- Radiant barriers work by reflecting heat, which is why most installations take place in attics as a first line of defense against the sun's rays. The highly reflective material effectively bounces the radiant heat away before it can transfer into the space below.
- Radiant barriers take many forms, both as separate products and as part of some construction materials. The reflective foil is applied to one side of roof and wall sheathing. It takes the place of the usual vapor barrier on insulation batts. It is also available in rolls as a single- or double-sided coating on a variety of substrates, from thin plastic films to air-infiltration barriers.
- Radiant barriers are designed to reduce summer heat gain. They are the most effective in hot climates with long, sunny summers. Studies have shown that a properly installed radiant barrier can reduce cooling costs by 5 to 10 percent. They are especially effective if the air conditioning ducts are in the attic. If the summers in your area aren't that hot or that long, you might be better off spending your money on added insulation.
- The farther south you live, the more likely you are to benefit from the installation of a radiant barrier. If you're building a new home, installing a new roof or remodeling, the decision is easy; construction materials with integral radiant barriers are quite common in 2011 and usually not much more expensive. The benefits of retrofitting should be weighed more carefully, depending on the application. Again, the hotter your summers, the quicker the payoff. Whether you do it yourself or have it done, pay attention to the quirks of each product. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, as well as any applicable building codes.
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