Best Radiant Barrier for Attic | Top 9 Picks & Reviews 2024

Radiant Barrier for Attic

During the summer, the attic can be one of the hottest places in the home. This is because the sun’s energy is coming in through the roof and heating up everything in the attic. 

As a result, your home can become like an oven and make it extremely uncomfortable to live in. 

In addition, this can cause your air conditioning unit to work harder, which can increase your energy bills. In such a situation, a radiant barrier proves to be very useful. 

Nevertheless, you should invest in the best radiant barrier for attic as it will reflect the heat and thermal radiation away from your home. 

Poor quality radiant barriers may not be effective in preventing heat from entering your attic but can also trap moisture and lead to the growth of mold in your attic. 

Please read the following article carefully in order to find the right one and achieve the desired results.

Reflectix Radiant Barrier Rolls

AES Radiant Barrier Attic

US Energy Products Radiant Barriers Attic

9 Recommendations on Best Radiant Barrier for Attic

Choosing the right radiant barriers for your attic is an important decision. This is because the wrong radiant barriers can actually do more harm than good. 

However, selecting the most suitable one requires careful analysis, which takes time. To simplify the process, we have gathered a list of the top 9 radiant barriers for attics based on our thorough market research. So, let’s begin:

1. Reflectix Radiant Barrier Rolls

Reflectix radiant barrier rolls are designed to reflect radiant heat and keep your home or office cool in the summer. The foil insulation is effective at preventing the transfer of heat, making it a great choice for climate control.

These rolls can inhibit or eliminate condensation, which can cause your home to become hot and uncomfortable in the summer. They can also help to reduce energy costs by keeping your home cooler.

Reflectix is also nontoxic and non-carcinogenic, making it a safe choice for anyone looking for quality insulation.

It is made of aluminum foil sheeting and bubble wrap, which helps to reflect the heat and keep the area cooler. Reflectix can also be used to prevent moisture damage and help to insulate the area.

Installing Reflectix radiant barrier rolls is a simple process that does not require protective clothing, goggles, or respirators.

The reflective material is safe to handle and install without special precautions. In fact, the product can even be installed by a novice do-it-yourselfer. Therefore, you will benefit from selecting this radiant barrier roll.

Highlighted Features: 

  • Non-toxic and non-carcinogenic for a safe insulation
  • Inhibits or eliminates condensation for a cooler home
  • Made of aluminum foil for heat reflection
  • Safe to handle and install without special precautions

2. AES Radiant Barrier Attic

If you’re looking for a top-quality insulation solution that will help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, then this radiant barrier from AES can be a great option.

With this roll’s length of 250 feet, you can cover an area of 1,000 square feet. Due to its diamond perforated radiant barrier, your attic will remain cool in the summer and keep the house warmer in the winter. Furthermore, it prevents moisture from accumulating.

This radiant barrier attic insulation is made with a double-sided metalized aluminum barrier that reflects heat instead of absorbing it.

It’s also easy to install, with a Diamond Residential Grade Scrim reinforced barrier that cuts easily with a utility knife or scissors.

In addition, it comes with an E value of 99.97%, ensuring that your attic is properly insulated.

It is a non-toxic, environmentally friendly insulation option for new construction or retrofits. There is no growth of fungi or bacteria, and it does not serve as a nesting medium for rodents or insects.

As the material is not affected by humidity or climate changes, no maintenance is required after installation. AES radiant barrier attic is superior to bulky insulation options like foil-faced bubble wrap.

These double-sided radiant barriers meet ASTM Class 1 Class A requirements for fire and smoke safety, making it a great choice for any attic.

The breathability standards for building materials are also met, making them ideal for older multi-story homes.

You can also use them in warehouses, barns, and other large buildings. These radiant barriers are a great way to keep your home or business safe and insulated.

Highlighted Features:

  • Non-toxic, environmentally friendly insulation option
  • Cuts easily with a utility knife or scissors
  • E Value of 99.97% for superior insulation
  • ASTM Class 1 Class A fire and smoke safety standards met
  • No maintenance is required after installation
  • Breathability standards for building materials met

3. RadiantGUARD Radiant Heat Barrier

RadiantGUARD radiant heat barrier roll is an excellent way to reflect heat and keep your home or office cool in the summer. The perforated design allows air to circulate, making it a great choice for roof insulation.

