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Radiant Barrier

Building Science-to-Sales Translator

Radiant Barrier = Sun Barrier

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Technical Description

In sunny climates, sun beating down on the roof can cause high attic temperatures and threaten the comfort of the adjoining rooms below. It can also cause air conditioning equipment to work harder, especially if the air conditioner or ducts are located in an uninsulated attic. A sun barrier consisting of a reflective foil blanket installed on the underside of the roof rafters or a foil coating adhered to the underside of the roof decking reflects radiant heat from the sun back toward the sky. This helps minimize solar heat gain while increasing comfort and energy savings.

Alternate Terms

Attic Comfort Shield
Sun Barrier Technology

Sun Barrier
Sales Message

Sun barrier technology reflects intense solar radiation that can overheat attics. What this means to you is a much cooler attic that results in less wasted energy along with enhanced comfort. Wouldn’t you agree homes in hot climates should include this type of sun protection proven technology?

Disclaimer

This content is a work created with funding provided by the United States Department of Energy under Contract no DE-AC05-076RL01830 for the operation of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The information and guidance provided by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in the content are intended solely for educational purposes only and do not constitute formal training or certification. It is provided with the explicit understanding that neither the United States Government nor the United States Department of Energy, nor the Contractor, nor any or their employees, nor any jurisdiction or organization that has cooperated in the development of these materials, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness or any information, apparatus, product, software, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any agency thereof, or Battelle Memorial Institute. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Government or any agency thereof. Viewers assumes full responsibility for all actions that they may take from information provided in this content including ensuring the safety, code compliance, and proper functionality of any products they choose to install. Installation and use of such products should be performed in accordance with local regulations and manufacturer instructions.