How Much Does Attic Insulation Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $1,700 - $2,500
Attic insulation costs $2,100 on average, but prices can range from $1,700 to $2,500, or $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the type of insulation you choose and the size of your attic.
Insulating an attic costs $2,100 on average. The price you’ll pay can range between $1,700 and $2,500, or around $1 to $3 per square foot. The total cost depends on a few factors, like the type of insulation you need and how much you plan to use.
Installing attic insulation can improve your household's quality of life, helping to keep you warm and cozy during frigid winters and cool and comfortable during sweltering summers. More importantly, it can make your home more efficient, reduce your electric bills, and improve your indoor air quality. In this guide, we’ll discuss the factors that contribute to the cost of attic insulation and some ways to save.
- Average
- $2,100
- Low end
- $1,500
- high end
- $3,500
Attic Insulation Cost Factors
Several key factors affect the cost of attic insulation, including the amount you need, the insulation type, and labor.
Amount of Insulation
The amount of insulation you need depends on the size of the attic and the desired insulation level or R-value. You’ll typically match the insulation coverage to the attic size, assuming you’re insulating the entire attic space. Here’s how much you can expect to pay for insulating different attic sizes:
| Attic Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 300 | $300–$900 |
| 500 | $500–$1,500 |
| 800 | $800–$2,400 |
| 1,000 | $1,000–$3,000 |
| 1,500 | $1,500–$4,500 |
You’ll need to account for the recommended R-value of your climate zone, as well. The higher the desired R-value, which represents the insulation's thermal resistance, the thicker the insulation needs to be. Colder climates generally require higher R-values to provide effective insulation.
To achieve the desired R-value, the insulation may need to be installed in multiple layers or in thicker batts or rolls. The more insulation material required to cover the attic space, the more it will contribute to the initial cost of finishing an attic.
Insulation Material
The type of insulation you choose is among the most significant factors affecting cost. Each material has a different R-value, which makes it more or less effective in insulating the space.
Generally, blown-in insulation is the most affordable insulation type. Meanwhile, the materials and labor required to install rigid foam board insulation make it one of the more expensive options, but it has a higher R-value.
Not every type of insulation works for every attic. For instance, a lot of people love the strength and energy efficiency of structural insulated panels, but due to their relatively large standard sizes, retrofitting them isn’t always possible.
Some types are also better suited to specific climates. Reflective insulation, for example, is less expensive than other common types, but if you live in a cold climate, you'll likely need to combine it with another type of insulation to be effective during the winter. For that reason, reflective insulation is best used as a radiant barrier.
Here’s what you can expect to pay for different insulation materials.
| Attic Insulation Type | Average Cost Per Square Foot | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Batt | $2 to $4 | DIY installation and standard-sized attics |
| Blown-In | $1 to $4 | Filling irregular spaces and insulating existing attics |
| Loose Fill | $2 to $5 | Large, open attic spaces and cooler climates |
| Reflective | $0.50 to $2 | Hot climates or attics with limited insulation space |
| Rigid Board | $2 to $5 | High R-value and reducing moisture |
| Spray Foam | $2 to $5 | Sealing gaps and attics with complex shapes |
| Structural Insulated Panels | $4 to $7 | Achieving strong insulation in new attics |
Air Sealing Costs
Air sealing involves removing all of your attic's insulation to find and resolve any air leaks. Many pro insulators air seal attics before installing new insulation, but this process can be costly, ranging from $250 to $750. Even though it's expensive, it's often worth it since air sealing can prolong the lifespan of your insulation while helping to block out moisture and drafts.
Air sealing is beneficial in any area of the home, but it’s particularly helpful in the attic for keeping your heating bills down in colder weather. Hot air rises and will naturally escape through gaps in the attic, and sealing helps keep the heat inside.
Removing Old Installation
New insulation can sometimes be added right on top of old insulation, but only if the old insulation is still in good condition. If the old insulation isn't in great shape, then you'll need to pay someone to remove it or remove it yourself. Hiring an insulator to remove it typically costs $1 to $1.50 per square foot, so you'll want to factor that price into your project budget if needed.
Labor
The labor cost for attic insulation installation can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the attic, accessibility, and the insulation method chosen. On average, you can expect to pay around $1.50 to $3 per square foot for labor.
For a typical attic, the labor cost for insulation installation can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the aforementioned factors. It's important to note that labor costs can vary among insulation contractors, so it's advisable to obtain multiple quotes to get a more accurate understanding of the labor costs for your specific attic insulation installation project.
Keep in mind that the labor cost typically includes not only the installation of insulation material but also any necessary preparatory work, such as clearing the attic, air sealing, and addressing ventilation issues. It’s a good idea to discuss what’s included in the total price with the contractor beforehand.
Inspection
The cost of an attic insulation inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the region, the complexity and accessibility of the attic, and the service provider. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for a professional attic insulation inspection. However, it's important to note that these are general estimates, and the actual cost may differ.
