Which Is Better: Single vs Double Bubble vs Woven R-17 Insulation?

Picking an insulation type among single bubble, double bubble, and woven R-17 is not easy. You can’t just close your eyes and put your finger on one type or tell your dealer to use any insulation type they think would be right for the steel building. It requires a deep analysis, and before that, it requires a clear understanding of the features, pros, cons, and other key aspects of these metal building insulation types.

So, here we are back with our next blog to clear all your doubts related to insulation. Discover the easy-to-understand differences between single bubble, double bubble, and woven R-17 insulation so you can make a confident, informed decision for your next project.

Here you go!

Single vs Double Bubble vs Woven R-17: What’s the Main Difference

When you read about all three insulations, they look the same. However, they serve different purposes and have distinct structures. Let’s quickly understand how they differ, then go through their detailed explanations in the next section.

Single and double bubble insulations are made from reflective foil and air-filled bubbles. A single bubblehas one layer, while a double bubble has two, which provides slightly better thermal resistance and moisture control. If we talk about Woven R-17 insulation, it is a much thicker, fabric-based product with superior strength and an R-value of 17, making it far better for temperature control and durability. You can use it especially in extreme climates.

Single Bubble Insulation: Structure & Material, Types, Features, Pros, and Cons

Let’s begin with single bubble insulation and understand everything crucial about this type of insulation in the space below.

Let’s begin with single bubble insulation and understand everything crucial about this type of insulation in the space below.

1. Structure & Material

Single bubble insulation is made of a single layer of air bubbles sandwiched between two sheets of reflective foil. The bubbles trap air, which slows down heat transfer, while the foil reflects radiant heat.

2. Types of Single Bubble Insulation:

Single bubble insulation is mainly of two types: single bubble reflective foil and single bubble white foil.

• Foil + Bubble + Foil: Both sides are reflective, making it best for heat reflection.
• Foil + Bubble + White Facing: One side is reflective, the other is white, ideal for walls/ceilings where appearance matters.

3. Features of Single Bubble Insulation

A single bubble comes with many features, which is why many want this type of insulation in their steel buildings. Let’s know about key features in the space below.

• Lightweight and flexible, easy to cut and handle.
• Works as a vapor barrier, stopping condensation inside metal garages.
• Reflects radiant heat (sunlight) effectively but has a low R-value (insulating power).

4. Pros and Cons of Single Bubble Insulation

Without pros and cons, you can’t decide which is the best insulation for metal garage or any other structure. Here is when this metal building insulation shines and when not.

Pros

• Cost-effective option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Quick DIY installation with staples or adhesive.
• Great for small sheds, workshops, or garages in mild climates.
• Prevents condensation on metal surfaces.

Cons

• Low R-value (usually R-1 to R-2).
• Not enough for extremely hot or cold areas.
• Limited soundproofing.

5. So, When to Use Single Bubble Insulation?

Single bubble insulation is best used in mild climates where extreme temperature swings aren’t a concern. It performs well for smaller-scale projects, such as a one car garage, sheds, and workshop walls, where cost and ease of installation are most important. Because it’s lightweight and flexible. So, you can use this type of insulation for DIY home improvement projects and temporary insulation needs. However, for extremely cold or hot environments, or if building codes require a higher R-value, use another insulation type that offers better performance.

Double Bubble Insulation: Structure & Material, Types, Features, Pros, and Cons

You might have already get an idea by reading the word “Double”. It means insulation consists of two layers of polyethylene air bubbles. They are sandwiched between two sheets of aluminum foil or one foil and one white polyethylene sheet. Let’s read more about it.

1. Structure & Material

Double bubble insulation is built with two layers of air bubbles. This type of structure gives it more thickness and slightly higher thermal resistance than a single bubble.

2. Types of Double Bubble Insulation:

Double bubble insulation also comes in two types. If you know them, you can pick the best for your metal garage insulation. One is called double bubble reflective foil, and the second is double bubble white foil.

• Foil + Double Bubble + Foil: It provides maximum radiant reflection.
• Foil + Double Bubble + White Facing: It is widely installed for a cleaner look for interiors.

3. Features of Double Bubble Insulation

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of an insulation is essential, and features make it easy for you to grasp. Scroll down to learn about the key features, so you can make an informed decision and avoid common insulation mistakes in your metal structure.

• It offers better thermal resistance compared to a single bubble.
• Works well as a vapor barrier, cutting down condensation.
• Adds minor soundproofing because of extra bubble thickness.

4. Pros and Cons of Double Bubble Insulation

A double-bubble insulation is used in several prefabricated metal structures, but not all, due to its negative points. Let’s explore both the advantages and disadvantages of this type of insulation.

Pros

• Higher R-value than single bubble (R-3 to R-4).
• Better at handling temperature swings.
• Stronger moisture protection.
• Still lightweight and flexible.

Cons

• Insulation for a metal building costs more than a single bubble.
• Still not enough for extreme cold or hot regions compared to fiberglass or R-17 options.

5. So, When to Use Double Bubble Insulation?

If you want your steel garage, barn, or other metal structure to be installed in moderate climate conditions, a double bubble can meet your needs. You can use it for a metal livestock shelter and install the structure where condensation control is critical. Since its price is neither too high nor too low, and its performance is moderate, you can use it to meet your basic needs effectively.

Woven R-17 Insulation: Structure & Material, Features, Pros, and Cons

Woven R-17 is considered the best insulation for a metal garage because of its features. Let’s understand what it brings for its buyers and steel building owners.

1. Structure & Material

Woven R-17 insulation is a high-performance thermal barrier designed for large steel buildings. It’s not like bubble insulation, which mainly reflects heat; woven R-17 physically resists heat transfer due to its dense insulating core.

