Radiant Barriers: What You Need to Know
Radiant barriers, also known as reflective insulation or radiant heat barriers, are designed to reduce heat transfer by reflecting radiant energy. Commonly used in attics, walls, and roofs, these barriers improve energy efficiency by minimizing heat buildup in buildings. Lightweight, durable, and easy to install, radiant barriers are ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, particularly in hot climates.
Radiant Barrier Rolls:
Flexible and durable, radiant barrier rolls are designed to reflect radiant heat, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. These rolls are highly versatile and easy to install in attics, walls, and crawl spaces. Radiant barrier rolls are manufactured using aluminum foil bonded to a durable backing material such as kraft paper, woven polyethylene, or fiberglass mesh. The aluminum surface reflects up to 97% of radiant heat, while the substrate adds structural integrity, making the rolls easier to handle during installation.
Radiant Barrier Tape:
Specially designed to seal seams and secure radiant barrier layers, this tape ensures a continuous reflective surface. It is essential for maintaining the integrity of radiant barrier installations and preventing air leaks.
Key Features:
-
Heat Reflection: Radiant barriers reflect up to 97% of radiant heat, preventing excessive heat buildup and maintaining cooler indoor temperatures. This significantly reduces cooling costs in warmer climates.
-
Energy Efficiency: By limiting radiant heat transfer, radiant barriers improve the overall performance of insulation systems, reducing HVAC workloads and providing year-round energy savings.
-
Durability: Made from high-quality aluminum foil and reinforced backing, radiant barriers are lightweight yet resistant to wear, ensuring long-lasting performance even in demanding environments.
Applications:
-
Attics and Roofs: Installed beneath roof decking or on attic floors, radiant barriers block heat from entering living spaces, especially in areas with intense sunlight. They are particularly effective in reducing attic temperatures, which in turn prevents heat from radiating down into the living areas, improving overall indoor comfort.
-
Walls and Ceilings: Used as a layer in wall systems to prevent radiant heat transfer, improving the building envelope's thermal efficiency. Radiant barriers also help stabilize indoor temperatures by minimizing the impact of external heat fluctuations, making them ideal for energy-efficient construction.
-
Industrial and Commercial Use: Often applied in warehouses or metal buildings to reduce interior heat and create a more stable environment. These barriers are especially beneficial for protecting temperature-sensitive goods and reducing operational cooling costs in large-scale facilities.
Size and Coverage Options:
-
16 in. x 25 ft. (33 sq. ft.): Ideal for narrow spaces, such as between wall studs or floor joists.
-
24 in. x 10 ft. (20 sq. ft.): Best for small projects, including spot insulation in attics and crawl spaces.
-
24 in. x 25 ft. (50 sq. ft.): Suitable for medium-sized areas like basement walls or garage doors.
-
48 in. x 25 ft. (100 sq. ft.): Perfect for large-scale installations, such as attic floors or extensive wall coverage.
Installation Considerations:
-
Placement: Install radiant barriers with the reflective side facing the heat source, such as roof decking or attic floors, to maximize heat reflection. Ensure the material lays flat without blocking wiring or other components for safe and effective installation.
-
Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation, such as soffit or ridge vents, is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and maintain thermal performance. Ensure radiant barriers do not obstruct airflow pathways.
-
Seam Sealing: Use radiant barrier tape to securely seal all seams and overlaps, preventing gaps that reduce efficiency. Proper sealing ensures the barrier remains effective over time.
Why Choose Supply Ontime?
At Supply Ontime, we offer high-quality radiant barriers tailored to your project’s needs. With same-day delivery across the Greater Los Angeles area, we make it easy to keep your projects on schedule. Order radiant barriers now and get them delivered today!
