Attic insulation is essential for improving a home’s energy efficiency and comfort in Delaware. Adequate insulation helps to regulate indoor temperatures, reduce energy waste, and lower utility bills.

However, Delaware residents must consider several factors when adding or upgrading attic insulation, including materials, equipment, regulations, and labor.

This guide will provide all the necessary information on Delaware attic insulation, including the various insulation types, associated costs, and benefits of a well-insulated attic.

By using this comprehensive guide, Delaware homeowners can make an informed decision and take the first step toward creating a more energy-efficient and comfortable home.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

What type of insulation is best for Delaware attics?

The best type of insulation for Delaware attics depends on several factors, including the climate, the age of the home, and the homeowner’s budget. Generally, the most popular types of insulation used in Delaware attics are fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose, and spray foam insulation.

When it comes to attic insulation in Delaware, there are a few different types to consider, including:

  • Fiberglass batts: These are the most common type of insulation made of fine glass fibers. They come in pre-cut panels and are relatively easy to install.
  • Blown-in cellulose: This type of insulation is made of recycled paper and treated with a fire retardant. It’s blown into the attic using a special machine and can be a good option if your attic has hard-to-reach areas.
  • Spray foam: This is a more expensive option, but it offers the highest R-value (a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat flow) per inch. It also helps to seal air leaks in the attic.
  • Reflective Insulation: This type of insulation reflects heat away from the attic, helping to keep it cooler in the summer. It’s often used in conjunction with other types of insulation.

Proper attic insulation is important for several reasons:

  • Energy efficiency: Attic insulation helps regulate temperature and prevents hot or cold air from escaping, which can lower your energy bills.
  • Comfort: With good insulation, your home will be more comfortable, with fewer hot or cold spots.
  • Health: Attic insulation can help reduce moisture, leading to mold growth and preventing pests from entering your home.

By considering the different types of attic insulation available and their benefits, Delaware homeowners can make an informed decision and improve their home’s energy efficiency and comfort.

How much attic insulation do you need in Delaware?

The amount of attic insulation recommended for Delaware homes depends on several factors, including the climate zone, the type of insulation used, and the desired R-value (insulation’s ability to resist heat flow).

For Delaware, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends that attics be insulated to a minimum R-value of R-49 to achieve optimal energy efficiency and comfort. This typically translates to about 16-18 inches of fiberglass batt insulation or 13-15 inches of blown-in insulation.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the amount of insulation needed may vary based on factors specific to your home, such as its age, size, and layout. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional insulation contractor to determine the optimal insulation for your attic.

How much does attic insulation cost in Delaware?

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

The cost of attic insulation in Delaware varies depending on various factors, such as the type of insulation, the size of the attic, and the complexity of the installation. On average, the insulation cost in Delaware can range from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.

For example, if you have a 1,000-square-foot attic, insulating it can range from $1,500 to $4,000. However, remember that this is just an average range, and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on the abovementioned factors.

It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from insulation contractors in your area to better understand the cost of insulating your attic. When evaluating the cost, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of insulation, such as energy savings and increased home comfort.

Are there any rebates in Delaware for attic insulation?

Yes, there are rebates and incentives available in Delaware for attic insulation.

Energize Delaware’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program takes a comprehensive approach to improving a home’s comfort, energy efficiency, durability, and safety.

The program looks at how improvements throughout the house can work together to make the entire space more comfortable, energy efficient, and save money. It addresses any existing health and safety issues or lack of insulation quantity or quality before eligibility for program incentives.

Delaware homeowners can receive an instant rebate for 75% of the cost, up to $300, for a Home Performance Energy Assessment, which can lead to significant rebates to offset upgrade costs and typical utility cost savings of 20% or more.

The program includes comprehensive work performed by specially trained contractors to provide a healthier, safer, and high-quality home and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

Rebates are capped at 50% of the total installed cost up to the incentive level indicated, and eligibility requirements include meeting specific homeowner requirements, installing qualified products and equipment through an approved program contractor, and receiving a rebate reservation approval from the program before installation.

Improvements can include sealing air leaks, adding insulation, ensuring adequate ventilation, sealing and insulating ductwork, improving heating and cooling systems, and testing combustion and safety.

Additionally, the Weatherization Assistance Program offers a free service to help low-income households fix energy problems by providing weatherstripping, insulation, and energy-efficient light fixtures.

How to hire a Delaware attic insulation contractor

Here are some general steps to follow when hiring a Delaware attic insulation contractor:

  1. Research potential contractors: Look for contractors with experience in attic insulation, and check for reviews and ratings on websites like the Better Business Bureau or HomeAdvisor.
  2. Get multiple quotes: Reach out to a few contractors and request quotes. This will give you an idea of the average cost for attic insulation in Delaware and help you find a contractor who fits your budget.
  3. Check for licenses and insurance: Ensure that the contractor is licensed to work in Delaware and has liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
  4. Ask for references: Request references from the contractor and follow up with them to see if they are satisfied with the work.
  5. Review the contract: Carefully read it and ensure that it includes all the details you discussed, including the scope of work, timeline, and cost.
  6. Communicate clearly: Keep the lines of communication open with the contractor throughout the project, and make sure you are both on the same page regarding the work being done.
  7. Conduct a final inspection: Once the project is complete, conduct a final inspection with the contractor to ensure that the work has been done to your satisfaction.

