The cost of blown-in insulation can vary greatly depending on the space, materials, and labor involved but generally ranges from $1,540 – $4,630 with a national average cost of $2,580.
What is blown-in insulation? Blown-in insulation is a type of insulation that is installed using a blower machine. This machine mixes loose-fill insulation material with air. Then it disperses the material through a hose into areas such as attics, crawl spaces, and other locations that require protection from heat transfer.
For pricing information about all types of insulation, see our broader home insulation cost guide.
Table Of Contents:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Size
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Comparison Costs for Blown-In vs. Batt vs. Spray Foam Insulation
- Related Services
- Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
- Cost by Location
- FAQ About Blown-In Insulation
Average Blown-In Insulation Costs
National Average Cost | $2,580 |
Typical Price Range | $1,540 – $4,630 |
Extreme Low-End Cost | $710 |
Extreme High-End Cost | $6,430 |
While most blown-in insulation installations cost between $1,540 – $4,630 (with a national average cost of $2,580), homeowners can spend as little as $710 or as much as $6,430, depending on several factors.
Why the huge range in price? The cost of blown-in insulation varies depending on the type of material used. Fiberglass is usually the most common and least expensive option, while wood fiber can be the priciest. The larger the area, the more expensive the cost to insulate it.
Blown-In Insulation Cost Estimator By Size
Insulation Area in Square Feet | Average Cost To Install |
100 | $130 – $330 |
200 | $330 – $760 |
300 | $400 – $990 |
400 | $660 – $1,520 |
500 | $660 – $1,650 |
700 | $700 – $2,000 |
1,000 | $1,330 – $3,300 |
1,500 | $1,990 – $4,950 |
2,000 | $2,650 – $6,600 |
2,500 | $3,310 – $8,250 |
3,000 | $3,980 – $9,900 |
The cost of blown-in insulation per square foot can vary depending on the thickness of the insulation, the material type, and which part of the home the insulation is being installed in.
Generally, exterior walls in existing homes use only around 5 inches of insulation material at once, while an attic floor in a new house may require up to 18 inches. Overall, the costs for insulating an attic floor are often more expensive than for walls.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
Aside from the size of the area that needs to be insulated, there are several factors of your project that can raise or lower the cost of blown-in insulation. Learn more about some of those factors below:
Insulation Material
Regarding insulation materials that can be blown in, these are the three most common choices: fiberglass, cellulose, and rock wool.
For insulation in existing walls, wet spray cellulose is typically used. Fiberglass, dense-pack cellulose, or rock wool are commonly employed in other parts of the home. These materials can be applied to both new homes and existing homes.
Fiberglass Blown-In Insulation
The cost of fiberglass blown-in insulation is $0.40 – $1.10 per square foot (for material only) and $1.00 – $2.80 per square foot, including professional installation.
Fiberglass insulation consists of glass fibers melted down into a paper-like material and recycled for reuse as insulation. It has a higher R-Value than some of the other materials.
Cellulose Blown-In Insulation
Blown-in cellulose insulation is a great way to increase energy efficiency and keep energy bills low. When considering this option, the material cost is around $0.50 – $2.10 per square foot. With professional installation, costs can range from $1.20 to $2.80 per square foot.
Cellulose is made up of recycled newsprint and other plant-based materials that are treated with various chemicals to make them fire retardant and resistant to insects, mold, and mildew.
There are two types of cellulose blown-in insulation:
- Wet-Spray Cellulose: Wet cellulose insulation costs $0.60 to $1.90 per square foot for the material only. Wet-spray or damp-spray insulation is loose-fill cellulose, fire retardant, water, and adhesive sprayed into wall cavities before covering them with drywall. Wet cellulose insulation works best in new construction.
- Dense-Pack Cellulose: Dense-pack cellulose costs $1.80 – $3.30 per square foot for the material only. Dense pack, also called “drill and fill”, is a method of blowing loose cellulose into wall cavities at high pressure. You must drill holes into each wall cavity to insert the insulation. This can be a cost-effective and minimally invasive option for older homes. Plus, dense-pack insulation is great for exterior walls.
Rock Wool Blown-In Insulation
On average, rock wool (also called mineral wool) costs about $1.30 – $2.20 per square foot for the material alone. When professionally installed, expect to pay in the range of $1.90 – $4.20 per square foot. Rock wool is produced from rock, furnace slag, and other raw materials in a granular form that can be applied loosely to wall and ceiling cavities and attics.
Brand
Insulation Brand | Price Per Square Foot (Material Only) |
Greenfiber | $0.30 – $0.60 |
Owens Corning | $0.30 – $0.60 |
Applegate | $0.40 – $1.50 |
American Rockwool | $1.80 – $2.50 |
Nu-Wool | $1.30 – $3.00 |
The above table reflects the current costs of blown-in insulation from some of the most well-known brands.
Greenfiber Blown-In Insulation Price
Greenfiber Insulation is a cost-effective solution that is made up of 85% recycled materials. Their prices range from $0.30 to $0.60 per square foot. Greenfiber’s products are an eco-friendly alternative for environmentally-conscious homeowners looking to insulate their homes.
