Computed decision comparison
Spray foam vs fiberglass insulation cost
The modeled upfront totals are $4,221 for Spray foam and $3,106 for Fiberglass scope proxy, a difference of $1,114.
Both calculations use 1,500 sq ft. The fiberglass side uses the general insulation baseline; installed R-value, air sealing, removal, and fire protection remain separate specifications.
Side-by-side upfront cost
| Measure | Spray foam | Fiberglass scope proxy |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2,643 | $1,682 |
| Labor | $1,458 | $1,304 |
| Permits | $0 | $0 |
| Disposal | $120 | $120 |
| Planning range | $3,165–$5,698 | $2,330–$4,193 |
| Typical upfront total | $4,221 | $3,106 |
Spray foam derivation: Spray-foam baseline at 1,500 sq ft. Fiberglass scope proxy derivation: General insulation baseline at 1,500 sq ft.
Upfront, 10-year, and 20-year totals
| Horizon | Spray foam | Fiberglass scope proxy |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront | $4,221 | $3,106 |
| 10 years | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan |
| 20 years | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan |
When each model aligns with the decision
| Decision priority | Model comparison | Aligned option |
|---|---|---|
| Lower modeled upfront total | Difference $1,114 | Fiberglass scope proxy |
| Lower labor share | 34.5% vs 42.0% | Spray foam |
| Narrower published range | 1.80× vs 1.80× | Fiberglass scope proxy |
This table compares model properties; it does not recommend a material, system, repair, or replacement.
Open the underlying calculators
Comparison questions
Which option has the lower modeled upfront cost?
Fiberglass scope proxy is lower in the current static default by $1,114. This compares model records, not contractor proposals.
Are 10-year and 20-year replacement costs included?
No sourced lifespan field exists in the shared baseline store, so the site does not invent replacement cycles. Those horizon cells remain explicitly not modeled.
Do both options use the same source system?
Yes. Both are computed from the current baseline store and index snapshots. Any proxy, quantity normalization, or retained legacy factor is disclosed beside the option.