Do Radiant Barriers Serve Its Intended Purpose?

It is quintessential to get a radiant barrier installed in the attic, so as to reflect the excess heat from sunlight, and thus minimize heat transfer.

When you go ahead and install a radiant barrier, you are working towards reducing the heat gain, especially during the peak summer months. This helps in considerably reducing the cooling costs. The function of a radiant barrier is to reduce the radiant heat that impacts the roof and the attic space. The heat from the direct sunlight is the primary reason that causes the roof to get immensely hot, and this is when the barrier works to stop or negate the effect of the direct heat. The radiant barrier acts as an effective deterrent, thus effectively stopping the heat transfer. At Attic Wizard, we help you get the best results by combining reflective barriers and insulation material. You can call at 877-373-5212, and get more information about our radiant barrier installation services.

How does a radiant barrier function?

It works on the basic principles of heat transfer and reflection. It is fairly easy to understand how the whole process works in an effective way.

• As the sun’s radiant energy follows a straight line in heating up a surface, the radiant barrier is installed right perpendicular to it.

• The barrier, which can be in the form of an aluminum foil, slows down the heat transfer from the radiant energy of the sunlight.

Is radiant barrier more effective than insulation?

Yes, to a great extent. If you are living in a hot climatic zone like California, a radiant barrier can reduce your cooling costs to a significant extent. Our insulation company has trained professionals that can help in one such extensive installation process. An attic always requires installing a radiant barrier on the underside of the roof and on the floors, so that it is able to reflect the excess heat, thus making the interiors stay cool and pleasant. And, having both a radiant barrier and insulation is a wonderful idea to protect your attic from heat conduction.

Which side should a radiant barrier face?

The most effective facing for a radiant barrier while installing it is ‘foil side down’. Therefore, it faces the interior of the building. It is usually installed under the sheathing of the roof.

Does radiant barrier affect a Wi-Fi connection?

If you have a good mobile phone signal all the time with a reputed telecommunication service provider, a radiant barrier hardly affects the Wi-Fi functioning. But, if the signal is weak and inconsistent, it can be a cause of worry, with a radiant barrier at your home.

Does radiant barrier cause mold infestation?

If the radiant barrier installation is not properly done, without leaving any gaps, it can trap moisture in it. This is when it becomes moss and algae infested, if proper care & maintenance is not taken at the appropriate time. In order to prevent mold and moss growth, the installation must be carried out with the help of experts like us, as we at Attic Wizard have years of project experience.

Is radiant barrier harmful for shingles?

On the contrary, it actually helps the asphalt shingles or cedar shakes last longer. It is because a radiant barrier helps in decreasing the roof’s temperature by 5-8 degrees. Thus, it would automatically reduce the wear & tear or degradation of the shingles. Installation of one such barrier also does not make the manufacturer’s warranty on the shingles to be void.

This is how a radiant barrier can be highly effective in solving your home cooling needs, especially in a place like California which receives sunlight throughout the year. Thus, saving upon your energy bills.