Reflective insulation

Insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. A fascinating option that’s becoming more and more well-liked for its efficiency in heating and cooling our living areas is reflective insulation. However, what is reflective insulation exactly, and how does it function?

Think of your house as a thermos, built to keep you warm no matter what the outside conditions are. The way that traditional insulation, such as fiberglass or foam boards, functions is by decreasing the rate at which heat moves from the inside of your house to the outside. An alternative strategy is used with reflective insulation. Like light bouncing off a shiny surface, it reflects heat away rather than preventing it from transferring.

Reflective insulation works on a surprisingly straightforward principle. It is composed of an airspace-facing layer of material, usually aluminum, with a highly reflective surface. This airspace acts as a shield, keeping heat from escaping. Your house stays cooler in the summer because radiant heat from the sun and other sources bounces back off the reflective surface. Reflective insulation keeps heat inside during the winter, preserving warmth and cutting down on heating expenses.

Reflective insulation’s adaptability is one of its main benefits. Reflective insulation comes in flexible rolls or sheets, which makes it easy to fit into tight spaces, around obstacles, and even in unusual areas like attics, crawl spaces, or under floors. This is in contrast to traditional insulation, which can be bulky and difficult to install in some areas.

Reflective insulation is also not limited to new construction. It can be added to existing insulation to improve its performance or installed during renovations. Because of its adaptability, it’s an affordable option for homeowners who want to increase their home’s energy efficiency without doing extensive renovations.

Benefits	Reflective insulation helps to reduce heat transfer by reflecting radiant heat away from the living space, keeping the house cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Installation	Reflective insulation is relatively easy to install and can be added during construction or retrofitted to existing buildings. It typically comes in rolls or sheets that can be cut to size and stapled or taped into place.

General information

To put it briefly, this material is an upgraded form of conventional insulation. By using it, heat exchange between the room and the street is decreased in addition to heat losses within the rooms. Its structure is divided into two layers:

1. Foamed polyethylene or mineral wool acts as a base. Often the base is expanded polystyrene foam produced using foam technology.
2. The second layer is aluminum foil. The thickness of this layer varies in the range from 7 to 15 microns.

The foil is merely soldered to the base to create reflective insulation. The majority of manufacturers of this type of insulation provide it in rolls. It is very uncommon to find it in slab form.

Both single- and double-sided reflective insulation are available from specialty stores. In the latter instance, both sides of the foil material are present. The owners most frequently use rolls of one-sided insulation when doing work in the building to lessen heat loss.

For pipelines and heat pipes, two-layer insulation is the most efficient type. Industrial facilities also make use of this variation.

These days, a large number of businesses produce reflective materials. Brands like "Penofol" and "Teplofol" have done quite well in Russia. The adhesive layer that these companies’ products have is a unique feature. The material can be laid more easily as a result. The majority of manufacturers produce polyethylene foam-based reflective insulation.

Foil mineral wool is also produced by prominent market players, ISOVER, URSA, and Rockwool. It varies in density in addition to thickness. These companies’ product lines include cylinders and insulation mats. They are employed in the isolation of communication objects and pipeline heat loss prevention projects.

Additional area of use of Bestizol

There is a sizable range of applications for the reflective insulation mentioned above. You can install it behind heating radiators to maximize the efficiency of their operation by thirty percent. More heat will be reflected into the space if you install such a sheet behind the heating radiator. The room will be heated by radiation.

You can insulate pipes with negligible diameter by using the "BestIsol" variety of type "A". The material is wrapped around the products, but 20-mm bandage rings made of the same material are required for hot piping in order to optimize the effect. Acts as a fluoroplastic substitute solution. Between the pipes and the insulation, a thermos effect forms. But in this instance, getting a BestIsol type "B" is advised.

How and where reflective insulation is used

The application of this thermal insulation material includes insulation of roofs, walls, floors, ceilings. It is used to insulate air ducts and pipelines, heating and water supply systems. Insulate balconies, loggias, air conditioning systems. Used for insulation of industrial metal structures: refrigerators, hangars, garages. Reflective thermal insulation is used in the construction of refrigerators, industrial refrigerators and refrigeration plants. Foil foamed foam boards are used for the arrangement of warm floors, and mineral wool with a reflective layer is actively used to insulate heat pipes and engineering communications. Let"s take a closer look at the peculiarities of using and installing reflective insulation in the most common areas of application.

• To insulate the walls from the street mineral wool with a reflective layer or polyethylene with foiling is used in combination with traditional insulation materials. The main thing in this process is a careful matching of boards and rolls of material butt to butt. The resulting gaps are carefully sealed with foil tape.
• Polyethylene-based reflective insulation is most often used to insulate interior walls. In this case, it is necessary to fix the material with the reflective side inside the room. It will be necessary to create an air cushion for the normal functioning of the insulator. The air layer can be created between the insulation and the finish coating, or between the insulation and the wall, and then between the insulation and the finish coating.
• For roof insulation it is very important that the insulation material creates a single layer, without gaps and cold bridges. For this purpose, rolls or boards of reflective insulation are installed as much as possible butt to butt, gaps are sealed with foil tape. If the cracks between boards or rolls are too wide, they are filled with assembly foam, let it dry, cut off the excess, and then glue foil tape on top of it.
• It is recommended to insulate the ceiling with reflective insulation using a double air cushion. That is, there must be a small air gap under the insulation, and there must also be an air space between the insulation material and the finish coatings. Battens on each level will help in creating such a construction.
• Insulation of small diameter pipes is allowed without an air gap. Large-diameter pipes will require an air cushion between them and the insulation. If the pipelines are insulated with foil mineral wool, there is no need for air gaps. The reflective layer in this case should be directed outwards. If polyethylene-based reflective insulation is used as pipe insulation, it must be foiled on both sides.
• Reflective insulation panels are often used to increase the efficiency of central heating radiators as well. It is enough to cut a sheet of material slightly larger than the wall projection of the radiator and place the material between the wall and the heater with foil inside the room. This technique can increase the efficiency of radiators, calorifiers or other heaters by 30%.

