Which Install Method is Best?

We get this question daily. The problem is that it is hard to say since there are several factors to consider when determining the best installation method for a home. Every home is different, so while there are general recommendations for certain climates, sometimes one method is best for a particular home.

Short Summary of the Best Install Method

There are basically two different methods used to install radiant barrier foil inside a residential attic. The option that is best for your attic depends on a few things.

The first is stapling Original AtticFoil to the bottom of the roof rafters via the Staple Up Method. The second is laying SuperPerf™ AtticFoil® out on top of the existing attic floor insulation like a blanket. Alternate methods like the Flat Top and the Hybrid are just modifications of the standard Staple Up method.

TIP

As a general rule, many people who are trying to reduce summer cooling expenses choose to staple the foil to the bottom of the roof rafters, while people looking for a winter heat retention benefit opt for laying the foil insulation over the existing insulation.

Choose the Staple Up Method If

  • you have ductwork (hanging) in the attic
  • you have storage items in the attic on the attic floor
  • are mainly trying to keep keep out in the summer (no matter what climate)
  • need to access your attic often
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Choose the Over Insulation Method If

  • you have ductwork laying on the attic floor OR you do not have any ductwork in the attic
  • you do not have storage items in the attic on the attic floor
  • live in a mixed climate and want both summer and winter benefit
  • need to access your attic often
Shop SuperPerf® AtticFoil®

AtticFoil®'s BlueTex™ Product Compared to Bubble Foil & Other Metal Building Insulation Products

The most common question we hear is: How does your product compare to other products like eShield, SolarGuard, Prodex, Ultra Power Shield, Green Energy Barrier, Enerflex Radiant Barrier, Reflectix Bubble Foil Insulation, etc.? Find out the answer to this popular question here.

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Can I Do
Both?
when 2 layers makes sense

If you have items in your attic that are heat-sensitive, staple the foil up first, then add a second layer over the insulation to get year-round results.

For example: if you live in a cold climate but you have an HVAC unit in your attic, a hybrid method of stapling the foil up first (to block summer heat) and then laying the rest down on the attic floor (to hold heat in during winter) is probably your best method for year-round benefit.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

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RADIANT BARRIER PAINT VS. FOIL

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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