I'm looking to add insulation to an 8x12' storage shed so that it can be a bit more comfortable inside. It already is wired for electricity. I am in the process of migrating an 8' long, 24" deep cabinet from the garage to the shed. I think it will be used more in the future than it was in the past. Supply chain issues are affecting availability. I can get fiberglass rolls shipped in from a remote Lowes for $500, or use Double Sided Reflective Heat Radiant Barrier Aluminum Foil Insulation from Amazon for $280. Both would arrive in about a week. What is the performance level of the latter? I'm not looking for 10/10 level stuff, just something to make the interior a bit more bearable during the summer. TIA.
When you say radiant barrier aluminum foil insulation, is it just a foil or reflective paper? is it attached to a foam or something? Does it have an R value? I have seen the reflective roll material used in commercial on the bottom of the roof rafters. I did the same thing in my own home years ago trying to mimic what radiant barrier sheeting does. I think the effect was minimal and I wouldn't use it in place of insulation. I would lean toward the fiberglass insulation. All that being said, I'm just a GC, not an insulation specialist.
If you are going with fiberglass, hire an insulation company to do it as it will be the same price or cheaper than you can buy it for and won’t have to deal with putting it in.
I've re-checked my calculations. BTW, this is for 24" framing. 2x4's, so 3.5" thickness. 6' wall height, and was going to cover ceiling as well. I can get Q = 3 of 3-1/2 in. x 23 in. x 93 in. (11 batts each) for $116 each and cover 90% of it. That is still almost $380 with tax. Found a different brand in stock at HD and they only charge $9 to deliver.
You may already know this but, be sure you staple the paper backing on to the side of the stud. I've seen many homeowners staple it on the face which prevents construction adhesive from hitting the stud if you finish the inside at a later date.
The only "finish" for this small work shed is pegboard being re-used after its removal from the garage!
Find a local supplier, you know the one where the contractors go, should be a lot cheaper than the box stores.
In your case with supply chain issues in your area, etc you are probably better off hiring someone plus that stuff sucks to put up and it’s a job I’d hire out anyways. Checked with a buddy here that’s a general contractor and he said good rule of thumb for small job is assume box store price plus 20% for a contractor to come do it. The 20% goes down larger the job obviously. Like said above DO NOT forget the roof, they have a boat load of thermal transfer.
Check your local Craigslist or Marketplace, usually there's tons of new and used insulation of all types.
Did you say Summer? What is the insulation for may I ask? Are you running A/C? If not you will be holding heat with insulation unless there is some cool air to hold inside. You may be better served installing a gable exhaust fan with a thermostat to draw hot air out of the space. Or go nuts and run a floor/ wall ducted cheap A/c unit. Would cool that in no time. sorry I may not understand!
