Radiant Barrier Information

Understand how radiant barrier works, choose the right material for the assembly, and find the installation and specification resources for your project.

Start here

What Is Radiant Barrier?

Learn what radiant barrier does, why at least one of its two reflective faces needs an adjacent air space, and where it fits alongside conventional insulation.

Read the overview

Building science

How Radiant Barrier Works

See the difference between radiant, conductive, and convective heat transfer and how a low-emittance surface changes radiant heat flow.

See how it works

Planning

Performance & Savings

Review the project conditions that affect results, including climate, duct location, existing insulation, air space, and installation quality.

Review performance factors

Architects & specifiers

CSI Specifications

Access the three-part CSI guide specification with Ra-flect Radiant Barrier as the Basis of Design. A free account is required for downloads.

Access specifications

Product selection

Perforated vs Non-Perforated

Compare Laser Perforated (LP) and Vapor Barrier (VB) material by vapor behavior, common uses, and installation requirements.

Compare LP and VB

Choosing LP or VB: Laser Perforated (LP) is the safer default for most vented attics and breathable assemblies. Vapor Barrier (VB) is non-perforated and is intended for assemblies where vapor control is a deliberate design requirement. Compare available rolls.

Plan the next step

Use the installation library for project-specific methods, browse common questions, or request a material sample before ordering.

Plan your order

Ready to size your project?

Laser Perforated (LP) is the safer default for most vented attics and breathable assemblies. Choose Vapor Barrier (VB) only when non-perforated vapor control is an intentional part of the design.