Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Predictable Indoors Using Radiant Shield

Predictable Indoors Using Radiant Shield

By Issac Smalls


Radiant shield stabilizes internal conditions by preventing heat gain or loss through radiation. It is made of a layer of aluminum that is cross woven with polyethylene material. This makes it suitable for harsh environmental conditions where temperature control is paramount. It is effective because of its light weight and the fact that it can easily be manipulated depending on the situation. Films that are not perforated are also used as vapor barriers.

To ease the process of installation, the shields come in variety of widths including 48, 26 and 18 inches. This makes it easy to use in a variety of areas with minimal adjustments. They are used on both residential and commercial houses or can be used in houses that heavily rely on frames. The uses vary depending on the environment where it is needed and the purpose.

The most common areas where heat is lost or gained within a house are the floor, the ceiling and the walls. Transfer of heat happens through convection, radiation and conduction. Most of the insulation efforts are geared at reducing the rate of conduction and convection. It means that radiation is left unattended which makes the house uncomfortable and unpredictable.

The shield has an aluminum lining on one side that keeps radiations away. This is up to ninety percent of radiations that would affect heat levels in the house. Complete insulation requires total coverage and consideration of all the areas where heat might be lost or gain entry into the house. Temperatures in the room are thus predictable and stable. The foil is easier to install during construction.

An air barrier of about three inches is important to make the foil work more effectively. Measures should be taken to prevent dust accumulation. This is especially important if the air space exists on both sides. The foil should be a reasonable distance away from any enclosed space or the aluminum lining should face downwards. Dust makes the surface less reflective which reduces its effectiveness.

Some of the areas where the shields are used include on windows to reduce emissivity. The material is prepared by laminating a polyester film through a metalized process. Depending on the amount of metal used on the surface, it will control heat to a certain extent. It is this surface that resists the transfer of heat towards the interior or away from the house.

Houses that have installed these shields enjoy long term benefits including reduction of their utility bill. The house consumes less energy to control internal temperature and other conditions. This means less expenditure on electricity or the other sources of energy. It results in more comfortable houses with reduced peak conditioning load.

A radiant shield works both ways, by reducing the heat that comes into the house during the day and preventing heat loss when the sun goes down. A barrier that is not perforated acts as a shield against vapor and can be used on the floor to prevent ground moisture. The films are therefore multi-purpose and come with incredible energy saving advantages.




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