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Garage Door Repair Cost

If you are experiencing problems with your garage door it might be time to do some basic repair work or have a professional to determine if it can be repaired or not. The garage door is one of the largest entryways into your home and helps protect your home from thieves. Here are the most common factors that affect the cost of a garage door repair. 

garage door repair cost

Average Garage Door Repair Prices

The average cost to repair a garage door starts from $190 depending on the type and size of the door and the extent of repair needed. Typical garage repairs include the springs, opener, cables, track, sensor, and locks. The cost varies from $85 to $290 depending on the job. 

The garage doors are the main entry to your home so they need to be both operational and secure. It is always good to have a professional to pay a visit to check and maintain your garage doors and fix them in case you cannot do it yourself. The average cost to replace a garage door comes to $1,105.

Part Average Repair Cost
Springs $80 – $290
Opener $100 – $190
Cables or Chain $100 – $200
Track $135 – $290
Panel $250 – $800
Sensor $85 – $100
Locks $95 – $325

How Much Do Common Garage Door Repairs Cost?

Even if you can maintain the garage door yourself on a regular basis it is always good to have a professional to inspect the door every once in a while by scheduling routine inspections. During a typical service call, the contractor inspects both the door and the opener.  

When visiting your home a professional will examine the door for any problems and will make all the necessary adjustments (chain/belt and spring tension, force adjustments, and door lubrication). Garage door repair fees range from $147 and $341 but may vary from place to place. 

Here are some common garage door repairs and their associated costs:

Garage Door Springs Repair Cost

On average, the cost to replace the garage spring comes between $50 and $290 and depends largely on the type of springs. If your garage door uses an extension spring which stretches and then contracts, expect to pay from $50 to $95. Torsion springs are more expensive and will cost between $200 to $290 to repair or replace. Tit-up garage door spring repair costs around $150 to $200, whereas repair roll-up garage door costs from $100-$125 per door. 

Torsion springs often need replacement as they start malfunctioning resulting in the garage door not opening properly. Torsion springs work by twisting their end along their axis. When they twist they store mechanical energy and as the door goes up they release the stored energy. Replacing two torsion springs will cost from $200 to $290 (labor + material included). 

Extension springs are the most common type of spring found on garage doors. They extend and compress. Extension springs replacement cost ranges from $50 to $95.

Garage Door Sensor Repair Cost

Safety sensors work by detecting any obstructions in the path of a closing door. If there is an object in the path of the door then the sensor stops the door from closing until the path has cleared. However, sometimes when the sensor is not functioning properly it does not allow the garage door to close even if the path is clear. Replacing a garage door sensor costs on average from $85 to $100.

Garage Door Opener Replacement Cost

If the safety sensor is working fine and the door still does not close then the problem might be with the garage opener and need to be checked. If the opener has a small light on it, press the button to see if the light illuminates. If you do not see any light, probably the battery inside the opener has run dry. Just replace the battery inside the opener and this may solve the problem. 

Opener Remote – A new garage door remote usually costs around $35. Always check and replace the batteries regularly, if possible as if they might become weak and put unnecessary strain on the garage door mechanisms. 

Opener wiring- If you have replaced the battery and your garage door still does not open, it is best to call an electrician. 

Garage Locks Replacement Cost

The cost to hire a locksmith comes to around $50-$75 to come to your house and around $95 to $325 to replace your garage locks. For simple repairs expect to pay as little as $100 in total. Before hiring a locksmith check with the company that installed your garage door as they might be able to send over a locksmith to do the job at a lower cost. Garage locks provide additional security so it is worth considering installing them.

Garage Door Track Replacement Cost

Sometimes the door might not be able to close because there is a problem with the wheel tracks. Examine the wheel tracks for any obstructions, dents, and bends and If the door is not hanging evenly. In the case that the door is hanging unevenly and that the tracks are damaged in any way,  you have to call a professional. Track repairs cost from $133 to $154. Cost for correcting the uneven hanging of doors changes depending on the location and the job itself and the contractor you hire but typically starts from about $125.

Garage Door Chain & Pulleys Repair Cost

If your door is noisy or it does not lift evenly or one side lifts more than the other there might be a problem with the pulley and chain and they need repair or replacement. A pulley costs around $5 and you can easily replace it yourself. Spring and pulleys are rated for 10,000 cycles so when you purchase new springs buy also pulleys to replace them. If you call a professional to replace pulleys, broken chains or cables expect to cost about $100 to $200.

Safety First: It is always recommended to install safety cables to prevent the garage from falling down in case the lifting mechanism malfunctions. Garage doors mechanisms use cables and chains to lift the garage doors or alternatively a screw-drive opener. 

