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How it
Works:
What Is Radiant Barrier Reflective Insulation?
Radiant barrier insulation is a
reflective insulation system that offers a permanent way to
reduce energy costs. Radiant barrier insulation systems reflect
radiant heat energy instead of trying to absorb it. A pure
aluminum radiant barrier reflective insulation is unaffected
by humidity and will continue to perform at a consistent level
no matter how humid it may be. A radiant barrier insulation
system is a layer of foil facing an airspace and is installed
in the envelope of a building.
Most people are familiar with traditional insulating materials
such as fiberglass, cellulose, Styrofoam, and rock wool. These
products use their ability to absorb or resist (slow down)
convective and conductive heat transfer to insulate (R-value).
A third, seldom discussed but dominant form of heat transfer
exists: radiant heat transfer.
What are the differences among the three forms of heat transfer?
Conductive: Direct
contact. If you touch a pot on the stove, this is conductive
heat transfer.
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Convective: Steam,
moisture. If you put your hand above a boiling pot, you
will feel heat in the form of steam. This is convective
heat transfer
Radiant:
Electromagnetic. Step outside on a sunny day and feel
the sun's rays on your face. You are feeling radiant
heat transfer. All objects above absolute zero (-459.7
degrees F.) emit infrared rays in a straight line in
all directions.
A radiant barrier reflects
radiant heat energy instead of trying to absorb it.
What does this mean in your home or business? During
the winter, 50-75% of heat loss through the ceiling/roofing
system and 65-80% of heat loss through walls is radiant.
In the summer, up to
93% of heat gain is radiant.
If you are depending on R-value (resistance) alone to
insulate against heat gain and loss, remember that traditional
forms of insulation are virtually transparent to radiant
energy and are affected by changes in humidity (moisture
levels). A 1-1/2% change in the moisture content of
fiberglass insulation will result in a 36%
decrease in performance
(referenced from HVAC Manual 10.6; McGraw-Hill). A pure
aluminum radiant barrier is unaffected by humidity and
will continue to perform at a consistent level no matter
how humid it may be.
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