• Core Material: It usually contains fiberglass batts or mineral wool. Both are known for their strong insulating ability.
• Outer Facing: The outer facing is wrapped in a woven fabric layer, often polyethylene or polypropylene. It serves as a vapor barrier and protective skin.
• R-value: Rated at R-17, which means it can resist heat flow much more effectively than bubble insulation (R-1 to R-4). For reference, R-17 is roughly what’s recommended for walls or ceilings in cold-climate homes.

2. Types of Woven R-17 Insulation

Woven R-17 is of two types. Explore these options in the space below to choose the right one. It’s crucial for better metal garage insulation and avoid any regrets later. You can even use both types for insulating existing metal garage.

• Woven Fiberglass R-17: It is made with fiberglass batts and is lightweight yet practical.
• Mineral Wool Woven R-17: It is made from spun rock fibers. This type of insulation for metal building offers higher fire resistance. It can even withstand temperatures above 1000°F.

3. Features of Woven R-17 Insulation

Woven R-17 offers many features that make it suitable for all weather garages. Let’s know what it brings to the table for the better installation of a metal structure.

• With its high R-value, it keeps interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. It significantly reduces HVAC load in climate-controlled steel garages.
• Usually 3-6 inches thick, compared to the 3-10 mm thickness of bubble insulation.
• The woven outer layer prevents moisture seepage. It reduces condensation buildup.
• Especially with mineral wool, woven R-17 is non-combustible and adds fire resistance to the structure.

4. Pros and Cons of Woven R-17 Insulation

Although Woven R-17 offers many features that help prefab building owners and businesses, it also has some drawbacks. Let’s know its positive and negative points in the space below.

Pros

• Ideal for extreme climates where bubble insulation is ineffective.
• Ideal for workshops or garages with loud tools, machinery, or vehicles.
• The woven outer shell resists tearing, pests, and general wear and tear.
• It is especially strong with mineral wool versions.
• Reduces heating/cooling bills by up to 40-50% in some climates.

Cons

• Generally $1.50–$3.00 per sq. ft., compared to $0.50–$1.50 for bubble insulation.
• Requires more space in walls/roofs and proper framing support.
• Cutting and fitting thick insulation is not a DIY-friendly task.
• It is not worth the investment in sheds or simple storage garages.

5. So, When to Use Woven R-17 Insulation?

You should use woven R-17 insulation when your steel building needs strong temperature control and long-term comfort. It is ideal for living spaces, offices, or workshops inside metal garages. It works best in extreme climates, ranging from very hot to very cold. Moreover, it reduces noise and resists fire, making it a smart choice for commercial garages or barndominiums that require additional safety..

A Quick Comparison Table: Single vs Double Bubble vs Woven R-17 Insulation

Features	Single Bubble	Double Bubble	Woven R-17
R-Value	R-1 to R-2	R-3 to R-4	R-17
Material	One layer of air bubble + foil	Two layers of air bubbles + foil	Fiberglass/Mineral wool with woven facing
Thickness	Thin & lightweight	Slightly thicker	Thick & bulky
Cost	Low	Moderate	High
Durability	Basic protection	Better than a single bubble	Extremely durable, fire & moisture-resistant
Best Use	Small sheds, basic garages	Workshops, mild climates	Offices, living quarters, extreme climates

Ready to Make the Best Insulation Choice?

We hope, now you can choose the best insulation type for your building. Whether you need a single bubble, double bubble, or want to opt for a higher-priced woven R-17, your choice will directly impact how your steel building performs for years to come. However, the insulation is only as good as the team that installs it.

At Viking Metal Garages, you get a dedicated team that has several years of installation experience. With years of experience and a reputation for delivering quality prefab steel buildings, we help businesses, homeowners, and individuals choose the right insulation and structure that fits their lifestyle. You don’t just get a building, you get guidance, durability, and long-term value by partnering with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How To Insulate A Metal Garage?

Ans. The best way to insulate metal garage is to understand needs, local climate conditions, and budget before choosing an insulation type. Now choose the best kind of insulation. Then, install it on walls, roof panels, and even the garage door. Seal gaps with tape or foam to prevent air from sneaking in.

Q2. What Kind Of Wall Insulation Should I Use In A Metal Garage Workshop?

Ans. If your workshop is just for occasional work, single or double bubble insulation works fine. However, if you spend long hours inside with heating or cooling systems, woven R-17 or fiberglass is the smarter choice. They maintain a steady temperature and low noise levels to create a comfortable space.

Q3. How Well Does Bubble Wrap Insulation Work In A Metal Garage?

Ans. Bubble insulation acts like a shield against heat and condensation. It doesn’t perform like R-17, but for basic storage or casual use, it’s a cost-friendly way to stop your garage from feeling like an oven in summer or a freezer in winter.

Q4. How Much Does It Cost To Build A Metal Garage Insulated?

Ans. The estimated cost of insulation ranges from $0.50 to $ 1.50 per square foot. However, the price depends on several factors, including garage size, insulation type, location, and others. Bubble insulation is a cost-effective solution, while woven R-17 is pricier but saves on energy bills in the long run. On average, adding insulation may increase the cost by $1,500 to $4,000 for a mid-sized steel structure.

Q5. What Type Of Insulation Is Needed For A Metal Commercial Garage Building?

Ans. Commercial garages typically require robust climate control, which is why woven R-17 is the most effective option. They are durable, fire-resistant, and reduce energy bills. Bubble insulation may not be enough unless you want it for a basic storage structure.

Q6. How To Install Insulation In A Metal Garage Door?

Ans. First, you have to cut the insulation panels to match the door sections. Now, tape or clip them securely so they don’t fall when the door opens. It’s like adding a padded layer to stop heat, cold, and noise from sneaking through your building door.