Energy costs continue to rise each year in the United States. Insulation is one of the least expensive solutions to the problem. However, determining the cost of building insulation can be complicated, so it’s important to know how the price is calculated before making the investment.
- Measure the insulation required. It may seem obvious, but establishing how much insulation your building needs is the first step in calculating your total cost. Many vendors will offer discounts the more insulation you purchase.
- Determine the type of insulation needed. There are many factors that impact the type and amount of insulation required. For instance, when working with a metal structure, a vapor barrier, radiant barrier and reflective insulation are necessary because of the unique characteristics of metal sheeting. During the summer, the sun produces extreme heat inside the building, but in the winter, the metal roof and wall sheeting create a frigid atmosphere.
- Find out if you will need additional materials. Occasionally, a thermally reflective surface called a radiant barrier is added to a material to minimize conduction and the transfer of heat through radiation. An addition such as this will add to the overall cost of insulating a building.
- Include any tax credits and rebates for commercial building insulation in your calculations. It is possible to save money on your insulation efforts. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT) is a federal tax deduction that enables building owners to deduct the cost of energy-saving expenditures, including insulation, up to $1.80 per square foot of property.
Taking the time to research before insulating a building can result in significant cost savings. Knowing exactly what you need and how much you will require removes the guesswork from the insulation process.