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How Should Radiant Barrier Be Installed?

In any home, heat and moisture play a role during construction and long after. LP® TechShield® Radiant Barrier, the #1 radiant barrier sheathing in the industry, is equipped with VaporVents™ Technology that allows trapped moisture to escape during and after construction while the foil blocks up to 97% of radiant heat in roof panels from emitting into the attic. 

Since LP TechShield panels have already been installed in over 2 million homes in the United States and continue to be a leader in radiant barrier sheathing, a refresh on how to install sheathing can help maximize the product’s performance and keep you from an installation error that can impact your warranty.  

Let’s take a look at a list of quick tips to keep top-of-mind for radiant barrier sheathing installation.

Radiant Barrier Sheathing Installation Do’s and Don’ts

Do

  • Store panels in a clean, dry space off the ground
  • Install with the foil side down
  • Install with the long dimension across supports and with the panel continuous over two or more spans
  • Prior to roofing, cover LP TechShield Radiant Barrier sheathing as soon as it’s installed with roofing felt or shingle underlayment to protect against excessive moisture prior to roofing 

Don’t

  • Expose foil side to the elements
  • Drop on corners or crush edges
  • Damage the foil surface

Find complete installation instructions here. 

How To Install Radiant Barrier Sheathing Properly

Now that you have these crucial do’s and don’ts top-of-mind, let’s dive into more detailed installation instructions for how to install radiant barrier sheathing.

Step 1: Prepare Your Panels

One of the most common mistakes when it comes to radiant barrier sheathing installation is installing the panels with the incorrect side facing down. Radiant barrier sheathing panels have two sides: a foil surface and a skid-resistant surface. 

LP TechShield panels should always be installed with the foil side down and the skid-resistant side facing up. Be sure to wear skid-resistant shoes during radiant barrier sheathing installation in a roof application.

Step 2: Space and Arrange Panels

Space all panel edges at a 1/8-inch minimum. Install with the long dimension across supports and with the panel continuous over two or more spans. End joints should meet over framing.

Step 3: Attach Panels to Framing

In the absence of project specifications, nail panels 6 inches on center along supported ends and edges and 12 inches on center at intermediate supports. Fasten panels 3/8-inch from panel edges. Use 8d common nails.

Step 4: Cover Roof Sheathing

Cover LP TechShield Radiant Barrier sheathing as soon as possible with roofing felt or shingle underlayment to protect against excessive moisture prior to roofing. 

Once the sheathing is covered, your LP TechShield installation is complete! 

Common Mistakes When Installing Radiant Barrier Sheathing

  • Installing the foil side up
  • Leaving the surface exposed to the elements  
  • Not properly spacing the panel ends and edges

With these do’s, don’ts and watchouts on hand, you’re ready to start installation. Find detailed step-by-step installation instructions here.

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