Choosing the right insulation type can make a big difference in your home's comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term costs. At Sky Insulation, we install both spray foam and blown-in insulation across the Denver metro area, and we often get asked: which one is better? The answer depends on your home, your goals, and your budget.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam comes in two types — open-cell and closed-cell — and is applied as a liquid that expands to fill cavities, cracks, and gaps.
Pros:
- Highest R-value per inch (R-3.7 for open-cell, R-6.5 for closed-cell)
- Air sealing and insulation in one step — no separate vapor barrier needed with closed-cell
- Excellent for crawl spaces, rim joists, and irregular cavities
- Reduces moisture infiltration (closed-cell acts as a vapor barrier)
Best For:
- Crawl spaces and basements
- Rim joists and band boards
- New construction or major renovations
- Homes that need maximum energy savings
Blown-In Insulation
Blown-in insulation (fiberglass or cellulose) is machine-applied into attics, walls, and enclosed cavities. It's one of the most cost-effective ways to improve home comfort.
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost than spray foam
- Fast installation — an attic can be done in a few hours
- Excellent for topping off existing insulation
- Fills around obstacles like wiring, pipes, and framing
Best For:
- Attic floors and open cavities
- Wall insulation retrofits (dense-packed)
- Budget-conscious upgrades
- Homes that already have some insulation but need more
How to Choose
For most Denver homes, we recommend a combination approach: spray foam in the crawl space, rim joists, and any areas that need air sealing, with blown-in insulation in the attic for cost-effective coverage. This gives you the best of both worlds — maximum air sealing where it matters most, and affordable R-value where you need volume.
Get a Free Assessment
Not sure which option is right for your home? Sky Insulation offers free, no-obligation estimates. We'll inspect your current insulation, identify problem areas, and recommend the best solution for your budget and goals. Call us at (720) 691-5718 or fill out our contact form to get started.