The average annual hidden homeownership costs for a Texan with a single-family home can be as high as $18,036, according to Bankrate.
There are so many tasks to consider, but one of them should be adding insulation to existing walls. This is a crucial step toward improving your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and overall value.
For Texas residents, where the climate can vary from hot, humid summers to cooler winters, proper insulation is particularly important. But how much does it cost to add insulation to existing walls in Texas?
This Texas insulation guide explores the factors affecting insulation price, the types of insulation available, and the benefits of upgrading your home’s thermal barrier.
Cost of Wall Insulation in Texas
Several factors influence the overall cost of adding insulation to your home’s existing walls. Here’s what you should consider:
1. Size of the Home
The amount of insulation required depends on the square footage of your walls. A larger home with more exterior walls will naturally require more material and labor, driving up the cost.
2. Type of Insulation
Different types of insulation materials come with varying costs. Common options include:
- Fiberglass Batts: Affordable and widely used, but more suited for open wall cavities
- Spray Foam: Effective for sealing gaps and cracks, though it’s more expensive
- Blown-In Cellulose: Ideal for existing walls as it can be installed with minimal intrusion
Each type has unique characteristics and price points that influence your overall expenses.
3. Labor Costs
Professional installation is often necessary for adding insulation to existing walls, especially in fully constructed homes. Labor rates in Texas vary depending on your location and the complexity of the project. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures the job is done safely and effectively.
4. Accessibility
Adding insulation to finished walls often requires drilling small holes to inject the material. If your home has limited accessibility or additional obstacles, such as built-ins or complex layouts, the cost may increase.
Average Costs for Wall Insulation in Texas
On average, homeowners in Texas can expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 to add insulation to existing walls, depending on the factors mentioned above. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Fiberglass Insulation
It costs $0.40 to $1.50 per square foot. This option is less common for existing walls since it requires wall cavities to be open.
Blown-In Cellulose
It costs $1 to $2 per square foot. This material is popular for retrofitting walls as it can be injected through small openings.
Spray Foam Insulation
It costs $1.50 to $5 per square foot. While more expensive, spray foam offers excellent sealing properties and long-term energy savings.
For a typical 1,500-square-foot home, the total cost may range between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the insulation material and installation method.
Types of Insulation: Choosing the Right Option
When adding insulation to existing walls, it’s important to choose a material that fits your budget and performance needs. Below are the most common types used in Texas:
1. Blown-In Cellulose
Blown-in cellulose insulation is a popular choice for retrofitting because it can be installed without tearing down walls. It’s made from recycled paper treated with fire-resistant chemicals and is effective at reducing heat transfer.
This method involves drilling small holes in the drywall or exterior siding and blowing the cellulose into the wall cavity. The process is relatively quick and minimally invasive, making it ideal for older homes.
2. Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam is a premium option for those seeking maximum energy efficiency. It expands to fill gaps and cracks, providing an airtight seal that improves thermal performance. Spray foam is especially useful in Texas homes where sealing air leaks is critical to maintaining indoor temperatures.
While more expensive than other options, spray foam can significantly lower energy bills over time, offsetting the initial investment.
3. Fiberglass Batts
Fiberglass batts are the most cost-effective insulation material but are better suited for open wall cavities, such as during renovations. If you’re planning to remodel or replace drywall, fiberglass batts can be a budget-friendly option.
Benefits of Adding Insulation to Existing Walls
Upgrading your home’s insulation offers numerous advantages beyond lower utility bills. Here are some key benefits:
1. Energy Efficiency
Proper wall insulation reduces heat transfer, helping your HVAC system operate more efficiently. This translates to significant energy savings, especially in Texas, where air conditioning use is high during summer months.
2. Improved Comfort
Insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, preventing hot or cold spots. This ensures a more comfortable living environment year-round.
3. Noise Reduction
Wall insulation also acts as a sound barrier, minimizing noise from outside and between rooms. This is especially beneficial in urban areas or neighborhoods with busy streets.
4. Environmental Impact
By reducing energy consumption, insulating existing walls contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. This way you can support a more sustainable future.
5. Increased Home Value
Energy-efficient upgrades like wall insulation are attractive to buyers and can boost your home’s resale value. Many buyers in Texas prioritize homes with lower utility costs and eco-friendly features.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
While it’s possible to add insulation yourself, hiring a professional is often the best choice for retrofitting existing walls. Professionals have the tools and expertise to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Insulating Existing Walls – When to Do It
Adding insulation is an excellent investment if:
- Your home feels drafty, especially near the exterior walls
- You notice uneven indoor temperatures
- Your energy bills are consistently high
- You’re planning a renovation or home improvement project
For Texas homeowners, spring or fall is an ideal time to upgrade insulation since contractors are typically less busy, and the mild weather makes installation more manageable.
How Much Does It Cost To Add Insulation to Existing Walls?
The answer to the question, “How much does it cost to add insulation to existing walls?” is around $1,500 to $4,000 depending on the size of your home and the type of insulation. But, the long-term savings and benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
TexAire Heating & Air Conditioning is a local family-owned and operated insulation expert ready to improve your home’s efficiency and indoor air quality. Book a visit with our team to reduce your Texas home insulation costs.
