Welcome to the new InsulationStop.com! Take a look at the new site. Click on the picture. All of the products and functionality of
the old site are here, plus a lot more. Ordering has never been simpler. We have added guest checkout, where you don’t have to create an account to order. We’ve added some new radiant barrier insulation products to choose from. For our repeat customers, we now have the ability to reflect your account details and merge them with your current shopping cart to apply discounts and coupon codes. There is an upgraded search bar that makes it easier than ever to find what you want as fast as possible. We will be adding pictures from the old site as well as redesigning the graphics for an even better look in the upcoming weeks and months. However, the major functionality is there and we wouldn’t wait to get this exciting new platform out to you for your shopping convenience. Thanks again for shopping at InsulationStop.com. We appreciate your business and would love as always to hear your feedback on our new site.
Radiant Barriers & Cast Iron Radiators: Another Simple Energy Saving Project
Tags: cast iron radiators, foil insulation, Radiant Barrier, radiant heat
On our last post we discussed pipe wrap insulation as an easy energy saving project. Well, here’s another one. For those of you we consider lucky enough to still heat your homes with cast iron hot water radiant heat, we have another fun, low cost project to share.
Let’s remember. The entire purpose of reflective foil insulation and radiant barriers are to block the transfer of radiant heat.
The Science:
As your radiators warm up to heat your home, conductive heat generated by your boiler radiates out of the cast iron into the cooler surrounding air. As the air warms and rises, cooler air replaces it and the cycle continues until the thermostat setting is reached.
The Problem:
The only portion of this heating system that decreases the efficiency is the back side of the radiator. For the most part, it just heats up the wall. As heat will always go to cold, a significant portion of the radiant heat emitted will be absorbed and lost into the wall.
The Solution:
Put some radiant barrier insulation behind your radiators. As the radiant heat travels towards the wall, 97% of this heat will be reflected back into the living space where it is desired. You can accomplish this in a very low tech way. Simply cut a piece of foil insulation a little smaller than the size of the radiator, approximately 1 ½” – 2”. This ensures the insulation will not be noticed and your room will look the same.
This project is even easier for those who still have the metal radiator covers. Lift off the cover and cut a piece of insulation to fit inside the radiator cover on the back or wall side. Attach the insulation with foil tape. The installation will never be noticed. For those who want to be more creative, you can create a radiant barrier panel and attach the insulation with thin strips of wood. This wood can be painted or stained to give a permanent professional look. This also allows you to make your panels larger than the radiators with no adverse effects on appearance.
Energy savings projects like these are simple and can be fun. Best of all, they are not expensive, time consuming, or complex and they will save you energy and make you more comfortable.
27% Energy Cost Savings using Attic Radiant Barrier
If there was any doubt…The word is in: One of our proud customers was so impressed with our Attic Radiant Barrier that he sent us a testimonial! Here’s what he had to say:
A couple of years ago, I purchased a home in the Indianapolis, Indiana area that hadn’t been insulated since it’s original construction in the mid 1970’s. The climate in Indianapolis is a composite of the national extremes: We have hot and humid summers plus cold winters.
One of the first things that I did to save on my energy bill was purchase and install a programmable thermostat. This was an inexpensive and no nonsense item that every home should have. Still, my gas bills were high in the winter, and my electric bills were high in the summer.
I did my research on additional insulation products, installation, and results. My findings left me with two options: add additional fiberglass insulation or install an attic radiant barrier. Fiberglass insulation was not an attractive option for me because of the bulk of material, cost, and spacial effect that would be left in my attic–it would be buried in a huge fiberglass blanket I would never be able to traverse my attic because I would be forced to grope for floor joists every step I took! I was intrigued by attic radiant barrier, but still skeptical. Where could I purchase products like foil insulation? What is the R value of a radiant barrier? How much energy savings would I have using reflective foil insulation? Frankly, I was confused, so I surfed the net and called Insulationstop.com.
Wow, did I hit the jackpot! These guys were immediately responsive, knowledgeable, and very customer service oriented. They were genuinely interested in educating me in Insulation techniques and they were able to answer all of my questions. The explained to me that: radiant barriers and reflective insulation are designed to stop radiant energy transfer, R value is a unit of measure that does not apply to radiant barriers, and finally that I would see the most energy savings in the summer, yet still a significant amount in the winter.
I was convinced. I purchased six rolls of the attic radiant barrier along with the foil tape. The product was delivered to me within three days, and I was ready to install. Installation went smooth with the help of an electric staple gun.
A year later, I’m extremely proud to tell you that I realized a 27% cost savings on my gas bill using Insulationstop’s Attic Radiant Barrier! I’ve submitted my Gas Bill Savings Using Attic Radiant Barrier. Here’s the details: In 2009, my gas bill was $309.12. In 2010, with the foil insulation installed, it was $210. Plus, it was 17% colder in 2010!
Thanks Guys!!! I can’t wait to share with you how much I’m going to save on my electric bill in the summer.
