If you’re looking to make your Calgary home more energy-efficient, comfortable, and ready for Alberta’s harsh winters, upgrading your insulation is one of the smartest investments you can make.
With so many insulation contractors in Calgary, how do you know who to trust and what is a fair price?
When speaking of top-rated insulation contractors in Calgary, several companies stand out including Western Insulation, Enerliv Energy Solutions, Calgary Spray Foam Pros, Attic Rain Insulation, and EcoStar Insulation, all known for their professional service, transparent pricing, and certified technicians.
On average, insulation installation in Calgary costs between $2.50 and $6.00 per square foot, depending on the material (fibreglass, spray foam, cellulose, or blown-in), R-value, and size of the home.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from comparing quotes and materials to understanding rebates and choosing the best contractor in Calgary for your needs.
If you want to compare actual quotes tailored to your needs, please fill out the short online form on this page at NO COST.
How do you know you need new Insulation?
If you are uncertain whether you need new insulation, look out for these telltale signs:
- Uneven temperatures between rooms
- Ice dams form on the roof
- High heating or cooling bills
- Cold drafts around windows or walls
- Attic moisture or “attic rain” issues
- Rodents or pests nesting in old insulation
Even if your home feels fine, insulation degrades over time – especially fibreglass batts that compress or get damp. A quick inspection from an energy advisor can reveal areas with hidden heat loss.
The Importance of Insulation in Calgary’s Climate
Calgary’s weather can swing from freezing cold winters to hot, dry summers — and insulation plays a major role in keeping your indoor temperature stable.
A well-insulated home reduces heat loss in the winter and prevents hot air from entering during summer. That means lower energy bills, fewer drafts, and better comfort year-round.
Without proper insulation, you could be losing up to 30% of your home’s heat through the attic, walls, and floors. You are paying for energy that literally escapes through the windows.
Schedule your home or attic insulation with our partner insulation contractors by filling out the short online form on this page.
What is the Average Insulation Cost in Calgary?
Calgary insulation costs vary based on the type of material, the size of your home, and the accessibility of the area (attics and crawlspaces can be tricky).
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect this year:
Type of Insulation | Average Cost | Estimated Cost | Ideal For |
Fibreglass Batts | $2.00 – $3.00 | $2,000 – $3,000 | Walls, ceilings, and DIY installations |
Blown-in Cellulose | $2.50 – $4.00 | $2,500 – $4,000 | Attics and retrofits |
Spray Foam | $4.50 – $6.50 | $4,500 – $6,500 | Maximum air sealing and moisture |
Rigid Foam Board | $2.50 – $5.00 | $2,500 – $5,000 | Exterior walls and basement foundations |
Check that you compare itemized quotes. A detailed estimate shows the cost of materials, labour, equipment, and miscellaneous charges. This will make it easier for you to compare contractors for the same products and quality.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Insulation in Calgary?
When comparing quotes, it’s important to understand why prices vary among contractors. Here are the main factors influencing your total cost:
1. Type of Material
Spray foam typically costs more but provides superior air sealing and higher R-values. Fibreglass and cellulose are cheaper upfront but may not perform as well in older homes with air leakage.
2. Home Age and Condition
Many older homes require air sealing, repairs to vapour barriers, or improvements to attic ventilation before insulation can be upgraded. This will increase labour time and materials, and ultimately, your bill.
3. Accessibility
If your attic has low clearance or if insulation needs to be added behind finished walls, the project will cost more due to increased labour and removal.
4. R-Value Target
The higher the R-value you want (a measure of thermal resistance), the more material is required. Calgary homes typically aim for:
- R-50 to R-60 for attics
- R-20 to R-24 for walls
- R-10 to R-20 for basements and floors
Understanding what drives insulation prices helps you see beyond mere costs. Two contractors can give different estimates for the same work. However, upon closer inspection, you may see that one contractor has included air sealing and cleanup in the quote while the other contractor has not.
The key is to focus on long-term performance, not just the upfront cost. Paying a bit more for the right material and skilled installation can mean lower heating bills, fewer repairs, and greater comfort all-year-round in Calgary’s unpredictable climate.
Spray Foam vs. Blown-In vs. Fibreglass: Which Is Best in Calgary?
Choosing the right insulation type isn’t just about cost — it’s about performance in Calgary’s specific conditions.
- Pros: Highest R-value per inch, air-tight seal, moisture barrier, long lifespan
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, professional installation required
- Best for: Basements, crawlspaces, exterior walls, and attics needing air sealing
- Pros: Great coverage in attics, eco-friendly (recycled paper), good soundproofing
- Cons: Can settle over time, not moisture-resistant
- Best for: Attics and open spaces in existing homes
- Pros: Affordable, easy to install, available at hardware stores
- Cons: Poor air sealing, performance depends on perfect fitting
- Best for: New construction walls and ceilings
In Calgary, a hybrid approach is often the best strategy. For example, spray foam in the basement and blown-in cellulose in the attic optimizes cost and efficiency.
