How much does insulation cost?
The cost of insulation will vary significantly, with prices as high as $2,800. However, homeowners spend an average of $350 for insulation installation and upgrades (keep in mind this average cost includes small and big spaces).
The actual cost you pay will depend on a number of factors, including where you live, the total square footage of your space, the cost of labor and any preparation and cleanup work needed to complete the job. The type of insulation is one of the biggest factors. Contact insulation contractors near you to get price estimates.
What are the advantages of insulating a house?
Insulating your home has many benefits and is worth the time, energy and money. Here’s why:
- Insulation reduces energy and heating costs.
- Less energy consumption also results in a reduction of pollutant emissions.
- Insulation prevents condensation from moisture and stark temperature differentials.
- And it reduces noise from passing through the walls.
How do I hire someone to insulate my home?
The best way to hire someone to insulate your home is by searching for contractors near you online or using the Thumbtack app. Start by entering your zip code to find a list of top-rated insulation contractors in your area. Then, whittle down the search results by customer ratings and reviews. Pay special attention to the positive (and negative) reviews, and check out the contractors’ photos — these can give you an idea of the contractors’ quality of work on past insulation projects.
Also, check licensing requirements in your state and ensure that whoever you work with has a license (if needed). The final step is reaching out to at least three or more contractors to receive cost estimates and compare bids.
What is insulation?
Insulation is a material that slows or inhibits heat flow from one area to another. It can take many forms. A common type is fiberglass or mineral wool (aka rock wool and sag wool). Another is cellulose insulation, an environmentally friendly option that is blown into wall cavities. Sprayed foam insulation is a go-to option if you need to add insulation to existing areas and around obstructions.
Why should you hire a contractor?
Hiring a general contractor is a good idea for many remodeling projects. Home renovation contractors have a broad range of skills to manage, coordinate and complete a project. They should help make sure your project comes in on time and within your budget as they hire and supervise all the necessary subcontractors, including electricians and plumbers. They also handle procuring all the materials required for your job. Some homeowners look to save money by acting as their own contractor, but an experienced home renovation contractor is worth the cost. They should know local building codes, be able to pull all necessary permits, and work with inspectors to make sure the construction meets local codes. Also, because they get professional discounts, they can typically buy materials at a better price than you can; better prices on materials and labor save you money, and make up for at least a percentage of the cost of the contractor.
What are the signs I need new insulation?
There are several signs you might need new insulation. For example, you may need to upgrade your insulation if:
- Your electricity, heating and cooling bills continue to rise.
- An auditor notes during your whole-house energy assessment that you need insulation in certain areas.
- Your rooms have uneven (and uncomfortable) temperatures.
- Drafts of cold air are entering your house.
- You’re having moisture, mold or mildew issues.
If you think your home might be under-insulated or it’s time for some better insulation, hire an insulation contractor
near you.
Can you put insulation over existing insulation?
There are many cases in which it is acceptable to place new insulation over old insulation. The main instance in which you shouldn’t place new insulation over old insulation is when the old insulation is wet or decayed. Also, keep in mind where the vapor barrier is. If there is a layer of vapor barrier between the new and old insulation, it can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.
If you're not experienced in insulation installation, hire an insulation contractor near you to take on this job.
What’s the best way to set up a consultation or an appointment with a general contractor during the COVID-19 pandemic?
To set up a consultation or appointment with a general contractor during the COVID-19 pandemic, start by performing an online search for local professionals near you.
Message the contractor, and see if they are willing to set up a video consultation call instead of an in-person site visit. With video chat, the contractor may be able to assess the scale of the project, give you better information on what needs to be done and perhaps provide an estimate. Be sure to discuss virtual payments, as well as general strategies for staying safe.
Can I use digital payments to pay for general contractor services?
Currently, many general contractors are using common digital payment services like PayPal, Venmo, Square Cash, Zelle, Google Pay and more. And more will likely adopt these and similar platforms as coronavirus continues to force companies to take on digital capabilities.
Contact general contractors beforehand to discuss whether they accept digital payments, and take all necessary measures to meet social distancing recommendations. You can also compare general contractors side-by-side online to see which ones accept digital payments.
Can insulation be added to existing walls?
It can be difficult to add insulation to existing walls, but it’s not impossible. If you’re finishing your basement or adding siding to your house, you might want to add new insulation to the existing wall. Contact an insulation contractor to find out what your walls require — and how much it will cost.
