What is Reflective Insulation?
Reflective insulation, usually composed of aluminum, is also known as a radiant barrier. It resembles metallic foil and has a reflective surface. It is very versatile and easy to install.
When using reflective insulation, its main objective is to block radiant heat from transferring across open spaces. Reflective insulation lowers energy bills in the summer, especially in the hotter climates. It can also be used in some cases to lower heating bills.
Each type of insulation on the market comes with an R-value. The R-value is rated according to a piece of insulation's thickness and density. The R-value of reflective insulation is measured by how the heat flows in the home.
Radiant barriers are similar to all other types of insulation because they lower the amount of heat that enters or exits a home. Other types of insulation trap air inside the insulation, not allowing it to escape. Reflective insulation works to decrease the flow of heat throughout an open airspace.
Reflective insulation does not absorb moisture. When used in conjunction with other insulation, it tends to keep the insulation drier and has a better overall performance. It can be used in residences, commercial buildings or recreational buildings.
There are several benefits to using reflective insulation. The cost of installation is fairly low and it is more easily installed than most insulation. It contains no itchy fibers and can be installed using simple tools like scissors or a razor knife, foil tape, a tape measure and a staple gun.
The reflective surface of this type of insulation makes it unattractive to birds, however, it is not harmful to people or animals. It does not require breathing gear or gloves when installing because it is clean and non-toxic and is lightweight. It helps control condensation and aids in avoiding mold and mildew.
Various places that reflective insulation can be used are under rafters, on stud walls and on the sidewalls of metal buildings. It can be effective under crawl spaces, inside pipes and duct work and under concrete slabs. Everyday items such as food storage and coolers, air conditioner covers and vehicle applications all benefit from the use of reflective insulation.
Often times we see reflective insulation without realizing it. Paramedics use emergency blankets that are essentially reflective insulation. Firefighters protect themselves from forest fires with reflective insulation. NASA not only uses reflective insulation on their shuttles, but they protect astronauts with it as well.
Written by L. Hepfer
