What R Value Should Attic Insulation Be in Kansas City?

The recommended attic insulation R value for homes in the Kansas City Metro area falls between R49 and R60. This range helps protect your home from hot summers, cold winters, and rising energy costs.

If your attic insulation is below R38, your home is likely losing comfort and efficiency.

R value measures how well insulation resists heat flow. Higher R values provide better thermal resistance, which means less heat moves in or out of your home.

Because Kansas City experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters, attic insulation with the correct R value plays a major role in maintaining indoor comfort and controlling energy use.

Why Attic Insulation R Value Matters in Kansas City

Recommended Attic Insulation R Value for Kansas City Metro Homes

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Kansas City falls within Climate Zone 4. For this zone, the recommended attic insulation levels are:

R38 to R60

Here is what those levels mean for your home:

• R38 meets the minimum standard
• R49 improves efficiency and comfort
• R60 provides the highest level of performance

Most Kansas City homes see the best results with attic insulation between R49 and R60, especially older homes or homes with higher energy bills.

Upgrading attic insulation often delivers noticeable comfort improvements within the first season.

How Attic Insulation Works

Attic insulation slows heat transfer between your living space and the attic.

• In summer, it blocks hot attic air from entering your home
• In winter, it keeps heated air from escaping upward

Insulation performs best when it is:

• Installed evenly without gaps
• Not compressed or disturbed
• Paired with proper air sealing
• Supported by adequate attic ventilation

Even high R value insulation will underperform if installation quality is poor.

Common Types of Attic Insulation and Their R Values

Different insulation materials provide different R values per inch.

Fiberglass Batt Insulation

• R value per inch: 3.1 to 3.4
• Common in older homes
• Requires careful installation to avoid gaps

Blown In Fiberglass

• R value per inch: 2.2 to 2.7
• Ideal for irregular attic spaces
• Works well for adding insulation over existing material

Cellulose Insulation

• R value per inch: 3.2 to 3.8
• Made from recycled materials
• Can settle over time if installed incorrectly

Spray Foam Insulation

• Closed cell R value per inch: about 6.5
• Provides insulation and air sealing
• Higher upfront cost with strong performance

How to Tell If Your Attic Has Enough Insulation

Many homes in Kansas City do not meet current insulation standards. You may need additional insulation if you notice:



• High heating or cooling bills
• Uneven temperatures between rooms
• Cold ceilings during winter
• Ice buildup along roof edges
• HVAC system running frequently

A professional inspection can determine your current insulation depth and R value.

How to Estimate Your Existing R Value

You can estimate your attic insulation level by:



1. Measuring the insulation depth
2. Identifying the insulation type
3. Multiplying depth by R value per inch

For example, 10 inches of fiberglass insulation at R3.2 per inch equals R32. This is below the recommended minimum for Kansas City homes.

Is It Worth Increasing R Value Beyond R38?

In most cases, increasing attic insulation beyond R38 is worth the investment.

• Moving from R38 to R49 often results in noticeable energy savings
• R60 improves comfort in homes with heavy heating and cooling use
• Energy savings increase gradually at higher levels, while comfort continues to improve

A home energy audit can help determine the ideal R value for your home.

Why Air Sealing Matters Before Insulation

Insulation slows heat transfer, but it does not stop air movement. Air sealing closes gaps that allow conditioned air to escape.

Common air leak areas include:

• Attic access openings
• Electrical penetrations
• Plumbing vents
• Recessed lighting

Proper air duct sealing improves insulation performance and helps reduce energy loss.

Attic Insulation and Ventilation

Attic ventilation works together with insulation to manage moisture and temperature. Without proper ventilation, moisture can build up and reduce insulation effectiveness.

Balanced ventilation helps:

• Protect roofing materials
• Reduce mold risk
• Improve insulation performance

Ventilation should always be evaluated during attic insulation upgrades.

How Long Attic Insulation Lasts

Attic insulation can last for decades, but performance may decline due to:

• Settling
• Moisture exposure
• Pest activity
• Physical disturbance

Replacing or adding insulation restores comfort and efficiency.

Keep Your Attic Insulation's R Value In Mind

For most homes in the Kansas City Metro area, the ideal attic insulation R value is R49 to R60. Homes below R38 are likely losing energy and comfort.

Upgrading attic insulation improves year round comfort and supports lower energy costs when combined with air sealing and proper ventilation.

Schedule an Attic Insulation Evaluation

If you are unsure about your attic insulation R value, our team can help. Insulation Pros serves homeowners throughout Kansas City, Missouri, Kansas City, Kansas, and nearby areas.

We are locally owned and veteran owned, serving the Kansas City Metro with expert insulation solutions.

Schedule your consultation today.