I am building a new home in Scottsdale, Arizona. My general contractor is suggesting a radiant barrier for the attic and the entire wall perimeter of the house. I can find lots of information on the benefits of radiant barriers in the attic, but nothing for the walls. Can you help me understand if there is any benefit to wrapping the entire house?
Answer:
The benefit to adding a radiant barrier to the walls would require following the same installation rules as in the attic — the radiant barrier must face an air space in order to retard heat. That means that you would need to include spacers or some method of ensuring an air space between the radiant barrier and the house siding. Your contractor should be able to discuss ways to achieve that.