Insulating Your Camper: A Guide To Staying Cozy

Insulating your camper van is a crucial step in creating a cosy home away from home. The goal of adding insulation is to combat heat loss by reducing heat transfer. Heat transfer occurs when heat moves from a warm space to a cool one and continues for as long as there is a temperature difference. There are three types of heat transfer: conduction, radiation and convection.

Conduction is the transfer of heat through a material, such as a metal van surface getting hot inside on a sunny day. Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves, for example, a hot object like a heater emitting electromagnetic waves and heating up other objects. Convection is the transfer of heat through fluid or gas movement, like hot air rising above a heat source.

To insulate your camper van, you will need to combat all three types of heat transfer. This can be done by using insulation materials with high R-values, which measure a material's capacity to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power.

There are several insulation materials available, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most common options:

- Foam board insulation: rigid panels made of polystyrene, polyisocyanurate or polyurethane. Offers high R-values and good resistance to mould.

- Spray foam insulation: expanding insulation that fills gaps and cavities. Has high R-values but can be a health hazard during installation and bad for the environment.

- Batt insulation: woolly texture that comes in rolls and is good for filling awkward spaces.

- Reflective insulation: materials like Reflectix, which reflect radiant heat away but require an air gap to be effective.

- Natural insulation: sustainable options like sheep's wool or denim that are breathable and moisture-resistant but may be more expensive.

When choosing insulation, consider your budget, ease of installation, health and environmental risks, fire resistance, water absorption and eco-friendliness.

Remember to plan your electrical system and window cut-outs before installing insulation. Clean your van thoroughly and pay attention to any cracks or areas that need attention. Finally, don't forget to insulate the floor, walls, ceiling, doors and wheel arches for a cosy and quiet van life experience!

Insulation Materials

Reflectix is a thin bubble wrap with a reflective coating on each side that acts as a radiant heat barrier. It is widely recommended for DIY van builds, but it is also widely misunderstood. It is primarily a radiant barrier and is very effective at reflecting radiant heat. However, if you stick it behind your walls without an air gap, it becomes ineffective as a radiant barrier and you only get the benefit of its low R-value. It is also costly for what you get.

Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso) Foam Board is a rigid foam board insulation that is widely used in green building applications and van builds. It has an impressive R-value per inch at R-6, it’s fairly easy to work with, and it’s affordable. Polyiso is completely non-toxic and doesn’t off-gas anything harmful. It’s also much more environmentally friendly than XPS foam board.

Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Foam Board is another type of rigid foam board insulation that is also widely used. It has a very good R-value per inch at R-5, and is also impermeable to moisture. Another benefit is its high compressive strength, making it ideal for floor insulation. It is slightly cheaper than polyiso by the sheet, but it also has a slightly lower R-value per inch. It is not environmentally friendly.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam Board is another type of foam board insulation. It works fine, and it’s super cheap. But it contains a lot of air gaps that allow moisture to penetrate, degrading the material over time. It also won’t stand up to vibration as well as polyiso or XPS, and generally isn’t as durable.

Closed-Cell Spray Foam has the highest R-value per inch at R-7, and when installed correctly forms an impermeable vapour barrier that can shield your van’s metal walls from condensation. It also works as a sound dampener. But, spray foam kits are rather expensive and installation can be intimidating and messy. Canned spray foam like Great Stuff is fairly inexpensive and does a great job at filling gaps, cracks, and hard-to-reach areas like your vehicle frame.

Fiberglass is the most widely-used insulation in houses because it’s super cheap and it works. But its only real upside is that it’s cheap. Fiberglass has a fairly low R-value per inch, meaning you need more thickness to get the same insulating value as foam board. It’s also toxic and a pain to work with. It will make your skin itch, and you do not want to breathe it in.

Rock Wool is a semi-rigid batting material made from recycled stone spun into thin fibres. It’s very common in Europe and Canada, less so in the US. Rock wool has a higher R-value per inch than fiberglass, and its rigidity makes it much more durable and easier to work with. But it’s also a whole lot more expensive, and the R-value per inch is still a lot lower than foam board. And, like fiberglass, installation can be a very itchy process.

Recycled Denim Batts are made from recycled cotton blue jean material. It’s non-toxic and very environmentally friendly. Denim has the same R-value per inch as fiberglass, but it’s quite a bit more expensive (although it’s cheaper than rock wool). One major drawback of denim when it comes to van builds is that it easily soaks up and holds onto moisture, so you definitely don’t want to get this stuff wet.

