One of the frustrating parts of this industry is how many folks are selling products to homeowners that cannot work as advertised. 

One of the most common stories we are hearing in our region is companies selling radiant barrier under the shingles to entice them into using their roofing service.

The Pitch

The pitch, as I understand it, is that they will save money on their utility bills and qualify for a tax credit.  The sales reps use this as to entice you to sign up for their remodeling company or roofing repair company so they can sell you a roof and offer you this “Free” upgrade.

They will explain how it reflects the suns heat and save you big money on your utility bills.  They will tell you that it will qualify for an energy tax credit on your income tax return and that it is the latest and greatest new feature for your home.

There is only one BIG problem, it won’t work. 

Why Won’t It Work

Radiant barriers require an air space to work otherwise they just transfer the heat to the items/materials it is touching. No air space, no benefit.

Here are some web resources that reflect this dynamic.  You will note in every case that they refer to the need for the air space.

http://www.ornl.gov/sci/roofs+walls/radiant/index.html

http://www.radiantbarrier.com/faq.htm

http://www.energyefficientsolutions.com/rbfaq.asp

http://atticfoil.com/radiant-barrier-shingles.htm

Placing any type of radiant barrier between your shingles and decking will not work.  If a salesman is trying to tell you it does, then you should be cautious of all their claims.

Avoid Those Who Don’t Know

There is more to building a home than what you see on TV or reading brochures from manufacturers.  When you work with a contractor on roofing, remodeling or new construction, make sure they understand the science of building.

If don’t understand the basics of radiant barriers, they probably have other areas they lack knowledge in as well.  If they do understand the basics of radiant barrier BUT still want to install a product that won’t work, then kick them in shin for being a jerk and contact a trusted contractor who can give you a choice of options that work.

This will not only save you money and time but it will make your home a more comfortable place to live.

 Questions

If you have a question on how to repair your home or seek out energy saving options, please feel free to email your questions to our offices.  Garabedian Properties is a full service building firm serving the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.  We offer new luxury homes, premium remodels, green building/remodeling, home care services, storm/roof repairs and commercial building contracting.

Please feel free to leave your comments, drop us an email at mike@garabedianproperties.com or call our office at 817-748-2669. I also encourage you to visit http://www.garabedianproperties.com to see movies on our homes, hundreds of pictures and information on how we can be of service to your family or clients.  Or become a fan on Facebook.

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