How Much Does It Cost to Install Spray Foam Insulation?

January 21, 2015

On one hand, the question above is an important question from a client or customer.On the other hand, it's almost impossible to answer right off.Its probably one of the most frequent questions that a contractor, builder or architect receives - especially when the product and installation are so readily recommended for a project.The answer isn't simple, mainly because there are many variables and project scenarios.

Like many building products, the cost of spray foam will be based on several factors:the size of the space to be insulated - the amount of product that will be required - the extent of labor needed to complete the job - even the physical location of the job.But beyond these variables, it's also important to remember that spray foam, as with any product or service, will follow that age-old premise:we get what we pay for.

The bottom line is that spray foam is an expensive proposition - a premium product that requires specialized installation techniques.In short, it should be regarded as an investment - it will deliver more benefits that any other insulation product, and will deliver much better cost savings in the long term.There's an impressive return-on-investment with spray foam, which makes the initial up-front cost worthwhile.

Now - back to the original issue of what it costs.A good insulation contractor will help their clients to understand the story-behind-the-story - what the project costs are based on; what the product actually costs; and what the installation costs are all about.As well, it isn't a bad idea to do a basic cost-benefit analysis - in other words, what is the overall project cost, and what are the inherent payoffs of the project.

A spray foam application provides more benefits in one installation than any of the other products on the market.In some cases, the benefits are truly cost saving, in other cases they are just added values.Air-sealing and moisture management, for example, will contribute to energy savings from season to season.As well, improved performance of the HVAC equipment will also contribute to cost savings on energy.

With regard to saving money or trimming the project budget, spray foam insulation is not the likely place.There are ways to gain some advantage, like combining two products for better value, but this is something that a reliable contractor can suggest and implement on the job.As for trying to save money by getting into a DIY project, this is an approach with unwanted risks, and the potential for unwanted extra costs.

Spray foam insulation requires professional attention.It needs to be done right the first time, because a rework or redo will quickly add costs that are unwelcome.The work requires a licensed and certified professional to ensure a proper installation and to ensure product performance for years to come.The best news about spray foam is that it lasts a lifetime with no need to replace or replenish.Now that's value.