Tom –Indianapolis, Indiana
Radiant Barrier Attic Insulation: Why are they Important?
Tags: attic heat gain, attic insulation, Radiant Barrier
Attic Radiant Barrier Insulation Roll
Reflective foil insulation or radiant barriers block 96% of radiant heat transfer. In attic applications this is the most common form of heat transfer.
In the summer the sun heats up the rooftop. As the rooftop warms, it radiates or transfers this heat to the sheathing and roof framing members and then down through the attic floor and into your living space. In the winter, the process is in reverse. Your home loses heat to the cold attic and roof.
When you install a radiant barrier you block 96% of this radiant heat exchange. The effectiveness of existing insulation is also improved because foil insulation helps to control moisture which even small amounts makes fiberglass ineffective. The product is perforated which allows maximum moisture control.
Radiant barriers are safe, fiber-free, and easy to install. Unlike other insulations, they are highly resistant to moisture, mold, or rodent nesting. They are the only solution to providing radiant protection against summer heat gain and winter heat loss.
Why Use Radiant Barriers or Reflective Foil Insulation?
Tags: attic insulation, duct wrap insulation, Radiant Barrier, Ultra CBF
The amount and specific insulation materials in your home determine the level of efficiency you have. Because most energy use goes to our homes, having the correct combination of products is key to demanding and using less energy. Strikingly, the amount of homes that fall in this category are relatively small. Even homes built as little as a few years ago could withstand an upgrade.
As the recent energy saving push continues, it is always important to recognize that energy savings within a home starts with stopping air infiltration and using the correct insulation specific to your application.
InsulationStop.com - Foil Bubble Bubble Foil
Adding fiberglass insulation in attics is always a good start. Compliment this with attic radiant barriers and good ventilation, you ensure the most efficient attic possible. You’ve essentially increased the R-Value but now have the ability to block the transfer of radiant heat, a major mode of heat loss and gain, especially in attics.
Specific types of foil insulation such as Ultra CBF were designed for under concrete slab use. Used with or without an in-floor radiant heat system, the material is superior to work with and holds up better to job site traffic than traditional board insulation.
InsulationStop.com - Attic Radiant Barrier
Foil is unaffected by water and its insulation qualities will not diminish when wet like fiberglass. Duct and pipe wrap, crawlspaces and basements are also key areas to use reflective foil insulation.
Look at your home. Note accessible areas that you could add additional insulation. Identify areas where the use of a radiant barrier would be effective.
Once you understand how heat is transferred within a home and what insulation is designed to do, it is easy then to choose the right product or group of products to achieve your insulation goals. InsulStop’s Radiant Barriers can get you there.
Why use Ultra Concrete Barrier rFOIL Insulation under a Concrete Slab?
Tags: concrete slab insulation, Radiant Barrier, Ultra CBF, Ultra Concrete Barrier rFOIL
We insulate under concrete slabs to create a thermal break between the ground and the slab. This helps contain your heat loss, especially in the winter. While all insulation adds thermal efficiency, Ultra Concrete Barrier rFOIL reflective foil insulation is ideal for under slab use for the following reasons:
Patented Design: The sheet of reflective foil lies in between the two layers of clear polyethylene bubbles. Ultra CBF is the only product designed this way on the market.
- Concrete Barrier rFOIL Construction
Moisture Absorption: The bubbles and sheet of reflective foil are not susceptible to water absorption.
Radon Resistance: All codes require the use of a radon barrier in new construction projects. Ultra CBF is an approved radon barrier
Termite Resistance: Ultra CBF is a mechanical barrier to termites and meets all requirements as an appropriate barrier. For heavy infestation areas call your local code office for advice.
Extremely Low Water Vapor Transmission: Tested in accordance with ASTM E 96, the permeability response was almost zero. Reflective foil insulation in general has low transmission rates. Ultra CBF is an approved water vapor barrier.
Durability: Ultra CBF is designed for under concrete use and easily withstands all of the demands required in pouring concrete. The compression strength is 140 PSI well above the required amount.
Ultra Concrete Barrier Foil Install
Safe and Ease of Installation: Ultra CBF is available in two sizes, 16” or 48” width. The only tools needed to install are a sharp razor knife, foil tape, and a straight edge. Unlike foam board the product is resilient and easy to handle and requires no special equipment.
Read more about this radiant barrier under concrete slab insulation on one of our Ultra CBF product pages at InsulationStop.com
Wrapping Duct Work with Radiant Barrier Insulation
Tags: duct wrap insulation, Install Sheet, Radiant Barrier
Now that the weather is cooler and most home improvement projects have shifted inside, this is the perfect time to get started on some energy saving DIY insulation projects that can pay you back big dividends on your utility bills.
Wrapping your duct work is one of the most over looked areas when it comes to insulation. Ducts should first be checked for any cracks which can cause air leakage. Air leakage in duct assemblies is a major source of energy loss. Once you are certain everything is in good shape take measurements and carefully plan how you want to wrap your duct run.