Given its great efficiency and user-friendliness, some engineers predict that reflective insulation will be used in the majority of building structures in the future. That might be the case. By utilizing reflective insulation’s current advantages, you can personally contribute to the bright future.

Related Materials:

Reflective thermal insulation

Russia has long, harsh winters. Additionally, owners of private residences and rustic cottages must pay enormous gas, electricity, and heating bills during the fall and winter seasons. The majority of building material manufacturers offer reflective thermal insulation, which is intended to lower expenses.

What kind of substance is this? Which types are offered by the market? How is it installed? Is it suitable for people? Let us attempt to address the majority, if not all, of the inquiries.

1. Reflective thermal insulation

1. Reasons for the popularity of insulating materials
2. Types of reflective insulation
3. Materials for manufacturing reflective thermal insulation

1. Varieties

1. Variety of materials
2. Application
3. Advantages of reflective thermal insulation
4. Tips when buying and selecting reflective insulations

1. Study in detail all the features of the material
2. Identify the main varieties
3. Exploring the most recognized manufacturers

Reasons for the popularity of insulating materials

A law enacted by the Russian State Duma mandates that building owners and constructors guarantee the following energy efficiency standards:

• for roofs and attic floors thermal resistance is not lower than 4.6 m2°C/W,
• For walls the thermal resistance is 3.5 m2°C/W.

Reflective insulation, or roll insulation, which is primarily made of polyethylene foam, will be helpful in getting buildings in compliance with the regulations. Aluminum foil is a reflector.

The material foil is similar to a mirror. Manufacturer tests indicate that at least 85% of the heat in the room is retained when it is in use. 15% of the heat radiation that entered the film is retained in the expanded polystyrene, mineral wool, or other substrate.

Types of reflective thermal insulation

Considering the wide range of goods available in Russia, all materials provided fall into one of the following categories:

• "А". This group includes varieties in which polyethylene foam or mineral wool components are used as a basis. Foil is glued on one side only. There are no restrictions on use. Can be used for insulation of pipes, ceilings, baths, residential premises. On walls, ceilings and other surfaces they are fixed with special glue, nails, construction staples. Not intended for outdoor use.
• "B". The basis is polyethylene foam or minwool. Layer thickness does not exceed 5 mm. Foil is applied on both sides, which significantly expands the scope of application: freezing and cold rooms, partitions to maintain different temperatures in adjacent rooms.
• "С". Foil is applied on one side. It differs from type "A" in the presence of self-adhesive film, which greatly facilitates installation work.

Varieties made of mineral wool or basalt that are used as plates or mats for winter insulation in frame homes are not included in this classification.

Materials for manufacturing reflective thermal insulation

The following types are distinguished based on how aluminum foil and thermal insulation material are combined:

Insulation that reflects Your country home can benefit from underfloor heating and thermal insulation. diffuse reflection and one-sided foiling make it reflective.

Installation of Izospan

The reflective screen must be mounted correctly by being positioned behind the radiator and keeping a gap of 4 to 5 cm between the material’s surface and the heater.

There won’t be the required air convection if the gap is smaller. Additionally, if the screen is positioned farther away from the battery’s surface, the reflection coefficient will be significantly lower.

Izospan FL or FL Termo metallic adhesive tape is used to adhere all of the reflective screen’s joints together.

Remember that installing a reflective screen alone won’t provide the chance to save money and have high-quality heating because insulation is a multi-phase, complex measure.

1. Insulation of external walls;
2. Floors and slabs;
3. Qualitative selection of materials for the wall;
4. Installation of windows with thermal insulation;
5. Provision of high-quality thermal and vapor insulation.

In addition to Izospan, other materials like Penofol (Russian) and Alufom (Ukrainian) can also be used to increase the heater’s efficiency.

These heat reflectors are based on aluminum foil that is bonded to a 2 mm to 1 cm thick layer of soft material (foam).

Isospan screen material

Many manufacturers produce a special material "Izospan", which reflects heat energy. Such screens are placed on the back side of the radiator, and attached to the wall. When the screen is installed, the metallized part comes into contact with the radiator, and the heat energy goes inside the room. When laying this material, it is necessary to observe the distance from the radiator from 4 centimeters, so that the air has the opportunity to circulate properly. All seams of the screen are covered with metallized tape. That is, installation of the heat-reflecting screen from "Izospan" does not differ from other materials. If only foil is used as a screen, it will not help to save on heating, because for the full result, it is necessary to carry out complex work:

• insulate the walls from the outside;
• perform the same actions with floors and ceilings;
• materials must be of high quality;
• Install heat-insulating windows;
• arrange a quality arrangement of thermal insulation.

Work on laying foil insulation material

Reflective insulation can be professionally installed on almost any surface, even intricate ones with curves, drops, and corners. An air gap of 15-20 mm produces the greatest effect. Regarding interior insulation, two approaches are employed. In the first, there are two openings and a substance that is doubly coated in foil. The second choice has a single reflective layer for insulation, and it must face the interior of the space. After the strips are arranged butt to butt, unique construction tape is used to seal the seams.

Use furniture staples or glue if the layer isn’t self-adhesive. With this technology, you can reduce heat by up to 15%.

Reflective insulation that is in style is sold. You can purchase it from any specialty store. The starting price for a square meter is 40 rubles. A roll typically contains 8 or 10 meters, so the price ranges from 500 to 5000 rubles.

