Why Insulation Matters

With the ever-growing rise in energy costs and stricter requirements to make homes more energy efficient and sustainable, it’s no wonder re-insulating is becoming more popular. And it’s one of the more accessible energy upgrades, as many homeowners can tackle the job themselves. Let’s explore why insulation matters and how to spot potential issues in your home.

Energy Costs Trending Upward

It’s hard to predict the future with any real certainty. But it’s fair to assume the last few decades of steadily rising energy costs aren’t likely to change any time soon.

Demand for energy continues to grow as our population on Earth expands, and that typically means higher prices when it comes to energy—due to factors like limited supply, strain on infrastructure and fuel-based pricing. Adding to that, there are climate and weather extremes, infrastructure upgrades, market volatility and our gradual transition to renewables that can all play a part in rising prices, too.

Energy Savings Potential

By some estimates, 89% of single-family homes in the U.S. are not adequately insulated, especially older homes. The EPA estimates that U.S. homeowners can save an average of 15% on their heating and cooling expenses each year by insulating often-ignored spaces like attics, crawl spaces and basements. In older homes, this savings can rise by up to 20%. Plus, in some areas of the country, local utility companies offer rebates and incentives for insulation upgrades, which can help offset any costs associated with the work.

Average Homeowner Re-Insulation Costs

Choice of insulation materials will, of course, affect your bottom line. Fiberglass batts or rolls tend to be on the cheaper side of insulation types, typically costing between 50¢ and $1.50 per square foot. Blown-in cellulose or fiberglass will cost you about 60¢ - $1.80 per square foot. And spray foam kits cost about $1 - $2 per square foot for open-cell foam and $1.50 - $3 per square foot for closed-cell foam.

Depending on insulation type, the average homeowner doing the work themselves in a 2,000 square-foot home can expect to spend between $1,000 and $3,000. If you’re planning on hiring a professional, this same work will typically cost more than double, between $2,500 and $8,000.

Common Areas to Re-Insulate—and What to Look For

Attic

• Compressed, damp or missing insulation
• Visible joists—indicating poor coverage
• Signs of pest or mold
• Air leaks around vents, chimneys and light fixtures

Exterior and Interior Walls

• Drafts or cold spots
• Discoloration or moisture
• Lack of insulation—especially common in homes built before the 1980s
• Sound transmission between walls

Floors Over Unheated Spaces—Garages and Crawlspaces

• Gaps or missing insulation under floorboards
• Moisture or mold in crawlspaces
• Rodent damage or droppings

See more on insulating your garage in our blog: Getting Your Garage in Gear for Fall and Beyond

Basements

• Uninsulated rim joists
• Cracks or moisture intrusion
• Cold walls and floors
• Signs of condensation

Windows and Doors

• Drafts around frames
• Condensation between panes
• Loose or deteriorating weatherstripping
• Single-pane windows—consider an upgrade

Ductwork

• Uninsulated ducts in unconditioned spaces
• Loose connections or visible gaps
• Dust buildup around joists—indicating leaks

Plumbing and Electrical Openings

• Gaps around pipes, wires and outlets
• Cold draft near utility penetrations
• Missing or damaged sealant or foam

Re-insulating isn’t just about staying more comfortable. It’s a smart investment in energy efficiency, lower utility bills and the long-term health of your home. Whether you’re tackling if yourself or hiring a pro, these targeted improvements will pay off in any season.

Thanks for reading along. Stay tuned for future blogs and social media posts from us with other helpful tips.