How Much Does It Cost To Insulate A Steel Building?

We are advocates for more insulation and installing it correctly. Do you know if you save just $100 per month on energy costs that equates to $24,000 over 20 years? Yes so always keep in mind when selecting your insulation package insulation has a payback.

Spray foam is well known for sealing “Air Leaks” especially at the steel wall and roof panel ends such as the base, corners, and eaves. Spray foam insulation costs around $1 per sq. foot per 1” thick installed and only offers a R-7 insulation value per 1”. So to get to a value of let’s say R-25 it would require a 3.5” thick application or $3.50 per square foot cost. (*Prices are subject to change due to inflation and availability.)

Fiberglass Insulation with white vinyl type facing is a more common economical option with typical costs between 50 cents per square foot for R-10 and $1.50 per square foot for up to R-38 double layer assemblies. The quality and type of insulation will change the material price. You can add for additional labor depending on which products you choose.

For new construction a single layer of fiberglass insulation placed between the outer panel and inner frame ranges for 3” hick or around 40 cents per sq foot up to 6” R-19 around 70 cents per sq foot. 6” insulation placed between the framing and panel will require a longer fastener so verify that your supplier of the building has this included.
(*Prices are subject to change due to inflation and availability.)

Anything over 6” R-19 will be designed to be placed between the girts or purlins with a single layer between the outside panels and inner frame. This is called a double layer system. The thickness for the roof application is commonly determined by the steel roof purlin thickness. The goal is to fill the cavity completely so no air spaces or voids are left to avoid condensation. A cold roof panel exposed to warm air will condensate forming water droplets so make sure the fiberglass is tight against the steel panel.

For retro fit of existing buildings these materiel costs may apply but it is common that the install is with a one thickness blanket of fiberglass and not a (2) layer system. This install can be done with up to a 9.5” thick blanket which is an R-30 rating. Material can cost around $1 per sq foot. Labor can more than double this cost depending on your building interior obstacle to work around and if you are doing the work yourselves. If your building is extra dusty and a lot of obstacles you may want to consider a new roof and work from the top. A screw down type roof with insulation can cost around $5 per square foot with labor. (*Prices are subject to change due to inflation and availability.)