Most people don't often think about "updating" the insulation in their home, and this is an unfortunate mistake because it is something that has improved in recent years thanks to technology.
In fact, it might not be surprising for you to hear that one of the newest materials used for insulating homes began as a NASA invention.
Radiant barrier was first used in the space suits of astronauts, but now it can help you to save money on your energy bill! Radiant barrier is sometimes referred to as reflective insulation because it is a reflective substance much like the aluminum foil that you use in your kitchen.
It comes in many forms, but the most popular variety is backed with a more stable substance such as plastic, cardboard or Kraft paper.
In the attic, it can be installed in two places.
The first is directly over the top of the attic's floor rafters.
In this case, it is not stapled down and it is used to augment the effectiveness of the cellulose or fiberglass insulation that's already there.
The other way it can be used in the attic is by stapling it to the roof rafters.
In both cases, installing reflective insulation in your home's attic can help you to save money on your energy bills.
In fact, you will begin to save the very day you complete the installation! As if that wasn't benefit enough, you can also save wear and tear on your home's heating and cooling system when you install radiant barrier.
In the summer, your central air will run less often because your home will stay cooler.
In the winter, your home will maintain a more consistent temperature, so your furnace can go longer in between cycles.
In the end, there are many benefits to installing reflective insulation in your home.
Not only will you begin seeing savings immediately - savings that will continue for years to come - you will also save money by preserving your heating and cooling system.