How Much Does Attic Insulation Cost? [2024 Data]

Normal range: $1,700 - $2,100

Attic insulation costs $2,500 on average, but prices can range from $1,700 to $2,100 depending on the type of insulation you choose and the size of your attic.

How we get this data
A professional insulating an attic at a house
Photo: artursfoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Dan Simms
Written by Dan Simms
Contributing Writer
Updated November 28, 2023
A professional insulating an attic at a house
Photo: artursfoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

Attic insulation costs about $2,500 on average, though the price typically ranges between $1,700 and $2,100. However, the price to insulate an attic can reach as high as $3,500 or as low as $1,500, depending on factors like the type of insulation you need and how much you plan to use.

See the price range for attic insulation:
How we get this data
Normal range for U.S.
$1,700 - $2,100
  • Average
  • $2,500
  • Low end
  • $1,500
  • high end
  • $3,500
LOWHIGH

Attic Insulation Cost Factors

Several key factors affect the cost of attic insulation, including the amount you need and the insulation type.

Amount of Insulation

The amount of insulation needed for an attic directly affects the cost of insulating attics. Understandably, the more insulation material required, the higher the overall price will be because material and labor costs will go up. The amount of insulation you need depends on factors such as the size of the attic, its shape, and the desired insulation level or R-value.

Insulation is typically measured in terms of thickness or depth, usually in inches. The higher the desired R-value, which represents the insulation's thermal resistance, the thicker the insulation needs to be. Different regions have specific R-value recommendations and requirements based on climate conditions. For example, 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. Your insulation professional will calculate the cost of insulation material based on the coverage area or square footage. Therefore, the more insulation material required to cover the attic space, the more it will contribute to the overall cost of finishing an attic.

Insulation Type

The type of insulation you choose is among the most significant factors affecting cost.

Generally, blown-in insulation is the most affordable insulation type, and the materials and labor required to install rigid foam board insulation make it one of the more expensive options.

However, 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 or feasible, so they're better for new construction projects.

Similarly, something like fiberglass batt insulation is a great option for moderate climates, but if you’re installing behind walls that are already finished, you’ll more likely be limited to blown-in insulation.

Attic Insulation TypeRelative Cost ($–$$$)R-Value
Blown-In$$3.1–4.0
Fiberglass Batt or Roll$$3.1–3.4
Loose Fill$$$3.1–4.0
Reflective$3+
Rigid Board$$$3.8–6.5
Spray Foam$$$3.5–6.5
Structural Insulated Panel$$$$5.0–8.0

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.

Removal or Replacement Costs

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 unless you 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.

Installation Costs

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 essential to discuss the scope of work with the insulation contractor to ensure that all necessary tasks are included in the labor cost estimate.

Inspection Costs

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.

Angi Tip
According to the EPA, homeowners can save significantly on monthly heating and cooling bills by installing insulation in their attics, floors, and crawl spaces.
Ryan Noonan
Content Editor, Angi

How Much Does Attic Insulation Cost by Type?

The type of insulation you choose is the biggest factor affecting its overall cost. Different attic materials not only vary in cost, but the installation process can differ, resulting in much higher labor costs if the installation takes longer or is more challenging.

Attic Insulation TypeTypical Cost Per Square Foot
Batt$2 to $4
Blown-In$1 to $4
Loose Fill$2 to $5
Reflective$0.50 to $2
Spray Foam$2 to $5
Structural Insulated Panels$4 to $7

Blown-in Insulation

Generally, you can expect to pay $1 to $4 per square foot for this type of attic insulation. Blown-in insulation is composed of tiny bits of fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool fiber. A pro will use a blowing machine to blow the insulation into all of your attic's nooks and crannies. Opting for blown-in insulation saves you money since it's composed of the most affordable insulation materials and offers relatively short installation times.

Installing blown-in insulation is great for finished and unfinished spaces alike since your professional can get good coverage or insulation into small areas with ease. You can also DIY installing this insulation, but you do need to make sure you get the thickness and loft correct.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation sticks to virtually anything it touches, so your insulation professional can apply it just about anywhere in a room, even in rooms with unusual or cramped layouts.

There are two types of spray foam insulation: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell is the most affordable, but it doesn't do a great job of resisting moisture. Closed-cell costs a bit more, but it offers a better moisture barrier than open-cell. Typical spray foam insulation costs range from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the type you choose.

Batt or Roll Insulation

Consisting of long fiber rolls—insulation that’s either faced or unfaced with paper or reflective foil backing—fiberglass batt or roll insulation is usually composed of fiberglass or cellulose, but it can include other materials, like denim. Unlike spray foam and blown-in insulation, which can fit into tight, awkward spaces, batt insulation is usually best for large, standard-sized spaces since it doesn't fit well into cramped quarters. This type of insulation generally costs $2 to $4 per square foot.

