The foil needs an 1inch of air between it and the next layer to actually work as a radiant heat insulator. By placing it directly to the van metal you essentially just moved your vapor barrier from over the wool insulation to under.
If water were to collect between the metal of the van and the wool - the water would be absorbed by the wool, then gradually evaporate in air and the metal would be dry. But you have created a situation where water will appear between the metal of the van and the foil, the foil in this case acts as a vapor barrier and the water has no chance to evaporate. Therefore, the metal of the van will rust. Sorry if I upset you.
Yesss, I’ve used sheep’s wool insulation in my cabin and I’m going to use it again in my van that I’m converting..nice to have some natural material in a metal box!
Just for information the way the foil insulation works is it needs an air gap to prevent heat conduction and work properly you would have been better attaching it to the back of the plyboard lining for maximum insulation
Re: the foil insulation. My understanding is that unless there's an air gap on at least one side of the foil, it's ineffective. Other than as a vapour barrier, it's only use is as a radiant heat barrier. If there's no air gap then radiant heat becomes obsolete and conduction through foil is very efficient. Please let me know if you (or anyone else) have any insights into this?
Just doing my 1st van, decided same no vapour barrier.... Using foil backed self adhesive closed cell foam direct to panels, ceiling, floor and that plastic fleece as it doesn't hold moisture. Your videos of van build are well timed for me, will definitely be watching!!!
Yesss, welcome to the van build and no vapour barrier club 🙌🏽. I would have loved to have used that but with my budget I had to ditch the closed cell foam 😢. Good luck with the rest of your van build and enjoy it 🤗
Another great bit of insight guys! Thanks! I'm just starting on a transit custom. Serious now thinking of ditching the complete vapour barrier and moving to more breathable option. The vapour barrier should not allow moisture in if its done properly, but IF moisture does get locked in, it could be a big problem.
I'm on my first build a connect, iv done sound deadening & put some bubble foil double sided insulation on with adhesive, then going to put some plastic insulation like wool all over then was wondering to do foil bubble wrap or a plastic sheeting for vapour barrier? I'm lost. 😂
I haven't even finished my 1st van build yet and you are on your 4th! Top Tip. That spray adhesive is supposed to be sprayed on both surfaces. So wall and carpet. Let it go tacky then stick together 👍. Build is looking good!
@@stacileharve7084 I suggest you do some more research about me before posting misinformation. You don't need to build vans to give some one tips also. This stuff carries through to loads of different things. You need to brush up on your researching skills.
The idea of one coated surface is to allow for moving contact when fitting, sliding, stretching and flattening. Something near impossible when stuck fast as in a two contact situation. They did it right. It will dry just the same but takes longer.
I agree...it's an 8 out of 10! Nice job. The carpeting looks good...but isn't it difficult to clean...especially in such a light color? And I'm wondering why you didn't use Kilmat/sound deadening on the wheel wells where much of the sound comes in.
Thank you Nancy 🤗. The carpeting will only be on show on the top left quarter of the door frames as the rest will be covered with fixtures so unlikely it will get dirty but if it does a wet wipe can scrub out any small marks from my experience. I didn’t sound deaden these wheel arches because they are solid steel, they don’t have any wobble to them 🤗. I’ve never had a van this old but yes, usually the wheel arches are made from a thinner metal that wobbles 🫶🏼
Very thorough with your homework. Trapping vapour is never good, far better to let the insulation system breathe in my opinion. Seems to me van builds, like all tasks in life, is 20% ability and 80% STICK-ability. Good work guys. xx
Yesss! I’m glad someone has agreed haha. Although I’m confident with my decision, it’s nice to be reassured. And yes a van build is built on a lot of determination and swearing 😆
Contentious issue, but speaking from experience, I bought a second hand self build a few years ago that had no vapour barrier. It later failed it's MoT due to severe rust which had been covered up. When I investigated later and removed the panels the insulation was soaking wet. Moisture had collected in the cills and rotted it from the inside out. Personal choice, but the van I am building now has a vapour barrier throughout. I guess time will tell which is the best method.
It’s so hard to know which is truly best, my worry with a vapour barrier is that you do naturally trap moisture behind the scenes especially if building in winter. I know it’s not much but it’s something. Then there is making sure every single gap is covered because if moisture gets behind the scenes it will be trapped there for a while. Personally I think no vapour barrier gives you a better chance of keeping the insulation dry. Personally I think the goal with whatever way someone decides to insulate is to just make sure the van is well ventilated and there is a heat source ♥️ I hope it all goes well for the both of us 🍀
I think you've hit the nail on the head. Ventilation and heating is definitely the key to keeping moisture at bay. Good luck with your build. Looking forward to seeing the results! 🙂
@@CamperVan-K Yes, sound deadening material, then insulate, then vapour barrier. You will never make it air tight, but the object is to try and stop any moisture reaching the cold steel of the van panels where it will condense. The other option, and perhaps the best is to use closed cell adhesive foil backed foam stuck to all the panels first, then insulate with recycled bottle material etc. if you use this method then a vapour barrier shouldn't be necessary but it 8s a more expensive method. Hope it helps. Good luck!
hey! Thank you for sharing. How is this combination of insulation materials working out for you? I'm keen to establish a proven alternative to the commonly recomended PIR board with gap + vapour barrier because of the space it uses up.
