Building envelope

Insulation Calculator

Estimate insulation packs from area and manufacturer coverage.

R-value is not the whole story

Air sealing, vapor control, moisture risk, thermal bridging and local code matter. Use manufacturer coverage for the exact product and thickness.

Example

For 600 square feet with a 5% waste allowance, adjusted area is 630 square feet. If one pack covers 50 square feet, the estimate rounds up to 13 packs.

Common mistakes

Do not use coverage from a different thickness or R-value. Also account for framing gaps, irregular cavities and offcuts.

Limitations

This calculator estimates pack count only. It does not determine building-code compliance, moisture strategy, ventilation, fire rating or installation quality.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-17

Before relying on this result

Use this calculator together with the formula, assumptions, limitations and examples on the page. If the topic involves health, tax, lending, investment, legal, safety or current-rate decisions, treat the number as an estimate and check the relevant primary source or professional guidance.

Calculator metadata last reviewed: 2026-05-14.