Structural Insulated Panels

Structural insulated panels are among the priciest attic insulation types, but they also work the best. The panels are made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) with stiff foam insulation attached. Their thickness and mix of materials make them a great option for both insulating and soundproofing a room simultaneously.

They're generally stronger and more energy-efficient than other insulation types. But because the panels are often large (usually "4" by "8" or bigger), they can be hard to fit into an attic post-construction, so they're better for newly constructed homes. These panels typically cost $4 to $7 per square foot.

Loose-Fill Insulation

Similar to blown-in insulation, loose-fill insulation is made of cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool, but your professional will lay it into place rather than blow it into place. It can conform to any space, so it's a great option, no matter your attic's layout. It generally costs $2 to $5 per square foot to install loose-fill insulation.

Reflective Insulation

Usually made of aluminum foil, aluminized polyester, or another reflective material, reflective insulation reflects radiant heat to help maintain your home's desired temperature. It's less expensive than other common types of attic insulation, 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 in warmer climates to keep a home cool. Prices commonly range from $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.

Most homeowners only use this type as a radiant barrier to insulate a crawlspace, basement, or attic.

Cost to Install Attic Insulation Yourself

Thermal insulation at a new house
Photo: photovs / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

Hiring an attic insulation company near you will typically cost $55 to $85 per hour, in addition to the cost of materials. 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 actual insulation. 

However, insulating your attic can be a complex—and even dangerous—job, so you'll want to take some time to research the steps and skills involved, which vary quite a bit based on factors like your attic and the type of insulation you choose. For instance, if you have a finished rather than an unfinished attic, then insulating it will be more difficult since you'll need to install the insulation behind existing walls and potentially underneath the floor. 

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. There are also safety considerations to make. Insulation is composed of many tiny particles that can be dangerous if they get into your eyes or lungs, so you'll want to make sure you have proper protection, including goggles, gloves, and a dust mask rated for insulation. 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.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you’re comfortable with DIYing, it’s 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

If you do decide to go the DIY route to save some money, just be sure to wear solid protective gear to keep your eyes, lungs, and skin protected.

Other types of insulation are more challenging and labor-intensive, including the following:

  • Rigid foam board

  • Structural insulated panels

If you think these insulation options will suit you best, we recommend hiring a professional to do the work for you. You should avoid installing spray foam insulation, as mistakes during the process can actually damage your home, and getting a good seal can be a challenge.

Reasons to Install Attic Insulation

There are quite a few reasons why you should install insulation in your attic, especially if you want to convert an attic into a living space. Proper attic insulation can save you money on your monthly energy bills since it prevents interior and exterior air leaks and helps to maintain your interior temperature.

Structural insulated panels are generally the most energy-efficient insulation type, but all insulation types can provide some energy savings if properly installed. Insulation also helps prevent water vapor from seeping into your walls, which can gradually damage your home over time and lead to mold growth and poor indoor air quality.

In addition to protecting your home, attic insulation can keep air contaminants in your area outside where they belong. Outdoor pollutants, like mildew, mold, pollen, and dust, can more easily enter a poorly insulated home. Proper insulation can help to keep these pollutants out, making for cleaner indoor air.

How to Save Money on Attic Insulation Costs

Installing attic insulation is very often worth it and ends up saving you money in the long run on your heating and cooling bills. 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.

Save Money by Timing Your Attic Insulation Project Correctly

Additionally, you can save some money by choosing the right time of year to insulate your attic. Insulation installers tend to be busiest in the fall when most homeowners scramble to improve their home’s efficiency before the cold weather sets in. You could potentially save some money on the labor if you insulate in the spring or summer instead.

However, attic insulation will provide the greatest savings on your energy bills in the winter, as it prevents heat from escaping through your roof. If you’re looking for immediate savings, consider paying for attic insulation services in the fall, even if means paying a little more for the labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best type of attic insulation is highly dependent on your needs, so there's no single right answer. 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.

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Learn more about our contributor
Dan Simms
Written by Dan Simms
Contributing Writer
Dan is a writer and property manager and can be found sharing his home improvement tips on sites like EcoWatch and Today’s Homeowner. He loves sharing his years of hands-on experience and love of DIY to help homeowners bring their visions to life.
Dan is a writer and property manager and can be found sharing his home improvement tips on sites like EcoWatch and Today’s Homeowner. He loves sharing his years of hands-on experience and love of DIY to help homeowners bring their visions to life.
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