Blown-In Insulation Calculator
Calculate the exact amount of blown-in insulation needed for your project. Get accurate estimates for coverage area, number of bags required, and total project costs.
Project Details
Insulation Requirements
Blown-In Insulation Guide
Cellulose Insulation
- Made from recycled paper products
- Excellent air sealing properties
- R-value: 3.6-3.8 per inch
- Fire and pest resistant
- Settles 10-20% over time
- Eco-friendly option
Fiberglass Insulation
- Made from recycled glass
- Lightweight and easy to install
- R-value: 2.2-2.7 per inch
- Non-combustible material
- Minimal settling
- Moisture resistant
Mineral Wool Insulation
- Made from natural rock or slag
- Superior fire resistance
- R-value: 3.0-3.3 per inch
- Excellent sound dampening
- Pest and mold resistant
- Higher density material
| Climate Zone | Attic R-Value | Wall R-Value | Floor R-Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 (Florida, Hawaii) | R-30 | R-13 | R-13 |
| Zone 2 (South Texas, Florida) | R-30 | R-13 | R-13 |
| Zone 3 (Georgia, Alabama) | R-30 | R-13 | R-19 |
| Zone 4 (Virginia, Kentucky) | R-38 | R-13 | R-19 |
| Zone 5 (Illinois, Ohio) | R-49 | R-20 | R-30 |
| Zone 6 (Minnesota, Maine) | R-49 | R-20 | R-30 |
| Zone 7 (Alaska, Northern Minnesota) | R-60 | R-21 | R-38 |
Cost Factors to Consider
Material Costs
Cellulose: $0.50-$1.20 per sq ft
Fiberglass: $0.40-$1.00 per sq ft
Mineral Wool: $0.60-$1.40 per sq ft
Installation Complexity
Attic access difficulty, existing insulation removal, air sealing requirements, and ventilation considerations affect labor costs.
Regional Variations
Local labor rates, material availability, building codes, and climate requirements vary by geographic location.
Additional Services
Air sealing ($0.50-$1.50 per sq ft), vapor barrier installation, and ventilation improvements may be needed.
Professional Installation Recommendations
Proper Density: Blown-in insulation must achieve correct density to reach rated R-value. Professional equipment and experience are essential.
Air Sealing: Seal all air leaks before installation. Air movement through insulation reduces effectiveness by up to 50%.
Ventilation Balance: Maintain adequate attic ventilation to prevent moisture problems and ice dam formation.
Safety Precautions: Use proper protective equipment including masks, goggles, and clothing to prevent irritation from insulation fibers.
Consistent Coverage: Professional installation ensures uniform coverage without gaps or compression that reduces R-value.
Building Code Compliance: Local codes may require specific R-values, fire ratings, and installation methods for your area.