How much does it cost to insulate a barndominium?

Typically, insulating a barndominium would cost around USD 1500 to USD 8000 ($1 to $6 per square foot) depending on the size and the types of insulation you are using.

Insulating barndominium would offer you advantages such as weatherproofing, better resale value, and a tax credit of up to $1200 for energy efficiency.

In this article, we will discuss the tentative cost of the barndominium insulation based on different factors.

How the insulation is measured?

Normally, the insulation cost of a bardominium is measured on per board foot of 1-inch thickness. And, and one board foot represents 1 square foot dimension.

So, if you are insulating with dimensional insulation material such as batt fiberglass, then the cost would be (cost of one board foot x wall thickness).

For example, if your wall thickness is 3.5 inches and one board foot of batt fiberglass costs around $0.40 , then the cost of insulation for one square foot would be (0.40 x 3), or $1.20 per square foot.

Alternatively, insulating using the spray foam would have a straight square foot measurement. For instance, the vendor would ask for a straight $2.30 per square foot for the barndominium wall insulation.

Insulation cost using Spray foam

Closed-cell spray foam normally costs between $1.00 to $2.oo per square foot and the open-cell spray foam would cost around $0.65 to $0.75 for 1 square foot.

Compare the cost of spray foam and fiberglass insulation cost here.

Why does closed-cell spray foam cost more than open-cell spray foam?

The higher cost of closed-cell spray foam insulation reflects its superior insulating properties, the complexity of its installation, and its additional benefits, such as moisture protection and structural support. Despite the higher cost, many homeowners and builders consider it a worthwhile investment for long-term energy savings and building integrity.

Mainly the cost varies due to the following reasons:

Density and R-value: Closed-cell foam has a higher density and R-value per inch, meaning it provides better insulation with less material. This higher effectiveness requires more complex chemicals and processes to create, which contributes to the higher cost.

Material Composition: The ingredients in closed-cell foam are more expensive due to the presence of a gas, often a hydrofluorocarbon, which acts as a blowing agent to create those tiny closed cells. This compound not only adds to the insulation properties but also increases the production cost.

Installation Complexity: The application of closed-cell foam is usually thicker and requires more precision due to its expansive nature and the need for proper curing. Installers must be highly skilled, which can drive up labor costs.

Structural Benefits: Closed-cell foam adds to the structural integrity of a building, acting as a secondary support system to some extent. This dual function as both insulation and a reinforcing agent justifies the higher price point.

Moisture Barrier: Closed-cell foam is practically impermeable to water, providing an excellent moisture barrier. This intrinsic property reduces the risk of mold and water damage, which can save money in the long run but means a larger upfront investment.

Longevity and Durability: Closed-cell foam tends to last longer and doesn’t degrade as quickly as open-cell foam. While this durability is a selling point, it also factors into the initial cost of materials and installation.

Insulation Cost using batt fiberglass

The cost of batt fiberglass insulation in the U.S. can vary widely depending on various factors such as geographic location, the size of the area to be insulated, the R-value (which is a measure of thermal resistance), and the thickness of the material.

As of my last information, the price ranges could be estimated as follows:

• The cost of batt fiberglass insulation itself typically ranges from about $0.40 to $1.60 per square foot, depending on the R-value and thickness.
• For professional installation, the cost may increase to include labor, which can range from $0.60 to $2 per square foot.

The overall fiberglass insulation cost can very depending on what type of fiberglass are you using. For instance, the roll fiberglass would be expensive than the batt fiberglass and the blown-in would cost even more than that of other two.

Cost using rigid foam

As of our most recent data, the average cost for materials alone for rigid foam insulation can range anywhere from roughly $0.80 to $1.60 per square foot for a 1-inch thick panel, but this is a rough estimate and prices can vary. When it comes to professional installation, if you decide not to DIY, you’ll need to factor in labor costs, which can significantly increase your total expense.

Let’s explore what might influence the price of rigid foam insulation:

Material Types: Rigid foam comes in a few different materials, each with its price point. The most common types are expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and polyisocyanurate (polyiso). EPS is usually the most affordable, while polyiso tends to be on the higher end due to its superior R-value.

Thickness and R-Value: The thicker the insulation and the higher the R-value, the more you can expect to pay. Rigid foam insulation typically comes in various thicknesses, with options ranging from half an inch to several inches. As you might guess, the more material there is, the higher the cost.

Barndominium Size: The total square footage you need to cover will affect your bottom line. Larger projects require more materials and potentially more labor, increasing the overall cost.

Installation Complexity: Rigid foam often needs to be cut and fitted precisely, especially around obstacles or in irregular spaces. For example, if you have having banrdominium with a crawlspace basement then it would cost high.

What else affects the installation cost?

When homeowners consider insulating their barndominium, the primary factors that come to mind are typically the cost of materials and labor. However, several other elements can significantly affect the overall price tag of insulation projects, often catching residents by surprise.

Pre-Insulation Assessment

Prior to the installation of new insulation, a comprehensive assessment of the existing insulation is crucial. This can unearth issues such as mold growth or pest infestations within old insulation material. Dealing with these problems is essential for the longevity of the new insulation but requires additional funding for pest control services and mold remediation, which can be quite costly in states with high humidity levels like Florida.

Removal of Old Insulation

The removal of outdated or damaged insulation is another hidden cost. This process requires care, especially if the insulation contains asbestos or other hazardous materials. In the U.S, particularly in states with a rich stock of historical homes like Massachusetts, the cost of safely removing and disposing of such materials can be substantial, due to stringent environmental and safety regulations.

Air Sealing

Air sealing is a critical but often overlooked step that ensures the effectiveness of new insulation. Before installation, any gaps or leaks must be sealed, particularly around doors, windows, and where wiring or plumbing penetrates walls. Depending upon the size of the house and the extent of the leaks, in places such as windy Chicago, this can add unexpected costs to the insulation project.

Structural Considerations

In some cases, the structure of a house may require modification to properly install insulation. Older homes in historic districts like Charleston or New Orleans might need careful adjustments to preserve architectural integrity while also accommodating modern insulation, which can be a delicate and expensive process.

Energy Audits

Some homeowners opt for a professional energy audit before insulating to identify all areas of energy loss. While this can save money in the long run by targeting the most significant issues, the upfront cost of these audits, especially when conducted by reputable firms in high-cost-of-living areas like New York City, can be an additional burden.

Regional Material and Labor Costs

Building codes evolve, and what was acceptable when your home was originally constructed might not pass muster now. Bringing everything up to code might require additional work, such as installing fire-rated materials around the insulation or working around the other sensitive material you have already installed.

Conclusion

The ultimate cost of your insulation depends on the insulation material, location, and other factors mentioned here.