Super R® Diamond RFID Radiant Barrier Insulation

What is the “R” Value of Radiant Barrier?

The “R” value depends on the number and size of the airspaces surrounding the Radiant Barrier and on the direction of the heat flow. Since Radiant Barrier is usually installed on top of existing mass insulation, its R-value is a moot point. It is Radiant Barrier’s ability to reflect heat that makes it such an energy saver.

Has Radiant Barrier been tested by an independent laboratory or government agency?

The Florida Solar Energy Center at Cape Canaveral has tested radiant barriers in both small-scale laboratory and full-scale building models. Their results indicate that radiant barriers provide significant resistance to heat transfer. Current tests conducted by the Tennessee Valley Authority and the University of Mississippi support the findings of the Florida Solar Energy Center. Northeastern Illinois University conducted winter tests in residential and commercial structures using infra-red thermograph photography. The photos showed significant resistance to heat transfer over the regular insulation.

Do I need a Radiant Barrier if my home is well insulated?

A1 SUMMER: “A radiant barrier system can stop 97 percent of the thermal radiation across an attic space. If it is not stopped, that radiant energy would be absorbed by the ceiling insulation and eventually be transferred to the living space below.” The Solar Collector, Quarterly Newsletter of the Florida Solar Energy Center. “The heat storage capacity of reflective insulation is low. As a result, it does not store heat during summer days, only to pass it on down into the rooms of the house from the attic at night when coolness is most apt to be desired from the point of view of sleeping comfort.” Progressive Architecture, Nov. 1949, Page 76. A2 WINTER: “CONCLUSIONS: Reflective foil retrofitted to fiberglass insulated…buildings is demonstrably effective in reducing heat loss… Installation of foil in uninsulated buildings would show even more pronounced reduction in heat loss.” Effects Of Reflective Foil On Heat Loss in Attic Floors and Metal Building Installations, Northeastern Illinois University, Prof. Charles Shabica, May 20, 1986.

Will aluminum corrode and lose its effectiveness?

A1 “Hundreds of samples of aluminum foil have been stored in the laboratory for various periods of time up to 10 years with no visible signs of deterioration.” American Society of Heating & Air Conditioning Engineers’ Journal Section. A2 “Aluminum is highly resistant to the effect of corrosion… Aluminum is constantly being used where it is exposed to weather, salt spray and other conditions, which would adversely affect most metals.” The United States Rubber Co. Booklet, Serving You Through Science, Page 5.

What about foil-faced fiberglass? Isn't it just as good as Radiant Barrier?

No. The foil on the fiberglass is in direct contact with the attic floor. Aluminum foil becomes more conductive when in contact with a solid surface. The air space facing the reflective surface is of primary importance.