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Double Bubble Insulation: Bubble wrap vs. Prodex Total

metal roof with Prodex Total Insulation

Bubble Wrap Insulation Compared to Prodex Total?

Bubble Wrap Insulation For Sale:

Reflective Bubble Reflective Insulation: 4ft x 125 ft roll. Single bubble insulation. Radiant barrier composed of 1 layer of 5/32 inch (4mm) polyethylene bubble sandwiched between two metalized, low emissivity surfaces.

white poly reflective insulation cross section Reflective Bubble White Poly Insulation: 4 ft x 125 ft roll. Single bubble insulation. Radiant barrier composed of 1 layer of 5/32 inch (4mm) polyethylene bubble sandwiched between layer of metalized, low emissivity surface and 1 one layer of white polyethylene.

The above items are single bubble wrap insulation. We do not offer double bubble wrap because we aren't able to justify its pricing relative to Prodex Total or single bubble wrap insulation.

Bubble Wrap Insulation Prices

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Foil Only Single Bubble Wrap Double bubble Wrap Prodex Total

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Bubble wrap Insulation and Prodex Total are both suitable for metal buildings, pole barns, homes, attics, roofs, walls, crawlspaces, garages and more - Both insulation products provide R-value, a radiant heat barrier and vapor barrier protection. That's where the similarities end...

Take a look at the photos above. Even if you didn't know anything about bubble wrap insulation or Prodex Total, which one would you choose? The obvious choice is Prodex Total. It has a high quality core that keeps its shape when exposed to forces. Prodex Total has a nominal thickness of 0.2 inch (5mm) and 0.4 inch (10mm) closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced foil facing. Under pressure, the Prodex micro-cells do not collapse -- With a pressure of 6 PSI Prodex compresses just 6%. When the load is relieved it takes back its initial shape. The density of the foam is between 1.25 lb/ft (sq) - 1.87 lb/ft (sq). This gives the material real body.

Because bubble wrap insulation has a core composed of air rather than closed cell polyethylene foam, it lacks the long-term consistency in performance of Prodex Total Insulation.

Bubble Wrap Insulation R value

The R-values of bubble wrap insulation and mass insulation are based on the same fundamental equation: The ability to stop heat transfer.

What is the Difference between Single Bubble and Double BubbleWrap Insulation?

Bubblewrap insulation is composed of either one (single bubble) or two (double) layers of air bubbles sandwiched between two metalized surfaces. Once either is punctured, it collapses. Single bubble has a nominal thickness of 5/32 inch. Double bubble measures 5/16 inch. These measurements bear little resemblance to the effective measurement of the products (photos above).

Is The Best Bubble Wrap Insulation Single of Double Bubble?

We see little difference between the performance of single and double bubble wrap insulation. The latter simply has a second layer of air bubbles (A balloon with more air). Although we strongly recommend Prodex Total over either, if your budget doesn't allow you to purchase the quality of Prodex, we suggest you order our single bubble wrap reflective bubble reflective insulation rather than a double bubble. You'll get virtually all the benefits of the double bubble while saving money.

Prodex Total Insulation Difference vs. Bubble Wrap Insulation

Superior core
Surrounds core with reinforced reflective foil

Prodex Total Insulation = Insulation + Radiant Barrier + Vapor Barrier + Air Barrier All in One Product. One solution to Cold, Heat and Condensation - You'll be warm in winter, cool in summer and dry all the time.

Prodex Total is Reflective Insulation.

U.S. Department of Energy: "Reflective insulation incorporates radiant barriers --typically highly reflective aluminum foils -- into insulation systems that can include a variety of backings, such as Kraft paper, plastic film, polyethylene bubble, or cardboard, as well as thermal insulation materials."

Learn about reflective insulation

Do not be fooled by Wolves in Sheep's clothing - Disguised online pitchmen of fiberglass, cellulose and other insulation types that pretend to be impartial energy advisors!

Below is an example of misleading information you'll find on blog sites of supposed "energy experts". It conveniently disregards the fact that the R-value of reflective insulation is measured as a system. Instead he deceives consumers by citing the R value of the material only in his criticisms. A case of deception by omission.

"Most brands of foil-faced bubble wrap are only 3/8 inch thick or less, and have an R-value of only 1.0 or 1.1. Since the product often costs more per square foot than 1-inch thick rigid foam rated at R-5, why would anyone use bubble wrap as insulation?"

The Wolf knows:

Prodex Total is NOT bubble wrap (They broad brush all reflective insulations as the same).
The R-value of reflective insulation is not measured by the inch.
The R-value of reflective insulation is measured within a system.
Reflective insulation reduces the transfer of heat across air space.
The R-value of reflective insulation and mass insulation is based on the same fundamental equation - The ability to stop heat transfer.

They'll also fail to tell you: The parameters of the R-value test for fiberglass and cellulose insulation involve no moisture or wind. Those aren't the conditions of your home and building. U.S. Department of Energy: "The R-value of some insulations also depends on...moisture accumulation.

Prodex Total Insulation Solves Condensation, Heat and Cold Challenges

Prodex Total Eliminates Condensation

Prodex eliminates the moisture and ice dams from forming on roof and walls. When the heat or cold from outside comes through the sheathing it hits the outside aluminum facing of Prodex and is reflected back upwards through the underside of the sheathing. This process keeps the sheathing temperature consistent on both sides. In addition, the inside layer of aluminum in Prodex reflects away the heat (heater) or cold (air-conditioning) from inside the building, from getting to the sheathing. This also helps in preventing condensation.

