Foil Bubble Wrap Is Not Insulation!

Foil Bubble Wrap Is Not Insulation!

Foil bubble wrap has been touted as a cost-effective solution for insulating windows, walls, ceilings, and more. Proponents of the products brag about its superior insulating properties and its affordability. But how good is foil bubble wrap insulation, really? The truth is, while foil bubble wrap has its viable uses in the construction industry, it is a poor choice for most insulating purposes. 

When it comes to this type of “insulation”, the old adage “you get what you pay for” rings true. The true application of foil bubble wrap is that it acts as a radiant barrier. That is, it reduces the transfer of heat, typically from the exterior of a material to its interior. In order for foil bubble wrap to be an effective radiant barrier, it must allow an air gap between the material and what it is trying to protect from heat. 

The effectiveness of insulation is generally denoted by its “R-value.” According to www.EnergyStar.gov, the definition of R-value is as follows: “R-Value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it.” Foil bubble wrap has virtually no R-value. Why you may ask? Because when it is installed properly, it reflects heat away. The purpose of insulation in the construction industry is to slow the transfer of heat from the interior of a building to its exterior. By the very definition insulation, foil bubble wrap hardly qualifies. 

Are there valid uses for foil bubble wrap as insulation? While the answer to this question is “yes”, it is very limited in its effectiveness when used for this purpose. Brands of foil bubble wrap include ARMAFoil, Ecofoil, and RadiantGuard. For most cases, however, those who work in construction are probably better off using something that is more effective.

So in what situations should bubble wrap, in general, be used as an insulator? Practically never. Bubble wrap that is not covered with foil can be put onto single pane windows as a means of temporary insulation. The application process is simple and involves spraying the window pane with water and applying the bubble wrap. The water allegedly allows the bubble wrap to stick to the window pane. While this may be a legitimate use, individuals concerned with insulating windows are likely better off using a plastic sheet that does not obstruct the view. 

Many building experts refer to the use of foil bubble wrap as insulation as a scam. It was advertised as an effective solution in the early 2000s, but no scientific evidence exists to prop up the wild claims of its effectiveness. The bottom line when it comes to this material is: stay away! Even as a radiant barrier, there are other solutions that are more affordable and effective.