Name	Price per m2 in rubles	Price per roll in rubles
Penofol	from 38 to 150	from 1145 to 2500
Foilplast	from 55 to 270	from 1500 to 2500
Ecofol	from 38 to 66	from 1000 to 2000
Alufom	from 38 to 100	from 1050 to 1750

Views of the users Regarding the practicality and appeal of the many favourable evaluations of the heat-reflective material:

Relocated to an outdated, five-story structure that was long overdue to be demolished. Very satisfied, fragile thin walls protecting from the cold "Penofol". The corners are no longer blowing, and the room is noticeably warmer. Indeed, and the room’s dimensions haven’t shrunk."

Moscow; Popova Nastia.

"I was puzzled for a long time as to why the apartment is so cool. First, vinyl was installed across the outdated, shaky windows. altered, but nothing improved. I then made the decision to tackle the walls, using roll insulation that had a glossy finish. I completed everything by myself and was happy with the results. In addition to saving money, the apartment got warmer."

Voronezh, Irakliy Samsonov.

"Every winter, the water pipes would freeze. I tried everything to keep them warm, but nothing helped. Someone suggested I try "Penofol." Since then, nothing freezes through, even in the most severe frosts. High-quality, long-lasting material saves."

Natasha Klemeshova, Tambov.

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Range of insulation in Izovol basalt

Building components that use mineral wool for thermal insulation exhibit a high.

Selecting insulators for pipes that are heated

Heating pipe insulation is a necessary step in the installation process.

Russia’s climate forces us to consider thermal insulation on the.

Where to use Penofol

"Penofol" is a supplement that can be added to traditional insulation. Because of their increased volume, it serves as a foundation for the construction of low-rise frame buildings, thereby increasing the walls’ thermal resistance. Because this insulation is a dependable vapor barrier and has a high reflective ability, you can use it to minimize heat loss.

Insulation that reflects "Penofol" is a useful addition to massive insulation because it helps to decrease its volume and prolong its useful life. Apply the insulating material if applicable:

It covers wall and pipe insulation, as well as the insulation of floors and their underlayment.

Materials for manufacturing reflective thermal insulation

The following types are identified based on how aluminum foil and insulating material are combined:

• The foil layers are combined with polyethylene foam, which has a porous structure. Convection, the effect of heat transfer by air bubbles increase the insulating effect of the entire structure. Among the most famous brands: magnoflex, penofol, limofol. The coefficient of thermal conductivity reaches 0.049 W/m-K. Not intended for outdoor use.
• Aluminum foil is pre-laminated using kraft paper or film (polymer, plastic). As a base, OSB plywood is used, among others. Example: Armofol.
• The foil layers are interspersed with kraft paper, plastic film. As an example, let"s highlight alfol.
• On the polymer or plastic film is applied aluminum spraying.

Suggested reading

How much time does it take for wall putty to dry before applying wallpaper?

Where different types of BestIsol foil insulation are used

If you’re interested in reflective insulation, there are a number of options to choose from. One item worth mentioning is "BestIsol," a high-reflectivity vapor, heat, and sound insulation.

Aluminum foil and closed-cell polyethylene film make up this insulation. Depending on the brand, polyethylene foam is used in thicknesses ranging from 2 to 10 mm. Regarding aluminum foil, its minimum thickness is 7 microns, and it can reach 14 microns.

These days, there are many different types of reflective insulation for sale; type "A," type "B," and type "C" should be noted. The first choice is a polyethylene foam-based insulation with foil on one side. The third solution has an adhesive with an anti-adhesion material applied to the surface on one side and a foil layer on the other. The second solution features double-sided foiling.

Not only is this insulation suitable for residential buildings, but it can also be used to insulate metal structures, ventilation boxes, ships, vans, and refrigerators. Because of its strength and light weight, this material can be fixed to control elements or framework by embedding it in metal structures. This removes the need for extra funding for makeshift buildings and insulation grids.

How to choose reflective insulation

Numerous options for reflective heat insulators are available on the market; however, in order to determine which kind is best for you, it is necessary to comprehend some of the primary types’ characteristics.

Reflective insulation installed behind the heater is a very common way to increase heat output.

The primary consideration when selecting insulation is the intended use for the insulation. Therefore, the best option for insulation is self-adhesive polyethylene foam with a reflective coating when it comes to car cabins, large rooms with lots of uneven corners, and boat insulation. Insulation of type "A" is appropriate for flat walls. Pipes and other small objects can also be effectively insulated with this kind of insulator.

Certain manufacturers use foil polystyrene foam for the "warm floor" system, which works best for it. These manufacturers create special schemes that make the system installation process easier. Panel slabs and panel walls work well with basalt wool coated in foil. As there is no need to install extra insulation and vapor barrier, you can save a significant amount of money with it. Additionally, foil basalt wool is a good choice for sauna and steam room insulation because of its strong resistance to temperature fluctuations and good resistance to moisture. Foil-wrapped basalt wool and glass fiber with pressed foil work wonders for thermal and waterproofing roofing.

Scope of application

The following structures are insulated using reflective-layer insulation:

• walls, ceilings, floors, doors;
• baths and saunas;
• attics, balconies, attics, roofs;
• air ducts, ventilation systems;
• containers;
• freezers and refrigerators;
• industrial equipment;
• car bodies and many others.

Pouring foil insulation into concrete screeds is not recommended because the aluminum foil will be destroyed by the mortar’s ingredients.

Some of the most widely used foil insulators are Porilex and Penofol.

