Looking for a quick overview of the most important radiant barrier facts to separate fact from myth? Below are the top radiant barrier facts to help get you started. Want more info? See our Radiant Barrier FAQs.
- RadiantGUARD® radiant barriersBLOCK 97% of the radiant heat, almost30% MORE heat than the best reflective paint. Read more about reflectiveradiant barrier paint.
- Radiant barriers do NOT have R-Values butDO increase the R-Value of your existing insulation if already in place. Read more about radiant barrier andinsulation r-values.
- Radiant barriersMUST have at least a 3/4" air space on at least one side for them to be effective via the properties of reflectivity and/or emissivity. You cannot lay a radiant barrier on top of roof decking and then simply cover with further roofing materials like felt or shingles. Read more abouthow radiant barriers work and installation techniques.
- When installing a radiant barrier on the attic floor, youMUST use a perforated radiant barrier to allow moisture laden air to pass from your living space through the barrier and out the attic avoiding condensation. Read more aboutperforated radiant barriers.
- Radiant barriersdo NOT accelerate degradation of roof materials nor negate shingle warranties. Read more aboutradiant barriers and shingle temperatures.
- Dust accumulation on a double-sided radiant barrier laid over the attic floor will affect the performance of the radiant barrier but performance will "not degrade nearly as much as would be expected from the significant increases in emissivity caused by small amounts of dust."Read more about dust accumulation on radiant barriers (summary of conclusion is on page two).