Bakersfield, CA · Kern County
Radiant Barrier Installation in Bakersfield, CA
Reflect roof heat before it reaches your attic, ducts and ceilings.
How a Radiant Barrier Works
On a sunny Bakersfield afternoon, the roof deck radiates heat down into the attic. A radiant barrier reflects most of that radiant heat back toward the roof, lowering the heat load on the attic floor, ductwork and air handler.
Best Paired With Insulation
A radiant barrier does not replace insulation. It works alongside an attic insulated to the recommended depth, and it adds the most value when ducts run through the attic.
Installation
Foil is typically stapled to the underside of the rafters with an air gap, leaving ventilation paths open. On a new roof or re-roof, radiant-barrier sheathing is another option.
Quick Answers
What does a radiant barrier do?
A radiant barrier is a reflective foil layer installed under the roof that reflects radiant heat from the hot roof deck back out, so less heat reaches the attic floor and ductwork. It works best in hot, sunny climates like Bakersfield.
Is a radiant barrier the same as insulation?
No. Insulation slows heat conduction; a radiant barrier reflects radiant heat. They work together, and a radiant barrier is usually added along with proper attic insulation.
Where is a radiant barrier installed?
Usually stapled to the underside of the roof rafters, or as radiant-barrier roof sheathing on new roofs or re-roofs. It needs an air gap and should not be laid directly on top of attic insulation, where dust reduces its effect.
Is a radiant barrier worth it in Bakersfield?
In homes with ducts in the attic and long, hot summers, radiant barriers commonly lower attic temperatures noticeably. Call (661) 244-2057 and we'll look at your attic and tell you honestly whether it makes sense.