Is Radiant Barrier Better Than Traditional Insulation?

Better Insulation for Your Home

We know better than anyone just how hot Texas summers can get. It can get very uncomfortable and sometimes even unbearable in your home. The area that can suffer the most during these months is actually your attic. Temperatures can reach into three digits, easily, during the summer and your items can be subject to serious damage. So how do you deal with this? You invest in new insulation. The best way to reduce the heat in your attic, and in your home, is with a radiant barrier. To learn more about radiant barrier insulation in Arlington, TX, dial (817) 588-2050 to connect with the experts at American Insulation, LLC.

What is Radiant Barrier Insulation?

Many homeowners know of the traditional fiberglass insulation that comes in large bales or rolls. What many are unaware of are the alternative options out there, such as radiant barrier. But what is it? Radiant barrier is a type of roofing and insulation material that is used to actually reflect heat away. Fiberglass insulation is used to slow down the rate of heat absorption. If you are noticing that your home is still very warm despite having the AC cranked up high, your insulation may not be working to your advantage. In that case, you may want to consider involving radiant barrier insulation in your home.

Benefits of Radiant Barrier Insulation

When comparing radiant barrier vs insulation, there are going to be pluses and minuses on both sides. Fiberglass insulation is by no means worthless on its own, but it can be that much better with a material like a radiant barrier. 

  • Heat Reflection: One of the most prominent benefits of this material is that it reflects heat rather than absorbing it. This will allow your HVAC system to operate more efficiently, it can lower your attic temperatures by 20 degrees or more, and it will make your space that much more comfortable during extreme weather months. 
  • More Permanent: Unlike a paint or coating, radiant barrier is a more permanent option for homeowners. You won’t have to have it touched up or reapplied every few months. This will not only save you money, but it will reduce the amount of time you have to spend on maintenance. 
  • Lower Energy Bills: As mentioned, this material can and will help your HVAC system operate more efficiently. Your energy bills will be significantly lower because your HVAC system won’t have to work harder to regulate internal temperatures. This will be evident in your energy bills a little while after installation. 
  • Increased Home Value: Believe it or not, but investing in a radiant barrier installation can help increase your home value. Though you won’t be able to see it, you will be able to show future home buyers the decrease in energy bills. This is a highly lucrative investment that potential buyers will appreciate. 
  • Lightweight and Durable: This material is thin, lightweight, and highly durable. Unlike fiberglass insulation, it won’t breed mold, mildew or bacterial growths. What this means for you is that you’ll have an incredibly safe insulation method that will actually do what you need it to do and last at the same time. 

Knowing the benefits, the main question is, does radiant barrier insulation work? The short answer is, yes, it absolutely does. There are clear indications that prove this material can help lower temperatures within your space while also reducing your energy bills. So what’s the catch? It has to cost a fortune, right? Not necessarily! The radiant barrier insulation costs are actually relatively inexpensive, at least in comparison to other options. It certainly won’t cost you an arm and a leg to install! Especially when you choose to work with American Insulation, LLC. We can offer you fair and reasonable prices for just about any insulation service. Call us to learn more. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do radiant barriers really work?
    • Yes they really do. Rather than slow the absorption of heat like traditional insulation does, radiant barriers reflect heat away. This helps keep spaces cooler during hotter months, but it will also keep warmth in during the winter months. 
  • Is Radiant Barrier better than insulation?
    • Radiant barrier has a higher R-value in terms of insulation when compared to fiberglass options. Because of that, it can be the better options for property owners in typically warmer climates, however, it’s not the best option for every single homeowner. 
  • Do you need insulation with radiant barrier?
    • It is a good idea to have insulation currently installed if and when you decide to add radiant barrier as well. With the regular insulation, heat transfer will be slowed down significantly, but with the added radiant barrier, you’ll notice a marked improvement in comfort and quality. 
  • How much does radiant barrier save?
    • With a radiant barrier installation, homeowners have the potential to save upwards of $80 or more a year. If you were to add insulation to air ducts and throughout the rest of your home, you could see potential savings around $670 or more. 
  • How much does radiant barrier cost?
    • Radiant barrier is relatively inexpensive to install. A 1,500 sq. ft attic space can cost between $225 and $750 to complete. Roofing structures are right around the same price, so for less than $1,000 you can have a space that is adequately and properly insulated. 

Schedule a Consultation With Our Team Today

For help with radiant barrier insulation for a Arlington, TX property, look no further than American Insulation, LLC. Dial (817) 588-2050 to set up an appointment with us soon.