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Attic Insulation Cost Per Square Foot
Our transparent Chicagoland pricing helps you make informed choices that balance cost, comfort, and long-term savings.
$2.00-2.75*
Fiberglass
Fiberglass
$2.25-3.00*
Cellulose
Cellulose
* These prices are per sq. ft which can vary depending on existing insulation, total sq. ft, pitch of the roof, attic access and final R-value.
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Typical Attic Insulation Cost in the Chicago Area
Most 800–1,500 sq ft attics in the Chicago area can be upgraded with blown-in cellulose or fiberglass for about $2,000–$6,000, delivering noticeably better comfort and efficiency, with pricing mainly based on access and any air sealing or ventilation improvements.
Spray foam systems typically start around $6,000 and can run $10,000+ for larger or more complex attics, offering excellent air sealing and comfort benefits, and these ballpark ranges help you budget confidently before an in-home assessment.
Spray foam systems typically start around $6,000 and can run $10,000+ for larger or more complex attics, offering excellent air sealing and comfort benefits, and these ballpark ranges help you budget confidently before an in-home assessment.
Ballpark Attic Insulation Cost Ranges (Chicago Area)
Attic Size (approx.)
Cellulose / Fiberglass*
Cellulose / Fiberglass*
800 sq ft
$2,000 – $3,200
from $6,000+
1,000 sq ft
$2,700 – $3,500
around $8,600+
1,500 sq ft
$3,500 – $5,500
from $10,000+
2,000 sq ft
$4,500 – $7,500
from $13,000+
2,200 sq ft
$5,000 – $8,300
from $14,500+
*Totals assume attic-floor insulation plus typical air sealing. Actual pricing depends on layout, existing insulation, electrical work, and any rebates or tax credits applied to your project.
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What Affects Your Attic Insulation Cost?
Attic insulation in the Chicago area is often custom-fit to your home’s needs, with the final price guided by your target R-value, the existing insulation level and condition, and the prep work that helps the installation go smoothly and perform at its best for a long time.
Main cost drivers
- Attic size and R-value target:
When attic size increases (800 to 1,500+ sq ft) and the target R-value rises to R-49 to R-60, the project moves into a higher investment tier, aligned with the expanded scope and stronger performance goal. - Existing insulation condition:
An empty attic makes the insulation process especially straightforward. If the attic contains fiberglass, matted insulation, or vermiculite, a separate line item may cover a first-step removal and prep service that sets the project up for a smooth install. - Access, pitch, and layout:
Low attics, steep roofs, and smaller hatch openings often benefit from added staging and safety preparation, keeping the work safe and high-quality, with labor per sq ft adjusting slightly to reflect the setup. - Air sealing, baffles, and ventilation fixes:
Sealing recessed lights, top plates, and bypasses, along with adding baffles and fine-tuning soffit and ridge ventilation, boosts overall performance, with the added materials and time supporting a more complete, better-finished result. - Electrical and code upgrades:
Inspections often uncover opportunities to bring wiring, junction boxes, bath fan ducts, and can lights up to code, and the project pricing is updated to include that work as needed. - Moisture, pests, or mold:
Any remediation, disinfecting, or rodent clean-up is priced separately from basic insulation work and can move a project from “simple upgrade” to “full rehab.” - Rebates, incentives & tax credits:
Utility rebates and federal energy credits don’t change the gross project cost, but they lower your net cost and can make higher-performance options (like deeper cellulose or spray foam) more affordable.
Why start with the attic?
Most Chicagoland homes lose the most heat through the attic, not the walls or windows. That means every dollar you put into attic insulation and air sealing usually delivers the biggest comfort gain and energy savings for your budget.
By bringing your attic up to modern code levels (typically R-49 to R-60 in our climate zone), you:
By bringing your attic up to modern code levels (typically R-49 to R-60 in our climate zone), you:
✓ Stabilize indoor temperatures
Fewer cold bedrooms over the garage and fewer hot second floors in summer.
✓ Cut heating and cooling bills
Many homes see 15–25% lower energy usage when attic insulation and air sealing are done together.
✓ Reduce drafts, dust, and noise
Sealing bypasses and adding dense insulation calms the entire building shell.
✓ Protect your roof & structure
Proper insulation plus ventilation reduces ice dams, condensation, and premature roof wear.
When we quote an attic project, we’re not just selling “more inches of insulation.” We’re designing a package that includes air sealing, baffles, ventilation checks, and code-appropriate R-value so your home actually performs better—not just looks good on paper.
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Attic Insulation Materials Pros & Cons?
