Metal Building insulation regrets/likes

[RancherGuy]

Several years ago, but less than 10, I had a 100x100 metal barn building erected. 16' eaves. I bought some of that reflective bubble insulation, maybe 1/4" thick, in big rolls. Had the erection crew install it under the sheet metal roof, before adding the metal sheets. I wanted to reduce the radiant heat nature of the sun hitting the metal. It works and I'd do it again for the cost. The downsides are: (1) some of the tape between the roll edges has come loose, but it can be replaced where needed if I can get up there, and (2) finding leaks can be deceptive. I have twice had to review the roof to try to address leaks. I found screw holes w/o screws and after removing some screws found that not all screws had the neoprene washers for sealing. But that's the installation crew to blame.

Since yours is already up, I would not recommend the reflective bubble - lots of labor (at this point) and keeping it affixed may be extremely frustrating. I'd recommend spray by professionals.

 

[bindian]

In 2007, I roofed my barn and installed foil faced bubble insulation with a white underside. It took about 3-4 years and it started cracking and falling. I thought I installed it wrong, until I grabbed the left over roll I had in the put in the rafter area. It crumbled in my grasp. Turns out Mueller Metal warrantied it, but by the time I found this out, it was out of time. Each time I am up in the rafters, I knock all I can reach. It just crumbles to the floor.
hugs, Brandi

 

[Hay Dude]

Spray fPam is best, but doesn’t look real pretty after the years go by.

 

[widefat]

Thanks for the input. I am thinking spray foam for the roof underside, and batting over a radiant barrier for the sides. I need to get estimates and calc the delta twixt all foam vs. the combination of foam and batting. Would prefer all foam unfortunately the solution had to be budget driven.

 

[Gee Ray]

Aren't there two types of foam? Is one better then the other? And why?

 

[4570Man]

Aren't there two types of foam? Is one better then the other? And why?

Yes, closed cell and open cell. Closed cell is better and more expensive.

 

[Gee Ray]

Yes, closed cell and open cell. Closed cell is better and more expensive.

Could you give any details as to why the closed is better? I have a small house that needs to be insulated in the attic. The house has attic rafters , thus a room upstairs, and a tin roof. The Florida sun cooks this place.

Experience counts for a more honest opinion than what a salesman will tell me.

 

[ponytug]

Water goes through open cell foam and you have ugly things happening like rot, mold, and rust.

All the best,

Peter

 

[KennyG]

Also, air moves through open cell, significantly reducing the insulation rating.