What Is Radiant Barrier?

FoilBuild radiant barrier insulation and FoilTech are a reflective insulation products that creates a very strong heat entry barrier (or heat exit) by virtue of reflecting radiant heat energy (infrared heat). An example of infrared heat is that which is felt standing in front of an oven, or under a hot roof.

Conventional insulating materials familiar to the public are fiberglass, cellulose, Styrofoam, and rock wool. These products create an insulating effect by absorbing heat and slowing down the natural process of heat flow because their light weight /low density slows down heat transfer. This method of transfer is called conductive heat transfer and standard insulation products affect this type of heat transfer only.

In contrast, radiant barriers like our FoilBuild product reflect out heat energy in the form of radiating heat before it enters the material. FoilBuild reflects radiant heat energy first; largely prohibiting it from passing through it at all. In fact 97% of the heat encountered is reflected back towards the source. The bubble layer further enhances performance by acting on any conductive heat transfer by acting as an air barrier.

Both radiating heat and conductive heat are therefore reduced.

As a whole, this creates a more efficient insulation system whereby heat transfer is not merely slowed down, it is practically prevented.

Why would reflection prevent invisible heat? Why would it work indoors where there is no sunlight.

A common misconception is that heat and light, like in sunlight, are the same. In fact, they are often very separate. In the case of sunlight however, they are combined; the sun has heat energy in the form of infrared energy yet it also has light in the visible spectrum. The two are separate properties. This creates the misconception however. In contrast, an oven has infrared heat only and this is one type of heat that FoilBuild reflects!

How does this affect its performance when FoilBuild is used as home insulation?

During the cold seasons, heat exits (is lost) from a structure through the ceiling or roof system. This heat travels in the form of radiant heat. 60-80% of heat loss from a dwelling occurs vertically through the ceiling and roof system. When properly installed, our FoilBuild radiant barrier acts to reflect this heat back into the dwelling.

In contrast during the hot seasons, heat enters a structure again via the ceiling or roof structure. This process of heat gain during hotter months is almost 95% radiant. The efficacy of a radiant barrier for this process is optimal. When properly installed, FoilBuild products will reflect out this radiant heat as they are virtually impermeable to it.

This translates to less money spent of maintaining the inside room temperature.

How is this related to FoilTech packaging products?

FoilTech is our packaging grade material for insulating perishables. It uses exactly the same technology used in FoilBuild products to block heat/cold transfer, yet the materials are engineered for packaging applications.

What are the benefits of FoilBuild radiant barrier bubble?

• Substantial reduction in energy costs to maintain comfortable temperatures.
• Performance of FoilBuild is unaffected by humidity unlike conventional insulation like fiberglass.
• No breathing apparatus required for installation
• Non-toxic/Non-carcinogenic
• Easy to handle Clean and lightweight.
• No special tools or clothing required for installation
• Does not promote the growth of fungi or bacteria
• Does not provide nesting support for rodent or insect pests
• Class A / Class 1 Fire Rating
• Vapor and radon retardant
• Meets fire and smoke safety requirements of most federal, state, and local building codes
• Requires no maintenance
• Non-toxic