Garage Door Panel Replacement Cost

If your garage door is not very old you can replace the panel for about  $250 to $800 depending on the style of the door and how long it will take to replace it. Check with your local garage door company to find out if there is a panel replacement and what are the options. A damaged panel can be replaced in many cases. The cost is:

Wood – The cost to repair the panel of a wooden garage door is around $400. 

Aluminum – If you need to replace the panel of an aluminum garage door the cost comes to  $170 to $289. 

Fiberglass – The cost to replace a fiberglass garage door panel comes to around $200.

If your garage door cannot be repaired anymore and you need to replace it expect to spend about  $878 to $1,420 for the installation of a new garage door. Of Course, if you have the budget you can spend thousands on a custom-built garage or state-of-the-art garage door. 

Garage Door Repair Prices By Material

garage door repair cost by material

Steel/metal garage doors – these kinds of doors are often made of pressed metal and are extremely durable and maintenance-free. Metal doors come in panels or boards and are cheap in comparison to other materials. Their biggest advantage is their strength, making them a good choice for security purposes and a long-lasting option. Repairing a steel door cost on average between $135 and $155.

Wooden garage doors. Timber garage doors are a stylish option but are also one of the more expensive materials. Added to that, they require regular maintenance to prevent them from warping or rotting. However, when properly taken care of wood doors are a strong, naturally insulating material. Wooden doors also look great, especially if you have a traditional or older property. The cost of repairing a wooden garage door varies depending on the type of wood that the door is made and the door style. However, the average cost to repair a wood panel ranges between $190 to $215.

Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) garage doors. This type of garage door is strong, durable, and is like a tough laminate. One of the main advantages of GRP is that it comes in many colors and finishes and can be made to look like wood – but without the maintenance. The average minimum cost starts from $1,157 and the average maximum comes to $2,030.

Fiberglass garage doors. Fiberglass is a very strong material fairly lightweight and is maintenance-free suitable for extreme climates and it is also a good insulator. Although it is a more expensive choice, it provides excellent security, an attractive appearance and will last a long time. The average costs for repairs to fiberglass doors range from $148 to $165.

Your garage door might not seem an important part of your home, but choosing the right material and style of door can have many advantages:

  • Security – A sturdy garage door will protect not only your car but any tools or items you choose to store in there. A secure door is especially important if your garage is connected to your home to stop intruders gaining access.
  • Aesthetic appeal – Installing a garage door that complements the style of your home can really improve the look of your entire property. A smart exterior is particularly important if you are trying to sell your home.
  • Convenience – An easy to use garage door will make parking your car and storing your possessions quick and simple.
  • Weatherproofing – If your garage door is made of durable material this helps to insulate and to prevent damp, draughts, and weather damage. This will extend the life of your garage and protect your property.

Additional Costs To Fix Garage Door

In addition to the common problems, there are more costs to fix your garage door.

  • Broken glass – The cost to replace a clear glass window is about $300. Specialty windows cost around $500.
  • Dents – You can fix aluminum dents yourself by hammering them or by hiring a handyman at $40 per hour.
  • Circuit board replacement – It costs around $70 to replace your garage’s circuit board.
  • Roller replacement – The cost to replace a roller (roller replacement) is about $130 per door.
  • Hinge replacement – Replacing your garage’s hinges will cost you about $100.

Professional Garage Door Repair

Even if you have managed to fix an old lock or dislodged door in the past, that’s no reason to assume that you’ll be able to fix a broken garage door. Garage doors come with all sorts of contraptions and fittings that you won’t be used to seeing on an everyday basis. 

In addition, garage door mechanisms function according to complex techniques that are extremely sensitive to outside interference; so if you don’t know what you’re doing you could end up in a whole lot of trouble – not just financially, but physically too. It’s not worth jeopardizing you or your family’s safety just to save some cash. 

Instead, you should look to hiring a professional to repair your garage door for you. After all, a qualified repairman or a qualified contractor will be able to…

  • Offer a full garage door repair service, including experienced and fully trained staff who regularly deal with similar garage door problems on a day-to-day basis and who know exactly how to repair a garage door.
  • Provide all the necessary tools and equipment to get the repair job completed to the highest-quality, including a power-drill, long-nose pin punches, spring tension kits, mole grips, and replacement springs and cables.
  • Provide expert advice on specific jobs following the repair, such as teaching you how to carry out basic garage door spring repair or how to repair a garage door cable – so you don’t have to worry about calling them out a second time for such a small and easily repairable fault. 
  • Recommend updates and extensions to your existing garage door following its repair, which might include anything from a simple repainting or varnishing job to new reinforced steel plates to support the door, longer cables for a smoother closing mechanism, or even an entirely new door to replace an old model that breaks down all too regularly.
  • Offer a money-insured work guarantee, which often lasts for anything from six months to up to five or even ten years, depending on the type of work that’s been completed.
  • Provide all the necessary certification and license details that prove they are able to work and carry out garage door repairs legally in the UK and are thus liable to any shoddy repair jobs and or further faults that may arise with the door following its repair.