Attic insulation cost in the Chicago area isn’t just about a simple “price per square foot.” The final number depends on how much R-value you need, what’s already in the attic, and how much prep work is required to do the job right.
Material
2026 Cost Level
Best for:
Watch out for:
Blown-In Cellulose (Attic Floor)
✓ Existing attics needing a big R-value upgrade in one visit.
✓ Chicago homes where sound reduction and draft control matter.
✓ Needs proper air sealing and ventilation to perform best.
✓ Can settle slightly over time if not installed at the correct density.
Blown-In Fiberglass
(Attic Floor)
(Attic Floor)
✓ Accessible attics with reasonable existing insulation.
✓ Homeowners prioritizing the lowest upfront cost.
✓ More sensitive to gaps and wind-washing near vents.
✓ Needs enough depth to reach R-49+.
Spray Foam
(Roofline / Specialty)
(Roofline / Specialty)
✓ Hard-to-reach or complex rooflines you want semi-conditioned
✓ When maximum air sealing + R-value per inch is the priority
✓ Highest upfront cost vs. attic-floor options
✓ Usually overkill for simple vented attics with good baffles
Frequently Asked Question
What does a typical attic insulation project cost in the Chicagoland area?
A typical attic insulation project cost in the Chicago area is around $4,000 to $9,500. The cost varies by attic size, current insulation level, material used, and labor. Larger attics or those that require removal tend to fall in the $7,500-$10,500+ range.
Why do some online calculators show different prices per square foot?
Some online calculators show different prices per square foot because they use varying data sources, assumptions, and algorithms. Some calculators rely on recent local sales data, while others rely on generic or outdated data. Not all online calculators include factors like location, upgrades, and home condition. If you want an accurate estimate, you may consult a local real estate professional.
Is it cheaper to add more insulation on top of what I have, or remove everything and start over?
It is cheaper to add more insulation on top of what you already have if the old insulation is in a good shape. However, starting over by removing old insulation is better for a fresh start, especially if it is damaged, moldy, wet, or contains hazardous material like vermiculite.
How much more does spray foam cost than blown-in cellulose or fiberglass?
Spray foam costs 2 to 3 times more than blown-in cellulose or fiberglass at $1.50 to $4.90+ compared to blown-in's $0.75 to $2.50+. Although spray foam is pricey, it provides superior air sealing and a higher R-value, leading to better long-term energy savings that offset the high initial investment.
Do rebates or tax credits really make a difference in the final price?
Yes, rebates or tax credits really make a difference in the final price, often cutting out-of-pocket expenses by 30% or more. You may qualify for a federal tax credit up to $1,200 per year, including additional rebates from your estate and utility.
How long does an attic insulation project usually take?
An attic insulation project usually takes about 4 hours to 2 days, depending on the material. Blown-in fiberglass or cellulose is usually completed in 4-5 hours, while batt insulation (fiberglass/mineral wool) usually takes an entire day. Meanwhile, a spray foam insulation project can take 1-2 days. Its application is quick, but it requires 24 hours for proper curing and ventilation before attic access.
Is DIY attic insulation a good way to save money?
Yes, DIY attic insulation is a good way to save money, especially on labor costs, upfront. However, it requires time, effort, and exceptional attention to detail, as mistakes such as gaps or compression can reduce the effectiveness of the insulation material, leading to wasted money.
How much does it cost to insulate a 1,000 sq ft attic with R-49 insulation?
The cost to insulate a 1,000 sq ft attic with R-49 insulation in the Chicago area typically ranges from $2,700 to $8,608 depending on the material selected. For this standard size, Fiberglass is approximately $2,700, Cellulose is approximately $3,200, and Spray Foam is approximately $8,608. These 2026 estimates include the cost of materials, labor, basic air sealing, and the installation of vent chutes. Your final price may vary based on attic accessibility, the condition of existing insulation, and available utility rebates.
What type of insulation is best for attics?
The best type of attic insulation depends on your climate, goals, and budget. If you are looking for budget-friendly options, you can consider blown-in cellulose and fiberglass, which are effective for coverage. You can also check spray foam, which offers the best air sealing and moisture control, but it can be expensive. You may opt to air-seal first, then choose between dense-pack cellulose or spray foam for cold climates, and radiant barriers with fiberglass or foam for hot climates.
How much does it cost to insulate a 2000 sq ft attic?
The cost to insulate a 2000 sq. ft. attic typically ranges from $4,500 to $7,500 for blown-in cellulose or fiberglass and starts at $13,000+ for a spray foam system. These professional estimates include typical air sealing, though the final price may vary based on your attic's layout, existing insulation, and necessary electrical or ventilation work.
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