Does reflective insulation really work?

Some studies show that radiant barriers can reduce cooling costs 5% to 10% when used in a warm, sunny climate. The reduced heat gain may even allow for a smaller air conditioning system. In cool climates, however, it’s usually more cost-effective to install more thermal insulation than to add a radiant barrier.

Does foil insulation really work?

Foil is used in space-faring craft because of these great properties preventing radiant heat loss. Because space is a vacuum, there is very little heat lost by conduction, so foil is absolutely perfect.

Where should reflective insulation be used?

Reflective insulation, installed in the attic ceiling, helps reflect sunlight and reduce the radiant heat transfer from the underside of the roof to the other surfaces in the attic. This helps keep your home cooler and more comfortable.

Is Reflectix an ignition barrier?

Reflectix® has a Class A/Class 1 Fire Rating on the Reflective/Woven Fabric/Reflective Radiant Barrier meeting all fire and smoke safety requirements of federal, state and local building codes.

Does reflective insulation keep heat out?

Unlike mass insulation, reflective insulation is able to keep heat in and reflect heat away. Reflective insulation has the ability to control the transfer of radiant heat. In fact, Innovative Energy’s products reflect (block) 95 percent of radiant heat.

What is the R-value of reflective insulation?

Reflective insulation can have an R value anywhere from R-3 all the way up to R-17.

Is foil faced insulation better?

Insulation increases comfort and reduces utility bills. Foil faced insulation is the best type of insulation for retaining heat in the winter and keeping heat out in the summer. This insulation product is designed to slow heat transfer and enhance acoustical performance.

What is the purpose of reflective insulation?

Reflective insulation reflects escaping heat back in the direction of your home’s interior. By harnessing the loss it lowers your heating bills. During the summer months, it reflects the heat away from your home to lower your AC bills.

What is Reflectix insulation used for?

Reflectix lets you insulate spaces that might ordinarily go uninsulated because it would be prohibitive to insulate them with fiberglass. You might have a cold workshop with heat escaping through the roof. Stapling a layer of Reflectix along the rafters will cut down on some heat loss and stop air infiltration.

Can I use Reflectix as a vapor barrier?

Place one corner edge of the Reflectix® in an upper corner of the stud cavity. The Goal: Create two approximately equal continuous 1 3/4” air spaces on each side of the Reflectix® Insulation. This application also provides a vapor/moisture barrier.

Which is better to insulate with reflectix or fiberglass?

Traditional fiberglass insulation is easier and faster, and it will insulate better. The key to using Reflectix properly is to understand how reflective insulation works in the first place.

How big is a square foot of reflectix insulation?

Found in the insulation aisle, Reflectix comes in tightly spooled rolls of shiny, reflective, foil-look insulation that resembles bubble wrap. There is no metal content; it is all plastic. Reflectix is a little thicker than a quarter-inch (5/16-inch). It’s very lightweight (about 1-1/4-inch per square foot).

What kind of insulation looks like bubble wrap?

Found in the insulation aisle, Reflectix comes in tightly spooled rolls of shiny, reflective, foil-look insulation that resembles bubble wrap. There is no metal content; it is all plastic.