This product can reflect up to 97% of the radiant heat that would otherwise enter your home through the attic, meaning you’ll stay comfortable for a long time. It also has a breathable design, so it won’t trap moisture and cause any damage.

Additionally, it has a double-sided design for enhanced insulation. If you’re looking for an affordable way to keep your home cool in the summer, this is a great option. Installation is easy, so you can get started right away.

By using this radiant heat barrier, you can expect to see a decrease in your utility bills year-round.

RadiantGUARD is also effective thermal insulation and is perfect for use in the attic space, workshop, garage doors, storage unit, house wrap, shed, commercial metal building, pallet wrap, pole barn, and more.

It is easy to cut with scissors or a hacksaw despite being tear and puncture-proof. This excellent radiant heat shield is perfect for use in both industrial and commercial applications. During extreme weather conditions, it will keep you comfortable and safe.

In addition to being fiber-free, the material is also non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. As a result, it does not support fungi or bacteria growth, nor does it support the nesting of insects or rodents.

Highlighted Features:

  • Reflects up to 97% of radiant heat
  • The breathable design prevents moisture damage
  • Double-sided for enhanced insulation
  • Puncture and tear proof for durability
  • Easy to cut and install
  • Non-toxic and non-carcinogenic for safety
  • Does not support fungi, bacteria, or insect/rodent nesting

4. US Energy Products Radiant Barriers Attic

Adding an effective radiant barrier to your attic is a great way to improve the overall energy efficiency of your home.

US Energy Products’ reflective heat radiant barrier is made of high-quality aluminum foil and is designed to keep your home’s interior temperatures comfortable and consistent.

The 5mm 1/4 double poly-air insulation is sandwiched between two layers of highly reflective radiant barrier reflective aluminum.

This makes it strong and lightweight, yet durable and easy to install. It can be stapled or nailed into any reflective surface without compromising the insulation barrier.

As this product is designed to reflect 99.97% of radiant heat transfer, it can help to keep your home cool during the summer and warm during the winter.

Furthermore, this radiant barrier has an R-Value of 24, making it one of the most energy-efficient products available, making it a great choice for any home.

The product is also waterproof and will not corrode, providing a barrier against moisture and humidity. The insulation can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications, making it a versatile choice for many homeowners.

Additionally, this product acts as a sound deadener. It effectively reduces sound travel, creating a soundproof environment. The closed-cell foam core is also effective in thermal insulation, making it a great choice for attics.

There is a Class 1 Class A fire rating, meaning that they conform to all the international fire codes.

This is a crucial feature for any product installed in an attic, as it helps keep your home safe from a potential fire. For this reason, you may want to consider installing radiant barriers attic.

Highlighted Features:

  • Made of high-quality aluminum foil 
  • Reflects 99.97% of radiant heat transfer
  • R-Value of 24 for superior insulation 
  • Class 1 Class A fire rating for safety 
  • Can be used in indoor and outdoor applications
  • Reduces sound travel for a soundproof environment

5. AES Radiant Heat Barrier Attic

When it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency, AES Radiant Heat Barrier can be of valuable assistance to you.

This product is made of premium-grade materials and is designed to reflect heat and keep your home or office cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

In addition to its superior thermal properties, this radiant barrier also serves as excellent water and air barrier, making it the perfect choice for any application.

Solid non-perforated commercial grade material is utilized in the manufacture of this product. It is tear-proof and will not allow any moisture or air to pass through it. This makes it the perfect choice for attic and air ducts insulation. 

The double-sided solid vapor barrier will keep the heat out in the summer and keep the warmth in during the winter.

You will be able to save on your energy bills and maintain comfort in your home for a long time. It can cover up to 500sqft, so it is perfect for most attics.

Furthermore, the radiant barrier will prevent moisture from condensing and will keep the temperature constant.

It is easy to install, saving you time on your next project. So if you’re looking for an easy way to stay cool this summer, be sure to check out AES radiant heat barrier attic.

Highlighted Features:

  • Covers 500 sqft for most applications
  • Easy to install for quick project completion time
  • Solid non-perforated material for superior thermal properties
  • Double-sided solid vapor barrier for better insulation

6. Houseables Radiant Heat Barriers

Houseables radiant barrier insulation is an aluminum foil roll that is designed to reduce residential attic temperatures. It is a commercial-grade product that is also suitable for residential and industrial use.

This product can help you achieve a noticeable temperature drop in your home, and reduce cooling costs up to 10%, depending on your climate region.