1. Porilex is a reflective polyethylene foam insulation, all cells of which are closed cell. This insulator has good sound and vapor insulation and low thermal conductivity coefficient – 0,04 W/m-K. Porilex is easy to cut with a knife and is resistant to oils and gasoline. It is necessary to leave a gap of 1-1.5 cm between it and the facing material.
2. NPE-LF type A series is used for walls, ceilings and roofs in private houses or other residential premises (for baths), behind radiators, ventilation systems, industrial equipment and so on. Available in thickness from 3 to 20 mm, width 120 cm, length from 10 to 25 m. The operating temperature of thermal insulation – from -40 to +90 ° C, flammability group – G4.
3. Porilex type B has similar characteristics, but has a double-sided aluminum foil finish. It is produced in thickness from 3 to 10 mm. Type C has one foil side, and the other side is self-adhesive. Unlike the previous two types, it is made in rolls of smaller width – 60 cm and with lengths from 10 to 30 meters.
4. Penofol is produced in the same types A, B, C, but its thermal conductivity coefficient is slightly higher – 0.049 W/m-K. It is produced in rolls, it is best to use it only indoors.

"After adding reflective insulation to the floors, the house felt really cozy and warm. The decision to select and buy this specific material was not made in vain. Penofol type C self-adhesive was purchased. Ultimately, the entire renovation process was seamless and swift. It holds well and is very convenient to glue. In addition, floor walking has become softer and more enjoyable. Our flooring was linoleum laid over the insulation.

"How wonderful that reviews in online stores can now be used to determine the material’s quality. I made my decision to use foil insulation after learning about it for the first time there. purchased insulation to fill the bathhouse, specifically for the walls and ceilings. I selected the type A insulator, which has one metalized side. Though quick, the installation is not better. I positioned the material in the joint using a construction stapler, which makes fixing it simple. Aluminum tape was then used to seal the gaps. The sauna is far better now than it was previously."

Moscow; Mikhail Sviridov.

"After receiving so many encouraging comments from our neighbors, we made the decision to install reflective insulation. We observed that certain areas in the back room, where the water heater is located, started to freeze solidly during the first winter following its installation. This is the reason we chose to insulate it. Completed floor, ceiling, and walls. Winter arrived and we noticed right away that the utility room had improved and gotten warmer. We are no longer concerned about the pipes freezing.

Moscow area, Kirill.

"The floors throughout the house were insulated using Porilex. In certain rooms, it had parquet flooring, and in others, linoleum. There is no doubt in my mind that the floor has gotten noticeably warmer and softer, making it more comfortable to walk on. There’s less noise now when walking as well. In order to expedite and simplify the repair process, self-adhesive insulation was removed. Overall, we are happy with the outcome and suggest it.

Table showing the costs for various brands of reflective foil thermal insulation:

Name	Dimensions, mm (length/width/thickness)	Price, rubles
Tepofol NPE A-08	15000x1200x8	1100
Tepofol NPE A-10	15000х1200х10	1200
Penofol A-10	15000x1200x10	1520
Penofol C-10	15000x600x10	1620
Foam foil B-10	15000x1200x10	1860
Porilex type A	25000x1200x5	2060
15000x1200x10	1860

The building’s heat losses are greatly decreased by reflective thermal insulation, which lowers fuel requirements and heating expenses. Check the quality certificates before selecting a material, as some manufacturers sprayed a thin layer of regular metal on the insulator’s surface in place of aluminum foil. Professional builders’ reviews indicate that this type of insulation has much lower thermal insulation characteristics and a shorter service life. The insulation roll is most likely a fake if the price is too low.

Manufacturers about reflective insulation

It is impolite to talk about someone when they are not present, so let’s spare the opponents this insult. They use theory and scientific data to support their claims when promoting their products. Let’s start with a quick overview of the physical characteristics of infrared radiation.

Between microwave radiation and visible light waves, infrared rays are in the middle. Radiation from any heated body is infrared. A body in their path may choose to absorb or reflect the energy carried by these light-speed beams. The body heats up more and absorbs more infrared radiation when it is darker. However, the rays’ journey doesn’t stop there. Increased emission of infrared rays by the heated body itself causes other bodies to either absorb or reflect these rays.

When we point the camera of a thermal imaging camera at a building, we see on the screen a picture of the intensity of infrared radiation coming from a particular building envelope. The brighter (yellower) the light, the greater the heat loss of a given area. The conclusion is therefore self-evident: in order to reduce heat loss in a building, it is necessary to reflect heat inwards. Doesn"t ring a bell? That"s right, a thermos. By the way, household thermoses with silver-plated flasks appeared more than a hundred years ago, and until recently, no one thought that you can color your home silver and solve all the problems with it. But about this a little later.

Let’s continue. The creation of efficient thermal insulators has long kept engineers occupied with concepts for lowering heat losses through the installation of t.н. radiant barriers. In the winter, radiation can be responsible for up to 70% of a building’s heat loss. 95% of the radiation that would otherwise be absorbed by walls is reflected by aluminum foil. Hence, while only slightly increasing the thickness of the enclosing structure, foamed foil can effectively address the insulation issue.

Furthermore, the foam foil forms a shield that protects you from electromagnetic radiation coming from the outside (as opposed to internal sources). All metals, including aluminum foil, have a dense crystal lattice that makes them impermeable to all gases, including radon.

Technical characteristics and cost of materials with foil

Since various materials have distinct qualities, it is impossible to list all of the technical features of foil insulators that are currently in use at once. Nonetheless, it is possible to list the features of a number of the most widely used insulators.

Universal insulator made of polyethylene foam

The material is usually supplied in the form of rolls. Its thickness can vary from 2 mm to 1 cm. Foam polyethylene can be covered with foil either on one side or on both sides. In addition, there are self-adhesive versions of such insulation, when on one side of the material is applied adhesive layer, covered with a protective film. The thermal conductivity of polyethylene is 0.038 W/(mK), the specific weight of a 0.5 cm thick material is 60 kg/meter. Moisture absorption of different types of this material can vary from 0.6% to 3%. The use of polyethylene insulators with foil is usually not limited to any framework: the material can insulate the walls and floor in the room, ventilation system, roof of the building, insulate pipes or refrigerators. Often foil foamed polyethylene is used for the equipment of a warm floor under the screed, as a finishing base for laminate or linoleum, for thermal insulation of saunas.

