Pole Barn Insulation Options
Stop Moisture, Radiant Heat Transfer, and Winter Heat Loss
Insulating your pole barn or post-frame building is one of the most effective ways to enhance comfort, protect your investment, and reduce energy costs. The right insulation doesn’t just help retain heat in the winter and block it in the summer—it also controls moisture, dampens sound, and contributes to the overall longevity of the structure. When selecting insulation, key factors to consider include thermal performance, moisture resistance, ease of installation, durability, noise reduction, and cost. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular pole barn insulation options to help you make an informed decision.
Fiberglass | Spray Foam | Bubble | Prodex Total
Jump to Key Benefits of Prodex Total
Why Insulate Your Pole Barn?
Prevent Moisture & Condensation - Avoid rust, rot, mold, and structural damage.
Improve Temperature Control - Keep heat in during winter, out during summer.
Boost Energy Efficiency - Reduce heating/cooling costs and drafts.
Enhance Comfort & Noise Reduction - Create a quieter, more consistent interior environment.
Deter Pests - Eliminate entry points and nesting spots for rodents and insects.
Simplify Installation - Use materials designed for easy fit around beams and trusses.
Act as Vapor Barrier - Stop leaks and protect against moisture intrusion.
Resist Mold & Mildew - Choose moisture-resistant materials for a healthier space.
Protect Stored Items - Guard tools, machinery, and supplies from damage.
Increase Property Value - Add functionality and resale appeal.
Enable Multi-Use Space - Make the barn suitable for living, work, or hobbies.
Control Humidity - Prevent material warping and corrosion.
Meet Building Codes - Support compliance with insulation and efficiency regulations.
Insulation Options – Fiberglass, Spray Foam, Bubble and Prodex Total
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass is a popular, budget-friendly insulation option that works by trapping air in small pockets formed between woven fiber strands. These air pockets provide thermal resistance and help reduce heat transfer in and out of the building. You can shop for a range of fiberglass products here: R10 through R38 fiberglass pole barn insulation.
Moisture Concerns with Fiberglass
While fiberglass performs reasonably well in dry conditions, it has significant drawbacks when used in metal-sheeted pole barns, where condensation is common. Fiberglass tends to absorb moisture, which leads to:
Reduced R-value (loss of thermal performance)
Mold and mildew growth
Long drying times, often remaining wet
Structural issues such as rot and deterioration
The key issue lies in the insulation’s air pockets: when they fill with water instead of air, fiberglass loses its ability to resist heat transfer effectively.
Take a look at the white vinyl facing the next time you're in a pole barn - It will be either sagging, or sagging and flaking. This is due to the added weight of water. Behind the white vinyl is a wet, mold filled blanket that will eventually cause the white vinyl to crack and fall off. At some point, when you're exposed to the toxic fibers, you'll be forced to remove the insulation - Hopefully before it does too much damage to the metal framing.
Radiant Heat Reflection
Radiant heat protection is essential in a pole barn, especially when metal sheeting is exposed to direct sunlight. As the sun heats the metal surface, that radiant energy is transferred into the building, raising interior temperatures to uncomfortable levels. Fiberglass insulation offers minimal defense against this type of heat transfer, making it less effective in hot climates or sun-exposed structures.
Prodex Total, on the other hand, features reflective foil facings that block up to 97% of radiant heat, helping keep interior temperatures stable and comfortable.
Longevity
When it comes to long-term performance, not all insulation is created equal. Fiberglass insulation degrades over time, especially when exposed to moisture or repeated temperature fluctuations. This deterioration reduces its insulating capability.
Prodex Total is built to last, offering consistent thermal protection for years without sagging, breaking down, or losing effectiveness. Think of it as the marathon runner of insulation—reliable, durable, and always in it for the long haul.
Installation
Installing fiberglass can be a frustrating process. The rolls are bulky, dusty, and difficult to maneuver between framing and sheeting. In contrast, Prodex Total comes in compact, lightweight rolls that are easy to cut and install—whether before or after the metal sheeting is in place. With no special tools required and a straightforward application, you might just find yourself wondering, “Why didn’t I use this sooner?”
Pest Resistance
Fiberglass is an open invitation for pests. Rodents, birds, and insects often use it for nesting, leading to contamination, damage, and unpleasant odors.
Prodex Total resists pests naturally thanks to its reinforced foil surface, which doesn’t provide a hospitable environment for nesting. That means no more rodent rave parties in your walls or ceiling—just a cleaner, safer building.
