Hot take: Spray foam insulation vs. fiberglass batt - which actually saves more over 10 years?

I found this study from a building science lab that claimed spray foam only saves about 15% more on energy bills versus proper batt insulation, but costs 3x as much upfront. That math doesn't add up to me unless you live in a super cold climate. Anyone run the numbers on their own attic and see real payback times?

3 comments

3 Comments

bethj4429d ago

Ran the numbers on my own attic in Michigan after a buddy talked me into spray foam. Paid $4,800 for a 1,500 sq ft attic with closed cell, versus $1,200 for the batts I was gonna do. After 7 years, my energy bills dropped about $180 a year, so I'm still like $1,200 in the hole compared to if I'd just bought more beer and called it good. Only makes sense if you're in a deep freeze or plan to stay put for 15 plus years.

leep8929d agoMost Upvoted

The older I get the more I realize most "investments" are just expensive hobbies.

theabarnes28d ago

OH MAN, my buddy Dave dropped like 3 grand on a "vintage" espresso machine he SWORE would appreciate in value. He spent more time descaled it and chasing rare parts than actually making coffee, meanwhile I bought a $30 Mr. Coffee that's still chugging along after five years. It's now sitting in his garage collecting dust because he got tired of the whole "hobby masquerading as finance" thing.