DIY vs. Hiring a Pro for Insulation

Safe DIY projects

Adding fiberglass batts in open walls before drywall

Insulating a garage door

Rigid foam board on the inside of basement walls (taping seams)

Rim joist insulation with cut-and-cobble rigid foam

Caulking and weatherstripping for air sealing

Hire a pro for

Blown-in attic insulation (cellulose blowers, dust containment, R-value verification)

Spray foam (licensed installer, OSHA training, ventilation requirements)

Crawl space encapsulation

Removal of damaged, contaminated, or vermiculite insulation

Any project where you want utility/HEEHRA rebates — most require a participating contractor

What pros bring that you can't DIY

Blower-door testing to verify air leakage

IR camera scans to find missed cold spots

Liability and workmanship warranty

Code compliance and rebate paperwork

Disposal of removed material

Comparing contractor quotes

Final R-value in writing (not just inches)

Air sealing included? What scope?

Removal of existing insulation included?

Will they file rebate paperwork on your behalf?

License, insurance, and Google/BBB reviews

Always get at least 2 quotes.