Reflective Bubble White Poly - A Single Bubble Insulation
Product Overview
Single Bubble Reflective White Poly Insulation is specifically engineered for under-concrete and slab-on-grade installations. It features a durable layer of white poly on one side and a reflective aluminum foil surface on the other, with a single layer of air-bubble core that helps reduce heat loss through the ground and prevents upward moisture migration. This insulation creates a dependable thermal break beneath concrete, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort in slab-based construction.
Key Features
Purpose-Built for Concrete Installations
Under-Slab Thermal Barrier
Designed to be installed directly beneath poured concrete slabs, this insulation helps reduce heat transfer to the ground, which minimizes energy loss and improves thermal efficiency in conditioned slab spaces.
Moisture Resistance
Acts as an effective vapor barrier by blocking ground moisture and preventing it from entering the slab or interior space. This is especially important for preventing mold growth and maintaining indoor air quality.
Durable Construction
Reflective Performance
Applications
Residential
Basements with radiant or hydronic floor heating
Slab-on-grade living spaces
Heated garages and workshops
Commercial and Industrial
Warehouses and distribution centers with radiant floors
Commercial slab flooring in offices or retail spaces
Cold storage or walk-in freezers requiring thermal isolation
Agricultural and Utility Structures
Pole barns and sheds with poured flooring
Animal enclosures or kennels with floor-based heating
Greenhouses with slab or hydroponic systems
Key Benefits
Improved Energy Efficiency: Reduces heat loss into the ground, especially beneficial for radiant heated floors
Moisture Protection: Helps prevent vapor infiltration and related structural issues
Comfort Enhancement: Warmer slab temperatures lead to more comfortable interiors
Installation-Ready: Lays flat and cuts easily; install before rebar or wire mesh placement
Installation Tips
Lay insulation white side up.
Overlap seams by at least 2 inches and seal with vapor barrier tape
Ensure insulation lies flat beneath reinforcement mesh
Pour concrete directly over the insulation without adhesives
For detailed installation methods, see: How To Insulate A Concrete Slab
Technical Information
Characteristics | Value |
---|
Nominal Thickness | 5/32 in. |
Tensile Strength | 14.6 lb |
Tear Strength | 4.9 lb |
Width (in.) of roll | 48 |
Length (ft.) | 125 |
Diameter (in.) | 17.5 |
Coverage (Sq. Ft.) | 500 |
Weight (lbs) | 24 |
APPLICATION CONDITIONS |
Temperature | -50°F minimum, 180°maximum |
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS |
Thermal performance |
Emissivity: (ASTM C1371) | 0.04-.0.05 |
Reflectivity | 95 - 96% |
R Values |
Heat flow down | 7.3 |
Heat flow up | 2.7 |
Heat flow horizontal | 3.4 |
Falme Spread/Smoke Spread: ASTM E84/2599-08, Class A/Class 1 |
Water Vapor Permeance |
Method | ASTM E96 |
Result | 0.000 |
The R value of the system will vary dependent on the airspace size.
INSULATION LAYERS |
---|
Reflective Surface |
Polyethylene backing |
Polyethylene bubble |
Polyethylene backing |
White facer |
Applications of Single Bubble Reflective White Poly Insulation
Residential Applications
Slab-on-Grade Homes
Used beneath the concrete slab in slab-on-grade home construction, this insulation provides a critical thermal break between the structure and the ground. It helps retain heat indoors during cold seasons and improves overall energy efficiency.
Radiant Heated Floors
Perfect for homes with radiant floor heating systems, this insulation reflects heat back into the living space rather than allowing it to dissipate into the ground. It maximizes system efficiency and delivers more consistent comfort across the slab surface.
Finished Basements
Installed under concrete basement slabs, it helps prevent cold floors and moisture intrusion. It’s especially useful in finished basements where floor comfort and long-term protection against ground vapor are priorities.
Garages and Workshops
Whether heated or unheated, concrete floors in garages and workshops benefit from the added moisture barrier and thermal layer this insulation provides. It supports a more stable interior climate and reduces slab condensation.