Owens Corning Blown-In Insulation Price
Owens Corning insulation has been a part of homebuilding since the 19th century, and the company continues to make all types of fiberglass products. One of their most popular is their AttiCat line of blown-in insulation. This expanding fiberglass is designed to fill cracks and crevices in many home areas and is self-feeding, minimizing contact with the user. It averages between $0.30 and $0.60 per square foot in material costs.
Applegate Blown-In Insulation Price
Applewood Insulation offers quality, eco-friendly blown-in cellulose insulation materials that are highly affordable and safe. With prices ranging from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot in material cost only, Applewood’s products contain at least 85% recycled content. They are treated as insect-resistant and flame-retardant, exceeding most state regulations for fire safety. They offer both dense-packed and damp-sprayed cellulose.
American Rockwool Blown-In Insulation Price
American Rockwool specializes in rock wool blown-in insulation, typically costing between $1.75 and $2.50 per square foot in material cost only. American Rockwool is made from recycled blast furnace slag and trap rock, giving it the unique properties of being non-combustible, non-corrosive, and less likely to settle than other loose types of insulation.
Nu-Wool Insulation Price
Nu-Wool offers eco-friendly insulation options for DIY and professional installations. This material ranges from $1.30 to $4.00 per square foot in material cost only and is made mainly of recycled content. Nu-Wool has been a manufacturer of green products since 1949, making them an extremely trusted source for homeowners’ insulation needs.
Household Area
The above chart reflects the installed costs for blown-in insulation in different areas of the home. Costs vary so much because different amounts of insulation are needed for different areas.
Wall Insulation
Blown-in wall insulation is a cost-effective, efficient way to insulate wall spaces. The installation process involves forcing wet cellulose fibers through holes into the open cavities of the walls using special equipment. The fibers grab hold of drywall, studs, and sheathing and fill the cavity completely. Professionally installed blown-in wall insulation typically ranges between $1,280 – $3,580.
Attic Insulation
Professionally installed blown-in attic insulation costs anywhere from $1,070 to $3,500. This type of insulation is usually applied after spray foam insulation. Attics should have roughly twice the amount of insulation as walls, as they contain more heat that could rise and escape. Installing enough insulation in the attic can prevent hot air from escaping and better maintain a comfortable temperature within.
Crawl Space Insulation
When looking to insulate a crawl space with blown-in insulation, homeowners have multiple options. The most popular materials used are spray foam, fiberglass, and rigid board. Professional installation for crawl space blown-in insulation can vary from $700 to $2,250 depending on the type of insulation selected and the square footage of the insulated crawl space.
Ductwork Insulation
Ductwork insulation is often an afterthought during the design and installation of ductwork systems, but it’s an important factor not to overlook. The cost of professionally installed ductwork insulation typically ranges from $400 to $1,000 but is not limited to that range. This price range can vary due to the many sizes and configurations of the ducts, their location, and their layout.
Garage Insulation
Are you looking to raise the comfort level in your garage or to keep out outdoor temperatures? The cost range for garage insulation is approximately $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the size of the garage and the materials used. The type of insulation best suited for a particular garage will depend on if existing drywall is in place or if walls and ceiling are left exposed.
Roof Insulation
The cost range for roof insulation is approximately $1,500 to $4,500, depending on the size of the roof and the materials used.
R-Value
R-Value/Thickness of Insulation | Material Cost |
R-13 (3.5”) | $300 – $800 |
R-15 (3.5”) | $450 – $880 |
R-21 (5.5”) | $630 – $1,100 |
R-23 (5.5”) | $780 – $1,400 |
R-30 (10.25”) | $420 – $600 |
R-38 (13.00”) | $540 – $800 |
R-44 (15.00”) | $630 – $920 |
R-49 (16.50”) | $720 – $1,000 |
R-60 (20.00”) | $870 – $1,300 |
The above chart shows the typical R-Values of various blown-in insulation products and the cost for each (materials only). Each R-Value has a minimum thickness, also shown in the chart above.
What is R-Value?
R-Value is a standard measure used to determine the effectiveness of insulation. An insulation’s R-Value indicates its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-Value number, the greater the heat resistance and the more effective the insulation.
Labor Costs
The cost of labor is an essential factor to consider when you’re looking to do a blown-in insulation job, as it makes up 30 – 60% of the overall cost. Depending on the location, installers typically cost $40 – $70 per hour. This type of job can be time-consuming and involve insulating larger areas that require multiple days of work.
On average, installation costs are approximately $1.15 – $1.50 per square foot due to the manual process that requires users to hold and control a hose throughout the installation.
Older Homes vs. New Home Construction
- Older Homes: If you’re looking for insulation for existing walls, you’re in luck! Blown-in insulation is an easy and cost-effective way to insulate your home. Insulation companies can add the insulation directly into your pre-existing walls. The cost of insulating an older house is around $1.80 – $3.40 per square foot.