Adding insulation to your attic is one of the most effective ways to save money on electricity bills and make your home energy efficient.

However, there are many things to consider when applying attic insulation, as it involves buying the right equipment, knowing how much material to buy, and hiring the right type of labor. Not only that, but there are also federal, state, and local regulations regarding home insulation that needs to be taken into account before embarking on this process.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

West Virginia homeowners will need to optimize these various components to make sure they’re getting the best possible attic insulation for their homes. In this article, we discuss which components West Virginia residents need to keep an eye on to make sure their attic stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

West Virginia Attic Insulation Guide

What type of insulation is best for West Virginia attics?

Depending on which parts of your attic you’re trying to insulate, we recommend two different types of insulation material.

West Virginia Attic Insulation Types

Floor Insulation

For attic floors, there are two main types of insulation: roll and batt insulation and loose-fill or blown-in insulation. Batt and roll work best between joist and stud spaces, or for wide-open spaces or crawl spaces. Blown-in insulation works best for extremely tight spaces, or if an area already has insulation installed but needs a little more to top it off. They’re also useful for filling wood joists, as they allow air through the spaces and require insulation.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Get Quote

In West Virginia, it’s more likely than not that your attic is going to need insulation in tight spaces. Blown-in insulation is perfect for that scenario, as it provides better coverage in smaller areas and is less expensive than roll and batt insulation. You can purchase fiberglass or cellulose insulation, whichever you prefer. Just remember that installing blown-in insulation is going to require a special insulation blowing machine that you’ll likely need to rent.

Roof Insulation

For insulation under your roof, we recommend using multi-layer reflective insulation. That might sound complicated, but we assure you it’s quite simple and is extremely beneficial for efficiently heating or cooling your home.

During the summer months, the sun’s radiant energy heats your roof shingles, which then transfers that heat into your attic through conduction. Your attic then becomes much hotter and stuffy, and the heat travels down into the rest of your home, making the entire house hot. During the winter, it has the opposite effect, as the heat generated by your heaters escapes through the attic walls.

Multi-layer reflective insulation addresses this issue by reflecting radiant heat rather than letting your attic absorb it. Thus, radiant heat can’t get through your attic roof and walls as easily, allowing your attic and the rest of your home to be better air-conditioned. During the winter, the heat generated from inside will also be reflected back into the attic and home, making your home that much warmer.

West Virginia has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and cold winters.

Knowing which materials to use is a key step in the process. The subsequent component deals with just how much attic insulation you’re going to need for your West Virginia home.

How much attic insulation do you need in West Virginia?

To determine how much insulation you’re going to need, measure the length times the width of the attic or whichever space you’re trying to insulate to get the square footage. For blown-in insulation, reference the back of the package to determine the proper height to get the correct R-value for your project.

The R-value is a measurement of thermal resistance, or how much the insulation can properly resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation will be in keeping warm air in or out of your attic. 

Depending on where you are in the United States, the R-value that you’ll need is going to differ due to varying climate conditions. In fact, there are 8 different climate zones designated by the U.S. Department of Energy that has different R-value recommendations for attics, basements, and other walls. Due to the geographical location and coverage of West Virginia, the State falls into two climate zones.

West Virginia Attic Insulation R-value

Climate Zone 5 includes Barbour, Brooke, Doddridge, Fayette, Grant, Greenbrier, Hampshire, Hancock, Hardy, Harrison, Lewis, Marion, Marshall, Mineral, Monongalia, Nicholas, Ohio, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Preston, Raleigh, Randolph, Summers, Taylor, Tucker, Upshur, Webster and Wetzel. For Zone 5, a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 30.

For Zone 4 includes Berkeley, Boone, Braxton, Cabell, Calhoun, Clay, Gilmer, Jackson, Jefferson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, Mason, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Monroe, Morgan, Pleasants, Putnam, Ritchie, Roane, Tyler, Wayne, Wirt, Wood and Wyoming, and a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 19.

Thus, square footage and R-values are important determinants of how much insulation you’re going to need for your attic. If you’re unsure about exactly how much insulation you’re going to need, there are R-value calculators online, or you can call a contractor for an accurate quote.

How much does attic insulation cost in West Virginia?

Once you’ve figured out what insulation you need and how much needs to be installed, you’re on your way to contacting a contractor and starting the process. But before you do so, it’s important to understand the costs involved with attic insulation.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Get Quote

Generally speaking, attic insulation can cost anywhere from $1,100 to $1,500, or between $1.50 to $3.50 per foot, depending on the material you choose and how much space you need to cover. As we noted earlier, blown-in insulation is the cheapest option. However, contractors often charge around $70 an hour, and in some cases, you might need to hire an electrician to make sure you aren’t disrupting any junction boxes or cables when insulating the attic. Electricians charge up to $85 an hour.

