Igloo Insulation LLC
ClaimTypical insulation services: Attic insulation, Spray foam, Blown-in insulation, +2 more
The 30-Second Verdict
Blown-in insulation is the cost-effective choice for standard Florida attic insulation upgrades — delivering excellent R-values at reasonable cost. Spray foam (especially open-cell applied to the roof deck) creates a conditioned attic that eliminates Florida's brutal attic heat problem and better protects HVAC equipment, but costs 3–4x more. For homes with ductwork in the attic, spray foam pays back faster.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Spray Foam Insulation
Pros
- Creates conditioned attic — no hot attic problem
- Excellent air sealing (no separate step needed)
- Protects HVAC ducts from extreme heat
- Can eliminate need for attic ventilation
Cons
- 3–4x more expensive than blown-in
- Requires professional installation
- Open-cell can absorb moisture if roof leaks
- Hard to remove or modify later
Blown-In Insulation
Pros
- Much lower cost per R-value
- Easy to add over existing insulation
- DIY possible (blown-in kits available)
- Rebates available from FL utilities
Cons
- Leaves attic unconditioned (still very hot in FL summer)
- HVAC ducts still in hot attic space
- Requires separate air sealing step for best results
- Settles over time — check coverage periodically
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Spray Foam Insulation | Blown-In Insulation | |
|---|---|---|
| R-Value per inch | R-3.7 (open cell) / R-6.5 (closed cell) | R-2.2–2.7 (fiberglass/cellulose) |
| Cost (1,500 sq ft attic) | $4,500–$8,000 | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Air Sealing | Excellent (inherent) | Requires separate air sealing |
| Attic Temp (summer) | Conditioned (same as living space) | Still 140–160°F (unconditioned attic) |
| HVAC Duct Protection | Yes — ducts in conditioned space | No — ducts still in hot attic |
| FL Utility Rebate | Limited | Yes — FPL, Duke Energy, TECO programs |
| Best For | Homes with ducts in attic, new construction | Most existing FL homes, cost-conscious upgrades |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spray foam worth it in Florida?
Spray foam insulation applied to the roof deck (creating a conditioned attic) delivers the best long-term energy performance in Florida. It can reduce cooling costs 20–35% and significantly extends HVAC equipment life by keeping it out of 150°F attic conditions. The 5–10 year payback period makes most financial sense for homeowners planning to stay long-term.
What R-value do I need in Florida?
Florida Building Code requires R-38 minimum in most of the state (Climate Zones 2 and 3). Current best practice recommendations are R-49 to R-60. If your attic has R-11 to R-19 (common in pre-1990 Florida homes), upgrading to R-38 delivers significant, immediate energy savings.
Do Florida utility companies offer insulation rebates?
Yes — FPL, Duke Energy Florida, and Tampa Electric all offer rebates for qualifying insulation upgrades. Typical rebates are $0.10–$0.15 per square foot of insulation added. Ask your insulation contractor about current rebate programs — most experienced Florida contractors handle the rebate paperwork as part of their service.
Listed Local Florida Insulation Alternatives
You don't have to pick a national brand. Compare public rating data and contact details for these Florida-based insulation businesses, then verify credentials and request current quotes.
Insulation Plus of Tampa
ClaimTypical insulation services: Attic insulation, Spray foam, Blown-in insulation, +2 more
I-Foam & Insulation Inc
ClaimTypical insulation services: Attic insulation, Spray foam, Blown-in insulation, +2 more