- New Homes: Insulating a home during new construction can be slightly more labor-intensive than in existing homes. Careful consideration should be taken before blowing in any insulation to ensure the space has been adequately laid out first. Blown-in insulation costs approximately $1.80 – $3.90 per square foot in newly-constructed residences.
Comparison Costs for Blown-In vs. Batt vs. Spray Foam Insulation
Aside from blown-in insulation, batt and spray foam insulation are also popular options. Compare their costs in the chart above and learn more about these alternative insulation types below.
Batt Insulation
Batt insulation is a common type of insulation made of either fiberglass or mineral wool (also called rock wool). It usually comes in custom pre-cut sizes and offers a budget-friendly option for insulating your home. Batt insulation typically costs between $0.70 and $2.30 per square foot when installed by a professional.
Spray Foam Insulation
If you’re considering spray foam insulation, typical costs fall in the range of $1.50 – $4.30 per square foot, professionally installed. Spray foam insulation is a liquid insulation material that is sprayed into walls, floors, and ceilings. The foam expands and hardens to fill even the tightest nooks and crannies. Because of its ability to “fill in” gaps, air leakage is significantly reduced with spray foam compared to other forms of insulation materials.
Related Services
When you’re having insulation installed or replaced, you may run into additional problems that require professional help. See below to learn how much it could cost you to solve these problems.
Mold Remediation
Mold remediation is a process in which affected materials, such as insulation, are removed and properly disposed of if they contain mold. This should always be done before installing new insulation as it can prevent further contamination and the spread of dangerous mold spores. The average cost for mold remediation typically falls between $1,380 – $3,450.
Asbestos Removal
If you’re planning to blow in insulation, it’s essential to check your home’s age to see if asbestos is present. Some homes that were built before the 1990’s probably have asbestos shingles or asbestos in other areas. Asbestos removal is a hazardous process and should be completed by an abatement company trained in safe removal techniques. Professional asbestos remediation costs between $690 – $1,830.
Air Sealing
Air sealing is a process designed to prevent cold drafts and air leaks between the attic and living space by using caulk, foam sealants, or expanding foam. This is especially important if there are significant gaps around HVAC ducts, fans, fireplace flues, or ceiling light fixtures. Professional air sealing may cost from $350 – $3,000, depending on the size of the area and the complexity of the job.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
The costs to install blown-in insulation DIY depend on the R-value (thickness) of the insulation and the required material quantity.
Generally, 10 to 20 bags of blown-in insulation can cover 1,000 square feet and will cost between $300 – $800. Furthermore, you will need to rent an insulation (blower) machine to blow in the loose-fill material. To rent this machine, the typical cost ranges between $100 – $150 per day and $250 – $480 per week. See a breakdown of all DIY costs below.
Supplies Needed | Average Cost |
Tape Measure | $13 |
Yardstick | $6.90 |
Insulation Machine (Blower Machine) | $100 – $150/per day |
Shop Vac (Heavy Duty Work Vacuum) | $30/per day |
Utility Knife | $12 |
Bags of Loose-Fill Insulation (cost depends on R-Value and Quantity) | $300 – $800 10-20 bags, R-13 (3.5” thickness), 1,000 square feet |
Work or Latex Gloves | $14 |
Dust Mask | $12 |
Heavy Duty Extension Cords | $48 |
Safety Goggles | $13 |
Metal Fire Safety Barrier | $35016” wide x 28” long, Composite Sheet |
Total DIY Cost: | $900 – $1,450 |
The chart above includes a “basic” list of supplies for a day’s worth of work and gives an idea of what you’ll need to complete the job. That being said, it doesn’t “total- up” all the costs since these vary depending on the size of the home’s area, R-Value, and other additional tasks such as insulating between wires or around ducts.
Cost of Blown-In Insulation Installation by Location
Want to determine the cost of blown-in insulation in your area? Generally, the cost is reflective of labor costs in your area, so it’s best to talk to local insulation contractors for an accurate estimate.
Keep in mind that homes in colder climates typically require more insulation, so homeowners in the northern states might end up spending significantly more than the national average costs.
FAQ About Blown-In Insulation
Blown-in cellulose insulation typically lasts 20-30 years due to its composition of recycled natural materials, while fiberglass materials have an even longer lifespan since they don’t degrade over time.
When it comes to insulating your home, you can have too much of a good thing! In most parts of the United States, if you use blown-in insulation in your attic, an R-Value of 38 is all you need. Going beyond this level can actually cause more harm than good.
It is not recommended to handle blown-in insulation with bare hands. Handling fiberglass insulation can lead to the release of tiny particles which can get onto the skin and cause irritation and itching. Inhaling these particles can even result in more serious problems such as coughing, nosebleeds, or respiratory distress.
DIY or Hire a Pro for Blown-In Insulation?
The costs associated with a blown-in insulation project depend on whether you are a DIYer or calling on a professional. Other factors influence costs, as well, such as where you live in the US, the R-value of the insulation needed for that region, the size and complexity of the home areas needing insulation, and labor/installer costs. With all of this in mind, the national average cost of blown-in insulation is about $2,580, typically priced between $1,540 – $4,630.
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