Posted by Luke,
Reflective insulation materials are ideal for use as retarders because they typically made up of polyethylene structures and are durable and tough enough to withstand the rigors of concrete slab applications. Reflective insulation reduces radiant heat loss by as much as 97% (conductive-type insulation reduces it by only by 5-10%). One test has shown that reflective insulation is more than seven times as effective as R-19 conductive insulation. Reflective insulation is constructed in spaced stacks having a plurality like thin aluminum or stainless steel sheets. Next these spaced sheets are encased between thicker and more structurally sound inner and outer cases.
I have found that reflective insulation is an extremely versatile form of insulation. It is simple for me to install and has numerous residential, commercial and recreational applications. Because it is a thermal retarder, water vapor retarder, and wind infiltration barrier it can be used in various applications where traditional insulation is not practical.
Reflective insulation, also called a radiant barrier, is a metallic foil material designed to block radiant heat transfer across open areas. Using this reflective insulation is most effective at reducing your cooling bills in ho climates.
These reflective insulation systems are fabricated from aluminum foils with a variety of backings, such as kraft paper, plastic film, polyethylene bubbles, or cardboard. The resistance to heat flow fully depends on the heat flow direction.
The radiant barrier reflective insulation is the only radiant barrier technology I have seen recognized by NASA and and certified by the Space Foundation. Conventional fiberglass or cellulose insulation in your home is old technology that only helps control standard conductive heat transfer.
I see that these radiant barriers do not have an R value since the R-value for reflectivity cannot be measured. However, radiant barriers can be tested where the R-value can be both observed and measured.
I found that these radiant barriers are achieved by using reflective foil insulation, and unlike other insulation materials, radiant barriers reflect radiant heat energy instead of absorbing it. Testing has shown that in the summer, up to 93% of heat gain is absorbed by radiant heat energy.
I have seen these radiant barriers and reflective insulations are being used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. However, these radiant barrier were developed only for applications of radiant barriers and reflective insulations in ventilated attics of residential buildings.
I have personally seen that these reflective insulation shade screens help create the optimum growing climate. These screens reflect the sun\’s radiation rather than absorbing it, therefore it can control the light, temperature, and humidity balance.