Foil Faced vs Paper Vapor Barrier

Nov 02, 2005 1 Replies

Is there any real difference in design performance?



I wonder about the vapor barrier effectiveness of paper backed insulation ? It does seem that foil faced insulation is not readily available (at HD).



During a recent bathroom gutting and remodelling project, the contractor removed all foil faced R19 ceiling insulation and the insulation that was in the exteriaor wall. He replaced with paper-backed R19 insulation in areas .


The paper works just as well. If there is an air space between the foil and the next surface then you gain a little thermo efficiency due to the reflection of the heat but the shinny foil. Not enough to get excited about in real use.

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