For West Virginia homes, the cost of insulating your attic doesn’t necessarily vary a whole lot, but it’s still important to research average costs depending on where you live. Every house is going to be different, and every city or county is going to have different code regulations. Make sure you check your local building codes for not only R-values but also vapor barrier requirements.

For example, homeowners in Charleston, West Virginia paid on average $1,558 for attic insulation. Compare that to another city in West Virginia, say Wheeling, the average cost is about $1,420.  And also Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in West Virginia.

Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in West Virginia, making it a reliable tool for determining your budget. Even Manta, however, recognizes that their estimates do not include things like permit costs, inspection fees, and labor fees, as that often varies depending on location and contractor rates.

Before contacting a professional to start applying insulation, ask yourself these questions about attic-dependent work outside of insulation:

  • Is everything in your attic air sealed? Do you need to fix your ductwork to prevent moisture buildup?
  • Does your attic have good ventilation? Does everything that’s ventilating into the attic have a way out of it?
  • Is there any mold in your attic? Have you contracted someone to come remove said mold?

If you have all of these bases covered, your attic insulation budget will be far more accurate. Contractors will also have an easier time getting your attic checked and insulated if you’ve taken care of the listed components.

Incentives, tax credits, rebates, and savings programs

Here are programs that are available to West Virginia homeowners looking to add insulation:

Residential Weatherization Assistance Program

Through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issues grants to states, territories, and some Indian tribes to improve the energy efficiency of low-income homes in their jurisdictions. The DOE and state governments do not directly issue grants to low-income families or perform the retrofits. Instead, states, territories and Indian governments contract with local governments and nonprofit agencies who provide the weatherization services. Low-income homes that qualify for the program will receive free weatherization services based on the needs of the home, and the rules established by the state.

Interested low-income families will need to apply for assistance through their state weatherization agency. Each state establishes its own income requirements based on DOE guidelines. However, under DOE guidelines, applicants are automatically eligible to receive weatherization assistance (pending the availability of funds) if they receive Supplemental Security Income or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. In other cases, states give preference to:

  • People over 60 years of age
  • Families with one or more members with a disability
  • Families with children (in most states)

Weatherization as defined by the WAP includes a wide variety of energy efficiency measures that encompass the building envelope, its heating and cooling systems, its electrical system, and electricity consuming appliances. WAP serves low-income homes free of charge and limits the amount of money that can be spent on any single residence as determined by federal rules. The average expenditure is $6,500. As a result, only the most cost-effective measures are included in the upgrade of a particular home. 

For more information, interested parties should contact their state weatherization agency.

How to hire a West Virginia attic insulation contractor?

Once you’ve figured out your attic insulation cost, what types of insulation you need, and how much of it that’s needed, it’s most likely time to find the contractor who can handle the process.

Get an attic inspection

An insulation contractor will be able to properly inspect your attic and decide the necessary steps to take for updating your home’s insulation. You can consult with contractors about what type of insulation to use, R-values, and many of the other components we discussed earlier.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

But choosing the right contractor is going to make or break the process, and it can be difficult to choose between tens of dozens of professionals who claim that they’re the best in the business. We’ve identified a few things to keep in mind when hiring an attic insulation contractor.

Make sure they are thorough

First and foremost, pick someone who is thorough and transparent about your attic. If your contractor comes by your house for an inspection, and they perform various diagnostic tests and look through every corner of your attic, that’s an indication of their experience and reliability. Beware of contractors who take a quick peek in your attic and simply suggest putting in a few inches of insulation. A good contractor should initiate conversations about your attic’s insulation and ventilation issues and provide detailed steps on how to move forward. 

Check online reviews

But don’t base your decision on just a single interaction with the contractor. Go online and look through their services and offers. If they provide things like lifetime warranties, that means a contractor is not only confident in their work, but they’re also willing to follow up on their services to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Check their online reviews as well to see what others are saying about a contractor. If reviews are generally positive, that’s a sign of a reliable contractor. 

Attic insulation is anything but simple, but West Virginia homeowners will greatly benefit from doing the proper research and spending their money on the right services and products. A properly insulated attic translates into a much more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

Adding insulation to your attic is one of the most effective ways to save money on electricity bills and make your home energy efficient.

However, there are many things to consider when applying attic insulation, as it involves buying the right equipment, knowing how much material to buy, and hiring the right type of labor. Not only that, but there are also federal, state, and local regulations regarding home insulation that needs to be taken into account before embarking on this process.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Wisconsin homeowners will need to optimize these various components to make sure they’re getting the best possible attic insulation for their homes. In this article, we discuss which components Wisconsin residents need to keep an eye on to make sure their attic stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Wisconsin Attic Insulation Guide

What type of insulation is best for Wisconsin attics?

Depending on which parts of your attic you’re trying to insulate, we recommend two different types of insulation material.

