Caravans can be subjected to harsh temperatures and climates, making proper insulation an absolute necessity for maximum performance and component protection. Insulation will keep heat in and moisture damage at bay while protecting components.
Rigid foam boards are an economical and non-toxic choice for caravan insulation, providing an easy installation solution with multiple applications and cutting options to fit into walls with precision.
Styrofoam
Styrofoam insulation material makes an excellent caravan insulation material, as its thermal efficiency is excellent and it can be cut to size for custom fit. Styrofoam also helps prevent condensation by keeping moisture away from metal walls, as well as helping minimize thermal bridging – the gaps between structural elements in your van – by helping keep moisture at bay.
Some manufacturers use rigid foam panels to insulate their campervans. This type of insulation has a high R-value and easy installation. Aluminum sheeting may be added on top to protect it against corrosion; water can accumulate behind insulation leading to rust.
Reflective insulation is another popular choice, which consists of placing aluminum foil over existing insulation for extra savings on energy costs. While not as effective, reflective insulation may reduce expenses associated with energy bills; however, its use should only be undertaken carefully and with caution.
XPS foam
XPS foam (extruded polystyrene) insulation material is one of the best choices available to caravanners, offering non-toxic and cost-effective insulation that’s easy to work with – not to mention moisture resistance and sound dampening properties that make it suitable for all climates as well as structural insulated panels.
As it’s highly breathable, vans benefit from using this material as it doesn’t absorb moisture or rot easily. Furthermore, its low heat conductivity helps retain warmth even in cold climates.
When selecting materials for your van, take note of its R-value and cost per inch of thickness. A higher R-value will provide better insulation in very cold environments; additionally it is crucial to avoid thermal bridging – when the frame of the vehicle acts as a conduit for heat transfer – by adding Havelock wool insulation between its frame ribs to stop thermal transfer occurring.
Spray foam
Spray foam insulation for caravans can help block airflow and reduce condensation while protecting from radiant heat from sunlight. There are many types of spray foam available; when selecting your product it should be non-toxic; expanding polystyrene foam may be preferred over fiberglass as this releases harmful gases; expanding polystyrene is also another possibility.
Spray foam insulation is easy to work with and boasts an R-value per inch that’s among the highest on the market, plus moisture infiltration resistance – yet, unlike other forms of insulation materials, it doesn’t measure up environmentally-wise.
Insulation is an integral component of van construction, especially during cold weather conditions. Without sufficient insulation, heat from your van may escape into the atmosphere, making it harder for you to stay comfortable. When selecting the best insulation material to use for your van build, take into consideration its R-value – generally speaking, higher R-value means better insulation!
Sheep’s wool
Sheep’s wool insulation is an eco-friendly and safe option for insulating your camper van, serving both moisture control and degrading insulation in an effective manner. Furthermore, sheep’s wool outperforms alternatives in that it does not release toxic fumes under heat exposure and retains its insulating power when wet compared with alternatives that release fumes when heated or lose insulating properties when wet.
Sheep wool is an eco-friendly material that grows back naturally twice annually, providing farmers with an income source and helping reduce carbon emissions. Highly durable and resistant to mildew, mold, insects and mildew infestation, it makes an excellent choice for caravans.
Foam insulation is more versatile and easier to work with than its foam counterparts, making it useful in difficult areas where other products cannot reach. Unfortunately, its R-value per inch falls significantly lower than other insulation types and its sound deadening capabilities are inferior compared to similar products.