How to Make Your Own Radiant Barrier

Radiant barriers are use to reflect heat back to its source. They are typically found in hotter climates and are installed on the warm side of the insulation. If installed on the incorrect side they can act as a vapor barrier trapping moisture in the wall system. Radiant barriers have not performed well in testing and have actually shown negative performance in certain situations. For radiant barriers to work properly, there needs to be about one inch of air space in front of them.

Batt insulation
Tin foil
Scissors
Spray adhesive

Instructions

- 1
  Lay a section of batt insulation on the ground and measure its height and width with a measuring tape.
- 2
  Transfer that measurement to a section of tin foil and cut it to size with scissors.
- 3
  Spray on adhesive to one side of the insulation and one side of the foil. Lay the foil on top of the insulation with both adhesive sides together. Allow them to dry.
- 4
  Install batt insulation in between the wall framing members by pushing it in. The foil side of the insulation should be on the warm side. In hot climates this will be facing the exterior of the home. In cold climates this is facing the inside of the home.

How Do You Ground a PVL Solar Panel System?

How to Insulate a Stem Wall

Energy Efficient Homes