Knowledge Builders

how much does it cost for blown in insulation

by Dr. Franco Conroy Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

Blown-in insulation cost ranges from $930 to $2,085, with most homeowners paying a national average of $1,507. Like other types of insulation, such as fiberglass batts and spray foam, blown-in insulation reduces thermal transfer from outside to inside.Jul 20, 2022

How much blown-in insulation do I need for 1000 sq ft?

On the insulation manufacturers label on every bag you'll find that for an R-25 you'll need 28 bags per 1000 sq ft. So if you have 2100 sq ft, take 28 x 2 = 56 bags for 2000 sq ft.

Is blown-in insulation worth the money?

Unless your home is relatively new, you will almost certainly benefit from installing blown insulation in your attic. It will make your home a more comfortable place to be in summer and winter, decrease the cost of your energy bills, and increase the value of your home.

How much does it cost to insulate a 1200 sq ft house?

The cost to insulate a 1,200 sq. ft. home averages $1,980 to $16,500. These costs are for the full range of options when insulating a home of this size.

How much does it cost to insulate a 1500 square foot house?

Property owners should expect to spend about $975 to $11,250 to insulate a 1,500-square foot home. Take note that insulation costs may vary and can increase or decrease, depending on whether the insulation comes during or after the construction of the house.

How often should you replace blown in insulation?

Unless damaged, it can last 80 to 100 years in most houses before it needs to be replaced. However, insulation can start falling from fiberglass batts after 15 to 20 years, so if your insulation was installed in batts well over a decade ago, it might be time for an inspection or a home energy audit.

Which is better spray foam vs blown in insulation?

Between spray foam and blown-in cellulose, which is better? Both spray foam and blown-in cellulose insulation have their advantages. Spray foam has a higher R-value, so it's the more effective insulator.

Which is better blown in insulation or batting?

Generally, we don't recommend installing batts in the attic — blown insulation can fill the space better for more energy-efficient performance.

How much does it cost to spray foam a 2000 square foot house?

Spray foam insulation cost per square footSquare feetAverage installed cost1,000$1,000 – $4,5001,500$1,500 – $6,8002,000$2,000 – $9,0002,500$2,500 – $11,3006 more rows•Mar 15, 2022

Is spray foam insulation worth it?

If you see the benefit of insulating your new construction home correctly from the start for long-term comfort, energy savings month after month, and fewer headaches while you live in the house, then spray foam insulation may very well be worth the extra cost to you.

Can mold grow on spray foam insulation?

As a product, spray foam insulation does not attract mold. And unlike wood or metal, spray foam does not rot, rust or deteriorate. This means that an area properly sprayed with foam insulation will never become a food source or a hospitable environment for a mold colony.

What is the cheapest way to insulate an old house?

You can simply use a foil for insulation as a cost-effective alternative. By stapling the foil sheets to your attic, the heat reflects down into your living space. Hence, it lowers your heating costs. Attic Insulation Installation Services in Lincolnwood provide satisfactory assistance and properly insulates your home.

How do you insulate an old house without tearing down walls?

How to Insulate Walls in an Old HouseApply a house wrap/vapor barrier to exterior walls.Attach 1-inch foam board insulation.Install siding over the insulation.Replace old windows with energy-efficient units.Caulk window trim and use weatherstripping to reduce air leaks.

How much does it cost to insulate a 1300 sq ft house?

Expect to pay between $0.25 and $2 per inch of thickness per square foot (one board foot) or $1 to $5 per square foot. The ROI on insulation is at 100 percent or more, and it's considered one of the best investments homeowners can make to their home.

How much does it cost to insulate a 1200 square foot attic?

In general, it costs between $1 and $1.50 per square foot to insulate an attic with blown-in insulation, so a 1,200-square-foot attic would run $1,200 to $1,800 to insulate. The final cost depends on the type of insulation and the required R-value.

How do you insulate a house with existing walls?

To add insulation to any exterior wall, holes are drilled between the studs of the existing walls. Then, spray foam, cellulose, or another form of loose-fill insulation can be blown in to fill up the wall cavities. Finally, the holes must be plugged up and refinished to match the rest of the wall.

What is labor cost to install insulation?