Connect with reputable contractors about your insulation needs.
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How Long Does Insulation Installation Take?
On average, a home insulation project in Calgary takes:
- Attic: 1–2 days
- Walls: 2–3 days
- Basement: 1–2 days
- Full home retrofit: About 1 week
Spray foam projects are typically faster because the foam expands and cures within hours. Blown-in cellulose can be completed in a day but requires prep and cleanup time.
Rebates and Incentives in Calgary for Insulation Upgrades
Here’s more good news. Homeowners can still access energy rebates in 2025 to reduce the cost of insulation upgrades.
Here’s more good news. Homeowners can still access energy rebates in 2025 to reduce the cost of insulation upgrades.
1. Canada Greener Homes Grant (Phase-Out, Limited Availability)
Some homeowners who already applied may still qualify for up to $5,000 in rebates for insulation, windows, and heat pumps.
2. Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+)
Administered by Enbridge and Natural Resources Canada, HER+ offers:
- Up to $1,800 for attic insulation
- Up to $1,000 for basement insulation
- Up to $1,000 for wall insulation upgrades
You will need a pre- and post-energy audit from a certified energy advisor to qualify.
3. City of Calgary Home Energy Loan Program (HELP)
This local program allows you to finance energy upgrades at low interest rates, and repay through your property tax bill. Insulation projects qualify if they meet certain energy improvement thresholds.
Energy rebate programs don’t last forever and funding can run out fast. If you are planning a home insulation upgrade, don’t lose any more time.
Speak to insulation contractors in your area to learn how much you will need. They can also give you more details about rebates and low-interest financing in Calgary
Fill out the short online form right now to connect with top-rated insulation contractors near you.
DIY or Professional Installation: Which Is Better?
DIY insulation can sound cheaper at first, but it is not always the best idea, especially with materials like spray foam that require specialized equipment and safety gear.
DIY pros:
- Lower cost for small attic touch-ups or fibreglass batts
- Flexible scheduling
DIY cons:
- No warranty or certification
- Risk of gaps, uneven coverage, or vapor barrier mistakes
- No access to rebates (most require professional installation)
For most Calgary homes, professional installation delivers better long-term savings, increased comfort, and peace of mind.
Calgary homeowners often notice these benefits after insulation:
- More stable indoor temperatures
- Reduced furnace and AC use
- Less condensation and fewer cold drafts
- Quieter interiors (better soundproofing)
With average heating bills around $150–$300 a month during winter, your investment can pay for itself in 3–5 years through energy savings alone.
The Best Season for Insulation Upgrades
Timing your insulation project matters more than most homeowners realize. In Calgary’s unpredictable climate, choosing the right season can make your upgrade smoother, faster, and even cheaper.
Spring and Fall: The Ideal Seasons
Most insulation experts agree that spring and fall are the best times to schedule insulation work. The weather is mild, contractors are less busy than during the peak of winter or summer, and you can prepare your home before the extreme temperatures hit.
- Spring upgrades get your home ready for summer heat, keeping cool air inside and reducing air conditioning costs.
- Fall upgrades are perfect for locking in warmth before winter. You can immediately feel the difference when temperatures start to drop.
These shoulder seasons also make attic and crawlspace work easier since installers won’t have to deal with freezing or sweltering conditions, which can slow down the job and affect material performance.
It is still possible to do insulation work in winter and summer, but extreme temperatures come with challenges.
- In winter, spray foam can be harder to apply correctly unless the area is pre-heated.
- In summer, attic temperatures can reach dangerous levels, making blown-in insulation installations more uncomfortable and time-consuming.
If your insulation is severely outdated or your energy bills are skyrocketing, don’t wait for the perfect time. Professional contractors in Calgary are equipped to handle installations all-year-round.
Get Your Free Insulation Quotes in Calgary Today
Insulation is not just a home upgrade; it’s an investment in your comfort, health, and long-term energy savings.
Calgary’s extreme temperature swings make proper insulation one of the most impactful improvements you can make.
Before hiring anyone, compare quotes from top-rated Calgary insulation contractors. You will quickly see which companies offer the best combination of price, expertise, and customer care.
Hire a certified insulation contractor to ensure top-quality results and make you eligible for these savings programs. Combined with lower monthly utility bills, the rebates can significantly cut your total project cost and speed up your return on investment.
In short, upgrading your insulation today means you’ll save twice — once from rebates and again from reduced energy use for years to come.
Whether you’re upgrading your attic, basement, or the whole home, take the first step today. Request your free insulation quotes and see how much you can save on energy bills this year.
