This practice recognizes that effectiveness, safety, and durability of reflective insulation depends not only on the quality of the insulating materials, but also on their proper installation.

Improper installation of insulation can reduce its thermal effectiveness, cause fire risks and other unsafe conditions, and promote deterioration of the structure in which it is installed. Specific hazards that can result from improper installation include fires caused by (1) heat build-up in recessed lighting fixtures, (2) deterioration or failure of electrical wiring components, and heat build-up resulting from overcurrent protection devices incorrectly matched to wiring; or (3) deterioration in wood structures and paint failure due to moisture accumulation.

This practice provides recommendations for the installation of reflective insulation in a safe and effective manner. Actual conditions in existing buildings may vary greatly and in some cases additional care should be taken to ensure safe and effective installation.

This practice presents requirements that are general in nature and considered practical. They are not intended as specific recommendations. The user should consult manufacturer for recommended applications.

1.1 This practice has been prepared for use by the designer, specifier, and installer of reflective insulation for use in building construction. The scope is limited to recommendations relative to the use and installation of thermal insulation consisting of one or more surfaces, having an emittance of 0.1 or less such as metallic foil or metallic deposits unmounted or mounted on substrates and facing enclosed air spaces. The reflective insulation covered by this practice must meet the requirements of Specification C 1224.

1.2 This practice covers the installation process from pre-installation inspection through post-installation procedure. It does not cover the production of the insulation materials.

1.3 This practice is not intended to replace the manufacturer's installation instructions, but shall be used in conjunction with such instructions. This practice is not intended to supercede local, state, or federal codes.

1.4 This practice assumes that the installer possesses a good working knowledge of the applicable codes and regulations, safety practices, tools, equipment, and methods necessary for the installation of thermal insulation materials. It also assumes that the installer understands the fundamentals of construction that affect the installation of insulation.

1.5 The values given in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The SI units in parentheses are for information only.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.