Prodex Total Prevents Radiant Heat Transfer

How Foil Insulation Keeps home cool and warm

Prodex Total reflects 97% of the radiant energy (primary source of heat flow) that strikes it. Prodex also reflects back the heat inside your building or home. Each unit of radiant heat energy that is reflected away from your building or home in the summer, and each unit that is reflected back during the winter, means less operation of your heating and air conditioning system - Less wear and tear on your equipment - Less money you pay in utility costs. Fiberglass and spray foam insulation do not prevent radiant heat transfer.

Larkin Palmer: Sunday, October 25, 2009

Rating:

We are so glad you recommended we use your Prodex Total Insulation with adhesive in 2 layers for our steel RV garage. You were right about the quantity of 11 rolls that it would take to cover our building. We love it. It not only insulated well but it also works as a great sound barrier. We also love the reflective tape you sold us but we are short 2 rolls to complete our building as we liked how well it seals and also how much better the insulation looks to cover every seem.

For independent reviews visit Site Jabber.

Prodex Total Keeps You Warm

The Prodex Total R-value is not affected by humidity. This feature cannot be over emphasized. There is humidity in every location. Your insulation must work in these conditions.

Benefits of Prodex Total Insulation

R-value unaffected by humidity

Prevents 97% of radiant heat transfer

Vapor barrier

Prevents condensation

Does not promote mold or mildew

Does not provide for nesting of rodents, bugs or birds

Seals around nails (no leak)

Made with 100% recyclable virgin raw materials

Comparison Chart: Bubble Wrap Insulation and Foil Only to Prodex Total

Foil Only Products Are Not Insulation

Foil only products are typically perforated and composed of two metalized surfaces with a mesh woven in for strength. It is not a vapor barrier, it has no R-value - It is not insulation per se. It's a thin layer of reflective low emissivity film installed with an airspace to block radiant heat transfer between a surface that radiates heat. We refer to these products as foil only radiant barriers.

Prodex Total Insulation - Unlike foil only products (no inner substance), This insulation protects against the energy transferred via conduction and convection. Prodex is a radiant barrier + insulation + Vapor Barrier. More than just a radiant barrier, Prodex Total is one solution for Heat, Cold, and Water. Prodex prevents condensation, heat from coming in and heat from getting out of your building!

Install Instructions for Bubble Wrap Insulation And Prodex Total

It's a lot easier and less expensive to install a 5mm roll of Prodex, or bubblewrap insulation than a bulky 6 inch roll of fiberglass or spray foam. Pinching 6 inches fiberglass between the framing and sheathing is not easy. It's really tough having to use a wire mesh to hold fiberglass in place on an existing building. Spray foam is not DIY friendly.

Prodex Total or bubble wrap can be installed before or after your sheathing.

Installation methods

More benefits of Prodex Total Insulation

Protects Contents From Vapor

Prodex is a class 1 vapor barrier. A vapor barrier (moisture barrier) refers to any material that prevents moisture from passing through the walls or roof of a building. This material can be plastic or better yet, Prodex Total Insulation - 0.2 inch, 5mm closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced foil facing. Prodex Total Insulation (Vapor Barrier, Class 1. perm<0.1 ).

Prodex Insulation Prevents Rodents, Bugs and Birds from Nesting

Unlike fiberglass insulation, Prodex does not provide for the nesting of rodents, bugs and birds. Rodents, bugs and birds aren't able to digest the aluminum.

Prodex Total Deadens Sound of Rain and Hail

Metal skin on a building can exaggerate the sound of rain and hail. Prodex has an excellent 19db sound deadening.

Increased Lighting Efficiency

Prodex provides a bright, attractive finish to your building. It reflects the light, making it easier to light the building interior.

How do I know this is a great product?

Prodex Total is ICC-ES recognized. BBB link bottom right of every page. Real-time customer comments on every product page. Independent reviews (bottom right of every page).

New Prodex Total 5M Plus - R 17. 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reflective reinforced foil facing. Roll Sizes : Technical Brochure

New White Prodex Total 5M Plus: R15.3. 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil facing on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side.

New Prodex Total 10M Plus - R22. Twice as thick as regular Prodex Total. 10mm (0.4") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reflective reinforced foil facing.

Any metal building or pole barn that uses fiberglass insulation rather than Prodex Total will have moisture issues (hidden behind facing), Loss of R-value (consequence of the moisture) and heat gain. Prodex Total is also a vital part of a complete house insulation system.

5 Reasons To Buy Prodex Total Insulation

Independent Prodex Insulation Reviews by Site Jabber. Site Jabber is the leading community of online business reviewers. The community helps consumers find great online business and avoid scams. The community has grown to over 850,000 members and has reviewed over 58,000 online businesses. Site Jabber was developed in part with a grant from the National Science Foundation.
BBB report. For over 100 years, BBB has set the standard for ethical business behavior. We're proud to maintain an "A to A+" rating. This rating takes into account a company's size in its relation to complaints. We're proud to maintain an "A to A+" rating. Accredited since March 15, 2004
Prodex Insulation Reviews on every product page
ICC-ES Recognized - ICC-ES is an evaluation service that takes independent test data for a variety of products and analyses it against a uniform Acceptance Criteria that is recognized internationally.
Over 4 billion square feet sold worldwide.

Insulation For Less Reviews Some review sites are pay to play :(

Summary:

Bubble wrap insulation wrap lacks the quality core and reinforced surface of Prodex Total.

It takes more than metalized film and air to make a quality insulation. If you only have metalized film and a mesh than you don't have insulation. If your product is composed of air bubbles it's subject to collapse in time or lose effectiveness when punctured. It requires a quality core of foam and reinforced foil to make a great insulation.

Prodex Total Insulation = Insulation + Radiant barrier + Vapor barrier + Air barrier - All in One Product!