Why Chicago Homes Are Unique
Located in Climate Zone 5, homes face severe winters. The biggest threat isn't just high heating bills—it's **Ice Dams**. When heat escapes into the attic, it melts snow on the roof, which refreezes at the gutters, causing massive water damage.
According to local utility data, the average residential electricity rate in IL is $0.16/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 IL
By the numbers:
- Annual Heating Degree Days (HDD):5500
- Annual Cooling Degree Days (CDD):800
- *High HDD indicates extreme cold load.
Data specifically for Zone 5 shows that heating 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 Chicago, a professional "blow-in" insulation upgrade typically costs between $1800 and 2160 based on IL labor rates.
However, with estimated annual savings of $468, the project often pays for itself in 3.8 years — a return on investment (ROI) that beats the stock market, tax-free.