Each foil insulation barrier roll measures 250 feet in length and four feet in width. This will give you 1,000 square feet of insulation per roll.

This barrier can be highly reflective, meaning that 97% of the heat will be reflected instead of absorbed.

It is useful in a variety of circumstances, such as when trying to keep a room cool or protect something from heat damage. Due to its double-sided nature and tear-proof characteristics, the Houseables radiant barrier is also quite durable. 

The foil is incredibly thin and can be easily cut with scissors, making installation a breeze. It’s also strong enough to withstand heavy handling without tearing or puncturing. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for an easy way to install radiant heat barriers.

They are class A/ class 1 fire rated, meaning they meet the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) fire and smoke safety requirements of most state and local building codes.

Additionally, the Houseables radiant barrier meets the breathability requirements for building materials, so they will not trap moisture and cause problems with your home.

Highlighted Features:

  • Suitable for use in residential, commercial, and industrial settings
  • Highly reflective, 97% of radiant heat is reflected rather than absorbed
  • Double-sided and tear proof for durability
  • Class A/1 fire rated for safety
  • Breathable material to prevent moisture build-up

7. Insulation Market Place LLC SmartSHIELD Radiant Barrier Material

Using SmartSHIELD radiant barrier material is a great way to keep your home or office cool during the summer months.

The foam core insulation helps to disperse heat away from the building, while the pure aluminum outer layer helps to keep the interior cool.

It can reflect up to 97% of radiant energy, which makes it perfect for blocking out heat and preventing it from entering your home.

This is a huge advantage in the summertime when the weather is hot and you want to keep your home as cool as possible.

SmartSHIELD radiant barrier material can also help you save on energy costs because it prevents your air conditioning from having to work as hard to keep your home cool.

Due to its resistance to humidity and moisture, this product can be used both indoors and outdoors. It is also incredibly efficient at blocking heat transfer, making it a top choice for homeowners and builders alike.

Specifically, this material consists of three millimeters of closed-cell polyethylene foam sandwiched between two sheets of aluminum foil. Together, these materials reflect the heat and help cool your home in the summer and warm it in the winter.

It is easy to install and easy to cut, making it a versatile option for any air space. Additionally, it is strong but lightweight, so it will not add any extra weight to your roof.

This material is made of high-quality materials that will keep the noise out and provide you with the peace and quiet that you need.

It is a Class 1 / Class A fire-rated product which is non-toxic and will not irritate skin, eyes, or throat. Moreover, it is not allergenic. As a result, it can be used in any environment.

Highlighted Features:

  • Blocks up to 97% of radiant energy
  • Can be used indoors and outdoors
  • Class 1 / Class A fire-rated product for safety
  • Non-toxic and will not irritate skin, eyes, or throat
  • Easy to install and cut

8. ‎Insulation MarketPlace SmartFOIL Radiant Barrier Roof

Radiant barrier insulation is an absolute necessity for anyone looking to improve the energy efficiency of their home.

‎Insulation MarketPlace’s SmartFOIL industrial-grade radiant barrier is a superior option, as it is perforated and breathable to allow moisture to escape while blocking heat radiation. This makes it an excellent choice for use in attics, as it helps to keep the temperature regulated.

Made with Engineered Foil, this product meets or exceeds all ASTM C1313 standards, including a Class A Fire Rating. Plus, the clear coat applied to the surface helps to prevent corrosion.

By reflecting 95% of the radiant heat, this product allows the building to remain cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In addition, it is puncture and tear-proof, making it a durable option for insulation.

There is no doubt that a hot roof will make your home heat up, causing your air conditioning unit to work harder and driving up your energy costs.

So, installing SmartFOIL is a quick and easy way to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.

It is easy to install, simply staple it to the bottom of rafters and over the attic floor. Usually, it is used as a house wrap to add more insulation to existing homes or new constructions. Additionally, it is suitable for metal buildings, barns, and poultry houses.

This radiant barrier roof roll is 500 square feet, so it’s perfect for a small or medium-sized home.

Moreover, it is breathable and double-sided, making it more effective at blocking heat transfer. The edges are reinforced for added durability.

Highlighted Features:

  • Blocks 95% of radiant heat
  • Class A fire rating for safety
  • Corrosion-resistant clear coat
  • Easy to install
  • Perforated, breathable, and double-sided

9. AES Attic Reflective Heat Shield

This is a 250 sqft roll of NASA TECH commercial grade radiant barrier that is designed to reduce heat and keep your attic cooler in the summer.

