Compare the highest-rated insulation professionals in Boston, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, full-service home performance contractor with a strong focus on energy efficiency. They are a Mass Save partner, which is critical for customers seeking rebates and financing. Their services are comprehensive, covering insulation, air sealing, and HVAC, allowing for a whole-house approach to energy savings.
As a leading Mass Save sponsor, this company specializes in no-cost insulation for income-eligible households and heavily discounted services for others. They have a long-standing reputation in the community for providing professional, certified energy efficiency services, including advanced air sealing and insulation techniques.
A specialized contractor focused exclusively on insulation services. They are known for their expertise in both residential and commercial projects, offering a wide range of materials including cellulose, fiberglass, and spray foam. Their focused approach makes them a go-to for complex insulation challenges.
The insulation market in Boston is highly competitive and quality-driven, largely influenced by the state's stringent energy codes and the Mass Save program. The presence of many historic homes creates a strong demand for specialized services like insulation removal, air sealing, and upgrades that preserve the building's integrity. The market is bifurcated between large, certified Mass Save partners (like the top providers listed) who can offer significant rebates and smaller, niche contractors. **Average Quality:** The bar for quality is high due to strict building codes and consumer demand for energy efficiency. Top-tier contractors are well-versed in building science. **Competition Level:** High. There are numerous providers, but reputation, Mass Save partnership, and specialized expertise in older home construction are key differentiators. **Typical Pricing:** Costs vary significantly based on the project. A basic attic blow-in with cellulose can range from $1,500 - $3,000. Spray foam projects are more expensive, often $4,500 - $8,000+ for an attic. However, the Mass Save program can provide rebates covering 75-100% of the cost for eligible homeowners, making high-quality insulation upgrades very accessible.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Boston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about insulation services in Boston, Massachusetts.
For Boston's historic homes (like triple-deckers or Victorians), dense-pack cellulose or blown-in fiberglass are often the best solutions for walls, as they can be installed without major demolition. For attics, adding a thick layer of blown-in insulation over existing material is highly effective. It's crucial to prioritize air sealing first, especially in older homes, to address the drafts common in our New England climate and maximize the insulation's performance.
In the Boston metro area, the cost to insulate an attic typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000+, depending on the square footage, chosen material (fiberglass batts vs. blown-in cellulose), and the required depth to meet current R-value recommendations. For our climate zone (Zone 5), the U.S. Department of Energy recommends an attic R-value of R-49 to R-60, which often means adding significant material. Be sure to ask contractors about available Mass Save® rebates, which can cover 75-100% of the cost for eligible homeowners.
While insulation can be installed year-round, the ideal times are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods typically offer mild weather, making it easier for contractors to perform critical air sealing work and for you to schedule. Avoid the peak winter months, as high demand can lead to longer wait times, and deep summer heat can make attic work particularly strenuous for installers.
Always verify the contractor is licensed in Massachusetts and carries proper insurance. Crucially, choose a Mass Save® participating contractor if you want to access the program's heavily subsidized energy audits and rebates. Look for companies with specific experience in Boston's housing stock and ask for local references. A reputable provider will perform a thorough assessment using tools like a blower door test, not just provide a generic quote.
Yes, proper attic insulation and air sealing are the primary defenses against ice dams, a common problem in Boston winters. Ice dams form when heat escapes from the living space into the attic, melting snow on the roof. By keeping the attic cold (at or near outdoor temperature) with sufficient insulation and sealing attic bypasses, you prevent the snow melt that leads to damaging ice buildup at the eaves. This is a critical local consideration for home maintenance.