Do I Need Attic Vents With Radiant Barrier

Why an airspace is required for a radiant barrier.

Do i need attic vents with radiant barrier.

You can learn more about how that works here. Radiant barriers require expert installation to work effectively. According to the department of energy installing radiant barrier on the floor of the attic can cause problems. Damp insulation may support mold growth and eventually will lose some of its r value.

The ventilation in the attic should not be altered you need this to prevent ice damming and to keep the attic dry prevent moisture accrual. You must ensure the attic ventilation is not blocked. If dust accumulates on the foil surface it will render the radiant barrier less efficient. Here is where many people screw up attic ventilation.

Do you need ventilation in order for radiant barrier to work. A radiant barrier works together with decent attic ventilation to drop both air temperature and surface temps. Having good attic ventilation helps to reduce the air temperature in your attic but having a radiant barrier helps reduce the surface temperatures in your attic. This is why radiant barrier combined with proper ventilation works to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

More is not always better. Ventilation is important and can help keep an attic dry and lower air temperatures but not having any ventilation isn t the worst case scenario. It may be an easier way to install radiant barrier but it can trap moisture between itself and the attic floor and cause the insulation to become damp. They should be installed with the foil side facing into the attic adjacent to an open air space.