When it comes to insulating your attic, there are a few options to consider. From reflective insulation to structural insulation panels, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Built-in attic insulation is ideal for most attics because it effectively fills voids and irregularly shaped areas. A larger attic would, of course, involve the installation of more insulating material, which would take longer and cost more.
Reflective insulation is a radiant barrier attached to a thin thermal layer that provides an R-value of R-3 to R-21 when combined with a dead air space during installation. Structural insulation panels (SIPs) are large panels (4 feet x 8 feet and up to 8 feet x 24 feet) that are mainly used in new construction, but are sometimes installed on beams when an attic is converted to a conditioned space. The cost of attic insulation installation services can vary significantly depending on the size of the attic and the type of insulation used. Homeowners in colder regions often end up spending more than the national average on attic insulation due to the larger size of their attics.
The differences in the price range will become more evident as you go up and down the ladder of attic sizes and different types of insulation. Before or after insulating the attic, you can consider encapsulating the attic if it contains HVAC equipment, ducts, or stored objects or if sealing the attic floor requires too much labor. If your attic has had leaks or moisture problems, you may have mold growing in the area or affecting the insulation. An energy audit can help you determine if your attic needs more insulation and which areas you should insulate first.
The cost of attic insulation installation services will depend on several factors such as the type of insulation, whether the attic is partially insulated, and how accessible the different areas are. Loose fill insulation is made of the same material as blown fill insulation, but it costs a little more labor to install. The final cost per square foot will also depend on these factors.