Recommendation: Prodex Total - The Ideal Supplement to Fiberglass
To combat condensation issues and protect your fiberglass investment, we strongly recommend pairing fiberglass insulation with Prodex Total.
Prodex Total is a reflective insulation material made from reinforced foil facings and closed-cell polyethylene foam. Unlike fiberglass, it is moisture-resistant and maintains a stable R-value, even in humid environments.
Benefits of Prodex Total
Stops condensation and acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture from reaching fiberglass.
Maintains R-value regardless of moisture exposure
Stops radiant heat transfer, complementing fiberglass’s thermal resistance
Protects against mold, mildew, and structural degradation
When installed between the metal sheeting and fiberglass, Prodex Total keeps the fiberglass dry, allowing it to retain its insulating properties. This combination maximizes overall energy efficiency and extends the lifespan of your insulation system.
Explore the most popular Prodex Total insulation rolls used in pole barns.
Spray Foam Insulation
Cost-Effectiveness
Spray foam insulation is known for its high performance—but it comes at a high price. Installation typically requires trained professionals and specialized equipment, significantly increasing total project costs.
Prodex Total offers similar core benefits—air sealing and strong R-value—at a fraction of the cost. In addition to being budget-friendly, it provides added advantages that spray foam can’t match: it blocks 97% of radiant heat and effectively eliminates condensation. The result is a dry, energy-efficient, and comfortable pole barn year-round. Think of it as enjoying the benefits of a five-star solution—at a drive-thru price.
Installation Flexibility
Spray foam is notoriously difficult to apply in existing buildings. It demands precise application, ventilation precautions, and typically professional oversight—making it impractical for many DIYers.
Prodex Total is designed with flexibility in mind. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to install in both new and already-constructed pole barns. No special training or tools are needed—just basic know-how and a can-do attitude.
You don’t need to be a contractor—or even particularly handy—to install it successfully.
Condensation & Moisture Control
While spray foam can help seal gaps and cracks, it doesn't fully address the underlying causes of condensation in metal sheeted buildings. In pole barns, condensation forms when warm, moist air comes into contact with the cold surfaces of metal sheeting.
Prodex Total tackles the problem at its source. By reflecting 97% of radiant heat, it prevents the metal surfaces from becoming cold enough for condensation to occur. It also acts as a vapor barrier, creating a warm interior envelope that blocks moisture from forming in the first place. Unlike spray foam, which can trap moisture pockets and allow hidden condensation to persist, Prodex eliminates condensation entirely—protecting your space from rust, mold, and mildew.
Weight and Handling
Spray foam insulation requires heavy equipment and can be messy and difficult to control during application. Learn more, see a complete guide to spray foam insulation.
Prodex Total is clean, lightweight, and easy to work with. It comes in manageable rolls, cuts easily, and installs with minimal effort—no sticky mess, no complicated setup. It’s hassle-free insulation, designed to simplify your project and deliver lasting results.
Bubble Insulation
Take a look at the photos above. Even if you didn't know anything about double bubble insulation or Prodex Total, which 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 5M plus has a nominal thickness of 5mm (0.2"). Prodex Total 10M is 10mm (0.4"). Both are closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reflective 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/ft (sq). This gives the material real body.
Because Bubble insulation has a core composed of air rather than closed cell polyethylene foam, it lacks the long-term consistence in performance of Prodex Total.
Key Benefits of Prodex Total
Prevent Condensation
Prodex Total stops moisture at the source. By creating a warmer interior surface that remains above the dew point, it prevents condensation from forming on cold metal panels. Think of it as a raincoat for your pole barn -- only smarter, and built for long-term performance.
Stop Heat Transfer
Block 97% of radiant heat and lock in comfort. While traditional insulation relies solely on R-value, Prodex Total goes further by address all forms of heat transfer -- including the powerful impact of radiant energy. In summer, it reflects heat away. In winter, it retain warmth. The result? Lower energy costs and a more comfortable space year-round. It's like having a temperature bodyguard at your barn't side.
Air Barrier
Say goodbye to drafts. Prodex Total minimizes air infiltration, helping stabilize interior temperatures and enhance energy efficiency. It also adds a layer of protection by limiting the spread of fumes and smoke in case of fire. Whether separating living space from storage or sealing off external air, it delivers greater comfort and peace of mind.
