Compare the highest-rated insulation professionals in Bainbridge Island, Washington. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading insulation contractor in Kitsap County specializing in comprehensive home performance upgrades. They are well-known for their expertise in air sealing and blown-in insulation for attics and walls, significantly improving home comfort and energy efficiency for the maritime climate.
Based in Poulsbo, this family-owned business has a strong reputation on the Kitsap Peninsula for professional insulation installation and removal. They are particularly skilled in handling both new construction projects and retrofit applications for the older homes common in the area.
A larger regional contractor based in Seattle that consistently serves Bainbridge Island and the wider Puget Sound area. They offer a full suite of insulation services, including advanced solutions like spray foam, and are adept at navigating complex projects and utility rebate programs.
** The insulation market in Bainbridge Island is a high-quality, competitive niche market. The island's housing stock includes a significant number of older, custom-built homes that are prime candidates for energy efficiency upgrades. Homeowners are typically well-informed and value sustainability, comfort, and long-term value, leading to a demand for premium services rather than low-cost options. **Average Quality:** The quality of service is generally high, with contractors needing to meet the expectations of a discerning clientele. Expertise in air sealing is particularly critical due to the damp, cool climate. **Competition Level:** While there are few, if any, large-volume "big box" installers based directly on the island, competition is robust among the established regional specialists from Kitsap County and Seattle. Reputation, certifications (like BPI - Building Performance Institute), and proven results are the primary competitive differentiators. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is at a premium compared to national averages, reflecting the high cost of living, the expertise required, and the complex nature of retrofitting older homes. Homeowners should expect comprehensive projects (e.g., full attic air sealing and insulation) to range from $3,000 to $8,000+, with spray foam applications being significantly higher. Most reputable contractors provide free, detailed estimates and are knowledgeable about local utility rebates from providers like Puget Sound Energy.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Bainbridge Island regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about insulation services in Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Our cool, damp climate with mild winters and high humidity makes moisture management a top priority. We recommend insulation materials with high vapor permeability, like dense-pack cellulose or certain mineral wool batts, which allow walls to dry while preventing condensation and mold. Proper air sealing is equally critical to combat the moist air infiltrating your home, which standard fiberglass batts alone cannot address effectively.
For a standard 1,500 sq ft attic, blown-in cellulose or fiberglass insulation to achieve the recommended R-49 for our climate zone typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,500. Costs vary based on material, existing insulation removal needs, and the complexity of air sealing. Given our higher regional labor and material costs, prices on the island are often at the upper end of the Puget Sound average, but the investment pays off in significant heating savings and improved comfort.
The ideal window is late spring through early fall (May to September). This drier period allows contractors to more effectively assess and address moisture issues in crawl spaces and attics. Scheduling in the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) is also wise to beat the winter rush, as many islanders seek upgrades after experiencing a damp, chilly winter and want improvements completed before the next one.
Yes, you must comply with the Washington State Energy Code (WSEC), which mandates specific R-values for our marine climate zone. More locally, the City of Bainbridge Island follows the International Residential Code with Washington amendments. For rebates, always check with the Bainbridge Island Senior/Community Center for local programs, and primarily with Puget Sound Energy (PSE), which offers significant cash incentives for adding insulation and air sealing in existing homes.
For our damp environment, insulating the crawl space walls (and sealing them) is generally the superior strategy, creating a conditioned space. This method, often called a "closed crawl space," helps keep pipes from freezing, reduces floor drafts, and critically, allows for better moisture control by enclosing the earth floor with a vapor barrier. Insulating the floor above an open, vented crawl space can trap moisture against the subfloor, leading to rot in our humid climate.