A layer of polyethylene insulation is installed behind the radiator, leaving at least 2 centimeters of space free behind it to stop heat from escaping through the walls.

One unique use for foil polyethylene is in the footwear business, where it’s employed to create insoles for shoes.

The brands of foil polyethylene that are most frequently found in domestic stores are Penofol, Ecofol, and Izolon. The price of a single roll of this insulator, which has an average area of 50 square meters, will vary according to its thickness. For instance, a roll of insulation measuring two millimeters will cost the customer 1680 rubles, while a roll of material with a one-centimeter thickness will cost 3400 rubles. This is the price of Jermaflex foil polyethylene, but there are less costly materials available; a roll of these will set you back 900 rubles.

Foil mineral wool

Typically, only one side of the material is fused with the insulation foil in this case. It is made in two forms: rolls or plates with an insulator layer that is between five and ten centimeters thick. Stone basalt wool or fiberglass can be used to make it.

The use of insulation with foil of this type is limited: since the wool can be harmful to human health, causing lung disease and emitting phenol into the air, this insulation is used in non-residential premises, outside buildings or carefully insulated with a film. Basalt wool is a non-combustible material, which is installed if increased resistance to high temperatures is required: on stove chimneys, fireplace walls. Wool perfectly shows itself in the temperature range from -200 to +700 degrees Celsius. Thermal conductivity is up to 0.07 W/(mK), nominal density, moisture absorption and other indicators will depend solely on the type of wool, its brand and properties laid down by the manufacturer. Mineral fiberglass wool is used for thermal insulation of walls, roofs, floors between floors. High waterproofing properties of foil allow its use in places with high humidity – baths, saunas, showers.

On the home market, Rockwool, Isover, Ursa, and Parok wool are the most well-liked. A material with a 0.25 cubic meter area costs, on average, 1300 rubles.

Foil insulation from polystyrene foam

Made by fusing polystyrene granules, the substance is a robust thermoplastic. exclusively produced in slab form. Foamed polystyrene is a strong, durable material that is resistant to rot and mold growth. It can be utilized in environments with high humidity and heavy mechanical loads. maintains its characteristics between -180 and +180 degrees Celsius in temperature. Because of this, the material is frequently used to insulate warm water floors. It can also be factory marked, making the process of installing heating pipes easier. There is a maximum of 45 kg/m3 of density and 0.035 W/m2 of thermal conductivity.

For a single plate, the average cost is 90 rubles.

2 Peculiarities of choosing shielding materials

Ensuring that the heat-reflecting film has a coating of actual aluminum foil is crucial when selecting foil-type thermal insulation materials or polyethylene products. This material works just as well for the window opening as it does for the ceiling.

To cut costs, many dishonest manufacturers substitute metal spraying for aluminum foil, which is far less effective than actual foil (the foil’s index of thermal energy shielding, for instance, is only approximately 97%).

Prioritize the temperature range at which the insulation can function when making your selection.

Materials with a heat-resistant base are necessary for bathrooms (whether or not they have windows), while polyethylene foam-based materials can be used for the remaining areas of the house.

Reviews show that foiled TIM with a thickness of 4 millimeters are the best choice in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Examine the foil insulation for any visible flaws by unfolding it and shining a light source through it. The material should be uniformly distributed, devoid of any internal blemishes, striped patterns, or uneven composition.

2.1 Porylex

Thermal insulation that reflects Similar to ultra-thin Armor heat insulation, Porilex is a two-layer material made of foil, or metallized lavsan film, as a shielding layer, and a base of extruded polyethylene with a closed cell structure.

Porilex thermal insulation’s structure

One of the most widely used shielding materials in the middle price range is porilex. Let’s examine Porylex’s primary technical attributes:

• Density: 25-30 kgm³;
• Temperature mode of operation: from -40 to +100 degrees;
• Vapor barrier: 0.001 mg/mhPa;
• Moisture absorption by volume in 24 hours: 0.9%;
• Thermal conductivity: 0.048 W/mk.

2.2 Penofol 2000

The Penofol 2000 falls into the above-average price range. One of the material’s benefits is its low thermal conductivity of 0.033 W/mk, which is nearly thirty percent less than Porilex.

The aluminum foil used in Penofol 2000 is sufficiently thick to ensure optimal heat radiation shielding efficiency. Penofol 2000 comes in multiple versions:

• Type A – closed cell polyethylene foam base, heat reflective foil is located on one side of the material;
• Type B – thermal insulation with double-sided foiling;
• Type C – one-sided foiling, there is a glue glue, which greatly simplifies the installation of the material, as there is no need to use additional equipment – it is enough to put Penofol on the prepared surface (for example – on the window aperture), and glue the joints between the thermal insulation aluminum tape.

Thermal insulation with reflection, Penofol 2000 Type A

2.3 Mosfol

Foamed polyethylene with increased density, marketed under the Mosfol brand, is produced and used to insulate loaded structures such as windows, floors, interfloor slabs, and roofs.

Thermal insulation from Mosfol comes in a number of varieties:

• Mosfol PPI-PL – has a shielding coating of metallized lavsan film;
• Mosfol PPI-PF – shielding coating of polished aluminum foil;
• Mosfol PPI-LS – foamed polyethylene with double-sided foiling for thermal insulation of pipes and ventilation ducts.

The following are the technical attributes of Mosfol thermal insulation: Temperature range: -60 to +100 degrees Celsius; density: 30 to 45 kg/m³; thermal conductivity coefficient: 0.035 W/mk.

