teacherman
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Post by teacherman on Jul 1, 2015 6:14:30 GMT -8
Went to Home Depot and bought some sheets of styrofoam insulation. Does the shiny aluminum side face in or out?
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teacherman
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Post by teacherman on Jul 1, 2015 6:16:02 GMT -8
Also, should I attach it somehow? With what? Adhesive? Or just let it free float?
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RinTin
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Post by RinTin on Jul 2, 2015 5:45:55 GMT -8
Hi teacherman,
The primary purpose of the foil is that it acts as a heat reflector. If installed with the foil facing to the exterior, it will reflect heat back to the outside, away from the trailer. Just the opposite if installed facing the interior.
For greatest effect, foil faced rigid foam insulation is typically intended to be installed with the edges butted to each other and the seam taped with foil tape. This isn't to say you cannot use it between studs as you intend to, but by doing so, the benefits of the foil will be diminished, unless you also tape over the studs, which will be impossible to do with the foil facing to the inside.
Usually the foil faces the side to which, depending on your climate, you will receive the greatest benefit. However, since the foil also acts as a vapor barrier, in a trailer it is probably best to always install it facing the outside.
When installing, you want as few voids as possible. If you can cut all your pieces so that they fit tight you don't need to use adhesive. Minimally expanding foam can also be used to fill voids as well as help hold looser pieces in place, just be careful no to use too much. Some foam backer rod may also come in handy.
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Post by vikx on Jul 5, 2015 21:26:39 GMT -8
What RinTin said... I put the foil facing out. The pieces are cut a little large and tightly fitted between the studs and framing. It stays in place very well. A smaller jigsaw really comes in handy for cutting, but it sure makes a MESS. A belt sander is also great for fine tuning, an even worse mess.
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