Compare the highest-rated insulation professionals in San Francisco, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, specialized provider focusing primarily on attic services, including comprehensive insulation installation, removal, and air sealing. They are well-regarded for their expertise in improving home energy efficiency and are familiar with Bay Area-specific needs like fog and moisture control.
A building performance and energy efficiency contractor that takes a whole-house approach. They are experts in energy audits and use the data to recommend and implement the most effective insulation and air sealing strategies, often helping clients access rebates.
While based just south of the city, this established contractor is a key player in the San Francisco insulation market. They offer a wide range of insulation types and are known for professional installation in both residential and commercial properties.
The insulation market in San Francisco is competitive and characterized by high-quality, specialized service providers. Due to the city's unique climate (cool summers, damp winters), stringent building codes, and high energy costs, there is a strong emphasis on comprehensive energy efficiency solutions that combine insulation with advanced air sealing. The market consists of both niche attic specialists and full-service building performance companies. **Average Quality:** High. Leading contractors are typically BPI (Building Performance Institute) certified and deeply knowledgeable about local codes and rebate programs like those from BayREN. **Competition Level:** Moderate to High. While there are numerous general contractors, the number of specialists focusing exclusively on high-performance insulation and air sealing is more concentrated, allowing the top-tier companies to maintain strong reputations. **Typical Pricing:** Premium. San Francisco's high cost of living and labor translates to higher service costs. A typical attic insulation project can range from $2,500 to $6,000+, while full-home retrofits involving spray foam or dense-pack wall insulation can easily exceed $10,000. However, the potential for significant energy savings and available rebates improves the return on investment.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with San Francisco regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about insulation services in San Francisco, California.
For a typical San Francisco Victorian or Edwardian home, adding or upgrading insulation can range from $2,500 to $8,000+, depending on the home's size, accessibility, and materials chosen. Costs are influenced by regional labor rates and the complexity of retrofitting historic structures without damaging original features. Blown-in cellulose or dense-pack fiberglass for walls and attic floors are common, cost-effective solutions for our climate.
The ideal time is during our dry season, from late spring through early fall (May to October), to avoid rain delays for any exterior work like roof or siding-related insulation. However, indoor projects like wall insulation can be done year-round. Scheduling outside of the peak winter demand period can also lead to better contractor availability and potentially quicker project starts.
Yes, San Francisco has strict building codes, especially for historic homes, so permits are often required. Crucially, homeowners can access significant rebates through BayREN (Bay Area Regional Energy Network) and state programs like TECH Clean California, which offer financial incentives for upgrading to high-performance insulation, helping offset costs and improve home efficiency.
Always verify the contractor holds a valid California CSLB license (specialty C-2 or B-General Building) and carries ample insurance. Look for local companies with extensive experience in San Francisco's unique home styles and ask for references from similar projects. A reputable provider will perform a thorough energy audit or assessment before recommending a specific insulation strategy.
Insulation is critical, but in San Francisco's cool, marine climate, moisture management and air sealing are equally important to prevent mold and maximize comfort. We often recommend a comprehensive approach: sealing air leaks first, then adding appropriate vapor-permeable insulation, and ensuring your ventilation (especially in kitchens and bathrooms) is adequate to handle our high humidity levels.