TurnThePage wrote:
I have nothing against the azdel product, but I'm pretty sure there there is no 50% improvement in insulation over competitors. I think it might be 50% higher than an equivalent piece of luan, which is already quite small, as compared to the foamboard or fiberglass insulation behind it. In fact, I just found a specific comparison that bears this out:
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Quote:
· 50% lighter than wood
· Offers 3x the insulation value of wood
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In reality that can't be completely accurate either because I'm sure different wood has different R values.
Azdel is a lot of marketing hype. Is it a better material than luan plywood? Yes. Is it a better material than luan plywood in a laminated trailer wall? Not really. Any insulation gain is negligible at best.
Introduce water into the mix and you'll still have delamination. The adhesive will still fail that holds the lamination together, and the fiberglass will release from the Azdel, or the Azdel will release from the beaded foam insulation and aluminum substructure. Azdel will not rot or deteriorate itself from water as luan might, but once the adhesive holding the layers together fails you have the same end result. I would not let Azdel sway me into a decision one way or the other.
I would not recommend the Apex because it's a Forest River brand. The Forest River warranty and customer service is the best in all the land, and in brochures and on company websites. Until you actually need it.