# Cost of DIY Wall Insulation
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R-value
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The first thing to consider when figuring out the cost of DIY wall installation is the R-value requirement in the area. The R-value requirements vary depending on the climate of the area and the specific area of the home that will be insulated. For example, Florida has a wall R-value requirement of R-13, while North Dakota has a wall R-value requirement of R-18. The higher the R-value, the higher the cost of insulation. Homeowners planning to do the insulation themselves can roughly figure out how much it will cost by determining the exact R-value requirements in their area.
DIY Foam Installation
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Homeowners can purchase DIY foam kits, which vary in cost depending on the kit. For example, as of 2011, the cost for two Fomo II-200 foam kits is $577.80, which would cover 112 square feet, or an 8-by-14-foot wall. A Fomo II-600 kit is also available for $695.00 and provides 30 percent more coverage.
Benefits
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Properly insulating a home has many benefits. The cost of energy bills can be cut up to 50 percent, making the upfront cost of insulation worth the expense in the long run. Proper insulation should last the lifetime of the house and will continue to save energy and money each year. Insulation also cuts back carbon dioxide emissions being released into the atmosphere from the home.
Considerations
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It is also important to consider the type of material used to insulate a home, as different materials cost different amounts. Fiberglass, cellulose and polyurethane foam are some common insulation materials. Fiberglass costs between 70 cents and $1 per square foot as of 2011, and cellulose cost about the same, roughly 75 cents to $1 per square foot. Foam kits are usually more expensive and vary in price based on how much you need. A kit that covers about 100 square feet costs about $300, while a kit that covers about 600 square feet costs about $700 as of 2011. The walls should also be inspected for any damp patches, which need to be fixed prior to working on insulation. Hire a contractor in case there is a doubt regarding the insulation process.
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