Adding insulation to your home can make it more comfortable year-round while helping you lower your energy bills. But when homeowners start asking, “How much does it cost to insulate a house?”—there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The total cost depends on several factors like the type of insulation, labor fees, and the size of your home. Don’t worry—we’ll make it simple to understand, with real numbers and practical advice.
Understanding the Overall Cost for Home Insulation
The cost of insulating a house can vary depending on whether you’re working with new construction or upgrading an older home. On average, most homeowners pay between $1,500 to $5,000 for a full insulation job. That includes materials and labor for attics, walls, crawl spaces, or basements.
The cost of insulation for house projects often depends on where the insulation is going and which type you choose—fiberglass batts, spray foam, blown-in cellulose, or rigid foam boards. Each comes with different performance and price points, which we’ll explore next.
Insulation Cost Per Square Foot: What to Expect
A more precise way to calculate your budget is to look at the insulation cost per square foot. Here’s a general idea:
- Fiberglass batts: $0.30 – $1.50 per sq. ft.
- Blown-in cellulose: $0.60 – $2.00 per sq. ft.
- Rigid foam boards: $1.00 – $2.50 per sq. ft.
- Spray foam: $1.00 – $4.50 per sq. ft.
If you’re insulating a 1,500 sq. ft. home, for example, material costs alone could range from $450 to over $6,000, depending on which type you use and the areas you need to cover.
Insulation Labor Cost Per Square Foot Explained
While materials make up a big chunk of the cost, you can’t forget about the labor. The insulation labor cost per square foot typically runs between $0.25 and $1.00, depending on the insulation type and project difficulty.
For example, blown-in insulation in an attic is usually quicker to install, while cutting and placing rigid foam boards inside walls might take longer, raising labor costs. If you’re hiring a pro, it’s a good idea to ask if they charge by square foot or by the hour so you can plan accordingly.
How Much Does Spray Insulation Cost?
Spray foam is popular for its air-sealing properties and long-lasting performance. But it comes at a higher price. So, how much does spray insulation cost? On average:
- Open-cell spray foam: $0.90 – $1.50 per sq. ft.
- Closed-cell spray foam: $1.50 – $4.50 per sq. ft.
Closed-cell foam is more expensive because it’s denser and provides higher R-values, which means better insulation performance. While the upfront cost is higher, it can lead to better energy savings over time, especially in extreme climates.
Factors That Affect Home Insulation Costs
There are a few key things that can impact your total insulation bill:
- Home size and layout – A larger home or one with hard-to-reach areas will naturally cost more to insulate.
- Type of insulation – Spray foam costs more than fiberglass, but may offer better results in some areas.
- Location – Labor and material costs vary depending on where you live.
- Prep work – Removing old insulation, repairing moisture damage, or sealing gaps before installing new materials can increase your total cost.
- Access – Attics or crawlspaces that are difficult to access may require more time and labor, raising the price.
Being aware of these variables can help you avoid surprises when getting quotes.
Tips to Save on Insulation Costs Without Compromising Quality
You don’t have to go cheap to save money—you just need to be smart about how and where you invest. Here are a few cost-saving tips:
- Focus on key areas first, like attics and exterior walls, where most heat escapes.
- Combine insulation types if needed—for example, using blown-in insulation in the attic and fiberglass batts in walls.
- Get multiple quotes from local contractors to compare prices.
- Check for rebates or tax credits in your area, especially if you’re using energy-efficient materials.
- Do prep work yourself—like clearing access to the attic or removing old insulation—if it’s safe and manageable.
Spending wisely now can save you a lot on heating and cooling bills later.
What’s the Wall Insulation Cost Per Square Foot?
Walls are an important part of your home’s insulation system. If you’re wondering about wall insulation cost per square foot, the typical price ranges from $1.00 to $3.50, depending on the insulation material and whether the wall is open or closed (finished).
For example, insulating open stud walls during a remodel is easier and cheaper than insulating closed walls, which may require drilling or removing drywall. Spray foam and blown-in cellulose are popular choices for walls because they can fill cavities completely.
Final Thoughts: Is Home Insulation Worth the Cost?
Absolutely. While the upfront cost might feel like a big investment, proper insulation pays off in lower energy bills, improved indoor comfort, and even better soundproofing. It also helps your HVAC system work more efficiently, which can extend its lifespan.
If you’re in Las Vegas and looking to upgrade your home’s insulation, Attic Insulation Las Vegas offers trusted, local expertise to get the job done right. Whether you’re insulating an attic, walls, or your whole house, they’re ready to help.