As this product is non-perforated, it is ideal for protecting your attic from heat and moisture. The super-strong material is also durable and long-lasting.

With a width of 4 feet, it can be easily installed in most areas. The 250 sqft coverage means that you can insulate a large area quickly and easily.

It has a reflectivity of 96-97%, which helps to bounce the heat back out, and emissivity of 3-4% helps absorb the heat. Furthermore, it features a moisture and vapor barrier, which helps to keep the attic dry.

The item is made of a high-tear proof material with a tensile and elongation strength of 10,890 pounds per square inch. This makes it extremely durable and able to withstand significant wear and tear.

As a result, choosing this attic reflective heat shield can be beneficial to you and your family. It can help to keep your attic cooler and lower your energy bills while also providing superior insulation.

Highlighted Features:

  • 250 sqft roll of NASA TECH commercial grade radiant barrier
  • Non-perforated, durable, and long-lasting
  • Width of 4 feet, easy to install in most areas
  • The reflectivity of 96-97% and emissivity of 3-4%

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Radiant Barrier

radiant heat easy

Radiant barriers are one of the most important aspects of insulation and, if installed correctly, can significantly impact the temperature of your home or office.

In the summer, it can help to keep the area cooler by reflecting heat away from the building. This can save you money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable. However, not all radiant barrier manufacturers provide the same level of quality.

Nevertheless, when looking for the best radiant barrier products, you should consider many factors. This will ensure that you select the right product for your needs. Let’s examine some of the most important factors that should be considered.

1. Reflectivity

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing radiant barriers is their reflectivity. The reflectivity of a product determines how much of the heat it will bounce back. 

With a higher reflectivity, you will be able to maintain a cooler environment at home and in the office. You should select a product with a reflectivity of at least 95%. 

The best attic foil will have high reflectivity ratings, so always check the specifications before purchasing.

2. Emissivity

The emissivity of the radiant barriers is another essential factor to consider. This rating measures how much heat the product will emit. 

If the emissivity is high, the product will emit a lot of heat and could make your home or office uncomfortable in the summer. 

You should select a product with an emissivity rating of 3% or less. This will ensure that the product emits minimal heat and keeps your home cooler. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consider the emissivity rating when choosing the most suitable and ultimate radiant barrier.

Therefore, you will have improved indoor comfort and energy savings that will save you money.

3. Size

existing insulation

When choosing the best attic radiant barrier, you should also consider the size. The best radiant barriers are available in different sizes to accommodate your needs. 

You should select a large enough product to cover the entire area that you want to insulate. This will ensure that the product is effective and that you get the most out of it.

4. Toxicity

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting the radiant barriers is their toxicity. You should always select a product that is non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. 

By doing so, you will be protected when handling or utilizing the product. The best radiant barriers meet these safety standards and are therefore a good choice for anyone looking for a safe insulation product.

5. Humidity Control

Another important factor to consider when choosing a radiant barrier foil is its ability to control humidity. If the product you select does not control humidity, it could lead to the formation of condensation. 

This will damage the insulation in your home and could cause mold and mildew to form. You should select a product that controls humidity to ensure that your home is safe and healthy.

6. Tear and Puncture Resistance

The tear and puncture resistance of the radiant barriers are another important factor to consider. Choosing a product that is not resistant to tears or punctures may result in it being damaged easily. This will reduce its effectiveness and could cause you to have to replace it often. 

You should always select the best attic radiant barrier that is resistant to tears and punctures so that it lasts longer. The high-quality radiant barriers meet this standard and are a good choice for anyone looking for a durable reflective insulation product. 

If you are searching for radiant barriers for your needs, be sure to keep this important consideration in mind. The result will be that you choose the right product and make the most of it.

7. Soundproofing Ability

traditional insulation

Some radiant barriers also have the ability to soundproof your home. If you are looking for a product that can do both, you should consider a radiant barrier foil with soundproofing ability. 

In this way, you can ensure that your home is properly insulated and quiet. Having this ability makes radiant barriers a good product choice for anyone looking for an all-in-one insulation system.

8. Fire Resistance

The fire resistance of a radiant barrier is another important factor to consider. Your choice of product could easily ignite and burn if it is not fire-resistant. This will damage your home and could cause a fire. 

