Attic Insulation Vs Radiant Barrier

That means the home will be more comfortable and the efficiency of attic insulation and the ac system will be improved.

Attic insulation vs radiant barrier.

Actually you need both but read below what we learned on two identical test homes built side by side in 1986 in phoenix arizona. Attic insulation ra diant barrier energy conservation heat pumps phoenix return to home page arizona insulation vs. When installed correctly a radiant barrier can provide a notable difference in attic and insulation temperatures especially in the summertime and in warmer climates. If installed on top of attic floor insulation the foil will be susceptible to dust accumulation and may trap moisture in fiber insulation so it is strongly recommended that you not apply radiant barriers directly on top of the attic floor insulation.

Reduced temperature of insulation results in less heat transfer into the conditioned space of the home source. Radiant barrier insulation can reflect up to 97 of radiation and reduce attic temperatures dramatically. This in effect will reduce the amount of radiant heat that leaches into your home from your attic making is less comfortable for you and your family especially in the warmer months. Today you ll learn about the benefits of radiant barriers and insulation and how both can reduce heating and energy costs.

Radiant barriers are not the same as insulation. The radiant barrier resulted in roughly 4 times more savings than the added insulation. Unlike fiberglass cellulose and other traditional thermal insulation radiant barrier isn t installed on the attic floor instead it s installed in the attic ceiling just below the roof. Radiant barriers can be installed alongside insulation in the attic space providing a heat shield that can lower cooling costs in the summer months.

Radiant barrier installed right under the roof radiant barrier insulation isn t meant for soundproofing or keeping warm air from leaking up into the attic and out of the house. Osb radiant barrier sheathing can reflect up to 97 of radiation and can significantly reduce attic temperatures. This is because foil insulation reduces radiant heat gain rather than slowing conductive and convective heat flow.