Sound Deadening
Silence never felt so insulating. From pounding rain to hailstorms, Prodex Total reduces noise levels inside your pole barn, creating a quieter, more peaceful environment.
Pest Deterrence
Rodents, bugs, and birds steer clear of Prodex Total. Its foil facing acts as a pest barrier, preventing infestations and preserving the cleanliness and safety of your space.
Easy Installation
DIY-friendly and frustration-free. Lightweight and flexible, Prodex Total comes in compact rolls that are easy to handle and install -- whether your pole barn is under construction or already built. You'll be amazed how quickly it transforms your space.
Vapor Barrier
With a Class 1 vapor barrier rating (perm <0.1), Prodex Total protects agains moisture infiltration and corrosion. It acts as a critical line of defense against rust, rot, and humidity damage.
Mold and Mildew Resistance
Prodex Total's closed-cell polyethylene foam won't absorb moisture and resists the growth of common mold species as Aspergillus, Penicillin, and Chaetomium. This keeps your pole barn cleaner, healthier, and oder-free -- eliminating the conditions that support mold growth and structural decay.
Leak Prevention
Seals tightly around nails and screws, stopping water intrusion at common penetration points. Prodex Total ensures your barn strays watertight -- even in extreme weather.
Lightweight Yet Durable
Unlike bulky traditional materials, Prodex Total is featherlight yet tough. It won't sag, settle, or compress over time, offering long-lasting performance with easy handling.
Cost-Effective Yet Durable
Top-tier insulation at a smart price. Compared to spray foam, Prodex delivers comparable or better performance at a significantly lower cost -- making it one of the most cost-effective solutions for your pole barn.
Why Prodex Total is the Best Pole Building Insulation
- High Performance: Maintains R-value in all conditions, unlike fiberglass and spray foam.
- Cost-Effective: Provides top-tier benefits at an affordable price.
- Multi-Functionality: Combines the roles of thermal insulation, vapor barrier, air barrier, and radiant barrier in one product. One solution to Cold, Heat and Condensation - You'll be warm in winter, cool in summer and dry all the time.
- Versatility: Suitable for walls, ceilings, and even retrofitting existing pole barns.
How to Install Pole Barn Insulation
Proper installation of pole barn insulation is essential to maximize energy efficiency and prevent issues like condensation and heat loss. Follow these steps for a successful installation. You can install before or after your sheeting is attached. You can install above, between or under your framing.
For a detailed step-by-step guide, visit How to Insulate a Pole Barn
Conclusion
When it comes to pole barn insulation, Prodex Total stands head and shoulders above the competition. Unlike fiberglass, it resists moisture, maintains its R-value in all conditions, and deters pests. Unlike spray foam, it’s cost-effective, lightweight, and easy to install. With Prodex Total, you get an all-in-one solution that blocks radiant heat, eliminates condensation, and creates a comfortable, energy-efficient environment year-round. It will keep your building warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and dry all the time.
Calculate amount of insulation required for your building
To get started: (1) Click the below "Insulation Calculator" button. (2) Select an insulation roll. (3) Enter the building length, width and wall height (enter only numerals). (4) Select a roof slope. The calculator will provide the number of rolls needed for your application.
Pole Barn Insulation Rolls For Sale
5M Plus: R17
Select one of these 5M items: 48 inch, Fast Action, 62 inch Fast Action, 72 inch, 24 inch or 16 inch. Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced reflective foil.
WHITE 5M Plus: R15.3
Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side. Ideal where white finish is preferred.
BLACK 5M Plus: R15.0
Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side.
5M Plus: R17
Select one of these 5M items: 48 inch, Fast Action, 62 inch Fast Action, 72 inch, 24 inch or 16 inch. Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced reflective foil.
WHITE 5M Plus: R15.3
Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side. Ideal where white finish is preferred.
BLACK 5M Plus: R15.0
Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side.
Buy Pole Barn Insulation With Confidence
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Prodex adds an extra layer of credibly by submitting these rolls to the ASTM Rima International verification program. By having a third party verification, Prodex assures its clients that the insulation complies with industry standards, and is suitable for any construction system.
Over a million orders totaling more than 5 billion square feet of insulation sold.
Yes. Without it, you’ll have an unhabitable building, Insulation in a pole barn regulates the temperature, prevents condensation, blocks noise and reduces energy costs.