Wisconsin Attic Insulation Types

Floor Insulation

For attic floors, there are two main types of insulation: roll and batt insulation and loose-fill or blown-in insulation. Batt and roll work best between joist and stud spaces, or for wide-open spaces or crawl spaces. Blown-in insulation works best for extremely tight spaces, or if an area already has insulation installed but needs a little more to top it off. They’re also useful for filling wood joists, as they allow air through the spaces and require insulation.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Get Quote

In Wisconsin, it’s more likely than not that your attic is going to need insulation in tight spaces. Blown-in insulation is perfect for that scenario, as it provides better coverage in smaller areas and is less expensive than roll and batt insulation. You can purchase fiberglass or cellulose insulation, whichever you prefer. Just remember that installing blown-in insulation is going to require a special insulation blowing machine that you’ll likely need to rent.

Roof Insulation

For insulation under your roof, we recommend using multi-layer reflective insulation. That might sound complicated, but we assure you it’s quite simple and is extremely beneficial for efficiently heating or cooling your home.

During the summer months, the sun’s radiant energy heats your roof shingles, which then transfers that heat into your attic through conduction. Your attic then becomes much hotter and stuffy, and the heat travels down into the rest of your home, making the entire house hot. During the winter, it has the opposite effect, as the heat generated by your heaters escapes through the attic walls.

Multi-layer reflective insulation addresses this issue by reflecting radiant heat rather than letting your attic absorb it. Thus, radiant heat can’t get through your attic roof and walls as easily, allowing your attic and the rest of your home to be better air-conditioned. During the winter, the heat generated from inside will also be reflected back into the attic and home, making your home that much warmer.

Wisconsin has a humid continental climate with warm to hot summers and cold winters; While most of the state is of subtype warm-summer, the southern part falls under the hot-summer subtype.

Knowing which materials to use is a key step in the process. The subsequent component deals with just how much attic insulation you’re going to need for your Wisconsin home.

How much attic insulation do you need in Wisconsin?

To determine how much insulation you’re going to need, measure the length times the width of the attic or whichever space you’re trying to insulate to get the square footage. For blown-in insulation, reference the back of the package to determine the proper height to get the correct R-value for your project.

The R-value is a measurement of thermal resistance, or how much the insulation can properly resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation will be in keeping warm air in or out of your attic. 

Depending on where you are in the United States, the R-value that you’ll need is going to differ due to varying climate conditions. In fact, there are 8 different climate zones designated by the U.S. Department of Energy that has different R-value recommendations for attics, basements, and other walls. Due to the geographical location and coverage of Wisconsin, the State falls into two climate zones.

Wisconsin Attic Insulation R-value

Climate Zone 7 includes Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Florence, Forest, Iron, Langlade, Lincoln, Oneida, Price, Sawyer, Taylor, Vilas and Washburn. For Zone 7, a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 38.

For Zone 6 includes Adams, Grant, Menominee, Shawano, Barron, Green, Milwaukee, Sheboygan, Brown, Green Lake, Monroe, St. Croix, Buffalo, Iowa, Oconto, Trempealeau, Calumet, Jackson, Portage, Waushara, Dodge, Lafayette, Racine, Winnebago, Door, Manitowoc, Richland, Wood, Outagamie, Vernon, Chippewa, Jefferson, Ozaukee, Walworth, Clark, Juneau, Pepin, Wisconsin, Columbia, Kenosha, Pierce, Waukesha, Crawford, Kewaunee, Polk, Waupaca, Dane, La Crosse, Porta Dunn, Marathon, Rock, Eau Claire, Marinette, Rusk, Fond du Lac, Marquette and Sauk, and  a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 30.

Thus, square footage and R-values are important determinants of how much insulation you’re going to need for your attic. If you’re unsure about exactly how much insulation you’re going to need, there are R-value calculators online, or you can call a contractor for an accurate quote.

How much does attic insulation cost in Wisconsin?

Once you’ve figured out what insulation you need and how much needs to be installed, you’re on your way to contacting a contractor and starting the process. But before you do so, it’s important to understand the costs involved with attic insulation.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Get Quote

Generally speaking, attic insulation can cost anywhere from $1,100 to $1,500, or between $1.50 to $3.50 per foot, depending on the material you choose and how much space you need to cover. As we noted earlier, blown-in insulation is the cheapest option. However, contractors often charge around $70 an hour, and in some cases, you might need to hire an electrician to make sure you aren’t disrupting any junction boxes or cables when insulating the attic. Electricians charge up to $85 an hour.

For Wisconsin homes, the cost of insulating your attic doesn’t necessarily vary a whole lot, but it’s still important to research average costs depending on where you live. Every house is going to be different, and every city or county is going to have different code regulations. Make sure you check your local building codes for not only R-values but also vapor barrier requirements.

For example, homeowners in Milwaukee, Wisconsin paid on average $1,571 for attic insulation. Compare that to another city in Wisconsin, say Racine, the average cost is about $1,513.  And also Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in Wisconsin.

Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in Wisconsin, making it a reliable tool for determining your budget. Even Manta, however, recognizes that their estimates do not include things like permit costs, inspection fees, and labor fees, as that often varies depending on location and contractor rates.