Hiring a Garage Door Repair Contractor

Of course, even if you’re convinced of the top work a garage door repair contractor can do for you, hiring one is not as simple as just picking up the phone and getting in touch with the first company or tradesman that comes along. Instead, you need to make an informed decision on who to go with, which can be achieved in just a few simple steps – including the following:

  • Ask friends and relatives for personal recommendations – You never know, you might even get a discount if a garage door repairman has heard you’ve hired them based on good word-of-mouth.
  • Specify exactly what needs repairing on your garage door – Some contractors won’t give full quotes unless they know all the details and the extent of the problem down to the most precise details. Up-and-over garage door repairs or garage door cable repair, for instance, are different from standard lock problems or stiffened doors.
  • You should also specify the size of the door, the type of material, and the brand or name of the model – These details will all help the contractor to figure out a price tag as quickly as possible.
  • Ask potential employees for portfolio work and/or references –   This is proof that they have a good track record when it comes to fixing garage doors; after all, if they want your business this shouldn’t be a problem.
  • Take the time to compare estimates –  Ask quotes from a number of different contractors and retailers. National companies might have the edge when it comes to technology and speed, but some local contractors provide a better, more personal service for a lower price; it all depends on what suits you.

A broken garage door never comes at a convenient time, but as long as you hire a professional according to these simple and helpful steps you should find that everything will be back in working order within a day or two – so you can get on with your life and stop worrying about broken doors! 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why does my garage door get stuck?

The garage door can get stuck if the garage door opener does not unwind and wind the torsion springs., which pull and push the door along the garage door tracks. If your garage door gets stuck open, it might be because there is something in one of the tracks obstructing the rollers from moving.

Is it dangerous to replace a garage door spring?

Replacing the garage door springs can be dangerous as one of the springs might suddenly collapse and break under violently as it is under constant tension.

Is it hard to replace a garage door?

Installing a garage door is more difficult and dangerous than installing a regular door. You need to secure a manual garage door with equipment. This kind of job also requires special equipment like a drill, an open-end wrench, and a hex wrench.

What causes the garage door to stop halfway?

If the garage door opens halfway, check the garage door limit in case it is set improperly. You can easily reset the limit with a screwdriver so that the door opens and closes all the way.

Why can’t I lift my garage door?

If you cannot list your garage door the most possible reason is the might be a gap between the coils because the torsion springs are malfunctioning and the door gets stuck.

Can you install a new garage door on old tracks?

Most garage doors cannot be installed on old tracks, as they might not be compatible with the old door tracks. If you re-use your old tracks, the door might become unbalanced as many tracks are fastened with a rivet that controls the distance that the doors opens and closes from the side post.

Can you manually open a garage door with a broken cable?

When this happens it would be good to refrain from using the door until a professional can have a look. To avoid leaving your home exposed, cut the cable to be able to lower the garage door until it has been properly fixed and can fully-close.

References

https://www.thespruce.com/garage-door-repairs-and-maintenance-1398148
https://homeguide.com/costs/garage-door-repair-cost
https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/garages/repair-a-garage-door/
https://www.improvenet.com/r/costs-and-prices/garage-door-spring-repair-cost
https://www.improvenet.com/r/costs-and-prices/garage-door-opener-repair-cost-estimator
https://www.garaga.com/blog/the-secrets-of-garage-door-torsion-springs
https://mygaragedoorrepairlasvegas.com/open-door-with-broken-spring/
https://www.omahagaragedoor.repair/blog/why-do-garage-door-springs-break/
https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/garage-door-repair/

Gutter Painting Tips – Best Way To Paint Your Gutters

If your gutter started to look worn and dirty or if you notice that the paint started to peel it is time to re-paint them. Painting your metal or aluminum gutter is a pretty straightforward task you can do yourself provided that you have time and that you are not afraid of heights.

gutter painting

Different Gutter Materials 

Steel guttering . The main benefit of steel guttering is that it will last you a long time but can be hard to install if you are planning to do the guttering on your home yourself.

uPVC guttering – UPVC is a very durable choice and can easily be painted to match the décor of the outside of your Manchester home. The price shown is one based on prices that major retailers charge and not that of smaller companies.

Wooden guttering -. Reinforced wood is one, if not the, cheapest option available to you. If buying in bulk, reinforced wood can be bought cheaply, but will require replacing after a few years – this type is mainly used for design purposes.