You should always select a product that is resistant to fire so that you are safe. As such, if you are looking for a radiant barrier that suits your needs, be sure to keep this consideration in mind. 

In the event that the product is able to resist fire, it can be regarded as the ideal radiant barrier.

9. Ease of Installation

Another important factor to consider when selecting a radiant barrier foil is its ease of installation. If the product you select is difficult to install, it could be a hassle for you. 

This will reduce the product’s overall effectiveness and could cause you to have to hire a professional to install it for you. 

The best radiant barriers are easy to install. This will make the installation process simpler and less time-consuming for you.

10. Maintenance

In addition to choosing the right radiant barrier, you should consider its maintenance. You may struggle to maintain the product you choose if it is difficult to maintain. 

The best radiant barriers are easy to maintain and sometimes they do not require any maintenance at all. Therefore, choose one that requires little or no maintenance. This will save you time and hassle in the long run.

11. Weight

A radiant barrier’s weight is also a factor that you should consider when making your selection. Installing a heavy product could prove challenging for you. The best radiant barriers are lightweight and easy to install. This will make the installation process simpler and less time-consuming for you.

How to Install Radiant Barriers in the Attic?

Now that you know the important factors to consider when selecting a radiant barrier, you may be wondering how to install one. The installation process is simple and can be done by anyone. Here are the steps:

Step 01: Prepare the Supplies

Before you install the radiant barrier, you will need to gather the necessary supplies. This includes the radiant barrier itself, a staple gun, staples, scissors, and measuring tape. Having these items on hand will facilitate the installation process.

Step 02: Measure the Area

Once you have gathered all of the necessary supplies, you will need to measure the area where you will be installing the radiant barrier. This will help you to determine how much radiant barrier you need. Be sure to measure accurately so that you get the right amount.

Step 03: Cut the Radiant Barrier

Next, you will need to cut the radiant barrier to size. Use the scissors to cut it to the correct dimensions. Be sure to make clean cuts to avoid fraying or tearing the material.

Step 04: Staple the Radiant Barrier in Place

Once you have cut the radiant barrier to size, you will need to staple it in place. Use the staple gun to secure it to the roof. 

Make sure that the radiant barrier is flat and smooth against the roof. Staples should be evenly spaced to ensure that the radiant barrier foil is secure.

Step 05: Complete the Installation

Once the radiant barrier is in place, you are finished. Congratulations on a proper installation job well done. You can now enjoy the benefits of a radiant barrier in your attic.

Installing a radiant barrier in your attic is a simple process that anyone can do. By following the steps above, you can have a radiant barrier installed in no time. 

Be sure to consider the factors mentioned earlier when making your selection so that you choose the best product for your needs.

A Relevant Article To Read: How much airflow should you expect from the gable attic fan?

Frequently Asked Questions:

You probably have some questions about radiant barriers. Here are some of the most common questions and answers that will help to clear things up.

1. Does Radiant Barrier Affect Cell Phones?

clean dry environment prior

Radiant barriers may interfere with cell phone reception in the attic. However, the effect is usually minor, so it does not constitute a major concern compared with the radiant barrier’s advantages.

2. How Does Reflective Insulation Work?

Reflective insulation works by reflecting heat away from the object that it is insulating. This prevents the object from absorbing the heat, which can then cause it to overheat. Reflective insulation is effective in preventing this from happening.

3. How Long Does Radiant Barrier Last?

The lifespan of a radiant barrier generally depends on the type of material that is used. However, good-quality radiant barriers can last more than ten years without requiring any maintenance.

4. How Can I Determine If I Need a Radiant Barrier?

If you live in a sunny area without trees to shade your roof deck, then you should consider installing a radiant barrier. Radiant barriers reflect the sun’s heat away from your home, which keeps your house cooler and reduces your air conditioning costs.

Conclusion

Having carefully read this article, we hope that you now have a better understanding of radiant barriers and their benefits. If you consider installing one in your home, be sure to follow the steps outlined in this article for a successful installation. 

When making your selection, be sure to consider the important factors mentioned earlier so that you choose the best radiant barrier for attic. 

Also, each of the products in our selection is of the highest quality and has a long life. Therefore, you can choose any one of them without hesitation. Hopefully, after selecting our recommended product, you will feel satisfied.

Best Radiant Barrier for Attic | Top 9 Picks & Reviews 2024

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