The average cost per square foot is between $0.30 to $1.50. So, for a 500-square-foot area, your estimate will vary between $150 to $700 if you do it yourself. For a professional job, add $200 to $500 for labor, and you're looking at around $350 to $1,000 for 6 hours of work.

Is blown-in attic insulation worth it?

Most of a home’s heat loss is through its roof, so it’s important to insulate the attic somehow. In cases where little or no attic insulation exist...

Should I remove old attic insulation before adding new?

If the existing insulation isn’t damaged or moldy, the contractor might be able to blow insulation right over top. However, in cases where the insu...

How long does blown-in insulation last?

Blown-in insulation lasts between 20 and 30 years. After around year 15, it does start to degrade and lose its effectiveness. Also, note that blown...

How much does it cost to have blown in insulation installed?

While $1,507 is the national average for having a home insulated with blown-in insulation, the final cost will vary based on several factors, including which type of insulation the homeowner selects and the going rate of labor in the community. Some installers use a mathematical formula for estimating the cost, while others use a blown-in insulation calculator.

What Is Blown-In Insulation?

Blown-in insulation is a loose, fluffy material typically made of fiberglass, cellulose, or rockwool. All three types of insulation come densely packed in large bags that the installer feeds into a blower machine. The machine mixes the insulation with air to fluff it up and then disperses it via a hose into open attics, crawl spaces, and around ductwork to add thermal protection.

How much does it cost to insulate a house?

Labor rates vary depending on where you live and the level of competition among insulating contractors, but expect to pay about $40 to $70 per hour to have insulation blown in. The longer it takes to insulate, the higher the final cost will be. It typically takes longer to insulate existing homes than new-construction homes, so labor costs may be higher if you live in an older home.

How much does it cost to remove asbestos insulation?

Some communities have strict rules about who can remove asbestos, so if asbestos remediation is necessary, expect to pay an average of about $2,020 to have it professionally removed or encapsulated. Other communities will allow homeowners to remove asbestos insulation themselves, but if so, consult your local building authority about how to do it safely.

How much does it cost to air seal an attic?

Gaps between the attic and living space below can result in uncomfortable drafts, so the installer may recommend air sealing which can add $350 to $1,500 to the project. Before insulating is also the time to make sure the home’s wiring is updated because it’s more challenging to do so after the wires have been covered with insulation. A licensed electrician will charge $50 to $100 an hour to update wiring.

Why do you need insulation in a wall?

Adding insulation to a wall reduces the risk of condensation forming on the inside of the walls. If you live in a region with high humidity, you may also want to consider running a dehumidifier.

Why is blow in insulation important?

Blown-in insulation offers several benefits, including increased comfort in a home’s living area due to reduced outdoor heat and cold transfer. In addition, adding insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs, help protect the home’s structure, and increase the home’s value.

How much does it cost to install blown in insulation?

As a general rule of thumb, the cost to install blown-in insulation is between $1.00 and $1.50 per square foot. Therefore, if you have a space that is 500 square feet, it will cost you between $500 and $750.

How much does it cost to insulate a 1500 sq ft home?

The overall cost to insulate a 1,500 square foot home is between $1,500 and $2,000. The vast majority of this is labor costs. If you were to complete this job yourself, you can expect to pay around $500.

How much does cellulose insulation cost?

However, blown-in cellulose is more expensive than fiberglass (as the table above shows). Cellulose insulation costs between $0.60 and $2.30 per square foot , resulting in a cost of $30 to $40 per bag. Cellulose insulation comes in damp-spray or dense packs. The costs of these are below:

What is the most common material used for insulation?

The traditional standard insulation is fiberglass. Fiberglass is made of small strands of glass; it is the most common material for rolls and batts for insulation.

What is R value in insulation?

The ‘R’ stands for resistance, or the amount that a material is able to prevent the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value, the greater the resistance. For more information see our guide What is Insulation R-value? At different R-values , the cost of materials and labor increases, thereby increasing the final cost. The table below gives a breakdown of this.

How much does it cost to fill a wall cavity?

For a wall space of 500 square feet (i.e. filling a wall cavity) you will pay between $500 and $750.

Is blown in insulation a form of insulation?

