Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Benefits of Blown In Insulation
3. Factors Affecting Blown In Insulation Price Per Square Foot
4. Blown In Insulation vs. Other Insulation Types
5. Q&A About Blown In Insulation
6. Conclusion
Introduction
Blown in insulation has become a go-to solution for homeowners wanting to lower energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and shrink their carbon footprint. Made from recycled cellulose fibers treated with fire-retardant borates, this material is pneumatically blown into wall cavities and attic spaces, creating a dense thermal barrier. In this article, we’ll reveal the real price per square foot of blown in insulation, explain the factors that drive costs, compare it to other insulation types, and answer your most pressing questions.
Benefits of Blown In Insulation
1. Superior Energy Savings
• Air-seal performance: The loose-fill cellulose nests around wiring, pipes, and studs, sealing gaps that traditional batt insulation often misses.
• High R-value per inch: You get outstanding resistance to heat flow, cutting winter heat loss and summer heat gain.
2. Eco-Friendly Choice
• Made from 75–85% recycled paper: Diverts newspapers from landfills.
• Low embodied energy: Manufacturing consumes less power than fiberglass or foam insulation.
3. Enhanced Soundproofing
• Dense cellulose fibers absorb airborne noise, reducing echoes and muffling traffic, appliance, and neighbor noise.
4. Fire and Pest Resistance
• Borate treatment: Acts as a fire retardant and deters insects and rodents, making your home safer and more durable.
5. Moisture Control and Durability
• Vapor-open matrix: Helps manage moisture, reducing the risk of condensation and mold.
• Settling resistance: Professional installation techniques ensure a stable, long-lasting layer that won’t slump significantly over time.
Factors Affecting Blown In Insulation Price Per Square Foot
1. Insulation Depth and R-Value
• Higher R-value targets require more material and labor. Expect to pay more for an attic project aiming for R-49 compared to R-30.
2. Accessibility and Project Complexity
• Attics with obstacles like HVAC ducts or multi-story walls demand extra time and effort, raising installation costs.
• New construction versus retrofit: Adding insulation during a build is usually more economical than retrofitting existing walls.
3. Regional Labor and Material Costs
• Urban versus rural markets: Labor rates and material delivery fees vary by region.
• Seasonal demand: Insulation contractors may offer off-peak discounts in slower seasons.
4. Removal of Old Insulation and Preparation
• Tear-out fees: Removing damaged or outdated insulation adds to your total.
• Repairs and air sealing: Addressing gaps, leaks, or structural issues before insulation installation contributes to overall cost.
5. Contractor Experience and Warranty
• Established companies may charge premium rates but often include workmanship guarantees and follow-up service.
• Newer entrants may undercut pricing but check references and liability insurance before hiring.
Blown In Insulation vs. Other Insulation Types
• Fiberglass Batts: Priced around $0.50–$1.50 per sq ft installed, batts are cheaper upfront but struggle to seal irregular cavities and often require added air sealing.
• Spray Foam: At $1.50–$3.00 per sq ft, closed-cell foam provides exceptional R-value and air sealing but carries higher material costs and requires professional applicators.
• Mineral Wool: Similar in cost to fiberglass but excels at fire resistance; it does little to fill gaps without cutting and stuffing.
• Blown In Cellulose: Typically runs $1.00–$2.50 per sq ft installed, striking a balance between performance, environmental impact, and ease of retrofit.
Q&A About Blown In Insulation
1) How long does blown in insulation last?
With proper installation, cellulose insulation can maintain its R-value for 25–30 years or more, provided moisture and pest issues are addressed.
2) Will blown in insulation settle over time?
Minimal settling occurs—usually around 5%. Professional installers use techniques to reach target densities and apply additional material to compensate.
3) Can I install blown in insulation myself?
DIY rental machines are available, but achieving the correct density and R-value is challenging without training. For guaranteed performance and warranties, hiring a certified installer is recommended.
4) Is blown in insulation safe?
Yes. The cellulose fibers are treated with non-toxic borates approved by building codes. Proper masks and eye protection during installation mitigate inhalation of dust.
Conclusion
Revamping your home with affordable blown in insulation is one of the smartest investments you can make. By understanding the average price per square foot—typically between $1.00 and $2.50—and the factors that influence costs, you can budget confidently and enjoy lower energy bills, improved comfort, and a greener footprint. Whether you’re upgrading an older home or fine-tuning new construction, blown in insulation delivers lasting value, fire resistance, and soundproofing benefits that other insulation types struggle to match. Make the switch today and see why millions of homeowners trust blown in insulation for year-round comfort and savings.
