If you want a comfortable and energy-efficient campervan, insulation is key. Doing this will prevent cold air from seeping into the van while hot air remains contained within it.
Spray foam also helps prevent condensation caused by large temperature differences or areas that do not have a protective vapor barrier like spray foam installed. Moisture accumulation can occur in these places without an effective barrier such as spray foam preventing it.
Reflectix
Insulation options for your campervan can vary, from spray foam, rigid foam board, Reflectix and more. All these materials have unique benefits and drawbacks; some may cost more than others but all will help keep your van warm or cool as desired.
Reflectix insulation panels are both inexpensive and easy to install, making it a popular choice. Perfect for filling in spaces where other forms of insulation cannot reach, these double reflective materials help deflect both UV rays and heat from entering homes or offices.
Insulation’s reflective surface is perfect for blocking UV rays and reducing condensation that leads to mildew and mold growth, helping you save money on electricity use while simultaneously cutting air conditioning usage and saving money with reduced air conditioning usage. Plus, its non-toxic nature and ease of use make it safe and user friendly – it only has one drawback: moisture damage with low R-value properties.
Insul-shine
Insul-shine is an inexpensive yet effective DIY camper van insulation solution. Crafted of reflective silver fabric, Insul-shine can protect your vehicle from harsh sun rays while simultaneously helping reduce noise pollution and providing insulation against cold temperatures. Perfect for covering ductwork, hot water heaters or sealing gaps around frames – Insul-shine offers great DIY camper van insulation potential!
Other DIY options for insulation include spray foam, fiberglass insulation and rock wool. Spray foam has the highest R-value per inch but can be expensive and difficult to install; its non-breathable nature means moisture can accumulate inside it and contribute to mold growth.
Sheep’s wool insulation is an affordable and eco-friendly alternative, boasting an R-value per inch that ranks lower than most options but excelling at managing moisture and preventing condensation in vans. Other popular choices for insulation include XPS foam board, 3M Thinsulate, Havelock wool or Havelock batts which can all be combined together for greater heat transfer resistance against conduction or convection heat transfer.
Radiative Barrier
R-value refers to an insulation material’s thermal resistance, or how effectively it resists heat transfer. The higher its R-value per inch is, the more insulating power it offers; however not all types are equally efficient; you must select one based on what type of heat transfer occurs through your campervan (conduction, convection or radiation).
Many DIY campervan conversions use reflective bubble insulation, which is great for preventing radiant heat transfer, however a vapor barrier should also be added in order to prevent condensation and rusting. Moisture from cooking, breathing and other activities eventually reach colder metal walls of your van and form water vapor that corrodes over time; with a vapor barrier protecting against this potential issue. Furthermore, its hard-to-reach spaces make this an excellent solution.
Thinsulate
Thinsulate insulation material is an increasingly popular choice for campervans due to its superior thermal performance, trapping heat in winter while keeping it inside in summer, reducing noise from outside, dampening engine vibrations, and providing a relaxing interior environment.
Thinsulate also offers moisture management properties. This material’s moisture-managing capabilities help prevent condensation buildup that leads to mold and mildew growth, an essential feature in vans where high temperatures may cause condensation to accumulate within its walls and lead to mold growth.
Insulation for campervans should not be seen as an all-inclusive solution; rather, it should fit your climate conditions. For colder climates, thicker Havelock wool insulation might provide more R-value and prevent thermal bridging; polyiso or XPS foam board insulation are both lightweight options with high R-value per inch values that may also offer advantages.