Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot | $1.00 – $4.50 |
| Cost Per Board Foot (1 SF 1″ thick) | $0.60 – $2.90 |
| Average Total Cost Installed | $1,300 – $4,000 |
| Factors Affecting Cost | Type of foam (open vs. closed-cell), thickness, brand, location of installation, and more |
Spray Foam Insulation Cost
Spray foam insulation is a popular choice for sealing and insulating homes due to its energy efficiency and air-tight seal properties. The cost of spray foam insulation can vary significantly based on multiple factors, including the type of spray foam, the thickness required, and the area to be insulated.
Spray Foam Insulation Cost Per Square Foot
The cost to insulate using spray foam ranges from $1.00 to $4.50 per square foot, depending on the location and type of foam used.
Spray Foam Insulation Cost Per Board Foot
The cost per board foot (a square foot at 1 inch thick) for spray foam insulation varies from $0.60 to $2.90.
Average Total Spray Foam Insulation Cost Installed
The average total cost for installing spray foam insulation is typically between $1,300 and $4,000.
Detailed Breakdown of Spray Foam Insulation Cost by Location
Below is a detailed table showing the average cost of spray foam insulation installed in different locations within a home:
| Location | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| Existing Walls | $3,200 – $8,800 |
| Attic Floor | $1,100 – $6,800 |
| Attic Rafters/Roof Deck | $1,500 – $9,000 |
| Basement | $1,500 – $5,600 |
| Garage Walls | $2,600 – $8,900 |
| Garage Ceiling | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Crawl Space | $1,200 – $6,700 |
| Rim Joists | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Around HVAC | $1,000 – $3,300 |
| Whole House | $4,000 – $26,000 |
| Pole Barn | $3,500 – $16,500 |
| Shipping Container | $800 – $3,200 |
Spray Foam Insulation Cost Overview
Below is a cost table for a quick reference:
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $2,600 |
| Minimum Cost | $600 |
| Maximum Cost | $8,000 |
| Average Cost Range | $1,300 to $4,000 |
Open-Cell Vs. Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation Cost
The type of spray foam used is a significant factor in determining the cost. Here’s a comparison between open-cell and closed-cell spray foam:
| Factor | Open-Cell Foam | Closed-Cell Foam |
|---|---|---|
| Material Cost (per board ft) | $0.30 – $0.50 | $0.90 – $1.00 |
| Installed Cost (per board ft) | $0.60 – $1.30 | $1.30 – $2.90 |
| R-Value Per Inch | 3.5 – 3.7 | 5 – 7 |
| Density (per cubic ft) | 0.5 lbs. | 2 lbs. |
| Expansion | Expands to 3″ | Expands to 1″ |
| Moisture Barrier | Semi-permeable | Impermeable |
| Sound Dampening | Good | Better |
| Vapor Retardant | Semi-permeable | Impermeable |
| Roof Sheathing Application | Not recommended | Recommended |
| Best For | Above-grade installations like wall cavities and attic floors | Below-grade applications like basements and crawl spaces |
Spray Foam Insulation Cost Per Square Foot
The cost of spray foam insulation per square foot varies based on the total area being insulated. Here is a breakdown by square footage:
| Square Feet | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| 100 | $100 – $450 |
| 200 | $200 – $900 |
| 300 | $300 – $1,400 |
| 400 | $400 – $1,800 |
| 500 | $500 – $2,300 |
| 1,000 | $1,000 – $4,500 |
| 1,500 | $1,500 – $6,800 |
| 2,000 | $2,000 – $9,000 |
| 2,500 | $2,500 – $11,300 |
| 3,000 | $3,000 – $13,500 |
Average Spray Foam Insulation Cost Per House
Spray Foam Insulation Cost in Existing Walls
When installing spray foam insulation in existing walls, the cost ranges from $3,200 to $8,800.
Attic Spray Foam Insulation Cost
The cost of insulating an attic with spray foam varies depending on whether you insulate the attic floor or the rafters/roof deck:
| Location | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| Attic Floor | $1,100 – $6,800 |
| Attic Rafters/Roof Deck | $1,500 – $9,000 |
Roof Foam Insulation Prices
Roofs insulated with spray foam have similar pricing to attic rafters. The cost will fall between $1,500 and $9,000 depending on the project’s specifics.
Basement Spray Foam Insulation Cost
Basement insulation with spray foam costs between $1,500 and $5,600.
Cost to Spray Foam Insulate a Garage
| Location | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| Garage Door | $200 – $300 |
| Garage Walls | $2,600 – $8,900 |
| Garage Ceiling | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Spray Foam Insulation for Crawl Space Cost
The cost to insulate a crawl space using spray foam ranges from $1,200 to $6,700.
