Since fiberglass vapor barrier insulation protection is a vital aspect of a metal building, this post will not only address why it is essential but also delve into market wholesale rates and retail rates for various insulation facings and metal buildings. Keep in mind, Fiberglass Vapor Barrier Insulation and Metal Building Prices can fluctuate based on the different regions of the USA.
As a 40-year veteran of the metal building and insulation industries, I can confidently say that the average consumer’s primary focus is on price. That is not to say the quality and service aren’t important to them; however, they are a secondary consideration. It is as though the price meter has to align with their estimated goal before their minds can focus on other considerations. With that being the case, let’s address prices first:
Rough Estimate of Retail Metal Building Insulation Prices (August 2025)
Please note that tariffs and other factors, such as delivery location, design complexity, and insulation thickness, may affect the listed rates.
| Building Size | Material Price | With Vapor Barrier Insulation |
| 30x40x12 | $18,000 – $24,000 | +$2,000 – $4,000 |
| 40x60x14 | $35,000 – $48,000 | +$4,000 – $6,000 |
| 60x100x16 | $75,000 – $110,000 | +$8,000 – $12,000 |
Median Wholesale Metal Building Prices
Delivered To Macon, GA:
Key Features Included: I-Beam Steel Construction | 26 Gauge Sheeting | 40-Year Wall and Trim Warranty Finish | 1:12 Roof Pitch | Galvalume Roof | 1-3070 Walk Door | 1- Framed Opening |
30’ x 40’ x 12’ -$18,056
30’ x 50’ x 14’ – $21,070
40’ x 60’ x 14’ – $28,030
50’ x 60’ x 14’ – $32,030
50’ x 80’ x 14’ – $37,396
50’ x 100’ x 14’ – $43,989
All fiberglass vapor barrier insulation should improve the energy efficiency, comfort, and durability of your metal building. The preferred choice for DIY projects is one of the following vapor barrier facings: WMP-VR-R, WMP-10, WMP-30, or WMP-50. The facings have different vapor-resistant qualities and varying levels of tear and puncture resistance.
The Retail Cost of Fiberglass Vapor Barrier Insulation (WMP-VR-R)
The cost of fiberglass insulation with a vapor barrier is typically $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot installed, depending on the R-value and the building’s height.
- R-10 to R-19: Ideal for moderate climates
- R-25 to R-38: Recommended for colder regions or climate-controlled spaces
Higher Vapor Barrier Insulation R-values may cost more upfront, but can lead to long-term energy savings.
Here are the estimated Wholesale Prices for WMP-VR Steel Building Insulation:
| Square Foot Print | Wholesale Prices (R-Value 10) Median Shipping Add $500 – $750 |
| 1800 | $895 |
| 2400 | $1,195 |
| 3,000 | $1,495 |
| 3,600 | $1,795 |
| 4,200 | $2,095 |
| 4,800 | $2,395 |
| 5,400 | $2,650 |
| 6,000 | $2,995 |
| 6,600 | $3,295 |
| 7,200 | $3,596 |
| 7,800 | $3,990 |
| 8,400 | $4,199 |
| 9,000 | $4,495 |
| 9,600 | $4,795 |
| 10,200 | $5,111 |
| 10,800 | $5,419 |
| 11,400 | $5,725 |
| 12,000 | $6,055 |
| 12,600 | $6,311 |
| 13,200* | $6,660 |
| 13,800* | $6,919 |
| 14,400* | $7,222 |
| 15,000* | $7,572 |
| 15,600* | $7,812 |
| 16,200* | $8,111 |
| 16,800* | $8,395 |
| 17,400* | $8,695 |
| 18,000* | $9,000* |
| 18,600* | $9,300* |
Why is Insulation in Your Metal Building Essential
Metal buildings are naturally more susceptible to temperature fluctuations due to their thermal properties. Simply stated, your metal building will heat up or cool down much more efficiently than materials like wood or concrete when the outside temperature changes because it has low Thermal Mass. In other words, it doesn’t store heat well. If you had a concrete building, which cost a lot more, the concrete would absorb the heat and release it more slowly than steel would. Think about it, most metal building sheeting is 1 ¼” thick, which is relatively thin, so there is little resistance to the outside temperature. The reality for you, when it’s cold or hot outside, you’ll feel it inside!
Moreover, your metal building will undoubtedly expand when the temperature heats up and contract when. it cools down. This sometimes can cause structural stresses or noises (such as popping or creaking) during rapid temperature changes.
Approximate Thickness | R-Value
2.75” R-8
3” R-10
3.5” R-11
4” R-13
6” R-19
8” R-25
9.5” R-30
This blog provides the essential pricing information required for the average consumer as of August 2025.
