How much does it cost to insulate an attic yourself?

About $1,050 in materials for a 750 sq ft attic in climate zone 5, insulated to R-60, against roughly $750 to $1,650 to hire it out.

Estimate only, computed from the insulation calculator's default inputs and prices. Your sizes and local prices will change it.

Do it yourself (materials)

$1,050

Hire it out

$750 to $1,650

Worked example: a 750 sq ft attic in climate zone 5, insulated to R-60

Estimated DIY materials
ItemEstimate
Blown fiberglass: 25 bags$1,050
Total$1,050

Assumptions

  • Blown-in fiberglass over an attic with no usable existing insulation
  • 10% waste, at the calculator's default bag price
  • Blower rental, air sealing, baffles and vent work are extra

What changes the price

  • Many stores lend a blower with a large enough bag order. Ask first, because a rental changes the math on a small attic.
  • Air seal before you insulate: gaps around lights, plumbing and the attic hatch can undercut the new insulation.
  • Homes built before about 1990 may have vermiculite, which can contain asbestos. Have it tested before you disturb it.

Price your own project

Enter your measurements and local prices in the free insulation calculator for a full materials list and cost.

Open the insulation calculator

Also useful: Attic ventilation cheat sheet

FAQ

How much does it cost to insulate an attic yourself?

About $1,050 in materials for a 750 sq ft attic in climate zone 5, insulated to R-60, against roughly $750 to $1,650 to hire it out. These are estimates from the insulation calculator's default prices; enter your own sizes and prices there for your project.

How much do you save if you insulate an attic yourself?

On this example, doing it yourself saves roughly $0 to $600, before tools you would need to buy or rent.

Where do these numbers come from?

From the same math the insulation calculator runs, fed its default inputs and unit prices. They are rough US averages, not quotes, and local prices vary.

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