Before contacting a professional to start applying insulation, ask yourself these questions about attic-dependent work outside of insulation:

  • Is everything in your attic air sealed? Do you need to fix your ductwork to prevent moisture buildup?
  • Does your attic have good ventilation? Does everything that’s ventilating into the attic have a way out of it?
  • Is there any mold in your attic? Have you contracted someone to come remove said mold?

If you have all of these bases covered, your attic insulation budget will be far more accurate. Contractors will also have an easier time getting your attic checked and insulated if you’ve taken care of the listed components.

Incentives, tax credits, rebates, and savings programs

Here are programs that are available to Wisconsin homeowners looking to add insulation:

Residential Weatherization Assistance Program

Through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issues grants to states, territories, and some Indian tribes to improve the energy efficiency of low-income homes in their jurisdictions. The DOE and state governments do not directly issue grants to low-income families or perform the retrofits. Instead, states, territories and Indian governments contract with local governments and nonprofit agencies who provide the weatherization services. Low-income homes that qualify for the program will receive free weatherization services based on the needs of the home, and the rules established by the state.

Interested low-income families will need to apply for assistance through their state weatherization agency. Each state establishes its own income requirements based on DOE guidelines. However, under DOE guidelines, applicants are automatically eligible to receive weatherization assistance (pending the availability of funds) if they receive Supplemental Security Income or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. In other cases, states give preference to:

  • People over 60 years of age
  • Families with one or more members with a disability
  • Families with children (in most states)

Weatherization as defined by the WAP includes a wide variety of energy efficiency measures that encompass the building envelope, its heating and cooling systems, its electrical system, and electricity consuming appliances. WAP serves low-income homes free of charge and limits the amount of money that can be spent on any single residence as determined by federal rules. The average expenditure is $6,500. As a result, only the most cost-effective measures are included in the upgrade of a particular home. 

For more information, interested parties should contact their state weatherization agency.

How to hire a Wisconsin attic insulation contractor?

Once you’ve figured out your attic insulation cost, what types of insulation you need, and how much of it that’s needed, it’s most likely time to find the contractor who can handle the process.

Get an attic inspection

An insulation contractor will be able to properly inspect your attic and decide the necessary steps to take for updating your home’s insulation. You can consult with contractors about what type of insulation to use, R-values, and many of the other components we discussed earlier.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

But choosing the right contractor is going to make or break the process, and it can be difficult to choose between tens of dozens of professionals who claim that they’re the best in the business. We’ve identified a few things to keep in mind when hiring an attic insulation contractor.

Make sure they are thorough

First and foremost, pick someone who is thorough and transparent about your attic. If your contractor comes by your house for an inspection, and they perform various diagnostic tests and look through every corner of your attic, that’s an indication of their experience and reliability. Beware of contractors who take a quick peek in your attic and simply suggest putting in a few inches of insulation. A good contractor should initiate conversations about your attic’as insulation and ventilation issues and provide detailed steps on how to move forward. 

Check online reviews

But don’t base your decision on just a single interaction with the contractor. Go online and look through their services and offers. If they provide things like lifetime warranties, that means a contractor is not only confident in their work, but they’re also willing to follow up on their services to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Check their online reviews as well to see what others are saying about a contractor. If reviews are generally positive, that’s a sign of a reliable contractor. 

Attic insulation is anything but simple, but Wisconsin homeowners will greatly benefit from doing the proper research and spending their money on the right services and products. A properly insulated attic translates into a much more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

Adding insulation to your attic is one of the most effective ways to save money on electricity bills and make your home energy efficient.

However, there are many things to consider when applying attic insulation, as it involves buying the right equipment, knowing how much material to buy, and hiring the right type of labor. Not only that, but there are also federal, state, and local regulations regarding home insulation that needs to be taken into account before embarking on this process.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Wyoming homeowners will need to optimize these various components to make sure they’re getting the best possible attic insulation for their homes. In this article, we discuss which components Wyoming residents need to keep an eye on to make sure their attic stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Wyoming Attic Insulation Guide

What type of insulation is best for Wyoming attics?

Depending on which parts of your attic you’re trying to insulate, we recommend two different types of insulation material.

Wyoming Attic Insulation Types

Floor Insulation

For attic floors, there are two main types of insulation: roll and batt insulation and loose-fill or blown-in insulation. Batt and roll work best between joist and stud spaces, or for wide-open spaces or crawl spaces. Blown-in insulation works best for extremely tight spaces, or if an area already has insulation installed but needs a little more to top it off. They’re also useful for filling wood joists, as they allow air through the spaces and require insulation.

Get a free attic inspection and quote to insulate your attic.

In Wyoming, it’s more likely than not that your attic is going to need insulation in tight spaces. Blown-in insulation is perfect for that scenario, as it provides better coverage in smaller areas and is less expensive than roll and batt insulation. You can purchase fiberglass or cellulose insulation, whichever you prefer. Just remember that installing blown-in insulation is going to require a special insulation blowing machine that you’ll likely need to rent.

Roof Insulation

For insulation under your roof, we recommend using multi-layer reflective insulation. That might sound complicated, but we assure you it’s quite simple and is extremely beneficial for efficiently heating or cooling your home.