2.4 Izospan

The IZOSPAN company offers a wide variety of insulation materials, foil insulation being just one of them. Some of their products include:

• Izospan FB – heat-reflective thin film for baths and saunas made of polypropylene and lavsan coating. With this material, provides an effective vapor barrier of the building, and eliminates the need for additional vapor barrier membranes;
• Izospan FS – a variant for attics and attic floors, in addition to thermal insulation, acting as a vapor barrier and hydrobarrier;
• Izospan FX – the optimal option for thermal insulation of walls, ceilings, interfloor slabs and floor heating systems. It is characterized by increased density of 110 g/m².

2.5 Features of installation of foil insulation (video)

Advantages of polyethylene-based insulating material

One of the most popular types of thermal insulation is polyethylene reflective insulation. Among the benefits we will highlight are:

• Compliance with hygienic standards. Permitted for use in medical and preschool institutions;
• at least 90% of heat energy is reflected. The surface does not heat up and does not serve as a source of ignition;
• the light weight of the rolls does not weigh down the walls. No additional strengthening of the foundation, supporting structures is required;
• presence of vapor-, waterproofing properties;
• for installation on the loggia, balcony, in rooms on the ceiling and walls, in annexes enough construction stapler and aluminum tape for gluing the joints. Overlapping of sheets is not allowed.

The thickness ranges from 2 mm at the minimum to 20 mm at the maximum. Any climate can be fitted with the best variant. Each roll is 15 square meters.

Reflective insulation is a smart solution for keeping your home cozy and energy-efficient. By using materials that reflect radiant heat, like aluminum foil, reflective insulation helps trap warmth in the winter and keeps out excess heat in the summer. This type of insulation works by bouncing back the heat radiation that tries to escape through walls, floors, and ceilings, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. Not only does reflective insulation reduce energy bills by improving thermal performance, but it also contributes to a more sustainable environment by decreasing the need for heating and cooling systems. With its simple installation and long-lasting effectiveness, reflective insulation is a practical choice for anyone looking to enhance the comfort and efficiency of their home.

Characteristics of reflective thermal insulation

But why add a layer of foil to materials that are already insulating?What benefits does this technology offer?

1. Reflective insulation prevents the loss of heat energy from inside the room in the cold season and prevents excess heat energy on hot days. Therefore, consumers need fewer resources to heat the room in winter, and cool in the summer. The first application of the reflective properties of foil occurred when the thermos was invented. Reflective thermal insulation works according to approximately the same principle, preventing the penetration of thermal energy along a given vector.
2. Quality thermal insulation can reflect 85 to 90% of heat energy. This means that the use of this material will not only ensure maximum comfort in the room, but also significant savings on heating or cooling costs.
3. When calculating the efficiency of reflective insulation, the concept of heat conductivity coefficient is not used. The concept of "heat transfer resistance" is used for this material. So, this very resistance of a 4-millimeter layer of foamed polyethylene with double-sided foiling is 1.20-1.23m2*оС/W. This is approximately the resistance of an 85 mm thick layer of mineral wool.
4. Foil insulation is completely waterproof. This is especially true for a material with a polyethylene foam backing. This material does not absorb moisture at all, so it also has additional waterproofing properties.
5. Reflective thermal insulation is biologically inert. It does not create a breeding ground for fungi, bacteria and microorganisms.
6. Aluminum foil is a non-combustible material. Therefore, even if the basis for reflective insulation is foam or foamed polyethylene, which do not boast fire protection qualities, the foil layer increases the safety of using these materials.
7. Reflective thermal insulation in terms of physical parameters repeats the qualities of the base material. Thus, the thinnest foil insulator is based on polyethylene foam. Mineral wool rolls with foil are thicker than foam boards with a reflective layer. Insulations such as Penofol or Teplofol provide good thermal energy savings even at low thicknesses. For example, a 0.5 cm material with a 2 cm air cushion increases the resistance to heat loss by several times.
8. Another important property of reflective insulation is that it helps to protect the room from electromagnetic radiation, reducing its intensity by at least two times.

Choice of materials for thermal insulation

It is important to keep in mind that purchasing a low-quality fake is highly likely when purchasing such a material. The first step is to test the roll for combustibility by simply lighting it on fire. A high-quality basalt insulator won’t react in any way. After that, apply a sharp object to the aluminum coating; all traces ought to be removed.

Pay attention to the information that comes with the product; while dishonest manufacturers use less thin foil and polyethylene film, it is best to use glass non-combustible filament for stitching.

Basic types

Every year, technologies are actively developing in a variety of fields. In this regard, heat insulation is not an exception. This results in the continuous emergence of new materials. Consumers can currently choose from the following varieties of reflective materials:

1. From HD polyethylene, which contains flame retardants, flame retardants and colorants. The structure of the insulation consists of polymer cells, which are filled with oxygen-free gas. This feature prevents the burning process of the insulator. Quite often these products are made in the form of rolls. It is best suited for insulating walls, floors, as well as interfloor slabs.
2. Based on expanded polystyrene foam. The peculiarity of such models is in their high durability. This quality is ensured by the use of high elasticity thermoplastics in the production process. The material is obtained as a result of melting polymer granules. This insulator is resistant to overheating. Usually insulators of this type are used for warm floors, and are also actively used for work in baths and saunas.
3. Foil material based on basalt wool. This combination is the most effective in terms of heat preservation. Metal layer, present in the composition of such products, provides high protection of the insulation from moisture, as well as keeps the warm air inside the room. As for basalt wool, it acts as a barrier and prevents cold air from entering the dwelling. This material is usually available in thicknesses from 2 to 40 mm. The foil surface is sprayed and has a thickness of 20 microns. Expensive models have a fiberglass mesh in their composition. It is placed directly between the main and reflective layers. It provides high strength and excellent longevity of the insulator.

When working on the insulating of surfaces, aluminum tape of any kind should be used. You can seal the joints by applying it. The room’s ability to retain heat is improved by this.