Some insulation contractors may offer free attic inspections as a promotional or introductory offer, while others may charge a fee that can be applied toward the insulation project if you decide to hire them for the job. It's a good idea to obtain multiple quotes from reputable insulation professionals in your area to get a better understanding of the specific costs involved in an attic insulation inspection.
Installing Attic Insulation Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro
For a professional insulation installer, you’ll likely pay around $55 to $85 an hour. Installing insulation yourself means you can avoid the labor costs associated with hiring a pro, so you only have to pay for the cost of the insulation material. DIYing is possible for most types of insulation, and it’s a relatively straightforward process if you’re installing the following types of insulation:
Fiberglass batts
Fiberglass rolls
Blown-in insulation
Loose fill
Other types of insulation are more challenging and labor-intensive, including the following:
Rigid foam board
Structural insulated panels
Spray foam
If you think these insulation options will suit you best, we recommend hiring an attic insulation company near you to do the work for you. You should avoid installing spray foam insulation yourself, as mistakes during the process can actually damage your home, and getting a good seal can be a challenge.
Additionally, some types of insulation require you to rent a machine, such as a blower, in the case of blown-in insulation, which typically costs $175 to $250 per day to rent. While it's true that it's simpler to install insulation in an unfinished rather than finished attic, it can also be more dangerous, especially if there isn't a proper floor installed, leading to potential falls.
How to Save Money on Attic Insulation Costs
Installing attic insulation is very often worth it and ends up saving you money on energy bills over time. Still, the work can get expensive. To save money on attic insulation costs, consider the following strategies.
Assess your insulation needs accurately: Conduct a thorough inspection of your attic to determine the current state of insulation and identify any areas that require improvement. By understanding your insulation requirements, you can avoid over-insulating and ensure that you invest in the right amount of insulation material.
Obtain multiple quotes from insulation contractors: Reach out to different contractors in your area and request detailed cost estimates for the insulation project. Compare the quotes, taking into account factors such as the materials used, labor costs, and any additional services offered. This allows you to make an informed decision and select a contractor that offers a competitive price without compromising on quality.
Explore energy efficiency incentives and rebates: Many regions have programs or initiatives that offer financial incentives for improving energy efficiency in homes, including attic insulation. Research local energy efficiency programs, utility company incentives, or government rebates that may be available in your area. Taking advantage of these opportunities can help offset the cost of attic insulation and make it more affordable.
Tackle some of the preparatory work yourself: This could involve tasks like clearing the attic space, removing existing insulation (if necessary), or addressing minor air sealing and ventilation improvements. However, be cautious and ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and safety precautions in place before attempting any DIY insulation work.
Choose the right time of year to insulate: According to Angi customer data, October and November are the busiest months for booking insulation installers. The least busy months are April, May, and June, when there’s milder weather and fewer people are thinking about insulation. By booking during slower months, you can potentially save money and schedule pros more easily, which will prevent heat from escaping through your roof once winter sets in.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best type of attic insulation depends on where you live, your budget, and what stage of construction the attic is in. For example, if you're building a house, then structural insulated panels are a worthy investment since they're easy to install during construction and they're the most energy-efficient type of insulation.
Additionally, if you live in a very warm climate, then you can potentially save quite a bit of money by opting for reflective insulation, which is more affordable than comprehensive insulation but doesn't work well for cool climates. Blown-in, loose-fill, and spray foam insulation are all great options for attics in moderate climates.
On average, attic insulation costs $1 to $3 per square foot, so for a 1,800-square-foot attic, you’d pay $1,800 to $5,400, including materials and labor. The cost can vary depending on what type of insulation you use, how many insulation layers you need, and whether you need to remove existing insulation first.
Air sealing isn't necessary for attic insulation, but it's incredibly helpful since it can help you identify and patch any existing air leaks. Failing to find these leaks before adding insulation can render your insulation less effective, leading to higher energy bills and potentially costly repairs down the line.
If you’re moving wires, installing new wires, or installing new fixtures in the space you’re insulating, then you will need to hire a licensed electrician to do that portion of the job for you. However, if you just intend on replacing old insulation or adding new insulation over existing insulation, then you don’t need to hire one. Your insulation installer will work around wiring, fixtures, outlets, and switches, even if they’re installing fiberglass batts in the voids where wires run. However, you will need an electrician if you suspect a problem with your wiring during the insulation work.
Structural insulated panels and rigid foam boards have the highest R-value of any insulation that contractors commonly use, with R-values reaching up to around 8.0. These types of insulation are best in extremely cold climates, but they’re generally preferred for new construction, as they can be challenging to retrofit. Blown-in and loose fill insulation provide the next best insulative value, provided the installation is done properly. It’s important to choose an insulation type that meets your needs based on climate, as maximizing R-value may not always be financially worthwhile if you live in a moderate climate.