rFoil Reflective Insulation for Industrial Applications

Insulating industrial buildings and warehouses is very important. However, since it's such a large space, it can be very expensive. The insulation you choose can either save or cost money in both energy savings and the life of your building. That's why choosing the right insulation is one of the most critical decisions you can make.

rFoil is the ideal insulation for industrial buildings and warehouses. Not only is it a reflective insulation, it's also a moisture/vapor barrier. With it, you can:

• Replace fiberglass or foam insulation
• Block out condensation that normally collects under a roof
• Cut heating and cooling costs

Frequently asked questions about industrial buildings and warehouses

• Should I use it in the roof/ceiling?
• Is condensation a problem? Can rFoil eliminate this problem?
• Should I insulate my walls?
• What else do I need?

In the roof or in the ceiling?

In the summer, because of the hot summer sun, most of the heat gain in a building comes through the roof. In the winter, since convective heat (warm air) rises, most heat loss is also through the roof (along with your heating bills). However, most industrial buildings/warehouses aren't insulated because of their size, and the complexities of insulating large widths between rafters.

rFoil insulation will insulate against these problems by reflecting heat back outside in the summer, reflecting it back inside in the winter, and prevent condensation and moisture buildup. rFoil can also cover large spans between rafters and trusses, so it works well in large buildings as well as smaller ones.

The easiest time to install rFoil is during building construction, between the studs and metal. However, it's very easy to retrofit an existing building as well. Installation instructions are available from WE International by calling (574) 457-3066, or by emailing us at weexport@we-intl.com.

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Is condensation a problem? Why?

Some buildings in the upper half of the country have serious problems with condensation. This happens when the temperature on the outside and the temperature on the inside are significantly different (usually in the fall and winter). As the heat from inside the building and cold from outside of the building meet (generally at the roof level), condensation forms and collects on the underneath side of the steel roof. As it collects, the condensation rains down inside the building, or soaks up fiberglass insulation already installed. Once fiberglass insulation gets wet, it's ruined.

Can rFoil eliminate this problem?

Yes. Because rFoil reflects 97% of all radiant heat, it blocks heat from actually getting through the first layer of foil. So, while it may be cold on the other side of the insulation, the heat will not reach it. As a result, condensation is prevented from occurring, and the inside of the building stays dry.

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Should I insulate my walls?

In most cases, yes. Heat will still enter and leave through walls, so insulating the walls or ceiling may not be enough. Insulating the walls with rFoil will create a tight, moisture-proof barrier against unwanted heat loss and gain.

In high-traffic/high-abuse areas, it's not uncommon to see tears and rips in rFoil installations. To prevent this, we recommend using No-Tear insulation, a no-bubble, nylon-reinforced insulation that is highly resistant to tears and rips. If a tear develops in a piece of No-Tear, high strength nylon fibers prevent the insulation from tearing any further. It can be used in nearly any installation where Bubble Barrier would be used.

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What else do I need?

When using rFoil, there will be seams and splices that need to be covered up, to prevent heat loss/gain at these points. We have reflective tape available that is used for covering up seams. There is a formula to use when ordering tape and insulation, which we will provide to you with your quote.

Pricing, dealer information, and application instructions are available from WE International by calling (574) 457-3066, or by emailing us at weexport@we-intl.com.

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