While you may be tempted to complete work or home insulation jobs as do-it-yourself projects, these are messy and sometimes time-consuming jobs often better left to a pro. Insulation comes in four main types: fiberglass, rock wool, cellulose, and synthetic. One insulation contractor may be qualified to install all types of insulation, but it may be necessary to determine the type of insulation which best meets your needs and hire professional insulation contractors trained in the type of insulation you need — such as foam insulation contractors, spray insulation contractors, or blown insulation contractors.

Within the same company, there are those specialists who install attic and ceiling insulation and those who are simply wall insulation contractors. If you are unsure which type of insulation is best suited for your project, good insulation pros can educate you on the benefits and disadvantages of the various materials and installations available.

Steps for choosing insulation contractors include:

1. Determining the best type of pro insulation for your project
2. Using local insulation contractors whenever possible
3. Finding qualified, insured, and bonded insulation installers
4. Verifying licensure, insurance coverage, and bonding
5. Getting all bids and contracts in writing

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find qualified insulation contractors

To find experienced, licensed, and certified insulation contractors in your area, ask friends or neighbors who have recently had renovations done, talk to builders in your area, or seek professionals through various directories of insulation companies.

I recommend: ServiceMagic provides referral services that allow you to locate qualified contractors in your area and request bids. The National Insulation Contractors’ Exchange has a listing of insulation contractors in each state.

Get at least three written bids from insulation pros

A good bid should include a detailed materials list with specifications, labor costs, specific time frame of your project, and a payment schedule.

I recommend: BidClerk and BestContractors.com provide free online insulation estimates.

Verify that insulation contractors are licensed, insured, and bonded

Confirm that your contractor has both General Liability Insurance to cover any damage that might occur to your property, Workers Compensation Insurance to cover the insulation contractor or any employee of the company who might be injured while working on your property, and Bonding to protect you if the contractor goes out of business or is unable to complete your project. Ask to see your contractor's state or local contractor's license, Certificate of Insurance, and Certificate of Bonding.

I recommend: The Contractor’s License Reference Site connects you to your state's contractor license board. DoItYourself offers a similar service, allowing you to search for contractor license and registration information by region of the country.

Contracts from insulation contractors should include an explicit payment schedule

You want to start the project with a well-drafted contract; this can head off trouble later. It is also important to settle on a schedule of payment. Beware of insulation contractors who ask for full payment before the job is completed.

I recommend: The sample contract form from 411HomeRepair.com shows the elements that should be included in your contract. The New York City Department of Consumer Affairs also has an excellent contract form that may be modified to suit your project.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask your insulation contractors for references and check them.
• •  To ensure that the work was properly completed, ask your wall insulation contractors to show you the insulated areas before they are enclosed.
• •  In case of contact changes or unexpected problems, communicate with your contractor in writing.