Does Reflectix Work For Backpacking Gear?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The values utilized in Reflectix® R-value calculations for Interior “Air Films” are as follows: Reflective side of product:

R-4.55 Down • R-1.32 Up • R-1.70 Horizontal

.

How do you use a reflectix when camping?

Can reflectix get wet?

“this is because Reflectix is a vapor barrier and doesn’t breath.” None of the products we use for pads or ground cloth breathes.

It gets wet because it gets cold enough to condense the vapor

. As others found, it can be good to supplement a regular pad.

Is reflectix an air barrier?

The Goal: Create two approximately equal continuous 1 3/4” air spaces on each side of the Reflectix® Insulation. This application also

provides a vapor/moisture barrier

. Finish wall interior with a panel or sheathing (Product is not specified as an interior wall covering).

How much of an air gap does Reflectix need?

This product specifically states on it in big red letters “R-8 WITH AIRSPACE” and “R-6.0 WITHOUT AIRSPACE.” The company’s website says “The product provides an R-8.0 when installed with a

0.75”

air gap between the duct and the insulation, and R-6.0 when installed direct to the duct without a spacer.”

Does Reflectix keep heat out?


It helps reduce heat

– though not as good as the solid cover – but the advantages of letting in light and allowing us to see through it is worth it. And if it is letting in too much heat we can add the reflective sunshade behind it. We also have pieces of Reflectix that fit in the passenger and driver door windows.

Where do we use Reflectix?

Which side of Reflectix faces out?

When it’s hot out, we want to keep the heat out of the van. The window coverings are placed such that

the Reflectix side is facing outward

, to reflect the sun’s rays. In the cold, with the Reflectix facing inward, it helps to keep heat trapped inside the van where we want it.

Does Reflectix work when covered?


No, it is not efficient once you cover it

. It needs an air gap between the reflective surface and the radiant heat source. If you cover it directly, the fabric will heat up accordingly and the reflectix is not a good choice to deal with conductive heat.

Can you sleep on Reflectix?

Does Reflectix stop condensation?

As well as reflecting and blocking radiant heat,

radiant barriers and reflective foil insulation are also great at reducing condensation

.

Can you cut Reflectix?

Unroll the Reflectix® as you work and

cut it to suitable lengths (8′ to 12′) with scissors or utility knife

. If a helper is available, rolling out longer lengths of product with one person stapling and the other holding the end of the product makes for a quicker installation.

Is radiant barrier worth?

Some studies show that

radiant barriers can reduce cooling costs 5% to 10% when used in a warm, sunny climate

. The reduced heat gain may even allow for a smaller air conditioning system. In cool climates, however, it’s usually more cost-effective to install more thermal insulation than to add a radiant barrier.

What are the pros and cons of insulation?

Advantage:

Most common, non-flammable, resistant to moisture damage, and effectively blocks heat flow

. Disadvantage: It can be highly irritating to your skin and lungs if you come in direct contact with it. Installation: Fairly simple, and you can do it yourself.

Does reflective insulation need a air gap?


You MUST have an air gap in order to get either the emissivity quality or the reflectivity quality that you’re looking for

, otherwise the foil will not work as a radiant barrier.

How reflective is Reflectix?

The product consists of one

96%

reflective layer of film bonded to two internal layers of heavy gauge polyethylene bubbles (total thickness 5/16”). A wide variety of widths and lengths are manufactured.

What is the R-value of 2 inch foam board?

Thickness (in Inches) R-value (in I-P/Imperial) RSI (R-value in Metric) 1.0 6.2 1.08 1.5 9.3 1.62
2.0


12.4


2.16
2.5 15.5 2.7

Can Reflectix break windows?

Reflectix is a great product when being used for it’s intended use as a reflective insulation or radiant barrier. It is not intended for use in residential or RV windows.

When used on the inside it can break any window whether it is single or double pane

.

Where should Reflectix insulation be placed?

Which is better insulation or radiant barrier?

Studies show that

radiant barrier can reduce cooling costs by 5 to 10% in places where the air conditioner runs most of the year

. However, in cold climates, it’s usually more cost-effective to install extra thermal insulation rather than adding a radiant barrier.

Does bubble foil insulation work?

Foil-faced bubble wrap is a radiant barrier.

It’s not insulation

. A radiant barrier reduces heat transfer by radiation and has two excellent applications in homes.

Can you double layer Reflectix?

With multiple layers of product and airspaces between each layer, enhanced performance will be gained.

If the product is simply “doubled” (with no air space between the layers), a very minimal benefit is obtained

, (R-1.1 (per layer) for the Reflective/Double Bubble product).

Is Reflectix soundproof?

Dynamat is a sound deadening material and

Reflectix is a heat barrier

. They have completely different properties so Dynamat won’t guard against heat and Reflectix won’t guard against vibrations. The Dynamat or comparable sound deadener would go down first on the bare floors and panels of the cabin.

How do you black out a Reflectix?

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.