Cast iron guttering -Similar to steel, cast iron is incredibly long-lasting and tough, lasting decades. The downside is that it is more expensive and is heavier and more difficult to install then lightweight alternatives. If you do choose cast iron guttering, a professional will need to fit it for you and check your walls can cope with the weight.

Copper guttering – The best thing about choosing copper for the guttering on your Manchester home is that it can easily be molded if you have specific guttering pipe shapes in mind. As a material, it is quite durable but might cause a few problems during the colder months.

Painting Your Gutters 

Painting Metal/Aluminum Gutters 

There is a misconception that it is difficult to paint metal gutters as the paint might not stick but this is not true. Not only can you paint metal gutters but it is also very easy to do it. There is no need to call for a professional to paint them if you have held a brush before and you are comfortable with heights. 

In order to paint your metal rain gutters successfully, you have to follow several steps and this way not only you will not need to replace them but you will also avoid the cost of professional painters.

Determine Whether or Not You Need to Remove Gutters to Paint Them

Before starting working on your gutter it is worth considering if removing a part of the system will make the job easier. If you are painting the whole gutter, removing the entire system is not practical even though you can do a better job. Unfortunately when it comes to the downspouts, leaving several spots untreated will have a big impact on the aesthetic of your home as they run down the side of your home.

You will face the same problem when repainting only a section of the gutter system that has been damaged. If you are not comfortable working on heights, the best solution is to remove the gutter section by section and paint it on the safety of your grounds. Leave the gutters where they are only if you feel 100% comfortable and have performed a DIY job before.

STEP ONE: Clean Your Gutters Thoroughly

The reason many people fail to paint their metal gutters is that they try to apply the paint directly on the metal. You cannot apply the paint directly to them. You have to prepare them first. 

Clean Your Gutters 

clean your gutters

You need to properly clean your gutters before applying any paint with hot water and soap. Pressure working will not work before applying the primer as it only removes some of the grim and you will end up painting on the top of it. The result will be to paint the gutter unevenly while it will start to peel off after some time. 

All dirt needs to be removed before applying the primer. You will also need to remove any dirt and grime embedded deep within the structure. Use a bristled scrubbing brush and with circular motion wipe away any dirt and debris you can as it builds up in the foam.

One the gutter has been cleaned properly, inspect the surface for any scratches or protruding indents. If you notice any of these spots, sand them down with aluminum oxide or silicon carbide sandpaper. When the surface is clean and smooth then it is time to apply the undercoat. 

Remove the braces of your gutters 

In order to give the gutter a unanimous look, you will have to remove the braces and paint even the hardest to reach spots. Brush carefully the braces first and then paint them too and leave them dry. 

STEP 2: Apply Primer

After cleaning your gutters and leaving them dry for an entire day you can start applying a coat of primer. The undercoat acts as a preparatory coating on the guttering surface, increasing the stickiness and durability. The primer is absolutely necessary otherwise the paint itself might deteriorate the gutter itself. When painting your aluminum gutters use either clear acrylic bonding primer or regular oil-based. Both of them will do provided that they are ammonia-free. Most professionals use clear acrylic bonding as it works better. 

STEP 3: Leave The Primer To Dry

After you have finished applying the undercoat to the entire gutter and checked and made sure that you have left any spot, it is time to let it dry for 48 hours. Do not touch it before it dries completely otherwise it will not accept the paint well enough and it might cause your problems.

(Optional) Apply Enamel Paint

If you have more time to spend and you are looking to add extra protection to your gutters you can also enamel paint. Enamel paint is used for coating surfaces that are outdoors to protect them from temperature variations. It dries to a hard glossy layer that is very durable. Do not confuse enamel paint with” painted enamel”, which is a totally different material that does not help protect your gutters. 

Step 4: Apply an Aluminum Appropriate Paint (with Weather Protecting) Properties

Once the enamel has dried it is time to start painting. Buy high-quality 100% acrylic paint (without ammonia which reacts w/aluminum). You can also choose UV-protectant paint for better protection but this is not necessary as aluminum has a low risk of damage from UV rays. Benjamin Moore of Behr sells this kind of high-quality paint. You can use either a sprayer or a brush to apply the paint. While many homeowners might prefer spay painting as the paint is applied more evenly when the gutters are attached to the roof you need to be extra careful to protect yourself and the interior of the house from excessive paint. Spraying makes more sense if you remove the gutters otherwise using a brush with a long handle is both safer and quicker.

A few words of advice. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you start painting your gutters as extreme weather conditions will make it difficult to work while they might also affect the final result. Pick a week with a zero % chance of downfall or very high temperatures.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Should you paint gutters and downspouts?

