Radiant barriers reduce heat transfer by reflecting radiant heat instead of absorbing it. The reflective surface keeps surfaces cooler in summer and warmer in winter, which means less energy spent keeping the building comfortable.
Summer: Lower Cooling Costs
When temperatures climb, a cooler home usually means running the air conditioner more — and a higher bill. The hotter it gets, the harder the AC works and the more electricity it uses.
A radiant barrier breaks that cycle. It reflects the sun’s heat away before it heats up your attic and the rooms below, so your home never gets as hot to begin with. That reduces the load on your air conditioner. Testing has shown radiant barriers cut heat transfer by 40 to 50 percent, which can translate to substantial savings on cooling.
In fact, a study conducted to determine the efficacy of this method found that radiant barrier reduced heat transfer by 40-50%. This could lead to substantial savings on your energy bills building and also your specific insulation requirements.
Winter: Less Heat Loss
Radiant barriers work the other direction in winter, reflecting heat back into the building instead of letting it escape. Surfaces stay warmer, your heating system runs less, and cold-weather bills come down while the space stays comfortable.
DIY and Easy to Install
Radiant barriers deliver energy savings without a complicated install. You can attach them directly to a surface, or leave an air space or insulating layer between the barrier and the structure. That flexibility makes them an easy win for a building’s efficiency.
The best placement depends on your structure. Common spots include:
- Roof, as underlayment
- Attic, under the rafters or on the attic floor
- Walls and floors
- Basement and crawl spaces
- Anywhere heat transfer is making a space uncomfortable
Installing a radiant barrier in the right spot cuts heat exchange and makes the whole building more comfortable.
Quick Summary of the Benefits
- Reflects heat. Reflects up to 97% of radiant heat instead of absorbing it.
- Improves comfort. Keeps homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing heating and cooling costs.
- Works with other insulation. Pairs with fiberglass or foam for an extra layer of protection against heat transfer.
- Versatile. Fits attics, walls, floors, and more.
- DIY-friendly. Lightweight and easy to install
- RF shielding. Blocks 99% of electromagnetic frequencies in applications that require it.
Ready to Get Started?
Radiant barriers are a simple, effective way to cut heat transfer and improve efficiency. By reflecting thermal radiation, they keep surfaces cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Contact us to order your own easy-to-install ES® Radiant Barrier Foil, Reflective Bubble, Foam, or Fabric.
