How to Use Reflective Insulation in an Attic
Reflective foil insulation, also sometimes called a radiant barrier, is a shiny material that is installed in attics to reduce heating and cooling costs. The foil insulation, which comes in rolls, is attached to the underside of the attic roof or sometimes on the floor. In the summer, the foil reflects heat back through the roof, lowering air conditioning costs. In the winter, it prevents warm air from escaping, lowering heating costs. Installing foil insulation requires no special tools and can be easily done by most homeowners. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Foil insulation
- Staple gun
- Staples, 1/4 or 5/16 inch
- Another person
- Scissors
- Step ladder
- Utility knife
Instructions
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1
Place the edge of the foil insulation up against one side of the roof near the roof line so that it will be installed in horizontal rows along the roof. Attach the foil to the underside of the roof using a staple gun.
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Unroll the foil insulation and have another person stretch it out to the other side of the roof edge. Use the staple gun to attach the foil to the roof at 12- to 18-inch intervals. When you reach the other side of the roof, cut the foil from the roll with scissors.
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3
Place the step ladder at the first location, if needed, and begin installing a second layer of foil insulation just above the first. Do not overlap the layers; simply place them as close together as possible. Continue installing the foil insulation until the entire surface of the attic is covered.
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4
Cut holes in the insulation using a utility knife to accommodate any vents or pipes that extend out of the roof.
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5
Check the foil insulation periodically for the presence of moisture or condensation. If either is present, poke additional holes in the insulation for better air circulation.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have ridge venting at the very top of your roof, start installing the foil insulation below it. Do not cover up the ridge vent with insulation.
Foil insulation can also simply be unrolled on the bottom of the attic floor on top of the existing insulation. This installation procedure is better for cooler climates.
If the attic space has a window that allows sunlight in, make sure that the rays of the sun do not hit the foil insulation. The foil will concentrate the sun's rays, much like a mirror or magnifying glass, and can start a fire.
