Why Insulation Matters in Colorado
Colorado's climate is demanding. Winter temperatures drop below zero. Summer days reach 95°F+. Temperature swings of 40°F in a single day are common. Your home's insulation is the barrier between your comfort and these extremes.
Most Colorado homes built before 2000 have inadequate insulation by today's standards. Attics often have R-19 or less when R-49 is recommended. Walls may have R-11 when R-21 is standard. Basements and crawlspaces are frequently uninsulated.
Symptoms of Poor Insulation
- • Rooms that are too hot or too cold
- • High heating and cooling bills
- • Drafts near windows, doors, outlets
- • Ice dams on roof in winter
- • HVAC runs constantly
Benefits of Proper Insulation
- • Even temperatures throughout home
- • 20-30% lower energy bills
- • Quieter interior (sound barrier)
- • Reduced allergens and dust
- • Heat pump works more efficiently
Insulation Options
Blown-In Cellulose (Attic)
Made from recycled paper. Fills gaps and irregular spaces. R-value of 3.2-3.8 per inch. Most cost-effective for attic upgrades.
Cost: $1.00-1.50/sq ft installed
Blown-In Fiberglass (Attic/Walls)
Does not settle as much as cellulose. R-value of 2.2-2.7 per inch. Can be dense-packed into walls without removing drywall.
Cost: $1.00-1.75/sq ft installed
Spray Foam (Crawlspaces/Rim Joists)
Seals air and insulates in one step. Closed-cell has R-value of 6-7 per inch. Open-cell has R-value of 3.5-4 per inch. Excellent for hard-to-reach areas.
Cost: $1.50-3.00/sq ft installed
Rigid Foam Board (Basement/Foundation)
XPS and polyiso boards. R-value of 4-6.5 per inch. Water resistant. Ideal for basement walls and exterior foundation.
Cost: $0.75-1.25/sq ft (materials)
Air Sealing
Air sealing is as important as insulation. Air leaks carry heat directly out of your home. A typical home has enough air leaks to equal a 2-square-foot hole in the wall. Sealing these leaks is often the most cost-effective energy improvement.
Common Air Leak Locations
- • Attic hatch/door
- • Recessed lighting fixtures
- • Plumbing and electrical penetrations
- • Chimney and flue chases
- • Window and door frames
- • Rim joists in basement
Sealing Materials
- • Caulk: Small gaps (<1/4")
- • Spray foam: Larger gaps (1/4" - 3")
- • Weatherstripping: Doors and windows
- • Rigid foam + caulk: Large openings
- • Fire-rated materials: Near chimneys
Colorado R-Value Recommendations
| Location | Minimum R-Value | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Attic | R-38 | R-49 to R-60 |
| Walls (2x4) | R-13 | R-15 (dense pack) |
| Walls (2x6) | R-19 | R-21 to R-23 |
| Basement Walls | R-10 | R-15 to R-20 |
| Crawlspace | R-19 | R-30 |
Costs and Incentives
Typical Project Costs
- • Attic insulation (1,500 sq ft): $1,500-2,500
- • Air sealing package: $500-1,500
- • Basement wall insulation: $2,000-4,000
- • Complete weatherization: $3,000-6,000
Federal Tax Credit (25C)
30% of insulation and air sealing costs. Up to $1,200/year for envelope improvements.
Xcel Energy Rebates
$0.10-0.15/sq ft for attic insulation. Up to $200 for air sealing. Must meet program requirements.
Colorado HEAR Rebates
Up to $1,600 for weatherization. Income-qualified households at or below 150% AMI.