Radiant barriers are becoming increasing popular in the Houston, TX area and are an effective way to save money. Barriers aren't usually reported upon in a home inspection report - so here are the ABC's of radiant barriers. Barriers work by reflecting heat rather than absorbing heat (insulation is still required to reduce conduction).
What kind of radiant barriers are there?
Barriers include foil (installed at rafters, decking or attic floor), paint sprayed to the underside of the rood decking, roof decking with a barrier already installed (i.e. TechShield®, Polar-Ply) and metal shingles with a coating applied to the underside.
Do I need a radiant barrier even if my home is shaded by trees?
No a radiant barrier is only need on the portion(s) of the roof covering exposed to the sun’s radiant energy.
What are the best types of radiant barriers?
Our preference is for roof decking with the radiant barrier already installed as in some newer construction (not requried by code). If you don't already have it on the roof decking then have a radiant paint sprayed to the roof decking and rafters (check if spraying on the rafters is included in your bid - contractors list below).
We recommend Heat Block-Ultra. For anyone wanting the technical details, click on the following link:
Partial list of contractor that apply Heat Block-Ultra:
Kool-Attics
20770 Westheimer Pkwy #710
Katy, TX 77450
Office: 281-398-9668
Cell: 713-906-3031
www.kool-attics.com
