A roofing accessory has been getting attention recently — but it’s not new and it’s not roofing. Rising energy bills, code changes and tax credits all create a nice environment for a thin envelope of aluminum sheets known as radiant barriers. This inexpensive technology employs the unique properties of aluminum in order to protect everything from warehouses to astronauts. It also presents another opportunity for roofing contractors to address the energy consumption needs of their clients.
There are limitations. The emerging markets are currently for residential buildings in the Sunbelt, but commercial markets are being identified. And the question of which contractor is best qualified to install is unanswered in many states. Still, RBs have the potential to become a standard consideration for roofing systems.