How to use WPE insulation

Any configuration of surface can be covered with reflective lavsan WPE insulation. The fabric works well for building low-rise structures, and the fabrics are sewn butt to butt, though there should be no overlap. It is recommended to use specialized foil tape with an adhesive layer to seal joints. For this, an aluminum and polyethylene composite can be employed.

Durability, resistance to moisture, and the capacity to reflect UV and infrared light are the qualities that define the connecting element. The foil layer’s own use can be reached by the service life. You can save a lot of money on energy and lower your heating expenses by using reflective insulation like Lavsan VPE.

It is possible to install insulation in the floor heating system beneath gypsum or cement screed, as well as under parquet, laminate, or other floor coverings. The thickest coating available is the 10 mm reflective insulation. The width stays constant at one meter, while the minimum thickness is two millimeters. But it ranges in length from 10 to 100 meters. The cost per square meter for a thickness of 10 mm is 58.13 rubles.

3 Izospan is popular and effective

Products that reflect heat from various companies vary slightly from one another. Let’s examine the potential of foil materials using Izospan screens as an example. Domestic consumers have a particular demand for these products. Isospan offers a variety of heat-reflecting devices in the construction market.

• FX. The function of the heat insulator is performed by polyethylene foam, and the role of the reflective film is played by a lavsan coating.
• FS. Products with polypropylene (PP) nonwoven backing to which a polypropylene metallized film is attached.
• FD. Analogous to the FS model. But the insulator is made of woven PP fabric.

Different companies’ heat-reflective products vary slightly from one another.

Experts advise making use of Izospan FX. It is reasonably priced, free of hazardous and toxic substances, and does not warp when heated. You can use Izospan and other varieties, though. I assure you that using them won’t have any negative effects. Take note right away that heat-reflective films from other manufacturers come with respectable performance qualities by default. Focusing solely on Izospan is not required.

Advantages and disadvantages of heat-reflective insulation material

Now that we are clear on the insulator’s working principle, let’s look at the benefits that the manufacturer and marketing representatives provide. Among them are the following.

1. Ease of use. It is impossible to disagree with this statement – what can be easier than fixing the roll material? Rolled it on the surface and fastened with a stapler or nails. And some types of this material are generally made on a self-adhesive basis.
2. Compactness. This point is also beyond doubt, since unlike other insulators (the same mineral wool), Isolon has a small thickness, which allows you to place it even in the shallowest cavities.
3. Wide scope of application. In general, I agree, but some points and abilities attributed to this material do not correspond to reality. About this a little later, and for now you should only know that this material is used to insulate any surface under any operating conditions.
4. Safety and environmental friendliness. Polyethylene and foil themselves do not carry any threats to humans. But the question of harmlessness and environmental friendliness should not be removed from the agenda – it is necessary to understand the danger of thermos, which results from the circular use of heat-reflecting insulation. At a minimum, these are comfortable conditions for the growth of fungal microorganisms – and needless to say, this problem is solved with the help of quality ventilation. Try ventilating the space between the floor screed and floor slab. And so it is with walls and ceiling (although the latter is a little easier).
5. High thermal conductivity. Here, as they say, you can"t know without trying. You can write anything you want on paper. Judging from real practice, such thermal insulation copes with its tasks quite well, but, again, if you take into account its vapor conductivity, you can just as easily use a cheaper polyethylene film.
6. Low degree of combustibility. This statement does not inspire confidence at all – the question immediately arises as to how low this degree is? And I remember how polyethylene burns with a clear flame and sprays molten particles on the floor, spreading the fire further and further away.
7. Durability. It is difficult to disagree with this – in natural conditions polyethylene decomposes for a very long time. But here it is necessary to look not at this point, but at the operating conditions. For example, reflective thermal insulation for a warm floor. Salt, abundantly contained in cement mortar, and foil are bad neighbors – after a year, the former will simply corrode the latter and only an insignificant and ineffective layer of Isolon will remain.

Not everything that shines is gold, in general.

When using this type of building material, one should exercise extreme caution and focus more on the drawbacks that arise from using it under particular circumstances than on its benefits. And it’s generally preferred to remain silent about the drawbacks.

Photo of thermal insulation for walls that is reflective

Important characteristics

When choosing a contemporary material, the room’s owner gains certain benefits. They are mostly caused by the insulator’s excellent qualities.

Heat losses are not taken into consideration when utilizing this solution during the winter. There is not an excess of heat energy in the building’s rooms during the summer. Consequently, minimal resources must be used in order to maintain an ideal microclimate. By blocking the passage of thermal energy along a specific vector, reflective insulation functions on the basis of a thermos.

When skillfully arranged, the construction can reflect as much as 90% of the heat. Maximum comfort within the premises is attained as a result.

The total water resistance of foil insulation is one of its unique qualities. This assertion is particularly valid for models that utilize polyethylene foam. There is no combustion potential for aluminum foil. As a result, using this layer in addition to foam or polyethylene foam increases fire safety.

The reflective insulation shares the same physical characteristics as the base layer. The thinnest material is the one derived from polyethylene foam. The models constructed using mineral wool and a foil layer added have a thicker layer.

The ability of this type of insulation to ensure that buildings are shielded from electromagnetic radiation is a significant benefit. The material’s use results in a two-fold reduction in intensity.

Advantages and disadvantages

Any material used in the building industry gains popularity if it possesses a certain set of advantageous attributes that customers want. There is an abundance of reflective insulation available. Experts highlight the following benefits:

1. The material meets hygienic standards, as the main components in its manufacture are polyethylene and foil.
2. This solution is able to reflect up to 97% of thermal energy.
3. Polyethylene foam, in the structure of which there are air bubbles, allows you to achieve additional thermal resistance.
4. High fire safety properties. Specialists classify the material to the group of difficult to ignite.
5. Rolls of reflective insulation are characterized by low weight and compact size. Therefore, there are no storage problems and they are easy to transport.
6. When using the material for surface insulation, heating costs are reduced. The cost savings for the owner of the structure are much higher than in the case of other solutions.