Commercial and Industrial Applications
Warehouses and Distribution Centers
In large-scale facilities where slab floors dominate, under-concrete insulation helps regulate interior temperatures and lowers the load on HVAC systems. This is especially valuable in temperature-controlled environments or where personnel are working near ground level.
Commercial Offices and Retail Spaces
For commercial buildings with slab foundations, the insulation layer improves occupant comfort and supports energy code compliance. It also enhances the performance of radiant floor systems in lobbies, corridors, and open retail areas.
Cold Storage Facilities
In walk-in coolers, freezers, and cold storage rooms, under-slab insulation is critical to prevent ground frost heave and maintain temperature control. This insulation supports the performance of floor-based cooling systems and minimizes energy loss.
Agricultural and Utility Buildings
Pole Barns and Steel Structures
In agricultural buildings with poured concrete floors, this insulation reduces upward moisture migration, making interior environments more usable and protecting stored goods or machinery.
Animal Housing
Used under concrete floors in kennels, stables, or poultry houses, the insulation helps maintain a more comfortable floor temperature for animals and prevents dampness from rising through the slab.
Greenhouses
Helps insulate slab floors in greenhouses and hydroponic facilities, retaining heat and reducing energy consumption during colder months while also acting as a moisture barrier.
Specialty and Custom Applications
Shipping Container Foundations
When shipping containers are placed on concrete pads, this insulation can be installed under the slab to reduce thermal bridging and control moisture—especially in permanent or semi-permanent builds.
Modular and Prefabricated Structures
Supports energy-efficient slab installations in modular or prefabricated construction. Enhances thermal regulation and simplifies compliance with building insulation requirements.
Benefits of Single Bubble Reflective White Poly Insulation for Under-Concrete Applications
Superior Thermal Performance
Reduces Heat Loss to the Ground
When used under concrete slabs, this insulation acts as a thermal break, helping to prevent the loss of valuable interior heat through the foundation. It’s especially effective in cold climates or radiant-heated slab systems.
Enhances Radiant Floor Efficiency
By reflecting radiant energy upward, it ensures more of the heat generated from in-slab hydronic or electric heating systems is directed into the occupied space rather than being lost into the subgrade.
Effective Moisture Barrier
Blocks Ground Vapor
The white poly outer layer functions as a strong vapor barrier, reducing the risk of moisture infiltration from below the slab. This helps prevent mold, mildew, and damage to flooring materials.
Minimizes Slab Condensation
Helps prevent cold slab surfaces from attracting condensation, particularly in garages, basements, or buildings in high-humidity regions.
Structural and Jobsite Durability
Built for Compression
The insulation maintains structural integrity under the weight of poured concrete, steel reinforcements, and foot or vehicle traffic during construction.
Tear- and Puncture-Resistant
The reinforced white poly layer stands up to jobsite handling, ensuring the insulation lays flat and remains effective before and during the concrete pour.
Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Savings
Reduces HVAC Load
By limiting heat loss through the slab, it lowers the demand on heating systems—resulting in reduced utility bills and longer HVAC equipment lifespan.
Delivers Long-Term Value
Unlike traditional insulation that may degrade over time, single bubble reflective insulation remains stable, ensuring consistent performance for the life of the building.
Easy and Efficient Installation
Installs Quickly Under Slabs
Lightweight and flexible, it rolls out smoothly across gravel beds or vapor-retardant sheets. Seam overlaps and taping are quick and effective for continuous protection.
Compatible with Radiant Heating and Mesh
The insulation can be installed before laying out radiant tubing or wire mesh reinforcement, integrating seamlessly into modern slab-building practices.
Environmentally Friendly Performance
Helps Reduce Carbon Footprint
Improving energy efficiency at the foundation level contributes to a more sustainable building, reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-based heating.
Recyclable Components
Many versions use materials that are recyclable or low in environmental impact, making them a smart choice for green building certifications.
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