The cost of insulation installation in your Melbourne home is between $1,000 and $4,000. This estimate is for 100m² of roof insulation, but this all depends on a number of factors.

Insulation is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, reduce heating and cooling costs, and improve overall comfort. By minimizing heat transfer, insulation helps keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, making your living environment more consistent throughout the year. Additionally, understanding the cost of insulation can help you plan an affordable and efficient upgrade that maximizes these benefits.

But what should you expect when it comes to the cost of having insulation installed in your home? Here’s a detailed breakdown of the factors that influence insulation costs and how they vary depending on the type of insulation and the area of installation.

Key Factors Affecting Insulation Costs

When planning your insulation project, several factors will influence the overall cost, including:

Type of Insulation:

The material you choose plays a big role in determining the cost. Common types include:

• Glass wool: This is one of the most affordable and widely used options for ceiling insulation and wall batts. It’s lightweight and effective, offering great thermal and acoustic insulation properties.
• Polyester batts: These are a bit pricier but have the benefit of being made from recycled materials. They are durable, non-irritant, and ideal for those with allergies.
• Reflective foil insulation: Perfect for roofs, this type of insulation helps deflect radiant heat, making it an excellent option for hot climates. Roof insulation costs using reflective foil are typically higher due to the additional labor involved in installation.
• Spray foam: Spray foam is one of the more expensive products with a higher insulation rating. It works well in hard-to-reach areas and irregular spaces.
• Acoustic insulation: If noise reduction is a priority, acoustic insulation batts are available for walls, floors, and ceilings to minimize sound transmission. While they add an extra layer of comfort, they can raise the overall cost of the insulation project.

Area of Installation:

Cost of insulation will vary depending on where you’re installing the insulation.

• Roof insulation: Roof insulation is often the most straightforward and affordable to install. Whether you opt for reflective foil insulation or bulk batts, expect to pay between $8 and $16 per square metre for materials. Adding installation labour, roof insulation costs typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 for a standard single-story home.
• Ceiling insulation: Ceiling insulation, particularly in the roof space, is critical for controlling heat loss, as this is where most heat escapes in winter. The cost of ceiling insulation is similar to roof insulation and depends largely on the type of material used.
• Wall insulation: Insulating walls can be more complex, especially if you’re retrofitting an existing structure. Wall insulation often involves removing cladding or drywall to place batts between studs. Prices for wall insulation can range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the size of the walls and the type of insulation installed.
• Underfloor insulation: Often overlooked, underfloor insulation can significantly improve energy efficiency, especially in homes built above the ground. The cost for underfloor insulation ranges from $1,200 to $3,000, depending on the accessibility and size of the area.

Labour Costs:

Having insulation installed by professionals is essential to ensure that it performs as expected. Labor costs can range from $40 to $80 per hour, depending on the complexity of the job and the type of insulation. Spray foam and reflective foil insulation, for example, typically require more time and expertise, resulting in higher labor costs compared to bulk insulation batts like glass wool or polyester batts.

Size and Layout of Your Home:

Naturally, the larger the area, the more insulation you’ll need, and the more labor will be required. Homes with complex layouts, multi-levels, or hard-to-reach areas will also increase the overall cost of insulation. When calculating the cost per square metre, the type of insulation and the difficulty of installation are key factors to consider.

Typical Insulation Costs in Australia

For an average-sized single-story home in Australia, here’s what you can expect to pay for a complete insulation project:

• Roof Insulation: cost of insulation for your roof are typically the lowest, starting at $8 per square metre for bulk insulation batts. A typical roof insulation project will cost between $1,000 and $2,500.
• Wall Insulation: Prices range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the type of insulation installed and the total wall area.
• Underfloor Insulation: Generally ranging from $1,200 to $3,000, underfloor insulation can make a significant difference in comfort, particularly in cooler climates.

For a full-house insulation project (roof, walls, and underfloor), cost of insulation can range from $3,500 to over $10,000, depending on the materials used, the size of the home, and labor rates.

Types of Insulation influencing the Cost of Insulation

Here’s a quick breakdown of the common types of insulation and their average costs per square metre:

• Glass Wool Batts: $5 to $10 per square metre – a cost-effective and commonly used option for roof and ceiling insulation.
• Polyester Batts: $8 to $12 per square metre – a slightly higher price for an eco-friendly, durable option.
• Reflective Foil Insulation: $7 to $16 per square metre – great for hot climates and roof insulation projects.
• Spray Foam Insulation: $15 to $30 per square metre – one of the more expensive options.

The Long-Term Savings of Insulation

While the upfront cost of insulation installation might seem significant, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. A properly insulated home can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 50%, meaning you’ll start saving on energy bills almost immediately. Over time, the insulation pays for itself, and you’ll continue to enjoy a more comfortable living environment, regardless of the season.

Additional Benefits of Acoustic Insulation

If noise reduction is a concern, consider adding acoustic insulation to your walls or ceilings. Acoustic batts are designed to reduce sound transmission between rooms and floors, providing greater comfort and privacy, especially in busy households. While acoustic insulation tends to be slightly more expensive than standard thermal insulation, it’s well worth the investment if peace and quiet are a priority.

Government Rebates and Financial Assistance

Before you start your insulation project, it’s a good idea to check if you qualify for any government rebates or financial incentives. Some local councils and states offer programs to help offset the cost of insulation installed in homes, making it even more affordable to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

The Victorian government is set to implement new standards in 2025, mandating all rental properties to include proper insulation to enhance energy efficiency. This initiative aims to reduce energy bills, improve tenant comfort, and align with Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap. By requiring rental properties to meet insulation standards, the government hopes to drive sustainable energy use and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.

For further details, see the full announcement here.

Final Thoughts on Cost of Insulation

Adding insulation to your home is a long-term investment that pays off in both comfort and energy savings. Whether you’re insulating your roof space with reflective foil, adding polyester batts to your walls, or installing underfloor insulation, there are a variety of options to suit your budget and needs. By understanding the different types of insulation and their costs, you can make an informed decision and ensure your insulation project is a success.

Please note that the cost of insulation prices listed here are based on current market research and are meant as general guidelines. Actual costs may vary depending on specific project requirements, materials, and service providers. This information is not intended as a definitive quote, and we recommend obtaining a formal estimate from a qualified professional at Climate Control Insulation to determine exact pricing.