During the summer months, the sun’s radiant energy heats your roof shingles, which then transfers that heat into your attic through conduction. Your attic then becomes much hotter and stuffy, and the heat travels down into the rest of your home, making the entire house hot. During the winter, it has the opposite effect, as the heat generated by your heaters escapes through the attic walls.

Multi-layer reflective insulation addresses this issue by reflecting radiant heat rather than letting your attic absorb it. Thus, radiant heat can’t get through your attic roof and walls as easily, allowing your attic and the rest of your home to be better air-conditioned. During the winter, the heat generated from inside will also be reflected back into the attic and home, making your home that much warmer.

Wyoming has a semi-arid, continental type of climate with warm and moderately wet summers and cold winters.

Knowing which materials to use is a key step in the process. The subsequent component deals with just how much attic insulation you’re going to need for your Wyoming home.

How much attic insulation do you need in Wyoming?

To determine how much insulation you’re going to need, measure the length times the width of the attic or whichever space you’re trying to insulate to get the square footage. For blown-in insulation, reference the back of the package to determine the proper height to get the correct R-value for your project.

The R-value is a measurement of thermal resistance, or how much the insulation can properly resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation will be in keeping warm air in or out of your attic. 

Depending on where you are in the United States, the R-value that you’ll need is going to differ due to varying climate conditions. In fact, there are 8 different climate zones designated by the U.S. Department of Energy that has different R-value recommendations for attics, basements, and other walls. Due to the geographical location and coverage of Wyoming, the State falls into three climate zones.

Wyoming Attic Insulation R-value

Climate Zone 7 includes Lincoln, Sublette and Teton. For Zone 7, a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 38.

For Zone 6 includes Albany, Big Horn, Campbell, Carbon, Converse, Crook, Fremont, Park, Hot Springs, Sheridan, Johnson, Sweetwater, Laramie, Uinta, Natrona, Washakie, Niobrara and Weston, and a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 30.

For Zone 5 includes Goshen and Platte, and a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 30.

Thus, square footage and R-values are important determinants of how much insulation you’re going to need for your attic. If you’re unsure about exactly how much insulation you’re going to need, there are R-value calculators online, or you can call a contractor for an accurate quote.

How much does attic insulation cost in Wyoming?

Once you’ve figured out what insulation you need and how much needs to be installed, you’re on your way to contacting a contractor and starting the process. But before you do so, it’s important to understand the costs involved with attic insulation.

Get a free attic inspection and quote to insulate your attic.

Generally speaking, attic insulation can cost anywhere from $1,100 to $1,500, or between $1.50 to $3.50 per foot, depending on the material you choose and how much space you need to cover. As we noted earlier, blown-in insulation is the cheapest option. However, contractors often charge around $70 an hour, and in some cases, you might need to hire an electrician to make sure you aren’t disrupting any junction boxes or cables when insulating the attic. Electricians charge up to $85 an hour.

For Wyoming homes, the cost of insulating your attic doesn’t necessarily vary a whole lot, but it’s still important to research average costs depending on where you live. Every house is going to be different, and every city or county is going to have different code regulations. Make sure you check your local building codes for not only R-values but also vapor barrier requirements.

For example, homeowners in Cheyenne, Wyoming paid on average $1,571 for attic insulation. Compare that to another city in Wyoming, say Powell, the average cost is about $1,513.  And also Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in Wyoming.

Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in Wyoming, making it a reliable tool for determining your budget. Even Manta, however, recognizes that their estimates do not include things like permit costs, inspection fees, and labor fees, as that often varies depending on location and contractor rates.

Before contacting a professional to start applying insulation, ask yourself these questions about attic-dependent work outside of insulation:

  • Is everything in your attic air sealed? Do you need to fix your ductwork to prevent moisture buildup?
  • Does your attic have good ventilation? Does everything that’s ventilating into the attic have a way out of it?
  • Is there any mold in your attic? Have you contracted someone to come remove said mold?

If you have all of these bases covered, your attic insulation budget will be far more accurate. Contractors will also have an easier time getting your attic checked and insulated if you’ve taken care of the listed components.

Incentives, tax credits, rebates, and savings programs

Here are programs that are available to Wyoming homeowners looking to add insulation:

Home Energy Savings Program

Rocky Mountain Power offers the Home Energy Savings Program for their residential Wyoming customers to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Full details are available on the program website. The program has Clothes Washers (up to $50) Refrigerators (up to $50) Freezers (up to $20), Central AC ($50), Duct Sealing and Duct Insulation (up to $600), Ductless Heat Pumps (up to $1,000), Electronically Commutated Motors (up to $100), Evaporative Coolers (up to $200), Heat Pumps (up to $1,250), Smart Thermostats (up to $100), New Home $500-$1,500), New Manufactured Home (up to $1,000), Lighting (Discount pricing available) Heat Pump Water Heaters (up to $600), Manufactured Homes Duct Sealing (Free service),Multifamily Insulation (up to $0.75/sq.ft.), Multifamily Duct Sealing and Duct Insulation (up to $300), and  Multifamily Ductless Heat Pumps (up to $600).

