Radiant Barriers — A Summer Add-On for Hot Utah Attics

Reflective foil that reduces radiant heat gain from the roof deck. An add-on to proper insulation and air sealing, never a substitute.

A radiant barrier is aluminum foil on a backing, installed in the attic to reduce radiant heat transfer from a sun-baked roof deck down toward your ceiling and anything living in the attic — like ductwork. In Utah's long, bright summers, that radiant load is real.

An add-on, not a foundation

We position radiant barriers honestly: they are an add-on for summer comfort after your insulation and air sealing are handled, not a replacement for either. A barrier does nothing for winter heat loss, and it can't compensate for an under-insulated or leaky attic floor. If your attic isn't at the right R-value yet, that comes first — most of Utah requires attics at R-49 to R-60.

Where barriers earn their keep

• Attics with HVAC equipment or duct runs that cook all summer
• South- and west-facing roof planes with heavy sun exposure
• Homes where upstairs rooms overheat by late afternoon

Installed correctly or not at all

Radiant barriers only work with an air gap facing the radiant surface, so installation details matter. We follow manufacturer specifications for facing and fastening, and we'll tell you plainly if your roof geometry doesn't suit a barrier.

If your upstairs runs hot every July, ask about it at your free estimate — we'll prioritize sealing and insulation first, then tell you whether a barrier is worth adding.