Insulation questions, answered
Short answers to what Bell County homeowners ask us most.
Estimates and scheduling
Is the estimate free?
- Yes. The attic inspection and written estimate are free, with no obligation.
Can you price the job from a photo?
- Often we can give you a range from an attic photo and your home’s size. The final price comes after a quick inspection.
Which cities do you serve?
- Killeen, Temple, Belton, Harker Heights, Copperas Cove and Nolanville, plus the rest of Bell County.
Do you work on rental properties?
- Yes. We schedule between tenants and send the estimate to the owner or property manager.
Attic insulation
How much attic insulation should I have?
- ENERGY STAR recommends R-49 for an uninsulated attic in Central Texas, or adding R-38 if you already have 3 to 4 inches.
How can I tell if my attic needs more?
- If you can see the tops of the ceiling joists, you need more.
- Hot upstairs rooms and rising summer bills are other signs.
Can new insulation go over the old?
- Yes, if the old insulation is dry and clean. Wet, moldy or pest damaged insulation should come out first.
Fiberglass or cellulose?
- Both work well in a dry attic. Fiberglass handles roof leaks better, cellulose packs more R-value per inch.
Spray foam
Is spray foam worth the extra cost?
- Often yes for hot attics with ductwork, metal buildings and leaky older homes.
- For a simple top up, blown in insulation is usually the better value.
Open cell or closed cell?
- Open cell for attic roof decks and interior walls.
- Closed cell for metal buildings, crawl spaces and anywhere moisture is a concern.
Do I have to leave the house during spray foam?
- Yes, while it is sprayed and for the re-entry time the manufacturer specifies, often about a day.
Does spray foam stop condensation in a metal building?
- Closed cell foam bonded to the metal is one of the most reliable ways to stop it.
Other questions
What is a radiant barrier and do I need one?
- A reflective foil under the roof that turns back radiant heat.
- It helps most in hot, sunny climates when ducts run through the attic.
Can you insulate walls without tearing them out?
- Often yes. Closed walls can be filled with blown insulation through small holes that are patched afterward.
What if my attic has vermiculite?
- Vermiculite looks like gray brown pebbles and can contain asbestos. We stop and recommend testing before anyone disturbs it.
What does insulation cost?
- It depends on the area, the material and the prep. We price every job in writing after a free inspection. See what affects insulation cost.
Still have a question?
Ask us. We will answer it and, if you want, give you a free estimate.