It’s best not to install a radiant barrier directly under insulation because it requires an air gap on at least one side to work properly. Instead, you should install the radiant barrier over your existing insulation to create an air space to reflect the radiant heat.

The primary reason that insulation saves you money over time is that it reduces your energy bills by making your home more energy efficient. A crucial part of an insulation system is a properly installed vapor barrier. Local building codes dictate whether your insulation requires a vapor barrier based on the type installed. While some high-quality wool insulation may not technically need a vapor barrier, most municipalities still require one to meet code.

Yes, you can install insulation over ductwork, and doing so can save you money. Without insulation, the HVAC unit must work harder to force warm or cool air around the home, and once the air reaches the vent, it may not be the correct temperature. Insulating HVAC ducts makes your system work more efficiently, saving you money on heating and cooling bills.

Yes. Proper, complete insulation will ensure that you trap the most cool or warm air inside your home, preventing high energy bills. In addition, insulation tends to settle and compress, leaving gaps over time; the more you insulate completely during the initial installation, the less you’ll need to do down the line.