Gutters are an important feature of every property and affect the aesthetic of your house. You should paint them only when cleaning them fails to bring them almost back to their original condition.

Is it OK to paint aluminum gutters?

Yes, you can paint aluminum gutters, provided that you prepare them properly. You can even choose a different color. If you do everything the right way the paint will last for many years. However, if you just try to paint them without cleaning them thoroughly and applying a primer, the paint will faint and peel off in months.

Can you paint gutters with a brush?

Gutters can be painted with a brush or sprayed, only after removing all the dirt and rust with a wire brush. You can also use a rust converter that acts as a primer to neutralize the rust

Should the fascia be the same color as the gutter?

As a general rule, paint the roof, gutter, and fascia the same color. Avoid using a highlight color for the downpipes as they will stand out. Try to use the same color around your house for external materials like porch tiles, window awnings, pathways, and your fence.

What causes bubbles in the paint?

Heat, moisture or a combination of both affect the adhesion between the paint film and surface, resulting in the paint lifting from the underlying surface. This is how blisters or bubbles occur.

References

https://www.wikihow.com/Paint-Gutters
https://weatherguardgutters.com/how-to-paint-aluminum-rain-gutters/
https://www.fixr.com/costs/aluminum-gutters-installation#aluminum-vs-other-gutter-materials
https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-paint-aluminum-gutters-part-1
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/refinishing-old-house-gutters-23317.html

Garage Door Vents

A garage door vent is important when addressing the ventilation and cooling of your garage during the hot summer months. 

garage door vents

There are many benefits to maintaining a cooler garage. Installing a garage door vent is a good addition among other things you can do. Keeping the garage area cool reduces the whole house’s energy bills but also allows any homeowners to be able to enjoy working in it. Also, installing adequate ventilation in your basement is an essential part of preventing damp and mold.

When trying to address your garage’s cooling system, it is important to start from the basics and then go out and buy any other tools and items that you will need(an exhaust fan, ductwork, etc.). You need to think carefully and prioritize what is more important and will have a  bigger effect. 

Garage Wall Insulation

Internal wall insulation: Internal solid wall insulation is cheaper than external insulation but it can be disruptive as work is carried out inside your home. Internal wall insulation is useful if you can’t install external insulation. Insulation can be installed with a stud wall, which is a second wall fitted to the original one and filled with around 120mm of mineral fiber insulation. Rigid insulation boards can be used instead, with a thickness of around 60mm, or you can combine both techniques. Either way, this will reduce the floor area of your home slightly.

External Insulation: It reduces temperature fluctuation so that it’s not too hot in summer or too cold in winter.  External insulation is more expensive, as it involves fixing a layer of insulation to all exterior walls and then covering this with cladding or plasterwork before applying your chosen finish. External wall insulation will also improve the look of your home as well as weatherproof it and offer to soundproof.

Garage Door Ventilation and Air Flow Systems

In most homes, the garage used to be the most overlooked and underbuilt room with poor or non-existent ventilation. This has been acceptable in the past decades because the garage was primarily used for vehicle storage. Today, the garage has transformed into a living space taking many different uses, depending on each family’s individual needs. 

Therefore, the garage has to be property ventilated otherwise heat, toxic fumes, bad smells, and mold are several of the most common problems that homeowners have to tolerate. By installing a garage door vent you can easily solve all these issues. 

Most door vents are designed with an adjustable crank that allows the vent to open and close even when it is raining so that you do not have to worry about water entering the garage. In case of a flood, you can simply open the vent to let the water escape. 

The installation takes about 30 minutes and should always be performed by a professional who is experienced in cutting sheet metal. Maintaining an aluminum vent is also easy as it does not rust. Even if the color fades over time you can spray it. 

Combine Ventilation With Heating and Cooling

Ventilating the air and reducing humidity will naturally reduce dust and make your garage healthier. However, to make the air even purer, fans can be fitted that filter smaller allergens and pollen from the air. This is particularly good for those suffering from respiratory problems like asthma. You may also wish to add warm air heating or cooling, which can help you to control the temperature in your garage; you can even use solar PV panels to provide the electricity for this. Air conditioning can also be integrated with your mechanical ventilation system.

Garage Door Vent Cooling System Cost

The cost of garage door ventilation will vary depending on the type of system you choose to install. Mechanical systems will cost more to run, while passive systems may require additional insulation work – weigh up the options. If you’re unsure, contact a professional for advice but don’t forget to get at least three estimates and check the contractor’s reference and insurance credentials before hiring. Below we present two popular options:

Vent-A-Garage Cooling

The first option is called the “Garage Vent Cool Breeze system” and costs around $100. This venting system is made up of two exhaust fans, two vents, a power hook-up extension, and a thermostat for switching the device on or off. The installation might require a professional roofer as the hot air is expelled to the top of the garage roof, while cooler air comes through the lower vents and fans. 

