When it comes to insulating your home, the cost is one of the first things that comes to mind.
You want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money while keeping your home comfortable year-round. Whether you’re considering fiberglass or foam insulation, understanding the costs involved can help you make an informed decision.
In this article, we’ll break down the cost of fiberglass insulation and compare it to spray foam insulation cost to help you determine the best option for your home.
How Much Does Fiberglass Insulation Cost?
The cost of fiberglass insulation can vary depending on the size of your home, the areas you need to insulate, and the type of fiberglass insulation you choose.
For this article, we’ll provide estimates based on a typical 1,500-square-foot home, which is about the average size of homes built in the 1970s. Using the Home Depot calculator, we will use this average to determine the estimated cost of Owens Corning fiberglass insulation materials for different areas of the home.
Attic Floor Insulation
For the attic floor, you might consider the R-19 – R-60 AttiCat Pink Fiberglass Blown-in Insulation 27.5 pounds, which costs $302.68.
Exterior Wall Insulation
To insulate the exterior walls of your home, you might use the R-13 Faced Fiberglass Insulation Batt 15 in. x 93 in., which costs $612.56.
Crawl Space Ceiling Insulation
The R-13 Faced Fiberglass Insulation Roll 23 in. x 93 in. in the crawl space is a good fit and would cost around $473.82.
Basement Ceiling Insulation
For the basement ceiling, the R-13 Faced Fiberglass Insulation Roll 23 in. x 93 in. would be the best fiberglass option costing right around $475.
These estimates are for materials only and do not include additional supplies such as fasteners, utility knives, dust masks, safety glasses, work gloves, and other necessary tools.
DIY Insulation vs. Hiring a Contractor
When considering fiberglass insulation cost, you need to decide whether to take on the project yourself or hire a professional contractor.
If you opt for the DIY approach, the prices mentioned above will cover the cost of the materials. However, if you decide to hire a contractor, you should expect to pay roughly double these estimates to cover labor and materials.
While doing it yourself might seem like a cost-saving option, installing fiberglass insulation incorrectly can lead to poor performance and even damage to your home. For example, if you’re considering blown-in or loose-fill fiberglass insulation, you’ll need to rent the necessary equipment, which adds to the cost and complexity of the project.
To ensure the job is done right and to avoid any potential headaches, hiring an experienced contractor is often the best route.
Types of Fiberglass Insulation: Batt, Roll, and Loose-Fill
Fiberglass insulation comes in three primary forms – batts, rolls, and loose-fill.
Understanding the differences between these options can help you choose the right one for your project.
Fiberglass Roll Insulation
As the name suggests, fiberglass rolls come in large rolls that can be cut to fit between joists and studs.
These rolls typically range from 20 to 40 feet in length and are ideal for covering large, unobstructed areas like attics and crawl spaces.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation
Fiberglass batt insulation comes in pre-cut sections that fit snugly into spaces between studs, joists, and beams.
Batts can be faced with a vapor barrier like paper or aluminum, which helps prevent moisture from seeping into the insulation. Some batts also come with flame-retardant coverings, making them suitable for exposed areas.
Fiberglass Loose-Fill Insulation
Loose-fill fiberglass insulation is applied using a blowing machine, making it ideal for filling irregular or hard-to-reach spaces like attics or wall cavities.
However, due to the complexity of the installation, it’s usually best to hire a professional contractor for this type of insulation.
What is R-Value and Why Does it Matter?
R-Value measures an insulation’s ability to resist the flow of heat.
Insulation that has a higher R-Value can provide better heat resistance. This makes R-Value a good number to know, but when it comes to spray foam insulation, it doesn’t tell the whole story due to the air seal it creates.
Heat flows in and out through radiation and convection. Heat loss through convection, or airflow, can account for nearly 40 percent of total energy loss in a home.
Where to Use Fiberglass Insulation in Your Pittsburgh Home
Fiberglass insulation is versatile and can be used in various areas of your home, depending on the specific needs of each space.
Another option is to use loose-fill fiberglass to fill the trusses of the attic flat.
Attics
Fiberglass rolls are ideal for covering long, unobstructed spans in your attic.
They can be laid out easily between the joists to provide effective insulation.
Walls
Fiberglass batts are well-suited for insulating walls.
The batts can be cut to fit snugly between studs and covered with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture buildup.
Floors and Ceilings
Fiberglass insulation can be used in floors and ceilings to help reduce heat transfer between levels of your home.
This is particularly useful in basements and crawl spaces.
The Installation Process for Fiberglass Insulation
Installing fiberglass insulation is a straightforward process but requires attention to detail to ensure it’s done correctly.
- Measure the Area: Measure the space where you plan to install the insulation. This will help you determine how much material you need.
- Cut the Insulation: For batt and roll insulation, cut the material to fit the space you’re insulating. Use a utility knife and a straight edge to make clean, precise cuts.
- Install the Insulation: Place the insulation into the space, making sure it fits snugly between the joists, studs, or beams. If you’re using loose-fill insulation, you’ll need a blowing machine to fill the area evenly.
- Fluff the Insulation: Once installed, fluff the insulation to ensure it expands to its full thickness, which maximizes its R-Value.
- Seal the Edges: If necessary, use a vapor barrier to cover the insulation and seal the edges to prevent air and moisture infiltration.
Fiberglass Insulation Cost vs. Spray Foam Insulation Cost
While fiberglass insulation is a popular choice due to its lower upfront cost, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of spray foam insulation when making your decision.
Spray foam insulation offers a higher R-Value and an airtight seal that can significantly reduce energy costs over time.
Cost Comparison
- Fiberglass Insulation Cost: As we’ve outlined, the cost of fiberglass insulation for a typical 1,500-square-foot home can range just from the materials alone. If you hire a contractor, the total cost could be double.
- Spray Foam Insulation Cost: While spray foam insulation has a higher upfront cost, typically ranging from $2,000 up to $24,000 depending on the size of the home and the area to be insulated. With that being said, spray foam does offer a better long-term energy savings.
Performance Comparison
- Fiberglass Insulation Performance: Fiberglass is effective at slowing down heat transfer, but it doesn’t provide an air seal. Over time, fiberglass can also settle or degrade, reducing its effectiveness.
- Spray Foam Insulation Performance: Spray foam not only insulates but also seals gaps and cracks, preventing air leaks. This can lead to better overall energy efficiency and lower heating and cooling costs.
Making the Right Choice for Your Pittsburgh Home
When deciding between fiberglass and spray foam insulation, consider both the upfront cost and the long-term benefits.
While fiberglass may be more affordable initially, spray foam insulation offers superior performance, energy savings, and durability over time.
Choosing the right insulation for your home is a significant decision that can impact your comfort and energy bills for years to come. By understanding the costs and benefits of fiberglass insulation compared to spray foam insulation, you can make an informed choice that fits your budget and meets your long-term needs.
If you’d like to request a free in-home estimate, just fill out the form on our website.
