Compare the highest-rated insulation professionals in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, local contractor specializing in comprehensive home performance upgrades. They are well-known for their expertise in spray foam and blown-in insulation, particularly for complex projects in older Rhode Island homes. They strongly emphasize air sealing as part of their insulation process to maximize energy efficiency.
A leading energy efficiency contractor for Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. They take a whole-home approach, often starting with a professional energy audit. Their services are comprehensive, covering everything from attic and basement insulation to insulation removal and replacement. They are experts in navigating local utility rebates.
This provider focuses specifically on insulation services, offering a wide range of materials and methods. They are a reliable choice for both new construction and retrofit projects, with strong customer feedback on their professionalism and knowledge of wall insulation techniques, including dense-pack cellulose and injection foam.
The insulation market in Portsmouth, RI, is characterized by a small number of hyper-local contractors and several established regional players who serve the broader Newport County and East Bay areas. The quality of service is generally high, as these contractors must be well-versed in handling the diverse housing stock, from historic colonial homes to modern builds, all while adhering to strict coastal building codes and energy standards. Competition is healthy but not oversaturated, leading to competitive pricing and a focus on quality to maintain reputation. Typical pricing can vary significantly based on the project scope and material. As a rough guide: * **Spray Foam:** $1.50 - $3.50 per board foot (closed-cell is more expensive). * **Blown-In Cellulose/Fiberglass:** $1,500 - $4,500 for a standard attic. * **Energy Audit:** $300 - $600, often applied as a credit if you proceed with work. Homeowners in Portsmouth have access to energy efficiency rebates and financing through Rhode Island Energy's offerings, and the top contractors are proficient in helping customers utilize these programs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Portsmouth regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about insulation services in Portsmouth, Rhode Island.
For Portsmouth's climate, which features cold, damp winters and humid summers, spray foam and blown-in cellulose are often top recommendations. Spray foam provides an excellent air seal against coastal winds and moisture intrusion, while dense-pack cellulose is highly effective for retrofitting older homes common in the area. The best choice depends on your home's construction, with many local providers recommending a hybrid approach—such as foam in basements and crawlspaces for moisture control and cellulose in attics.
Costs vary significantly based on the insulation material, home size, and accessibility, but Portsmouth homeowners can expect to invest between $1,500 to $4,500 for a standard attic project. Regional material and labor costs are above the national average. It's crucial to get multiple quotes from local, licensed contractors, and remember that Rhode Island Energy offers generous rebates and incentives that can offset 50-75% of the project cost, making it a highly valuable investment.
The ideal times are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These periods typically offer mild, dry weather, which is important for certain materials like spray foam that require specific temperature ranges for proper application. Scheduling during these shoulder seasons also ensures your home is prepared for the heating season before the busy winter rush for contractors begins. Avoid the peak of summer humidity and the deep winter cold for the most efficient installation.
Yes, Portsmouth has many historic homes, especially in its older villages. If your home is in a local historic district or is a designated historic property, you may need approval from the Portsmouth Historic District Commission for exterior modifications that affect windows, siding, or roofing where insulation work might occur. Internally, a key consideration is managing moisture in old walls; vapor-open insulation materials (like mineral wool or certain cellulose) are often recommended to allow the historic building fabric to dry and prevent rot.
First, verify they are licensed and insured to work in Rhode Island. Look for contractors who are certified by manufacturers (like Owens Corning or Johns Manville) and who conduct a thorough energy audit or assessment before proposing a solution. Choose a provider experienced with Southern New England's older home stock and familiar with the Rhode Island Energy rebate program—they should handle much of the paperwork for you. Always check for strong local references and reviews.