Garage Door Vent Cooling System

This cooling system is far more effective than the “Garage Vent Cool Breeze system” but also more expensive. It is ideal for large garages and extreme weather conditions. This venting system has a thermostat for controlling the temperature, a maintenance motor, and a fire dampening unit to comply with the building codes. For the installation expect to pay around $300-$460 (labor + venting system). 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my garage have vents?

Garages need vents to regulate heat as typically they are uninsulated spaces. A garage vent will allow hot air to escape and fresh air to come into space. Proper ventilation is also necessary to minimize the strain on your climate system.

Should I vent my garage?

All garages should be ventilated property to regulate the temperature and air out any chemicals and fumes generated by your vehicle. Ventilating your garage helps make it comfortable to live in during the hot summers months, while it also prevents the accumulation of moisture.

Do insulated garage doors really make a difference?

By insulating the garage door alone you will not make your garage warm but you will certainly make it warmer by as much as 10 degrees, which will keep it warm enough during the cold winters. 

How do you ventilate a hot garage?

Ideally, you need to install both a cooling and ventilating system that will help bring in fresh air through the vents but also cool the air to lower the temperature. This type of system is usually installed in the garage doors.

References

https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/heating-and-cooling/install-ducts-and-vents/ https://www.improvenet.com/r/costs-and-prices/install-dryer-vent https://www.dasma.com/PDF/Publications/TechDataSheets/CommercialResidential/TDS173.pdf

Cost of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation comes in two types: i) open-cell spray and ii) closed-cell spray. The cost of open-cell spray foam is around $0.44 to $0.65 per board foot. Close-cell spray price ranges from  $1 to $1.50 per board foot. On average homeowners spend about $2,400 to have their walls sprayed by a professional. Spray foam insulation is a very good alternative to fiberglass insulation during construction or when building a roof as it can be used to fill in any cavities.

spray for insulation cost

Foam Insulation Costs

Foam Insulation Costs

Average Cost$2,360
Typical Range$1,270 and $3,643
Low$600
High$6,500

Spray-In Insulation Costs by Type

The cost of spray foam insulation installed is higher than the material itself. A foam insulation project requires hiring a contractor to handle all the actual work and also setup, preparation, trash removal, and cleanup.

The cost of spray foam insulation per square foot depends on the foam type and the thickness of the insulation. The thicker the foam the more time it takes to spray. Professionals charge either per square foot or provide a fixed cost. 

Foam type Materials per board foot Installation per square foot
Open-cell $0.44-$0.65  $1.50-$4.90  
Closed-cell $1-$1.50 $1.50-$4.90

Spray Foam Insulation Cost Per Square Foot

The cost of spray foam insulation starts from $0.44 per board foot and can reach $1.50. Expanding your foam insulation can cost from $0.50 to $2.50 per square foot. Contractors find it more convenient to provide estimates for the cost of foam insulation in board feet as it is easier to calculate. A board foot is the volume of a one-foot length of a board one foot wide and one inch thick.

Size in Square Feet Price*
100 $45-$150
200 $90-$300
300 $135-$450
400 $180-$600
500 $220-$750
1,000 $440-$1,500
1,500 $660-$2,250
2,000 $880-$3,000
2,500 $1,100-$3,750
3,000 $1,320-$4,500

*For the costs provided above we assume that the foam thickness is one-inch. Use the calculator above to estimate the cost for more inches by multiplying the number of inches by the cost. 

Where to Use Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam is a very versatile product that can be used in many places in the home for insulating and filling the gaps in walls, crevices, and around windows and doors.

  • Dull the noise of water pipes by placing a small amount of spray insulation foam between pipes and framing.
  • Insulate and fill the gaps in walls, crevices, and around windows and doors.  
  • Shore up your bathtub by filling the space underneath with spray foam.
  • Keep pests away by filling in any cracks in your home with copper mesh.
  • Prevent mold from growing on the corners of exterior walls.
  • Improve your aluminum sink by Insulating and soundproofing it with spray foam.

Expanding Foam for Basement Walls Price

Installing expanding foam in the basement wall costs on average around $2,150 for a 1,000 square feet space before labor. Spray foam insulation in the basement helps prevent mold. 

Polyurethane Foam Insulation in Crawl Spaces

The cost of adding polyurethane foam insulation in a crawl space below the house comes to about $80 for materials only.  For areas measuring more than 2×10, the cost will be will higher.

