These two brands of insulation are thinner and lighter which makes them stand out compared to the likes of rigid foam, fiberglass, and mineral wool.
If you are shopping for insulation, there are many reasons why you may consider either Prodex or Reflectix. Both have incredibly high R-values and are super easy to install.
However, even though they may seem the same, Prodex and Reflectix have some key differences which are worth knowing if you are stuck choosing between the two.
What is Prodex?
Prodex is a combination of air, vapor, radiant barriers, and insulation. It’s super lightweight and boasts a higher resistance to tearing.
With an R-value of 16, Prodex can ensure optimal temperatures during both summer and winter. This insulation is mostly sold by Insulation4Less. However, you can also find it at a nearby Home Depot or any other hardware store.
When you look at the inside layers of Prodex, you will notice closed-cell polyethylene foam in the middle. This is responsible for the insulative properties of Prodex.
On either side of the foam, there is a polyethylene backing and a reflective reinforced coil. This design guarantees maximum performance while utilizing the least amount of space.
A roll of Prodex is only 5 mm thick. Don’t let the small thickness fool you, this material is quite effective at reducing the travel of sound through it. You can use it in your garage to lower noise disturbance and also improve insulation.
A unique feature I like about Prodex is how the insulation comes with cuts on the edges. Therefore, when you want to overlap two rolls, all you need to do is melt the edges with a heat gun, hold them together and they will be sealed.
Prodex is also ASTM Rima International verified and it has a lot of positive reviews on third-party platforms.
Unlike other insulation materials, Prodex is highly resistant to fungi and water damage. You can, therefore, use it on any part of your house or outside structures like barns.
When it comes to installing Prodex, you only need to nail the insulation to a surface or staple it. After installation, Prodex can reflect up to 98% of radiant energy.
It’s the perfect insulation for people who live in areas that experience crazy summers and winters.
What is Reflectix?
With an R-value of almost 21, Reflectix is one of the best double-reflective insulations in the market. Like Prodex, it’s also thin. However, it’s a bit thicker because it measures 8 mm.
But this is small enough to enable it to fit even in the tiniest spaces. Reflectix is covered in shiny rolls of foil which resemble foil.
One may assume that it’s metallic but it’s made of plastic. As a result, it’s quite flexible and easy to install.
There is no doubt that Reflectix has many impressive features. But it’s not an alternative to fiberglass. If you are insulating your home, please stick to traditional materials like fiberglass or rigid foam.
Reflectix can only be used as an extra layer of defense or in areas such as barns and garages.
When I started explaining what Reflectix is, I mentioned that it has a high R-value. However, what you need to understand is that Reflectix’s R-value depends on a couple of factors.
For instance, to get the R-value of 21, Reflectix needs to be used with two air spaces with each having a minimum of 4.75”. If the air spaces increase to three-quarter inches, the R-value drops to 6.1.
Also, if you pair Reflectix with fiberglass insulation, you can enjoy R-values of up to 14. So, when installing Reflectix, you need to be very mindful of air spaces and extra insulation materials.
After evaluating the features mentioned above, it’s safe to say that Reflectix can be used in the following areas.
If you have a cold garage or shop that you can’t insulate with fiberglass, Reflectix can prevent the loss of heat to the environment.
Reflectix can also do a remarkable job when it’s stapled onto the door of your garage. Because it’s an air barrier, Reflectix can also be used in areas where cold wind is blowing into your home.
I have also seen some homeowners wrap Reflectix along heating vents and pipes. Please confirm with your local code first. It is resistant to mold so you can use Reflectix almost anywhere within your home.
How Are They Different?
• R-Value
Prodex has an R-value of 16.
Reflectix has an R-value of 21.
Even though these R-values differ depending on the application, it’s clear that Reflectix has the highest R-value. Prodex’s R-value of 16 is quite high compared to most insulation materials.
But Reflectix has a higher rating and it’s a more suitable choice for areas that experience cold winters and very hot summers.