Softness is the primary drawback of reflective insulation. Following installation, no plaster finishing or traditional wallpapering is done. The fact that simple attachment is limited to materials with adhesive backing is another drawback.

A proper bonding agent must be installed with other models. The material’s ability to insulate against heat is diminished when it is nailed to the surface. It is limited to use as an extra layer of insulation for facade walls, serving as a moisture barrier and heat reflector.

Recommended sequence of work

1. Take measurements of niches or wall insulated areas. The area to be covered by the reflector should be 5-10% larger than the projection of the radiator on the wall.
2. Check the possibility of creating the required air gap between the radiator and the future insulating layer – it should be at least 15-20 mm. If this condition is not fulfilled – change the radiator suspension system.
3. Determine the required grade of material for the reflector, based on the constructional features of the wall.
4. Purchase insulating material in the required quantities. Rolls with widths from 600 mm to 1200 mm (length from 15 to 30 m) are available on sale.
5. Remove radiators if they are already installed.
6. Create external markers to determine the mounting points of radiator brackets and dismantle them.
7. Eliminate cracks and gaps in brick and concrete masonry (if any).
8. Glue the heat shield for the heating radiator using any polymer adhesive that can be used inside the living space. If the wall material allows, small nails or staples can be used instead of glue.
9. Install the hanging brackets of the battery, orienting yourself with markers.
10. Install a radiator.

It is advised to seal the cut area with a specific aluminum film (LAS or LAMS) in the event that the reflective layer is unintentionally damaged.

1 Heat-reflecting screen maximum effect at minimum cost

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The majority of homes and apartments have radiators placed beneath window openings. The most intensely heated part of the wall is always the one behind them. This area can get as hot as 35–40°, according to experts. In actuality, rather than raising the room temperature, valuable heat is squandered by heating the building’s exterior wall.

Installing a heat shield on the wall section directly behind the radiator is a simple solution to the problem of heat losses.

When the radiator is placed in a niche, even more heat loss is seen. Compared to the wall surface, it is thinner. This implies that a lot of cold air can pass through it and into the rooms. Without a doubt, we cannot continue to allow this situation to continue. Indeed, but it’s not required. Installing a heat shield on the wall section directly behind the radiator is a really easy and elegant way to address the issue of heat losses.

The relevant heat-reflective material does more than just hold heat. Additionally, it shields the batteries from moisture and dust particles that could enter through tiny cracks in the wall. Heat-reflecting screens that are made in factories have a pleasing appearance. This enables ugly portions of the wall behind the radiators to be decorated with their assistance.

Types

Currently, Porilex NPE-LF, Ecofol, Penofol, and BestIsol are the most widely used brands of this type of insulation. Reflective insulators are made by manufacturers Ursa, Isover, and Rockwool using mineral wool with varying densities and thicknesses. Foil TIM is now readily available on the market in the form of mats and cylinders, which are useful for insulating pipelines.

BestIsol

BestIsol is a soundproofing, vapor-thermal, and reflective material made from aluminum foil and closed-cell polyethylene foam. Depending on the brand, the thickness of the foil and polyethylene foam can range from 7 to 14 mm and 2 to 10 mm, respectively.

Several changes are possible:

• Type A – polyethylene foam with one-sided foiling;
• Type B – with double-sided foiling;
• Type C – foil is applied on one side and adhesive with a layer of anti-adhesion material on the other.

This kind of reflector works well for insulating not just residential buildings but also metal structures, ships, vans, and ventilation boxes.

This TIM can be fixed to the framework of metal structures due to its durability and light weight. No extra money will be needed for makeshift buildings or grids to fix the insulation.

Aluminum tape

The tape is applied to reflective thermal insulation elements’ seams. Types F-20 and F-30 are foil with an adhesive coating and permanent tackiness, measuring 20 and 30 microns thick, respectively. A substance with anti-adhesion properties offers protection for the adhesive layer.

Type FL-50 is a combination of 20 µm polyethylene film and aluminum foil, along with anti-agdesic and adhesive material. Glass mesh is added to reinforced adhesive tape along with foil, foil, and glue. The following are some characteristics of aluminum tape:

• high strength, wear resistance and reflection of UV and infrared rays, which makes it effective;
• durability of the adhesive layer, which gives a quality connection;
• the material can be used at temperatures up to 350С;
• has high moisture resistance.

A viable option for homeowners wishing to improve their home’s energy efficiency is reflective insulation. This kind of insulation can successfully stop heat transfer by using reflective materials to reroute radiant heat, keeping homes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Reflective insulation’s adaptability is one of its main benefits. It is a versatile option for enhancing thermal performance because it can be installed in attics, walls, and floors of the house. Reflective insulation can be easily incorporated into your construction or renovation plans, regardless of whether you’re building a new home or retrofitting an old one.

Reflective insulation has advantages beyond its thermal properties. Because it is usually lightweight and manageable, installation is made easier for both professionals and homeowners. Reflective insulation also offers homeowners long-term performance and peace of mind because it is resilient and resistant to mold, moisture, and pests.

Reflective insulation can also help with environmental sustainability and energy savings. Lowering the demand for heating and cooling can result in lower energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint for homeowners. This helps lessen the overall environmental impact of energy consumption in addition to benefiting specific households.

To sum up, reflective insulation is a great choice for homeowners looking to increase their home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Because of its efficiency, adaptability, simplicity of installation, and environmental advantages, it represents a wise investment for present and prospective homeowners who wish to improve the functionality of their houses.