3M Thinsulate is a synthetic insulation material. It combines decent insulation properties with sound deadening and moisture control. The synthetic fibres do not retain moisture, but they do allow it to pass through – meaning Thinsulate will not trap condensation behind it. It’s also non-toxic and easy to install. But, Thinsulate has the lowest R-value per inch of any insulation material and it’s expensive.

Lizard Skin and Other “Insulating” Ceramic Paints are essentially paint with ceramic microbubbles suspended within it. While this sounds like a great idea in theory, there is no actual scientific research that backs up any claims about its effectiveness. The EPA does not recommend using these products in place of bulk insulation.

Insulation Techniques

Planning and Preparation

Before you start insulating your campervan, there are a few things you should do to ensure the process goes smoothly. Firstly, it is important to clean your van thoroughly and check for any cracks or areas that need attention. This will help you familiarise yourself with the shape and structure of your van, which is crucial for effective insulation. Additionally, it is recommended to plan your electrical system and window cut-outs before installing insulation, as it will be more difficult to make changes later on.

Materials

There are a variety of materials available for insulating your campervan, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most commonly used options:

• Reflective bubble insulation is a good option for the floor of your van, especially if it has ridges or troughs, as it can help to reduce heat transfer.
• Polyiso board is a popular choice for larger campervan conversions, especially for under floorboards, as it reflects heat particles back into the living space. It is easy to cut and can be secured with aluminium tape.
• Glass mineral wool, or loft insulation, is a versatile option that can be torn into strips and pushed into small spaces. It also has sound-deadening properties, making your van quieter.
• ThermaWrap is a general-purpose insulation that can be attached to the walls of your camper with spray adhesive and aluminium tape. It is important to note that ThermaWrap should not be your only means of insulation.
• Cladding or plywood will be needed to hold your insulation in place and create a neat finish.
• Softwood beams are typically used to create a rib cage structure that will support your insulation and provide anchor points for cupboards and other storage solutions.

Insulating the Floor

To insulate your campervan floor, start by laying strips of reflective bubble insulation in the troughs of the floor to trap air and reduce heat transfer. You can then create a grid pattern with softwood beams, filling the squares with cut-to-size polyiso board. Any gaps can be filled with expanding foam, and the whole structure can be taped over with aluminium foil. Finally, you can add a plywood subfloor by screwing the sheets into the softwood beams.

Insulating the Walls and Ceiling

To insulate the walls, start by building a wooden support frame that runs along the sides of your van. You can then fill the large pockets in the walls with polyiso board or extruded polystyrene (XPS) rigid foam board. For the smaller pockets, you can use fibreglass or rock wool insulation, ensuring you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the fibres. Any gaps can be filled with spray foam. For the ceiling, simply cut the foam board to size and secure it with spray adhesive or insulation stick pins.

Sound Deadening

To reduce noise while driving, consider adding sound deadening material to the metal floor of your cab area and the ribbed floor of your van. This will significantly reduce the noise levels inside your campervan.

Finishing Touches

Once your insulation is in place, you can finish off any extra sections with expanding foam and get creative with your cladding or plywood. Just be careful not to block any areas where wires need to be pulled through.

Insulation Benefits

Insulation is critical when converting a van into a cosy campervan. It is important to consider the various benefits of insulating your campervan to create a comfortable and enjoyable living space. Here are some key advantages of insulating your camper:

Thermal Comfort

The primary benefit of insulating your camper is achieving thermal comfort, especially during winter or in cooler climates. Insulation helps retain heat inside the camper, keeping it warm and cosy. It also works the other way, preventing heat from entering during hot weather, thus maintaining a cool interior. This is achieved by using materials with high R-values, which resist heat transfer effectively.

Energy Efficiency

Insulation improves energy efficiency in your campervan. By reducing heat transfer, your heating or cooling systems don't have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. This not only saves you money on energy costs but also reduces your environmental impact by lowering energy consumption.

Condensation and Mould Prevention

Condensation occurs when warm air inside the camper comes into contact with cold surfaces, leading to water droplets forming. Insulation minimises this temperature difference, reducing condensation. Additionally, by keeping the interior warmer, the chance of mould growth is decreased, maintaining a healthier living environment.

Noise Reduction

Insulation acts as a sound barrier, reducing unwanted noise from the outside. This is particularly beneficial if you're planning to spend extended periods in your camper or will be travelling in noisy environments. It creates a quieter and more relaxing space.

Moisture Control

Insulation helps control moisture levels within the camper. By keeping the interior warm, the air can hold more moisture, preventing condensation on surfaces. This, in turn, inhibits mould growth, which can be detrimental to both the vehicle and your health.

