How to Apply a Radiant Barrier to a Sealed Roof System

Heat gain from the sun's rays on the roof is a major contributor to the cost of cooling the home. Dark shingles absorb the sun's rays, and, particularly in a sunny climate, can greatly increase energy bills. There are several ways to deal with this issue, including adding insulation to the attic and improving attic ventilation. If it is time to replace the roof, adding a radiant barrier is an inexpensive and efficient choice.

Radiant barrier
Scissors or knife
Staple gun
Hammer and nails
Wood batten boards

Instructions

- 1
  Roll the radiant barrier out over the existing roofing felt. Radiant barrier foil is easy to work with. Cut it with scissors or a knife, and staple it directly to the roofing felt.
- 2
  Create an air gap. It is important to create an air gap when using radiant barrier foil. If you sandwich the foil directly between the roofing felt and shingles, the heat will not be reflected back up to the sky. Metal and tile roofs typically have enough texture to create their own air gap, but with a sealed roof system, you can create one with wood batten boards.
  
  Nail the batten boards around the roof, starting on one side at the bottom and working around the house and to the peak of the roof. Place the boards perpendicular to the rafters or roofing joists, nailing through the radiant foil and roofing felt and into the joists.
- 3
  Shingle the roof as normal, nailing the shingles to the batten boards.

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