How to hire a Wyoming attic insulation contractor?

Once you’ve figured out your attic insulation cost, what types of insulation you need, and how much of it that’s needed, it’s most likely time to find the contractor who can handle the process.

Get an attic inspection

An insulation contractor will be able to properly inspect your attic and decide the necessary steps to take for updating your home’s insulation. You can consult with contractors about what type of insulation to use, R-values, and many of the other components we discussed earlier.

Get a free attic inspection and quote to insulate your attic.

But choosing the right contractor is going to make or break the process, and it can be difficult to choose between tens of dozens of professionals who claim that they’re the best in the business. We’ve identified a few things to keep in mind when hiring an attic insulation contractor.

Make sure they are thorough

First and foremost, pick someone who is thorough and transparent about your attic. If your contractor comes by your house for an inspection, and they perform various diagnostic tests and look through every corner of your attic, that’s an indication of their experience and reliability. Beware of contractors who take a quick peek in your attic and simply suggest putting in a few inches of insulation. A good contractor should initiate conversations about your attic’s insulation and ventilation issues and provide detailed steps on how to move forward. 

Check online reviews

But don’t base your decision on just a single interaction with the contractor. Go online and look through their services and offers. If they provide things like lifetime warranties, that means a contractor is not only confident in their work, but they’re also willing to follow up on their services to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Check their online reviews as well to see what others are saying about a contractor. If reviews are generally positive, that’s a sign of a reliable contractor. 

Attic insulation is anything but simple, but Wyoming homeowners will greatly benefit from doing the proper research and spending their money on the right services and products. A properly insulated attic translates into a much more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

Adding insulation to your attic is one of the most effective ways to save money on electricity bills and make your home energy efficient.

However, there are many things to consider when applying attic insulation, as it involves buying the right equipment, knowing how much material to buy, and hiring the right type of labor. Not only that, but there are also federal, state, and local regulations regarding home insulation that needs to be taken into account before embarking on this process.

Get a FREE Attic Inspection and Insulation Quote.

Washington homeowners will need to optimize these various components to make sure they’re getting the best possible attic insulation for their homes. In this article, we discuss which components Washington residents need to keep an eye on to make sure their attic stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Washington Attic Insulation Guide

What type of insulation is best for Washington attics?

Depending on which parts of your attic you’re trying to insulate, we recommend two different types of insulation material.

Washington Attic Insulation Types

Floor Insulation

For attic floors, there are two main types of insulation: roll and batt insulation and loose-fill or blown-in insulation. Batt and roll work best between joist and stud spaces, or for wide-open spaces or crawl spaces. Blown-in insulation works best for extremely tight spaces, or if an area already has insulation installed but needs a little more to top it off. They’re also useful for filling wood joists, as they allow air through the spaces and require insulation.

Get a free attic inspection and quote to insulate your attic.

In Washington, it’s more likely than not that your attic is going to need insulation in tight spaces. Blown-in insulation is perfect for that scenario, as it provides better coverage in smaller areas and is less expensive than roll and batt insulation. You can purchase fiberglass or cellulose insulation, whichever you prefer. Just remember that installing blown-in insulation is going to require a special insulation blowing machine that you’ll likely need to rent.

Roof Insulation

For insulation under your roof, we recommend using multi-layer reflective insulation. That might sound complicated, but we assure you it’s quite simple and is extremely beneficial for efficiently heating or cooling your home.

During the summer months, the sun’s radiant energy heats your roof shingles, which then transfers that heat into your attic through conduction. Your attic then becomes much hotter and stuffy, and the heat travels down into the rest of your home, making the entire house hot. During the winter, it has the opposite effect, as the heat generated by your heaters escapes through the attic walls.

Multi-layer reflective insulation addresses this issue by reflecting radiant heat rather than letting your attic absorb it. Thus, radiant heat can’t get through your attic roof and walls as easily, allowing your attic and the rest of your home to be better air-conditioned. During the winter, the heat generated from inside will also be reflected back into the attic and home, making your home that much warmer.

Washington mainly exhibits continental climate in the west and semi-arid type in the east of the Cascade Range. Summers in western Washington are fresh and relatively dry, while they are warmer in the east.

Knowing which materials to use is a key step in the process. The subsequent component deals with just how much attic insulation you’re going to need for your Washington home.

How much attic insulation do you need in Washington?

To determine how much insulation you’re going to need, measure the length times the width of the attic or whichever space you’re trying to insulate to get the square footage. For blown-in insulation, reference the back of the package to determine the proper height to get the correct R-value for your project.

The R-value is a measurement of thermal resistance, or how much the insulation can properly resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation will be in keeping warm air in or out of your attic. 

Depending on where you are in the United States, the R-value that you’ll need is going to differ due to varying climate conditions. In fact, there are 8 different climate zones designated by the U.S. Department of Energy that has different R-value recommendations for attics, basements, and other walls. Due to the geographical location and coverage of Washington, the State falls into two climate zones.

