Radiant Barrier insulation is a popular choice when it comes to keeping Texas attics cooler. These barriers consist of a highly reflective material (most often made of aluminum foil) that is adhered to various types of substrate.
Blown in or rolled insulation is usually installed over your attic floor and these types of insulation work by slowing the transfer of heat. Reflective insulation is a little different – in hotter climates like Texas it is installed on the attic ceilings and sometimes the walls – and it works to reflect heat away from your home – similar to the way a windshield shade works to protect your dash and decrease interior vehicle temperature.
During the hottest months, your attic temperatures can reach as high as 150 degrees Fahrenheit or more. If your HVAC and ductwork is installed in the attic space, as most homes here are, radiant barrier can reduce your attic temps considerably. This means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard and the air traveling through your ducts will be cooler. Installing radiant barrier can help save you money by reducing the energy used to cool your home, keep the temperatures in your home more consistent and possibly extend the life of your HVAC system. If you store personal items in your attic like many people do, it will also help protect your stored items from the damage caused by extreme heat.
Radiant barriers can be installed in both new and existing homes. It is important that it be installed correctly in accordance with local building and fire codes and to avoid issues such as condensation build-up and insufficient attic ventilation. In addition, since it is made of metal it is conductive – meaning that it should never encounter bare wiring. Though you can install reflective insulation yourself, it’s probably better left to professionals that have the knowledge and experience to properly and safely install it. If you are considering radiant barrier, the Team at Roofing Solutions can help!