Blown-in insulation, therefore, is a supplemental form of insulation, unlike fiberglass rolls or batts. This changes the nature of financial decision-making. Since it’s not essential to have blown-in insulation, you can decide to install it as and when your financial situation is right to do so.

How much does blown in insulation cost?

The cost of materials itself is low and blown-in insulation can cost $1.00-$2.50 per square foot. You can choose between three main varieties of blown-in insulation, such as:

How much does it cost to blow in insulation?

Blown-in insulation costs between $900 and $3,000 often, but costs vary on many factors. Some builder-owners choose to install blown-in insulation on their own, and that saves thousands. However, it is common to hire out for blown-in insulation, and that can be pricey.

What Is Blown-In Insulation?

Blown-in insulation is a form of insulation that is literally blown into the space. Professionals or builder-owners use a blower machine to apply the insulation, and it leaves no gaps. One of the reasons it is so popular is that there is little room for error, and it is heat and flame resistant.

What is the best insulation for exterior walls?

There are two types of cellulose blown-in insulation to choose from: wet spray, and dense pack. Dense pack cellulose insulation is a great option, and it is best for exterior walls. You can also distinguish dense-pack cellulose from wet spray cellulose as it is up to $1.50 more per square foot.

How does labor cost vary?

Labor costs vary based on the space, amount of insulation, and the rate of your contractor. There are several possibilities when it comes to working time.

Is blow in insulation flammable?

Blown-in insulation is flammable, but the least flammable option is cellulose. However, insulation of any kind is only fire-resistant is it is professionally installed. Fiberglass insulation is also notable because it is naturally resistant to fire.

Can you buy blown in insulation by the bag?

It is common to buy blown-in insulation by the bag, and especially if you do it yourself. Some contractors simply charge by the square foot, but others have you buy the required number of bags beforehand. The following chart uses a 1,000 square foot space as an example.

How Much Blown-In Insulation Do I Need?

Follow a few simple steps to calculate the number of bags of insulation needed for a project.

How much does it cost to install insulation?

Installation costs run from $40 to $70 per hour. It is more expensive to install insulation in an older home than a new one. Thicker insulation is costlier since it takes longer to install.

How much does cellulose insulation cost?

The cellulose insulation cost per bag is typically around $30 to $40. It is made with recycled materials like newspaper and cardboard. The higher the R-value, the more you’ll pay for each project. Cellulose insulation comes in damp-spray and dense-pack.

What is the R value of blown insulation?

The R-value of blown insulation is dependent on the density and insulating factors of the material. The higher the R-value, the better insulating ability the material has. The Department of Energy recommends the following levels of insulation:

How much does it cost to insulate an attic?

The cost to insulate an attic with blown-in insulation runs from $600 to $1,200, assuming it is 1,000 square feet in size. If you choose to hire a professional, expect to pay from $40 to $70 an hour for labor in addition to the cost of materials. The average U.S. household should shoot for a minimum R-value of 30 for this project, or about 10 to 14 inches.

How much does it cost to rent an insulation machine?

The cost to rent a blow-in insulation machine varies. On average, you can expect to spend around $100 to $200 dollars for a 24-hour rental period. Some insulation manufacturers offer machine rental for free with the purchase of their product.

What if the R value of your home matches the R value of chosen insulation?

If the R-value requirement of your home matches the R-value of chosen insulation, then simply purchase enough insulation to cover the correct square footage (with some overage).

How Much Does Blown-in Attic Insulation Cost?

On average, you can expect to pay between $1.25 to $2.00 per square ft. to install attic insulation and material cost for Cellulose/Fiberglass with a R-value of: r-30 to r-60 insulation will cost between 0.15 to 0.65 cents per square foot. An average-size attic of 1,200 square ft. will usually cost about $1,600-$2,700. Get free estimates from insulation companies near you

When to get contractor pricing?

Try to get prices in late Fall, early winter – you should expect aggressive pricing discounts by waiting for a contractor’s down season.

Do you have to have a copy of the insulation manufacturer's installation requirements before starting?

Be sure to have a copy of the Insulation Manufacturer’s recommended installation requirements before starting, to make sure your project doesn’t end up costing you more money in the long-run.

What is Blown-In Attic Insulation?

Blown-in attic insulation refers to cellulose, fiberglass, and other insulation that’s thick, dense, and lumpy. It has a consistency similar to that of down feathers and can fit in tight areas such as walls or in between wires or ducts.