The primary need for pole barn insulation is to stop heat, cold, condensation and air.
A pole barn insulation blanket is made of fiberglass. This commonly used insulation has white vinyl facing. It comes in 3-, 4-, 5- and 6-foot widths. The thickness ranges from 3 to 6 inches. Prodex Total can be used as a supplemental insulation with the blanket. Prodex Total will a protect the blanket from moisture and prevent radiant heat transfer.
See our Insulation Calculator, which is available at the top section of all the pages.
Roll pricing is on every product page. Discount volume pricing is in the shopping cart.
Yes. Pole barn insulation will increase the value of your building. It will protect its contents. I will reduce your energy costs.
Virtually all our customers install themselves. With a good screw or staple gun, you're halfway there. Measure, cut and screw. That’s basically it.
Some say you can never have enough R. A more appropriate answer is: The amount of R-value you seek will depend on your climate. It’s important that you don’t lose R due to moisture. Unfortunately, fiberglass loses R when introduced to moisture. That’s why it’s so important that if you do use fiberglass, that you supplement it with Prodex to protect it from moisture and to also stop radiant heat transfer.
Prodex Total will keep your pole barn cool in the summer, warm in the winter and dry all the time.
Prodex Total has a high-quality core that keeps its shape when exposed to forces. Prodex Total 5M plus has a nominal thickness of 5mm (0.2"). Prodex Total 10M is 10mm (0.4"). Both are closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reflective 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 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 wraps are composed of either one (single bubble) or two (double bubble) layers of air bubbles sandwiched between two metalized surfaces. Once the surface of single or double bubble is punctured, it collapses.
The R-value of Prodex Total reflective insulation is the measurement of the system rather than a measurement of just the product. Measuring the R-value of the system (a real-world application) is a truer measurement vs. a measurement of the product only. For example, what good is the posted R-value of fiberglass given that once installed in an environment that includes any moisture it loses R-value? Virtually all real-world environments include some humidity. Unlike fiberglass the R-value of Prodex Total insulation is NOT affected by humidity.
With plans in hand to build a 4,600+ sq' custom designed barn the last thing I wanted was a beautiful barn with the constant condensation drip that goes with metal roofing/siding and temperature changes. I've seen way too many barns, outbuildings and commercial buildings that have structural water damage and staining and/or rust as well as damp interiors and damage or degradation to stored items like hay, tack and tools from the regular drip of condensation. I couldn't find a product that had the qualities or guarantees I wanted until I stumbled across Prodex insulation during an internet search. It seemed to have all the qualities I was looking for so I took the plunge and ordered enough 72" Prodex to do the entire building shell, 7200 sq' plus the recommended tape. It's easy to handle and installed easily. It's also a tough material and didn't blow off in the wind if I didn't get the metal on it immediately. I believe it has helped to keep the interior of my building significantly cooler than it would have been otherwise and I have had none of the condensation issues I've seen elsewhere. I will recommend it be installed in every barn, outbuilding or similar project I build and have even been asked for an installation quote by someone with an unprotected barn to remove their roofing and siding and re-install the metal over Prodex after they saw how well this recent project performed. I waited a while to post this review so I could see how it performed through the summer/fall/winter temperature changes and it has exceeded my expectations in every regard.
In addition to the great product at what I now feel is a very reasonable price for how it performs, I also got excellent customer service when I needed it most. I found the product while the project was under way when I had to replace another substrate material I was sold by the metal roofing company. A close review of the warranty information for the rolled good they provided showed it to be improper and unsuitable for my type of construction. It's warranty information said it could only be installed over sheet goods and I already had purlin/strapping style framing 2' on center mostly installed. I returned it improper material, initiated my internet search then decided on, and ordered, the Prodex. The insulation shipped same day and arrived quickly but some of the material was significantly damaged by the trucking company during transportation. As this barn was going to be the site of a large wedding reception, the project delivery date was absolutely inflexible and a lot of people would be disappointed if the project wasn't complete on time. Kathy at I4L immediately saw to it that the damaged product was replaced via FedEx within just a few days so my job's progress wasn't slowed down in the least. We finished on time and delivered the building to the bride and groom for their finishing touches with a few days to spare thanks to Kathy and her prompt attention to my service needs. I am a 100% satisfied Customer/Owner/Builder. Tip for consumers: The insulation4less website is self-serve without call center for most part but no worry, Additional service, if needed, is excellent. Order with confidence.
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