Radiant Barrier Duct Wrap Installation
Insulating with reflective foil insulation creates a radiant barrier around the duct which bounces back valuable lost heat when using your furnace in the colder months. In the summer months when your AC is on, the radiant barrier reflects heat away from the duct allowing air to travel as cool as possible out into your living space.
Depending on your installation method, you can achieve up to an R-6. This quick, easy DIY project is safe and can be done by virtually anyone. Only basic tools are required such as scissors, tape measure, and a razor knife.
Take a look at our duct wrap installation sheet to get an idea on this easy, energy saving project. Look here for information on our duct wrap spacer kits.
Understanding Reflective Foil Insulation & Radiant Barriers
Tags: foil insulation, Radiant Barriers, reflective foil insulation, RIMA
InsulationStop.com Radiant Barriers & Reflective Foil Insulation
At InsulationStop.com, we offer radiant barrier and reflective bubble foil insulation products directly to your doorstep or jobsite.
As consumers, we have all become increasingly concerned about saving energy. Thankfully, there are now advanced products in the marketplace that can help us obtain these goals.
The easiest way to save on our energy bills is always to use less. The next easiest way to save on our utility bills is through increased weatherization and insulation of our homes.
Because heating and cooling is still mandatory in most climates, holding onto this warm on cool air longer by insulating more effectively is the new way to save energy and cut rising utility costs.
Radiant barrier insulation products are a means to achieve this. Used in stand alone applications are in conjunction with other insulation products, foil insulation helps make buildings more efficient. You will lose less energy which will allow you to use less, thereby saving you money.
We have always been concerned about saving energy and helping educate consumers to do the same. This is why we would like to share an important publication with you. As members of the Reflective Insulation Manufacturers Association (RIMA), we offer for your review what we consider an excellent publication to help you understand and use our products.
If you are interested in lowering your utility bills and how to effectively use radiant barrier foil insulation to save energy please read “Understanding and Using Reflective Insulation, Radiant Barriers and Radiation Control Coatings”, distributed by RIMA International.
Understanding and Using Radiant Barriers and Reflective Foil Insulation
Radiant Heat Floor Insulation: Wood Floors & Concrete Slabs
Tags: concrete slab insulation, foil insulation, Radiant Barrier, radiant heat floors
So you’ve decided to install a radiant heat system in your floor. Congratulations. Your added effort plus added expense will ensure that you have the most comfortable, efficient heating system possible.
Radiant Barrier Foil Insulation under Concrete Slab
There is nothing new about heating homes with radiant heat. Actually it is the oldest, most durable mass produced heating system ever used. Almost all older homes, after the days of coal stoves ended, utilized boiler fed hot water to heat cast iron radiators. These closed systems are very clean and efficient and hold their heat in the radiators well after the boiler has turned off.
Today’s homes, unlike the homes of old, are built for affordability. Little attention is paid to overall quality and longevity. Forced air furnaces are now commonplace in most mass produced homes. Their ease of installation and low cost make them ideal for today’s building style. There are several drawbacks to forced air systems. For one, forced air heat is very dry. Moving air accelerates the exchange of dust and other allergens. And, when the furnace turns off, your home immediately starts to lose heat. Also, most of the precious heat generated quickly rises and ends up at the ceiling where it is least desired.
Radiant heated floors however utilize the same principles of older radiator systems. Their design is also a closed system. There is no forced or moving air to pull moisture from the home and spread dust and other allergens. With advances in materials these systems are affordable and are placed within the floor. The floor is warmed by the continuous movement of hot water. The entire floor is warmed eliminating any cold spots that are common in forced air systems. This heat is then radiated from the bottom, where it is most desired, upward through the building warming everything it contacts.
The initial cost of a radiant heat system is more expensive than a forced air system. When measuring your return on investment it is important to allow your radiant heat system to operate as efficiently as possible.
Radiant Barrier Foil Insulation in Wood Floor
Using reflective foil insulation as a radiant barrier underneath your radiant heated floor is the single most effective insulation practice you can do to maximize your return on your purchase. Radiant barrier insulation blocks the transfer of radiant heat. When used underneath a wood floor or concrete slab this insulation reflects the heat back into the living space as opposed to being lost to the slab or under the floor.
This allows the system to work less while providing the same level of heat. This equals energy savings. Adding a radiant barrier using reflective foil insulation is only a small percentage of the cost to install a radiant heat system. This one time step is an important component to maximizing your energy efficiency and should never be overlooked.
For more information on Ultra Concrete Barrier Foil insulation and our other radiant barrier insulation visit us at:
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Featured Products
Foil Insulation provides a moisture proof barrier insulating ducts, saving you money on your energy costs.
Using this product in ceiling applications is a great way to raise the R-value of regular mass fiberglass insulation.
This product will eliminate basement dampness, add R-Value, and will work as an excellent vapor and radon barrier.
