Attic Insulation Vs Radiant Barrier

The radiant barrier resulted in roughly 4 times more savings than the added insulation.

Attic insulation vs radiant barrier. Radiant barriers can be installed alongside insulation in the attic space providing a heat shield that can lower cooling costs in the summer months. Actually you need both but read below what we learned on two identical test homes built side by side in 1986 in phoenix arizona. It works differently than other types of insulation. The foil surfaces of radiant barriers reflect the heat and prevent it from radiating into the attic space.

This is because foil insulation reduces radiant heat gain rather than slowing conductive and convective heat flow. 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. Radiant barrier insulation can reflect up to 97 of radiation and reduce attic temperatures dramatically. Osb radiant barrier sheathing can reflect up to 97 of radiation and can significantly reduce attic temperatures.

The cost to do it myself was roughly the same in both cases so the resulting roi was 4 times faster for the radiant barrier. Today you ll learn about the benefits of radiant barriers and insulation and how both can reduce heating and energy costs. Attic insulation ra diant barrier energy conservation heat pumps phoenix return to home page arizona insulation vs. Radiant barriers are not the same as insulation.

That means the home will be more comfortable and the efficiency of attic insulation and the ac system will be improved. When installed correctly a radiant barrier can provide a notable difference in attic and insulation temperatures especially in the summertime and in warmer climates. 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.