What is blow in insulation made of?

Blown-in insulation that’s used in homes is made from a variety of materials, such as recycled newspaper, cardboard, glass, and common waste.

What is the best insulation for a vertical attic?

We also recommend the Johns Manville Formaldehyde-free™ fiberglass insulation as the best fiberglass option. It provides thermal and acoustic insulation for your attic, perfect for both vertical and horizontal applications.

What is Johns Manville insulation?

The Johns Manville fiberglass insulation is available in a range of R-values to fit any home specifications. It’s perfecting for covering tight spaces, small gaps, or voids. It’s fire-resistant, thermally efficient, and won’t settle after installation.

How much does it cost to insulate an attic?

Home Advisor estimates that installing blown-in attic insulation costs anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for attics about 1000 square feet in size.

Why is it important to seal insulation before blowing?

Blown-in insulation can succumb to mold and rot if it comes in contact with a lot of moisture over an extended period of —which is why it’s important to ensure the area is sealed before blowing.

Why is insulation important in the attic?

Attic insulation is key to controlling your home temperature throughout the year. Heat naturally collects in your attic, making your house cooler or hotter depending on the season.

image

1.How much does blown-in insulation cost? - HomeGuide

Url:https://homeguide.com/costs/blown-in-insulation-cost

7 hours ago  · Blown-in wall insulation costs range from around $1,000 to $1,500 per 1,000 square feet of actual wall space (not floor space). The thickness of the wall cavity is typically …

2.Average Blown-In Insulation Costs 2022 – Forbes Home

Url:https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/blown-in-insulation-costs/

17 hours ago  · Blown-in insulation cost will vary depending on which type of installation is required. Insulating a new-construction home runs $1.65 to $3.80 per square foot, while …

3.How Much Does Blown-In Insulation Cost to Install? - Bob …

Url:https://www.bobvila.com/articles/blown-in-insulation-cost/

15 hours ago How Much Does Blown-In Insulation Cost? Blown-in insulation costs between $900 and $3,000 often, but costs vary on many factors. Some builder-owners choose to install blown-in …

4.Average Blown-In Insulation Cost - Full Price Breakdown

Url:https://www.basementguides.com/average-blown-in-insulation-cost/

20 hours ago  · The average cost of blown-in insulation is $1,000 to $1,500 to insulate 1,000 square feet of wall space. You might want to hire a professional for this work, particularly if you …

5.How Much Does Blown-In Insulation Cost? – Upgraded …

Url:https://upgradedhome.com/blown-in-insulation-cost/

27 hours ago  · Blown-in insulation costs $1,555, with most homeowners spending between $976 and $2,206. The price you pay will depend on the size of the area, the type of insulation you …

6.Blown-In Insulation Cost Per Square Foot - Angi

Url:https://www.angi.com/articles/blown-in-insulation-cost.htm

3 hours ago Attic Blown in Insulation – Installation Cost $115.00 – $125.00 $145.00 – $160.00 $175.00 – $195.00: Attic Blown in Insulation – Total $155.00 – $170.00 $195.00 – $215.00 $235.00 – …

7.How Much Does Blown-In Insulation Cost? - HomeAdvisor

Url:https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/insulation/install-blown-in-insulation/

5 hours ago We’ve made it easy to estimate the amount of blown-in insulation you need with our Insulation Calculator. Measure the length and width of your room and input the R-value best for your area …

8.Cost of Attic Blown in Insulation Calculator - Get (2022) …

Url:https://www.remodelingexpense.com/costs/cost-of-attic-blown-in-insulation/

6 hours ago

9.Blown-In Insulation Calculator

Url:https://www.lowes.com/n/calculators/blown-in-insulation-calculator

12 hours ago

10.Blown In Attic Insulation Pros and Cons [+ Cost in 2022]

Url:https://atticsandmore.com/blown-in-attic-insulation/

2 hours ago

11.Videos of How Much Does It Cost For Blown In Insulation

Url:/videos/search?q=how+much+does+it+cost+for+blown+in+insulation&qpvt=how+much+does+it+cost+for+blown+in+insulation&FORM=VDRE

34 hours ago

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9