IECC Climate Zone 2

Insulation Standards for
Houston, TX

Houston's hot and humid Zone 2 climate requires a minimum of R-38 insulation to keep cooling costs manageable.

Advanced ROI Calculator

Calculate savings based on your local climate & energy rates.

Retrofit Target
R-38
Recommended
New Code (2021)
R-49
Strict Standard
Climate Type
Hot (TX, FL, AZ)
Source: DOE / IECC

Estimated Insulation Costs in Houston

Material TypeCost per Sq. Ft.Avg. 1000 sq.ft. Project
Blown-in Fiberglass$1.80 - $3.00$1800 - $3000
Spray Foam (Closed Cell)$4.50 - $7.50$4500 - $7500
Estimates based on Zone 2 material requirements. Local labor rates in TX may vary.

Why Insulation Matters in Houston

Living in Houston means dealing with the specific thermal challenges of Climate Zone 2. According to the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), homes in this region require specific thermal protection to maintain efficiency and comfort.

💡 Local Energy Tip

Many homes built before 2010 in the 77001 area typically have insulation levels between R-15 and R-30. Upgrading to R-38 is often the single most effective way to lower your utility bills.

Recommended Materials for Zone 2

  • Blown-in Cellulose: Excellent for filling gaps and settling over existing insulation in older Houston attics.
  • Spray Foam: Provides both high R-value and air sealing, crucial for preventing drafts in Zone 2.

Ready to Upgrade?

Don't guess with your energy bills. We recommend getting quotes from at least 3 licensed insulation contractors in TX to compare pricing.

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