Do you have some unanswered questions about the best attic insulation? We've got answers! Read below for solutions to some of the most common inquiries homeowners have about attic insulation.
There's no exact science to choosing the type of insulation you use, but you must consider several factors:
First, you'll need to think about the size of your space.
How much square footage of material will you need? Your measurements will affect the cost, so working with precise information is essential. Next, you'll need to consider what material you'd like to use. Loose-fill materials come in bags and are blown into place, meaning you can install the material to your desired density and depth. But remember that these materials require special machinery, so you'll have to rent the equipment or hire an expert.
Alternatively, you can choose from batts or rolls, which come in pre-cut sections. They work best in spaces without obstructions, and your attic should ideally have adequate headroom. The final consideration to make is the material's R-value. A fabric with a higher R-value will offer better insulation performance. You'll see manufacturers list their products with R-values like R-13, R-23, R-30, etc.
The cost of attic insulation will vary greatly depending on your location, the materials you choose, and the size of your space. Some experts estimate that the price ranges between $1 and $7 per square foot. Most homeowners can expect to pay $1,500 on average, including materials and labor. You can save money by installing attic insulation yourself, but you must be knowledgeable in the techniques; otherwise, you risk doing a sub-par job and creating the need for a do-over down the line to fix any issues.
The most energy-efficient attic insulation will depend on the material's R-value. From our experience, spray foam attic insulation tends to have high R-values. It's dense and reaches the tightest nooks and crannies.
No option is better than another. It all depends on the homeowner's preferences and needs. For example, blown attic insulation is easier to install in spaces with irregular sizes and shapes. However, rolled attic insulation is generally simpler to install, as it doesn't require special machinery.
It's best to look for attic insulation materials that don't contain additives. Cellulose is a natural option, as it contains recycled materials. As a result, it's less likely to irritate your family members' lungs.