Improved Resale Value

A well-insulated campervan is a valuable asset. Proper insulation adds to the resale value of your vehicle. It demonstrates that you've invested in the comfort and functionality of the space, making it more desirable to potential buyers.

Customisation and Longevity

Insulation allows for customisation to suit your specific needs. You can choose from various insulation types, such as spray foam, fibreglass, or foam board, to achieve the desired level of comfort. Additionally, insulation is a long-term investment, as it typically has a long lifespan, ensuring your camper remains comfortable for years to come.

Insulation Drawbacks

Insulating your camper van is essential to building a cosy home away from home. However, there are some drawbacks and challenges to be aware of. Here are some of the potential issues you may encounter when insulating your camper:

Cost

Insulation materials and installation can be expensive, especially if you opt for high-quality materials such as rigid foam or spray foam insulation. The cost of insulation can vary depending on the type of material, the amount required, and the complexity of the installation process. It is important to consider your budget and choose the most suitable insulation option accordingly.

Weight

Insulation can add significant weight to your camper van, especially if you use denser materials like plywood or fibreglass. This extra weight can impact fuel efficiency and handling, affecting your overall camping experience. It is crucial to strike a balance between adequate insulation and maintaining a manageable vehicle weight.

Installation Complexity

Installing insulation in a camper van can be a complex and time-consuming process. It requires careful planning, measurement, and execution. You may need to remove existing flooring, lining, and rust treatment before beginning the insulation process. Additionally, you will need to consider the placement of electrical wiring, windows, and storage compartments, ensuring that they do not interfere with the insulation.

Health Risks

Some insulation materials, such as fibreglass and mineral wool, can pose health risks. Fibreglass, for example, can become airborne during vehicle movement and cause skin irritation. Certain brands of fibreglass also contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Spray foam insulation can also be hazardous during installation, requiring proper protective gear and ventilation. It is important to research the health risks associated with your chosen insulation material and take the necessary precautions.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of insulation materials is an important consideration. Some types of insulation, such as XPS and EPS foam board, have a high global warming potential due to their hydrofluorocarbon content. It is essential to choose insulation that is not only effective but also environmentally friendly, such as recycled denim, plastic, cellulose, or wool.

Moisture Issues

Insulation can trap moisture, leading to potential mould and rot issues. It is crucial to ensure proper ventilation and consider using a dehumidifier to maintain a dry environment. Additionally, a vapour barrier can be installed to prevent moisture from reaching the insulation. However, if the vapour barrier is not perfectly sealed, it can trap water, causing more problems.

Space Constraints

Insulation can take up valuable space in your camper van, especially if you opt for thicker insulation boards or multiple layers of insulation. This can reduce the overall living space and impact the layout of your van. It is important to carefully plan and measure the insulation to ensure it fits within the available space without compromising functionality.

Insulation Tips

Insulating your camper van is a crucial step in creating a cosy living space. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Choose the right materials: Select insulation that suits your budget and needs. Consider factors such as thermal properties, ease of installation, health risks, fire resistance, water absorption, and eco-friendliness. Popular options include foam boards, spray foam, and reflective window covers.
• Clean your camper: Before insulating, thoroughly clean your van and check for any areas that require attention, such as cracks or wiring. This will ensure you start with a solid foundation.
• Plan your electrical system: Think about your wiring, lighting, energy usage, and plug placement before insulating. It's more difficult to make changes once insulation is in place.
• Install windows and vents first: Cut-outs for windows, roof vents, or chimneys should be made before adding insulation. This prevents unnecessary damage to your insulation and ensures a snug fit.
• Sound deadening: Consider using sound deadening materials, especially on the metal floor of your cab area, to significantly reduce noise while driving.
• Insulate your floor: If your van has an existing wooden floor, check the condition of the metalwork underneath and make any necessary repairs. Otherwise, create a softwood pine beam frame and fill it with insulation, such as Kingspan or Celotex, to keep your toes warm.
• Use ThermaWrap: ThermaWrap, a type of general-purpose insulation, helps reduce thermal energy loss from your van. Attach it to the walls before adding loft insulation.
• Install a rib cage: Build a rib cage from softwood beams to hold your insulation and main bulk of your build together. It will also provide anchor points for cupboards and other storage solutions.
• Finish off with expanding foam: Use expanding foam sparingly to fill any remaining gaps, such as around windows or doors. Ensure you don't block areas where wires need to be pulled through.

Frequently asked questions