Eagle Shield Franchise Group

Attic Dust Accumulation

When laying a radiant barrier over the insulation on the attic floor, it is possible for dust to accumulate on the top side. Many factors like the dust particle size, dust composition and the amount of ventilation in the attic will affect how dust accumulates and the ultimate performance of radiant barrier in the attic. A study by Tennessee Valley Authority mechanically applied a small amount of dust over a radiant barrier and found no significant effect when testing for performance. However, TVA referenced a previous study which stated it was possible for the radiant barrier to collect so much dust that its reflectivity could be decreased by nearly half. It is not true that a double-sided radiant barrier on the attic floor is immune to the dust concern. The TVA study also tested a double-sided radiant barrier with black plastic draped on top to simulate a heavy dust accumulation, as well as a single-sided radiant barrier with heavy kraft paper on the top. The test indicated that the radiant barrier was not performing, and the small air spaces created between the peaks of the insulation were not sufficient to block radiant heat. Dust should be a factor of consideration in determining the radiant barrier attic application that is right for you.

Eagle Shield Industries - Cold climates

In cold conditions, the main aim is to reduce heat flow out of the building. The components of the building envelope - windows, doors, roofs, walls, and air infiltration barriers are all important sources of heat loss; in an otherwise well insulated home, windows will then become an important source of heat transfer. The resistance to conducted heat loss for standard glazing corresponds to an R-value of about 0.17W/m2/Ko (compared to 2-4W/m2/Ko for glasswool batts). Losses can be reduced by good weatherisation, bulk insulation, and minimising the amount of non-insulative (particularly non-solar facing) glazing. Indoor thermal radiation can also be a disadvantage with spectrally selective (low-e, low-emissivity) glazing. Some insulated glazing systems can double to triple R values.(Garrett Harwood article)

Eagle Shield Reflective Insulation terms and definitions:

Water Resistant

Capable of withstanding limited exposure to water.

Fire Resistance

The property of a material or assembly to withstand fire or give protection. It is characterized by the ability to confine a fire and to continue to perform a given structural function.

Eagle Shield Radiant Barrier

Radiance

The rate of radiant emission per unit solid angle and per unit projected area of a source in a stated angular direction from the surface (usually the normal). Garrett Harwood
Sealant

Sealants in insulation function primarily as water and vapor seals. They may also be used as adhesives, and for expansion joints for metal, masonry, cellular glass, etc. They must exhibit low shrinkage, excellent adhesion and permanent flexibility.

For more information check the following articles: Eagle Shield Industries, Eagle Shield Reflective Insulation and Eagle Shield.