Installation doesn't sound sexy. You can't show it off to the neighbors. But, in the long run, adding or improving insulation can save serious money and energy. Looking for immediate gratification? It makes your home more comfy. You'll notice the difference on those extremely hot or cold days as well as when you get your utility bills. Insulation also can help regulate moisture levels, which can head off serious home disasters, such as mold, water damage, peeling paint and wall cracks.

If you plan to live in your house for an extended period of time, insulation may be the best investment you can make. Even if you go for more expensive materials and pay a hefty price up front, you're almost sure to recoup that money with lower utility bills over time. If you don't have the money to do your entire house, consider one area at a time. Even small investments in insulations can deliver sweet payoffs.  Continue Reading

The cost of insulation depends on the size of your home and the materials you choose.

Batt or Rolled Insulation

These come in sheets that are then rolled out and cut to fit into wall spaces in between beams and covered with drywall. The thickness varies, depending on your needs. Rolled insulation is generally the most affordable way to go, with both the materials and labor being cheaper.

Loose Fill or Blown Insulation

Loose and blown insulations are used when insulation needs to be placed in hard-to-reach areas, such as attics, crawl spaces and under floors. For this reason, the installation costs for blown insulation can be higher depending on how difficult the area is to access.

Rigid board insulations

These types of insulations are installed in the same fashion as wall board or drywall and go exclusively into walls. Rigid board insulations are more expensive but effective, so the cost of installation will be eventually offset by energy savings.

Poured or injected insulations

In extremely difficult to reach or oddly shaped areas, you can use injected and poured insulations. These materials often start as foam and, after drying, become hard and stiff. They are more expensive, but not used in large quantities since they're only used in smaller and difficult-to-access areas. Foam sprays purport to be healthier than cellulose and fiberglass.

Insulation R-value

The R-value is designed to be a measure of performance. It measures how well insulation resists heat transfer. R-values vary based on the thickness, density and type of material being used. Insulation with high R-values often cost more but can save you more on your utilities bill.