• Thickness
Prodex is 5 mm thick. They also have another version which is 10 mm.
Reflectix is 8 mm thick.
The 3 mm difference may seem small but can make a huge difference during installation. If you want to add insulation in a hard-to-reach area, you have a higher success rate with Prodex because it is thinner.
• Build
Prodex has a polyethylene foam sandwiched between a backing and a reflective reinforced coil.
Reflectix, on the other hand, contains two 96% reflective layers that are bonded to polyethylene bubbles.
Even though the exterior of these two insulation brands look similar, the build is quite different and that’s what contributes to their unique properties.
How Are They Similar?
• Both Can Be Used Outdoors
Whether you settle for Prodex or Reflectix, you can use either of them in an outdoor setup such as a workshop or garage.
Prodex and Reflectix have been designed to endure harsh elements. Unlike rigid foam, these two brands will thrive well in outdoor conditions.
• Both are Lightweight and Easy to Install
One of the main selling points of Prodex and Reflectix is that they are lightweight. You can’t compare the size of these two insulation materials with rigid foam and fiberglass which are quite bulky.
Also, due to their lightweight design, they are quite easy to cut and install. It’s one of those projects you can pull off by yourself.
• Both are Resistant to Mold and Rodents
Most insulation materials suffer a great deal when exposed to insects and rodents. The good news is that’s not something you will have to deal with when you choose Prodex or Reflectix.
These two are highly resistant to insect infestation and rodents won’t gnaw through them. That means they can last for a pretty long period.
• Both Reflect Heat
Finally, both Reflectix and Prodex are designed to reflect heat. The foil-like cover on both sides of the insulation is designed to reflect heat instead of absorbing heat. This is why they have a high R-value.
Pros of Prodex
• It’s very effective at preventing the condensation of moisture and other precipitates.
• It reflects around 98% of radiant energy.
• It retains proper airflow within a building.
• It minimizes the transfer of sound while not producing echoes.
• It is resistant to mold, rodents, insects, and bugs.
Cons of Prodex
• Some clients have complained about poor delivery.
Pros of Reflectix
• It can be used in a wide range of applications.
• It is easy to install.
• It has a higher R-value.
• It is resistant to mold.
• Reflectix can double as a house wrap.
Cons of Reflectix
• It’s quite pricey.
Which is Better – Prodex vs Reflectix
On a head-to-head comparison, Prodex and Reflectix are both excellent insulation products. And that’s what makes it so hard to choose between the two. From a professional point of view, I would highly recommend Reflectix.
It has a higher R-value than Prodex, which makes it a more efficient insulation material. Reflectix has lots of positive reviews out there compared to Prodex. And from the above review, it’s clear that Reflectix has more applications.
I used Prodex in my first van build and was quite happy with it. Getting it into tiny areas and around sharp steel wasn’t easy but doable with it. The double stick tape Insulation4less sells worked great… and held at least 4 years (I sold the van, got another). I am about to build out my final ? and 3rd van and will be using Prodex…I never had to put soundproofing anything in my first build with the Prodex, so I’m going on that too, as it worked just fine. Since I will be having a real ceiling install this time, I may put another layer on the “back” of the ceiling areas to make an even better use of the product.s The 700 sf roll will suffice. Delivery was fast for me.. hopefully will be again.
Reflectix or Prodex have an insulating value of 2 at best. R-16 is someone’s hallucination. They’re ok at reflecting heat (98% of radiation lol) but are lousy insulators for convection or conduction. Unless it’s a window radiating heat is insignificant. These products aren’t half bad if adhered to some thinsulate for window coverings. Otherwise basically they’re basically useless.
Hi Joe,
Thanks for sharing your insights!
You raise valid points about Reflectix and Prodex. Their standalone R-value is indeed around 1 to 2. The higher R-values advertised often assume installation with air gaps that reflect radiant heat, which can boost overall insulation performance under specific conditions. Combining these products with other insulation materials, like thinsulate for window coverings, can enhance their effectiveness.
Appreciate your input!