Forum Discussion

woodhog's avatar
woodhog
Explorer
Nov 07, 2014

How is your van Insulated?

I was wondering how most Class B manufacturers are insulating the walls, ceilings and floors of their vans.

How is your Roadtrek, Pleasureway etc insulated from the bare metal to the inside of the wall/ceiling, floor materials?


Thanks

14 Replies

  • I do know Advanced RV uses reflective insulation which does add some R-factor. However, in general, at most, it might be a few inches, just because there isn't that much room in a van. Even with insulation, the single-pane windows on the windshield and driver/passenger doors are an issue. The windshield can be helped by a cover on the outside and inside, but the cab doors are difficult to insulate. The back doors are also an issue, not just with windows, but with warm air getting out.

    I have wondered about aerogel insulation types, like Thermablok. Of course, these would be more expensive, but for a "B", more bang for the buck is required.

    As for heaters, I wish the furnace makers here in the US would take a clue from Espar or Truma, and go gas/electric. Bigger rigs like "A"s have Cheap Heat as an option. This way, regardless of energy consumed, it would help things. On really cold days, both could be used in tandem.
  • I have no idea. I would have to pull the wall away and look but a couple weeks ago we were near Flagstaff Az and I got cold at night and thought it might be from lack of insulation but realized it was coming through the heater right below my bed. I will have to make a choice. Either use the heater or stuff rags in the exhaust to stop cold air from coming in. Wife was fine on the other bed.
  • We recently bought a 2006 PW Lexor ( cap on Chevy body).

    Essentially not intended for cold weather camping- the determiner is more the water/tank systems than comfort.
    Although I think that with PW and RT both Canadian, the value of insulation is considered.
    A "more Southern" manufacturer just wouldn;t have that DNA

    Last week's trial run to Northern AZ saw overnight lows of mid 20's. We were on shore power and used a small ceramic heater ( set on low and about 1/2 way) to warm the coach.
    I had a sleeping bag up against the rear doors and windows as could feel the cold coming through, and a spare blanket against the wall by the single pane window
    I was pretty comfy all night wearing longjohns.
    Dog helped.


    Mike
  • Closed cell foam board, the floors are spray insulated using the chassis manufactures body builders guidelines where they can apply insulation.