Why Seattle Homes Are Unique
Located in Climate Zone 4, homes experience the worst of both worlds: freezing drafts in winter and suffocating humidity in summer. Proper insulation acts as a thermal barrier stabilizing your indoor temperature year-round.
According to local utility data, the average residential electricity rate in WA is $0.11/kWh. With heating costs rising, every drafty spot in your attic directly impacts your wallet during those long winter months.
The "Hidden" Cost of Doing Nothing in WA
By the numbers:
- Annual Heating Degree Days (HDD):4000
- Annual Cooling Degree Days (CDD):1200
- *High HDD indicates extreme cold load.
Data specifically for Zone 4 shows that cooling load is the primary driver of energy waste. Upgrading your attic insulation to R-49 is the most effective way to lower this specific load.
Cost vs. Value: Is it Worth it?
For a typical 1,000 sq. ft. attic in Seattle, a professional "blow-in" insulation upgrade typically costs between $2520 and 3024 based on WA labor rates.
However, with estimated annual savings of $404, the project often pays for itself in 6.2 years — a return on investment (ROI) that beats the stock market, tax-free.