Radiant Barrier House Wrap

[CThomp]

I was thinking about getting some Refectix radiant barriar wrap to use instead of Tyvek. Its supposed to act as a vapor barrier as well as a radiant barrier.

What do you think? It will be installed between the sheathing and the vinyl siding.

[David]

How does it compare to foil-faced rigid foam? Do you plan to have an air barrier as well? Other radiant barriers require a gap of say, 1", I think. This does not?

It sounds like a good product if it compares well to foil-faced rigid foam!

[CThomp]

It's a vapor barrier as well. I'm not sure how it compares to rigid foam. It says it requires a 1" gap if used with brick. I'm not sure about vinyl over wood. These are things i'm trying to find out.

[David]

OK. The 1" gap probably not required. But rigid foam has insulative values, whereas wraps do not. Are you okay with that?

[CThomp]

Yeah the house is already insulated and i'm going to be using insulated siding. So all is well.

[rabadger]

A radiant barrier does not work unless you have the air gap for it. Thats why it is made like bubble wrap. It helps a lot.

[CThomp]

I doubt i'm going to the the radiant barrier now. I have only 10" of over hang now. I'd rather not lose anymore. I'll probably use it in the attic and maybe on the front of the house where the most sun shines.

[rabadger]

The only way to tell if you sould is by running the load calculations with and without. See what the difference would be in equipment and equipment operating savings.