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The most affordable way to insulate behind unfinished walls is to install fiberglass batts or rolls. These total around $0.75 per linear foot, with the width matching the gaps between standard studs perfectly. However, it’s important to consider the R-value of your insulation and the climate in your area, as fiberglass insulation isn’t the best in terms of preventing heat transfer. Plus, the most affordable option may cost more on electricity bills over time. The most affordable way to insulate behind finished walls is to leave them up and use blown-in insulation to avoid drywall replacement.

The life span of insulation is between 20 and 100 years. At that time, existing insulation can fall victim to gravity, resulting in compression, which reduces its insulating protection or R-value. If you can't simply add more insulation over the existing material, removing the old to increase the effectiveness of the new can reduce your energy bills and make the project worth the time and money investment.

The best type of attic insulation depends on where you live, your budget, and what stage of construction the attic is in. For example, if you're building a house, then structural insulated panels are a worthy investment since they're easy to install during construction and they're the most energy-efficient type of insulation.  

Additionally, if you live in a very warm climate, then you can potentially save quite a bit of money by opting for reflective insulation, which is more affordable than comprehensive insulation but doesn't work well for cool climates. Blown-in, loose-fill, and spray foam insulation are all great options for attics in moderate climates.

Natural fiber batts and spray foam insulation both work great for soundproofing. Newer materials, such as hemp batts, are more expensive but more effective for insulation and sound blocking. They are also more sustainable. There is also a professional system called Blow-In Blanket Insulation (BIBS) that is soundproof and moisture-resistant. However, BIBS must be installed professionally and can be a costly investment.