Bubble foil insulation is a modern and cost-effective type of insulation material that consists of a bubble layer and a reflective foil surface. This combination results in bubble foil not only being a thin and lightweight material but also a very easy to fit, thermal insulator. In this article, we will review the bubble foil insulation- what it is, what is the principle behind it, and how to use bubble foil insulation to save on energy.
What is Bubble Foil Insulation, and How does it work?
Referred to as reflective bubble insulation, bubble foil insulation is made up of two outer reflective foil layers that sandwich one or more layers of bubble wrap made from polyethylene. The surface of the foil layer reflects light, and it does so while the bubble wrap traps air, stemming the flow of heat by means of conduction and convection.
When appropriately installed and coupled with an air gap, this multi-layer design proves to be highly successful in blocking heat transfer. The reflective surfaces send away radiant heat, and the air contained in the bubble wrap and air gap are shields that prevent heat flow from conduction and convection. During summer, it keeps the heat out, and in the winter, it keeps the warmth in.
How is Bubble Foil Insulation produced and Why it’s effective?
Under explosives regulations, the use of ordinary bubble wrap as insulation is illegal, leading to the creation of bubble foil insulation which is a layer of bubble wrap sandwiched between several layers of foil. The process involves production of insulation as below:
- Polyethylene beads are melted and formed in the shape of a film.
- Then, this film is passed through a series of rollers that blow air pressure to make equidistant placing bubbles.
- Aluminum sheets vacuum bonded to the other side of the bubble wrap, then heating is done under pressure.
The key to bubble foil insulation’s effectiveness lies in its ability to address all three forms of heat transfer: radiation, conduction, and convection. The reflective foil surface provides up to 97% reflection of radiant heat, and the bubble layer, along with air gaps on either side, reduces both conductive and convective heat transfer.
In order to further improve insulation performance, some manufacturers produce an insulation double bubble, which consists of two layers of bubble wrap and aluminum foil insulation on the outside. The additional bubble layer and additional reflective surfaces on the inside further add to the insulation’s heat-blocking capabilities.
How to use Bubble Foil Insulation effectively?
There are several important guidelines you should follow when installing bubble foil insulation in order to optimize its energy efficiency:
- Determine the size of the area to be insulated
Measure the length and width of the space you want to insulate, but make sure to add a few extra inches to account for overlap seams and trimming.
- Cut the bubble foil to size
Using a utility knife or scissors, cut the bubble foil to the dimensions you have measured. It is recommended to use a straight edge for large projects so as to achieve neat straight cut edges.
- Bond the foil with other materials
Also, if you’re using foil insulation with bubble foil, you’ll want to have at least 3/4 inch of air between the foil and the surface you’re insulating. To keep that gap, you can use furring strips, foam spacers, or similar materials.
- Install the bubble foil
Unroll the bubble foil starting from one edge of the area and staple/ tape to the designated spacers. Make sure that the reflective foil side is turned toward the heat source. Do not allow wrinkles as well as gaps by firming the foil to the surface of the structure.
- Overlap seams
Use bubble foil sheets to overlap at least 2 inches to the adjacent bottom bubble foil sheets to permit the formation of a constant barrier. To ensure that the heat does not escape through any gaps, the peace pipes should be covered using foil tape.
- Trim excess material
After the entire bubble foil is inscribed on the surface, perform the cutting of surplus materials around the surface using a utility knife for a smart look.
Where to install Bubble Foil Insulation for optimal energy savings?
Bubble foil insulation is adapted to any component of the building enclosure; however, its unique benefits can best be appreciated when used in these elements:
Attics and cathedral ceilings
In order to prevent the sun’s heat from penetrating, place double bubble foil, such as attic foil, under the roof decking, leaving an air space. Staple the foil sheets to the rafters with the reflective foil side facing down to the living unit.
Exterior walls
Cover metal studs with bubble foil on the installation of wall boards to prevent loss of heat from the walls. This specific purpose would be primarily for houses that have old walls with bad insulation or that are located in a very hot environment.
Metal buildings
Bubble foil works well in insulating metal buildings, especially on the underside of metal roofing sheets and also for metal walls. The reflective surface helps prevent hot heat rays from the metal roof, while the bubble and cavity space reduces conductive heat loss.
Floors over unheated spaces
Place bubble foil insulation as an air barrier beneath the flooring and above places that are not usually insulated, such as crawl areas and garage areas. This helps to keep floors warmer in the winter and helps to reduce noise too.
Conclusion
Learning how to use bubble foil insulation is an appropriate answer to the ever-increasing need to minimize heat loss from or gaining in buildings. It shields from the radiant heat and cocooning air heat, all in an innovative thin product that is more than simple to use.
To get the best energy efficiency from bubble foil insulation, it’s important to make sure the air gap in the wall cavity is done right during installation. When it’s installed correctly, bubble foil insulation helps keep out extra heat in the summer, keeps warmth inside during winter, and can really cut down on energy costs.
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