Spray Roof Insulation

Spray roof insulation costs on average $1,650 before labor. Spray foam is an excellent solution for insulating roofs. Most roofing contractors proffer the closed-cell foam as it is more effective. If you intended to spay yourself, ask a contactor first which one works best.

Rim Joists 

The average cost to insulate a rim joist with spray foam is between $1,200 and $1,500. Spray foam makes a great choice for insulating rims and sealing cracks. The price for this project depends on the number of rim joists that need to be insulated. However, the cost is less for larger insulating projects like attic or basement insulation. 

Garages 

Garage spay foam insulation costs on average between $330 and $1,150. You can reduce the cost if you choose not to have the door insulated with spray foam material.

Pole Barns or Other Detached Outbuilding

Pole barn foam insulation costs on average from $740 to $2,500. The price is based on a 30×40 foot pole barn with 12-foot ceilings. Spray foam can improve the R-value insulation in metal buildings.

Difference in Cost Between New And Old Homes

Old homes cost more to insulate with foam than new ones. The cost of foam insulation increases in old houses because installation companies have to work on the existing insulation and structures rather than designing new insulation to improve heat transfer, soundproofing, and cut down utility bills.

Installers usually spray a thin layer of foam to seal leaks and then use a less expensive insulation. If you own an old house consider hiring an energy auditor or performing weatherization instead of installing foam insulation. 

Spray Foam Insulation Prices by Location

Location Average Cost
Minneapolis, Minnesota $1,870
Atlanta, Georgia $3,410
Chicago, Illinois $1,780
Houston, Texas $2,501
Trenton, New Jersey $2,980
Phoenix, Arizona $2,240
Austin, Texas $2,840
Los Angeles, California $1,700
New York, New York $2,560
Denver, Colorado $2,340
Portland, Oregon $2,440
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $1,900

Polyurethane Foam Installation Cost Factors

Polyurethane foam installation cost depends mostly on the i) thickness ii) type of foam. Other factors that affect the overall project cost are the age of the house and the debris disposal. Estimate about $0.44 to $0.65 if you choose an open cell product per board foot and roughly $1.00 to $1.50 per board foot if you select a closed-cell insulation product. 

Injection Foam Insulation Costs by Thickness

Foam thickness (inches) Cost per square foot
1” $0.44-$1.50
2” $0.88-$3.00
3” $1.32-$4.50 
4” $1.76-$6.00

How Much Spray Foam Insulation Do You Need?

The amount of spray foam insulation required is different for every home and depends mostly on the weather conditions. In climates with extreme weather fluctuations, it is important to have a thick spay layer applied to increase the R-Value. 

Calculating How Much Foam You Need

  1. Take Measurements for each wall to be filled (Length x Height)
  2. Subtract the square feet of doors and windows in that wall.
  3. Subtract 6% for the frames.
  4. Take that total and multiply by the spray foam thickness.
  5. The result will show you how many board feet of spray foam you need.

Types of Spray Foam Insulation

There are two types of polyurethane spray foam used in construction for insulation:ght-density open-cell spray foam insulation and medium-density closed-cell spray foam. Both types are the thermoset cellular plastics. Consult a contractor before making any decision to help you make the right decision.

Open-Cell vs. Closed-Cell Foam Insulation

Open-cell spray foam(or half-pound foam) is ideal for holes and cracks indoors. Closed-cell spray foam (or two-pound foam) is better to be used for exposed external walls to insulate and protect the wall from extreme weather conditions. 

Open-Cell Closed-Cell
R-Value is 3.5-3.6 per inch R-value is 6-6.5 per inch
Less dense Denser
Lower price Higher price
Very expandable Expands very little
Weak moisture barrier Strong moisture barrier
Ideal for soundproofing Very solid
Does not have a vapor retarder Contains a vapor retarder
Not good for roof decking Ideal for roof sheathing

R-Value and Thermal Resistance

Foam Type Thickness R-Value
Open-cell 1” 3.7
Closed-cell 1” 6.5
Open-cell 2” 7.4
Closed-cell 2” 13.0

The R-Value is used as a measure of how heat-resistant a material is. The higher the R-Value the more thermal resistance the material has. All insulation products are assigned to an R-value which is placed on the package in a conspicuous way. This is an important measure for an insulation project so keep it in mind.  Heat gain and loss can happen in many ways. Below you can see the most important ones:

Polyurethane spray foam is great for preventing heat loss and has can satisfy all the above-mentioned criteria. If you are not sure about which spray foam insulation to install check out the Energy Star map for the United States. 

Pros & Cons of Foam Insulation

Advantages of Foam Insulation

  • Reduces energy bills. 
  • It is 50% more effective. 
  • Moist resistant.
  • Prevents the growth of mildew.
  • Good for noise insulation.