Cost to Spray Foam Rim Joists
Insulating rim joists with spray foam costs between $1,200 and $2,000.
Spray Foam Pole Barn Cost
Insulating a pole barn with spray foam can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $16,500.
Injection Foam Insulation Cost
Injection foam is another type of insulation that can be used in existing walls and other areas. The price is comparable to spray foam, but specifics depend on the project scope.
Spray Foam Insulation Price Factors
Spray Foam Prices By Thickness
The thickness of the foam layer significantly impacts the cost and the R-value obtained. Below is a detailed table:
| Foam Thickness (inches) | Open-Cell R-Value | Open-Cell Installed Cost per SF | Closed-Cell R-Value | Closed-Cell Installed Cost per SF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1” | 3.5 – 3.7 | – | 5 – 7 | $1.30 – $2.90 |
| 2” | 7.0 – 7.4 | – | 10 – 14 | $2.60 – $5.80 |
| 3” | 10.5 – 11.1 | $1.80 – $3.90 | 15 – 21 | $3.90 – $8.70 |
| 4” | 14.0 – 14.8 | $2.40 – $5.20 | 20 – 28 | $5.20 – $11.60 |
| 5” | 17.5 – 18.5 | $3.00 – $6.50 | 25 – 35 | $6.50 – $14.50 |
| 6” | 21.0 – 22.2 | $3.60 – $7.80 | 30 – 42 | $7.80 – $17.40 |
| 7” | 24.5 – 25.9 | $4.20 – $9.10 | 35 – 49 | $9.10 – $20.30 |
| 8” | 28.0 – 29.6 | $4.80 – $10.40 | 40 – 56 | $10.40 – $23.20 |
| 9” | 31.5 – 33.3 | $5.40 – $11.70 | 45 – 63 | $11.70 – $26.10 |
| 10” | 35.0 – 37.0 | $6.00 – $13.00 | 50 – 70 | $13.00 – $29.00 |
Spray Foam Brands
Different brands offer varying prices and qualities. It’s essential to research and consider the brand reliability while estimating costs.
Spray Foam Cost Vs. Fiberglass, Batt, and Rockwool
Spray foam insulation is often more expensive than traditional methods like fiberglass, batt, and rockwool, but it offers superior performance in terms of R-value and air sealing.
DIY Spray Foam Insulation Cost
Spray Foam Insulation Kit Prices
DIY kits for spray foam insulation are available, priced between $200 and $800, depending on the kit’s coverage area and foam type. However, DIY application is generally not recommended due to the complexity and potential hazards.
Spray Foam Insulation FAQs
How Long Does Polyurethane Foam Insulation Last?
Polyurethane foam insulation can last indefinitely if it isn’t exposed to direct sunlight or adverse environmental conditions.
Is Spray Foam Insulation Worth the Cost?
Spray foam insulation can be worth the investment due to its superior insulating properties, efficiency in air sealing, and long-term energy savings. Here are some pros and cons:
| Spray Foam Insulation Pros and Cons |
|---|
| Pros |
| Adds strength to walls (closed-cell) |
| Air seals gaps |
| Dampens sound |
| May increase resale value |
| Prevents pest and rodent intrusion |
| Provides a vapor and moisture barrier (closed-cell) |
| Reduces allergens in the home |
| Resists mold and mildew |
What Is The R-Value of Spray Foam Insulation?
The R-value, or thermal resistance, varies between open-cell and closed-cell foam. Here’s a quick table for reference:
| Type | R-value per inch |
|---|---|
| Open-cell | 3.5 – 3.7 |
| Closed-cell | 5 – 7 |
Is Spray Foam Insulation Safe?
When applied correctly by professionals, spray foam insulation is safe. However, improper application can cause health hazards and should thus be handled with care.
How Much Does Spray Foam Expand?
Open-cell foam can expand up to 3 inches, while closed-cell foam typically expands to 1 inch.
Getting Spray Foam Insulation Estimates and Quotes
Before committing to spray foam insulation, we recommend getting multiple quotes from reputable contractors to ensure you get the best deal.
Questions to Ask Spray Foam Installers
- What’s the total cost estimate for the project?
- Are there any potential additional costs?
- How long will the installation take?
- Is there a warranty for the insulation? If so, how long does it last?
- What safety measures are in place for the installation process?
- Can you provide references or reviews from previous clients?
By understanding the factors influencing spray foam insulation costs and thoroughly researching your options, you can make a well-informed decision for your insulation needs.