Washington Attic Insulation R-value

Climate Zone 6 includes Ferry, Okanogan, Pend Oreille and Stevens. For Zone 6, a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 30.

For Zone 5 includes Adams, Asotin, Benton, Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Columbia, Cowlitz, Douglas, Franklin, Garfield, Grant, Grays, Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Kittitas, Klickitat, Lewis, Lincoln, Mason, Pacific, Pierce, San, Juan, Skagit, Skamania, Snohomish, Spokane, Thurston, Wahkiakum, Walla, Walla, Whatcom, Whitman and Yakima, and a ceiling R-value of 49 is recommended, whereas the floor R-value should be at least 19.

Thus, square footage and R-values are important determinants of how much insulation you’re going to need for your attic. If you’re unsure about exactly how much insulation you’re going to need, there are R-value calculators online, or you can call a contractor for an accurate quote.

How much does attic insulation cost in Washington?

Once you’ve figured out what insulation you need and how much needs to be installed, you’re on your way to contacting a contractor and starting the process. But before you do so, it’s important to understand the costs involved with attic insulation.

Get a free attic inspection and quote to insulate your attic.

Generally speaking, attic insulation can cost anywhere from $1,100 to $1,500, or between $1.50 to $3.50 per foot, depending on the material you choose and how much space you need to cover. As we noted earlier, blown-in insulation is the cheapest option. However, contractors often charge around $70 an hour, and in some cases, you might need to hire an electrician to make sure you aren’t disrupting any junction boxes or cables when insulating the attic. Electricians charge up to $85 an hour.

For Washington homes, the cost of insulating your attic doesn’t necessarily vary a whole lot, but it’s still important to research average costs depending on where you live. Every house is going to be different, and every city or county is going to have different code regulations. Make sure you check your local building codes for not only R-values but also vapor barrier requirements.

For example, homeowners in Seattle, Washington paid on average $1,629 for attic insulation. Compare that to another city in Washington, say Bellevue, the average cost is about $1,661.  And also Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in Washington.

Manta’s database estimates attic insulation costs based on each city in Washington, making it a reliable tool for determining your budget. Even Manta, however, recognizes that their estimates do not include things like permit costs, inspection fees, and labor fees, as that often varies depending on location and contractor rates.

Before contacting a professional to start applying insulation, ask yourself these questions about attic-dependent work outside of insulation:

  • Is everything in your attic air sealed? Do you need to fix your ductwork to prevent moisture buildup?
  • Does your attic have good ventilation? Does everything that’s ventilating into the attic have a way out of it?
  • Is there any mold in your attic? Have you contracted someone to come remove said mold?

If you have all of these bases covered, your attic insulation budget will be far more accurate. Contractors will also have an easier time getting your attic checked and insulated if you’ve taken care of the listed components.

Incentives, tax credits, rebates, and savings programs

Here are programs that are available to Washington homeowners looking to add insulation:

Home Improvement and New Home Construction Programs

Avista Utilities Home Improvement and New Home Construction programs offer a variety of incentives encouraging residential customers to save energy in their homes. The rebates listed apply to residential homeowners in Washington who heat homes primarily with Avista electricity or natural gas. Incentives vary depending on technology- Clothes Washers, Refrigerators/Freezers, Water Heaters, Furnaces, Boilers, Heat pumps, Programmable Thermostats, Building Insulation, Windows, Doors, Tankless Water Heater; and generally apply to both existing and new construction homes. Interested customers should review the website for more information including individual equipment requirements and to access application forms.

How to hire a Washington attic insulation contractor?

Once you’ve figured out your attic insulation cost, what types of insulation you need, and how much of it that’s needed, it’s most likely time to find the contractor who can handle the process.

Get an attic inspection

An insulation contractor will be able to properly inspect your attic and decide the necessary steps to take for updating your home’s insulation. You can consult with contractors about what type of insulation to use, R-values, and many of the other components we discussed earlier.

Get a free attic inspection and quote to insulate your attic.

But choosing the right contractor is going to make or break the process, and it can be difficult to choose between tens of dozens of professionals who claim that they’re the best in the business. We’ve identified a few things to keep in mind when hiring an attic insulation contractor.

Make sure they are thorough

First and foremost, pick someone who is thorough and transparent about your attic. If your contractor comes by your house for an inspection, and they perform various diagnostic tests and look through every corner of your attic, that’s an indication of their experience and reliability. Beware of contractors who take a quick peek in your attic and simply suggest putting in a few inches of insulation. A good contractor should initiate conversations about your attic’s insulation and ventilation issues and provide detailed steps on how to move forward. 

Check online reviews

But don’t base your decision on just a single interaction with the contractor. Go online and look through their services and offers. If they provide things like lifetime warranties, that means a contractor is not only confident in their work, but they’re also willing to follow up on their services to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Check their online reviews as well to see what others are saying about a contractor. If reviews are generally positive, that’s a sign of a reliable contractor. 

Attic insulation is anything but simple, but Washington homeowners will greatly benefit from doing the proper research and spending their money on the right services and products. A properly insulated attic translates into a much more comfortable and energy-efficient home.