Compare the highest-rated insulation professionals in UNM, New Mexico. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A family-owned and operated business with a strong focus on comprehensive home performance upgrades. They are highly regarded for their professionalism, detailed energy audits, and expertise in both blown-in cellulose and spray foam applications. They emphasize fixing the building envelope as a whole system.
Sunlight Construction specializes in making homes more energy-efficient and comfortable. They are a certified contractor for various energy efficiency programs and are known for their expertise in attic insulation upgrades and air sealing. Their process is very consultative and educational.
Southwest Insulation focuses specifically on insulation services, offering a wide range of materials including fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam. They are praised for their efficient work, fair pricing, and expertise in hard-to-reach areas like crawl spaces and existing walls.
The insulation market in the Albuquerque and UNM area is driven by the high-desert climate, which features hot summers, cold winters, and significant temperature swings. This makes effective insulation and air sealing critical for home comfort and energy savings. The market is moderately competitive, with a mix of large national chains and several well-regarded local specialists. The average quality of service is high, with leading contractors possessing certifications from organizations like BPI (Building Performance Institute) and being well-versed in local PNM utility rebates and programs. Homeowners are increasingly seeking comprehensive energy audits rather than just insulation installation. Typical pricing varies significantly based on the project. A basic attic blow-in with cellulose can range from $1,500 to $3,000 for an average home. Spray foam insulation is a premium service, often costing $4,500 to $8,000 or more for a full attic. Wall insulation and crawl space projects also fall in the $2,000 - $5,000 range, heavily dependent on the home's size and accessibility. The top contractors are often in high demand, so scheduling a consultation several weeks in advance is common.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with UNM regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about insulation services in UNM, New Mexico.
For our climate, a combination approach is often best. We recommend air sealing first, then installing high-performance materials like spray foam in attics and walls to create an airtight thermal barrier, or using blown-in cellulose for its excellent thermal performance and fire resistance. The key is managing both conductive heat loss in winter and radiant heat gain in summer, which differs from more humid climates.
Costs vary by home size and material, but a typical attic insulation project in Albuquerque can range from $1,500 to $4,000. Critically, New Mexico offers excellent incentives: PNM provides cash rebates for adding insulation, and you may qualify for federal tax credits. A reputable local contractor will help you navigate these programs to significantly reduce your net cost.
While insulation can be installed year-round, the ideal times are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). These periods avoid the extreme summer heat in the attic, which can be dangerous for installers and affect some materials, and the occasional winter cold snaps. Scheduling during these milder seasons also ensures your home is prepared for the next temperature extreme.
Always verify the contractor is licensed with the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department and carries proper insurance. Look for local experience, as they will understand specific building codes for Albuquerque/Bernalillo County and the challenges of our regional adobe or stucco construction. Ask for references in the UNM/Nob Hill area and ensure they perform a pre-installation energy audit.
Not entirely. In many historic or older Albuquerque homes, air leakage is the primary issue. Insulation works best when paired with comprehensive air sealing around windows, doors, vents, and where the foundation meets the frame—common leak points in our windy, high-desert environment. A professional assessment will identify these leaks; addressing them first is crucial for maximizing comfort and energy savings from new insulation.