest material. Wood fiber is slightly more expensive while mineral wool comes in at a little higher.

Insulation can also be manufactured from reclaimed or recycled products. One example is cellulose, recycled cotton and plastic fibers treated with borate to resist pests and fire.

Extruded polystyrene is another common foam board insulation material that is available in several thicknesses. It starts as a molten material that is then pressed into sheets. It’s moisture resistant and can be faced or laminated. Its performance and costs over time depend on how it’s installed, the number of surfaces that it covers and the amount of existing insulation in the home.

Labor

Insulation helps maintain the proper temperature in buildings and mechanical systems by preventing heat loss. It also reduces noise and prevents fires. The people who install insulation for these purposes are insulation workers.

They install materials that insulate walls, ceilings, boilers, steam pipes, and many kinds of industrial containers. They may also install fire-stopping materials to protect equipment from flames and smoke.

Costs of labor vary by the type of insulation used and the size and location of the project. Homeowners can install insulation themselves for small areas, such as around doors and windows, but large jobs are best left to professionals.

Some types of insulation, such as spray foam, are more expensive to install than others. This is because they require specialized equipment and labor. However, they can improve energy efficiency and decrease utility bills.

Equipment

The right equipment can make your insulation project go faster, smoother and more safely. Here’s a checklist of the tools that you should have on hand to get the most out of your project.

Aside from the materials, other aspects of the installation process can drive cost as well. Where the installation will take place, the weather conditions and the prevailing wage for your local crews can all contribute to the overall price of the job.

Insulation is not cheap. You can expect to pay a premium for insulating harder to reach areas of your home, or reinstalling drywall after installing insulation.

SMA MEP Estimate best way to determine the true cost of your insulation is to get a quote from a reputable contractor. They can assess the scope of work you need and provide a written estimate. They can also tell you if your home is eligible for a rebate from an energy provider or other company.