RIMA-I acknowledges the placement of a radiant barrier on top of mass insulation in attic spaces
subject to the following conditions:
1. The mass insulation and ceiling building materials should be checked for any evidence of
moisture accumulation. Any existing moisture problem should be corrected before installing the
radiant barrier.
2. Radiant barriers used for this application must have a water vapor transmission per of at least five
(5), as measured by ASTM E-96.
3. Installation should be accomplished by laying the radiant barrier materials on top of the attic
insulation without stapling or taping, so that it has very loose contact with the material below.
4. Radiant barriers for this application should meet a Class A, Class 1 flame spread and smoke
development rating as determined by ASTM E-84.
5. The potential for contamination of the top surface by dust or dirt must be considered in specific
applications where applicable.
6. As with all building materials, local building codes should be considered.
This replaces the 1988 position paper on this application.
Reflective Insulation Manufacturers Association International (RIMA-I)
PO Box 14174
Lenexa, KS 66285
Toll-Free: 800/279-4123
Fax: 913/839-8882
E-Mail: rima@rima.net
www.rimainternational.org
The Reflective Insulation Manufacturers Association International (RIMA-I), its members, and/or agents, make no guarantee as to, and
assume no responsibility for, the correctness, sufficiency or completeness of the information contained herein. The information provided
herein is intended to be a guide to the concept and applications of reflective insulation.
Copyright 2009 by the Reflective Insulation Manufacturers Association International 04/99