Radiant Barrier INSULATION CONTRACTOR in Houston

A radiant barrier is a sheet of highly reflective material, typically aluminum, designed to block radiant heat. It is installed in attics to reflect solar heat away from the home’s living space.

A radiant barrier functions as a heat mirror. It reflects 95-97% of the sun’s radiant heat waves, preventing them from being absorbed by the attic insulation and the home’s structure.

Yes. By reflecting 95-97% of the sun’s radiant heat, it significantly lowers attic temperatures and reduces summer air conditioning costs, particularly in sunny climates.

• It significantly lowers summer air conditioning bills.

• It helps keep indoor temperatures more stable and comfortable.

• It reduces the operational workload and wear on an HVAC system.

It provides almost no insulation value during the winter. Its effectiveness can be reduced by dust accumulation over time. Furthermore, it is completely ineffective unless it faces an open air space.

A radiant barrier has no meaningful R-value. R-value is a metric that measures resistance to conductive heat, whereas radiant barriers work by reflecting radiant heat. The performance of a radiant barrier is measured by its reflectivity (95-97%), not by an R-value.

A radiant barrier should be installed in an attic, typically stapled to the underside of the roof rafters. To be effective, it must face an open air space.

Building codes mandate specific fire safety ratings (ASTM E84 Class A). Installation must not block attic ventilation, and the material must be kept clear of all electrical wiring and heat-producing fixtures.

Neither technology is universally better; they are designed for different functions.

• Spray foam is superior for providing overall insulation (high R-value) and creating a complete air seal. It is the more expensive option.

• A radiant barrier is the superior choice for specifically blocking summer radiant heat in hot climates. It is the more affordable option.