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Posted on January 16, 2025
Struggling with high energy bills or a home that’s too hot in summer and too cold in winter? Poor attic insulation might be the cause of your problems. Whether you’re a new homeowner in 2025 or looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, understanding attic insulation is key to creating a comfortable and cost-effective living space.
This blog post covers everything from the different types of attic insulation, including how much they cost and how to choose the right option.
If you don’t know already, attic insulation is the key to improving a home’s energy efficiency by reducing the amount of heat loss through the roof, which can sometimes account for as high as 30% of total heat loss. By using different materials, attic insulation creates a thermal barrier that keeps homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
This helps lower energy bills, improve comfort, and reduce the strain on HVAC systems. Proper insulation also prevents moisture problems, improves indoor air quality, and regulates temperatures. Without it, attics can become too hot in summer and freezing in winter, leading to discomfort and higher costs.
Also Read: 4 Types of Insulation for Metal Roofs: A Comparative Guide
Insulation slows down the transfer of heat through processes such as conduction, convection, and radiation. Different insulation materials handle different processes better. For instance, fiberglass or foam materials prevent conduction better, which is the direct transfer of heat through materials, while reflective foil insulation is better for preventing radiation.
Let’s dive into the various types of attic insulation and their benefits so you know what is the best attic insulation for your home
R-Value: 3.2 to 3.8 per inch
Made from recycled paper products, cellulose insulation is treated with fire retardant so that it’s more durable and offers enhanced protection. Typically costing $0.60 to $2.30 per square foot, its ability to fill gaps and reduce air leaks makes it a great option for improving energy efficiency in attics and homes. Not only does it help maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, it also dampens sound, creating a quieter home. Being eco-friendly, this material is favored as a sustainable choice by homeowners who prioritize green living.
R-Value: 2.9 to 3.8 per inch
Composed of tiny glass fibers, blown attic insulation is another popular option for homes. One of the best insulation types, it’s blown into place using specialized equipment, ensuring a seamless application that fills gaps for maximum coverage and thermal resistance. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and enhances indoor air quality since it’s free from harmful chemicals or allergens. Additionally, its moisture-resistant properties help prevent mold growth, making it suitable for various weather patterns, costing around $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot.
R-Value: 6.5 to 7 per inch
Created from polyurethane or similar materials, spray foam insulation expands once it’s sprayed into a space, forming an airtight seal, reducing air leaks, and improving energy efficiency. Typically priced between $1.00 and $3.00 per square foot, it is available in both open and closed-cell forms. Closed-cell spray foam insulation offers higher R-values and acts as a vapor barrier, while open-cell spray foam is lighter and more affordable. This insulation conforms to irregular shapes, making it ideal for complex attic configurations and improving indoor comfort by maintaining consistent temperatures.
R-Value: 2.9 to 3.8 per inch
A longstanding choice for attic insulation, fiberglass insulation consists of fine glass fibers that trap air, providing excellent thermal resistance. Generally costing $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot, the option is available in batts or blown-in forms, making it easy to install and cost-effective. While it may not offer the same level of soundproofing or pest control as other materials, fiberglass remains popular due to its affordability and reliable energy efficiency. It’s also non-combustible and resistant to moisture damage.
R-Value: R-6.5 and R-6.8 per inch
Rigid foam insulation consists of solid foam boards that provide excellent thermal resistance while being lightweight and easy to install. Costing between $1.00 and $2.00 per square foot, this type is ideal for insulating an attic where space is tight but high insulation performance is needed. Available in different varieties known as EPS, XPS, or polyiso, rigid foam boards create a continuous layer of insulation, reducing air infiltration. Their closed-cell structure offers high R-values and resistance to moisture, making them perfect for damp areas.
R-Value: R-5 to R-7 per inch
Engineered for both walls and roofs, Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) have an insulating foam core between two structural facings, usually oriented strand board (OSB). These panels provide continuous insulation without thermal bridging, significantly improving energy efficiency. SIPs are pre-fabricated, making them a fast and efficient choice for modern construction that prioritizes sustainability. Costing around $2.00 to $3.50 per square foot, SIPs are ideal for attic insulation installation projects that are taking place during the initial construction of the roofing system.
R-Value: 2.7 to 3 per inch
Formed from expanded volcanic glass, perlite insulation is lightweight and offers great insulating properties. It typically costs between $1.00 and $2.00 per square foot. While often used in commercial settings, it’s also useful for insulating an attic when installed properly. Its non-combustible nature makes it safe near heat sources, and it resists pests and mold growth. Perlite can be used as loose-fill material or combined with other insulation materials to improve performance.
R-Value: R-3 to R-17 per inch
Made of layered foil, reflective foil insulation is designed to reflect radiant heat away from living spaces. It’s particularly effective when installed in attics, helping to keep homes cooler during hot weather. It costs $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot and works best when combined with other materials since it doesn’t provide significant thermal resistance on its own, which is a slight flaw.
R-Value: 3.5 to 4.5 per inch
Composed of natural rock or recycled slag, mineral wool (or rock wool) insulation is highly resistant to both fire and moisture damage, making it ideal for insulation in an attic. Known for its excellent thermal performance, it also offers superior soundproofing, making it a great choice for homes in noisy areas with an average cost of $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. Durable and non-supportive of mold or fungus growth, mineral wool maintains its insulation properties over time.
To make an informed decision, let’s go over some simple steps for choosing the best attic insulation for your needs:
Start by assessing your attic and the current insulation. If you notice gaps are visible spots along the floors or walls within your attic, it’s a sign you need more insulation. Proper insulation should cover the joists and be spread evenly for maximum efficiency.
The R-value is one of the most important measures of an insulation material’s ability to resist the flow or transfer of heat. For most attics, R-38 (10 to 14 inches of insulation) is recommended, but this can vary based on your local weather patterns.
Where you live will play a big role in your choice. In colder climates, choose higher R-values like cellulose or spray foam. For warmer areas, fiberglass is typically enough.
Think about your attic’s shape. Blown-in insulation or spray foam works best for irregular spaces, filling gaps effectively.
Finally, keep your budget in mind. While spray foam offers excellent benefits, it comes with a higher upfront cost. Balance the investment with potential savings over time.
Is your roof getting old? B & A Roofing and Gutters specializes in reliable roof replacement services to keep your home safe. We install durable roofs and understand how a new roof, paired with proper attic insulation, can improve energy efficiency and comfort. Contact us today at (601) 520-3183 and protect your home from top to bottom.
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