Disadvantages

  • Higher cost of upfront installation.
  • Takes longer to install than traditional products.
  • Contractors might miss several spots.
  • A contractor might agree to do the job and then pull away.
  • Might cause eye, skin, gastrointestinal or respiratory irritation*
  • Often associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

The side effects are not that common today as the majority of the manufacturers have addressed any health issues associated with isocyanates. Seek advice from your insulation contractor.

DIY vs. Hiring Professional Spray Foam Insulation Contractors

Hiring a contractor to do handle the spray foam insulation project will drastically reduce the time and stress to do the job yourself. Professional installers have experience and all the tools to complete the job without stressing out. Below you can see the pros and cons of hiring a contractor. 

Pros:

  • Any size project. Contractors can handle any size of insulation projects.
  • Insulating existing walls. Existing enclosed walls require great skills to avoid tearing down the drywall. 
  • Less time: When hiring a contractor you cut down drastically the time that it takes to complete the job.
  • Stress-free. Leave all worries to professionals and avoid worrying about the final outcome. 
  • Disposal of old insulation. An experienced contractor will also remove and dispose of the old insulation from any area in the house (attic, crawl space, and rim joist).
  • Knowledge of building codes. Quality insulation contractors have good knowledge of the latest building codes, energy efficiency codes, and rebates.
  • Expert advice: If you are interested in reducing your energy bills and making your home more energy-efficient, an experienced insulation contractor can always provide useful advice. 
  • Structural Issues: Insulation contractors will easily be able to tell you if your house has any structural issues and how to deal with moisture and mold.

Cons

  • Higher cost. Hiring a contractor costs more than a DIY project, so if you do not have the budget it might not be an option. 
  • Find the right contractor: Find someone experienced that you can trust for the job sometimes takes time. You need to do your own research, get estimates and ask neighbors and friends. 
  • Waiting for installation. You may have to wait several weeks in some cases to get on the contractor’s installation schedule.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does it cost to insulate a 1500 sq ft house?

On average it costs between $1,500 to $2,000 to hire a professional to insulate a 1500 square feet house.

Can you do spray foam insulation yourself?

Many homeowners think that by buying a do-it-yourself spray foam insulation kit for their house will save them a lot of money. However, fire officials and insulation contractors recommend DIY only for small jobs. In addition, spray foam needs to be handled with care because it is made of chemicals and might damage your health if you are not careful. 

Is spray foam insulation worth the money?

The initial spray foam insulation is a very good investment that could reduce your energy bills by 20% if the house is insulated properly and all air leaks are sealed. In the long term, you will get a very good return on investment and make all the funds that you invested in the first place.

What is the R-value of 1 inch of spray foam insulation

The R-Value of one-inch open-cell spray foam is R-3.5. The R-Value of one-inch closed-cell foam spray is R-6.5

What is the R-value of 2 inches of spray foam?

The R-Value of 2 inches spray foam is R13. The R-value of open-cell spray foam for one-inch is R-3.5 and for closed-cell foam R-3.6 per inch.

What is the R-value of 3.5 inches of spray foam?

Depending on the brand the R-Value of 3.5 inches spray foam can range from R12.5 – R 24.5.

Can mold grow on spray foam insulation?

Spray foam insulation does not attract mold and can help control indoor humidity. Polyurethane spray foam insulation is the only product that can prevent moisture to accumulate in areas like the attic that can then provide mold the right environment to grow and spread out.

Can spray foam rot your roof?

No, spray foam will not rot your roof, even though you have installed open-cell spray foam insulation at the bottom of their OSB (Oriented Strand Board) roof decking.

How long does spray form insulation last?

According to the Association of Certified Home Inspectors, spray foam insulation can last for more than 80 years.

Can you leave spray foam insulation exposed?

It is advisable to leave spay foam insulation exposed only indoors and not in living areas. If you leave spray foam exposes to sunlight it will deteriorate in a year or so.

Useful Resources

https://www.homedepot.com/b/Building-Materials-Insulation-Spray-Foam-Insulation/N-5yc1vZbaxj https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/insulation/install-spray-foam-insulation/ https://tigerfoam.com/sprayfoaminsulation/inch-by-inch-an-in-depth-look-at-r-values/ https://www.improvenet.com/r/costs-and-prices/spray-foam-insulation-cost-estimator https://www.gni.ca/blog/pros-cons-spray-foam-insulation https://www.energyvanguard.com/blog/25546/4-Pitfalls-of-Spray-Foam-Insulation https://tigerfoam.com/sprayfoaminsulation/open-cell-vs-closed-cell-foam-which-should-i-choose/ https://www.gni.ca/blog/can-spray-foam-insulation-decrease-the-danger-of-mold

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