WOW, it’s been cold lately. Not surprisingly, I’ve received a bunch of calls and emails from people wanting more information on how installing a radiant barrier can help them in cold weather.
I put together a video to help illustrate how traditional attic insulation and radiant barrier WORK TOGETHER to make a home more comfortable and energy efficient.
Remember, traditional attic insulation – fiberglass or cellulose help to reduce Conductive Heat Loss. A radiant barrier will help to reduce Radiant Heat Loss. In cold weather, heat is lost in BOTH ways.
Combining good attic insulation and radiant barrier will give your home the best defense to stay warm in the Winter and cool in the Summer.
I've written several other posts on this that you might be interested in. Check these posts below:
Tags: Attic Insulation, cold climates, foil installation, radiant barrier, radiant heat energy
Ed- Thanks for the video. I have installed the radiant barrier on my rafters, but would it also be helpful to install it on the floor of my attic. I seem to lose a lot of heat. I seem to have enough insulation in my attic, but with as much space as there is up there it seems like I’m heating my attic in the winter. Will a barrier on the floor create moisture in the summer? Is the barrier on the floor better for the winter and the rafters better for the summer? Thanks for your help.
Kevin in Sugar Land (Houston)
Kevin, with decent attic ventilation moisture in an attic in Houston is not a big concern. You can add a layer over the floor if you want. I’ve had many customers do both with excellent results. Just keep in mind the first layer provides the biggest bang for the buck. If you can do it yourself and only have the material cost then go for it. If you have to pay someone then the second layer is probably not worth it.