So, let me get this right: you've put the sound proofing in, then the silver foil, then the sheeps wool, then the boards? Isn't the silver foil a vapour barrier?
That's what the idea was I guess, but unfortunately, physics doesn't do favors. If you want a vapor barrier in that form, you need to use closed-cell foam (with or without foil) of at least 6-7mm thickness (more if you are in very cold environment) as a first layer and make sure it's very tightly glued on the metal, so use very sticky stuff only.
I don't know about a number rating (8-9) but Id say thats lookin pretty good around the wheel well. So is the carpeting like a finish look? Is it actually carpet material or a cloth? Anyway nice progress guys! Snuggles to Lord Onyx 🤗🤗be well Nic & Sam😉💕
Aww thank you Heather 🥰. The carpeting is a finished look for those areas only, although you won’t see the wheel arch and one side of the back doors once everything is in. It’s a 4 way stretch carpet for vehicles and to me it feels like those A4 felt sheets you can buy in a craft store, just a lot more durable 🤗
Loving the build so far and picking up lots of tips, but not knowing Changing Rooms? I can hear Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen tutting flamboyantly from here 😂
I know you've done a lot of research online regarding vapour / moisture barriers and that there are a lot of conflicting opinions online on the subject! So, time for some home science to find out for yourself! Fill a bucket with some leftover wool insulation and add the equivalent of about a days worth of condensation from living in a van (Like what condenses on your windscreen overnight). Probably about half a glass. Leave the insulated bucket to breath and see how long it takes to dry out naturally. What makes wool such a fantastic insulator is the fact it's really good at trapping air. Sadly this works both ways as also stifles airflow allowing moisture to build up; also promoting mould and rust. :( Loving the van build videos so far! You're both making fantastic progress!
There are pros and cons with all insulations, I’ve used rigid board, recycled plastic insulation and now sheep’s wool, no matter what insulation you use, vapour will get to it. Let’s say for instance I used rigid board, vapour will gather on the foil and if it isn’t removed it will just drip down. If I use recycled plastic or wool, it will gather within. This sheeps wool is mould resistant but you’re right, if it was sodden, woods or fabrics that are unprotected could get mouldy nearby. As for the rust, the metal is all covered in foil so this won’t happen. The actual goal with insulation in a van (in my opinion) is to have it breathable and your space well ventilated and if possible heated. Without the first twothings the insulation could get ruined or cause damage to other parts of the van over time. My decision to have no vapour barrier is so no condensation can get trapped behind the scenes and any condensation that does form can be dried out either via natural ventilation or the diesel heater 🤗 And thank you so much, we’ve really been enjoying another build and learning new things once again 🤗
Yes sealing it all in is bad news, your way is best, if you use a barrier then interstitial condensation occurs and will cause corrosion a common mistake with van builds. You don't even need the silver foil on a white van because it won't get too warm in the sun, especially in winter. 🌞👍
Love your videos guys...I am at about the same point in my van build as you guys, but I went with foam back foil on the van metal, then 25mm kingspan board, recycled loft insulation (cos I did not want to throw it out as it looked pretty new) and foil wrap as a vapour barrier......Now after watching your video am not too sure about the vapour barrier...but its done now so fingers crossed.
If in doubt get in touch with companies who convert vans for a living and ask their advice. Unfortunately there are so many You Tubers who think they know what they’re doing instead of knowing what they’re doing.
Thank you for this video. I never knew about 4way stretch carpet. I'm converting my Kia picanto car to a mini camper. Will need a bit of insulation in places. I do like the wool & foil option. Looks very user friendly. Will be watch more of you vids for tips. 🙏
Hey, our screws go through the metal too as we didn’t use battens. Make sure they’re not too long if they go through the metal and if you can, I’d seal them straight away. We haven’t been able to so once the van is done we are going to get under there seal them and paint a underbody protection on. That’s the plan at the moment anyway 🤗
Thank you for providing such great tips! I'm currently working on my first van build and I'm finding you guys AMAZING! So helpful!! That being said, what size/option did yous use for the sheep wool insualtion? Or what size would you reccomend? Keep up the great work!!💫
Thank you Finn and good luck with your van build 🤗. We got the 50mm thick insulation but I recommend measuring the depth of your cavities and selecting the depth to match it. You want the insulation to be able to expand and not be squished for it to work best 🤗. Thank you for tuning in!
Not really, we don't intend to get the floor that wet. But if you tend to have wet gear in that area or open your doors in the rain etc then you could add sealant for extra precaution 😀
daft question, but just doing my first van,, will does the infra red heat from silver foil travel through the sheeps wool .. or panels ,, or does it just heat up the gap..... thanks
I’m not sure if I’ve read the question correctly so correct me if my answer is completely wrong. But the foil is there to reflect the heat in on the cold days and out on the hot days, similarly to how it works when you use it for radiators in a house or thermal blinds on your windows 🤗. The sheeps wool will also help with this but not in a reflective way 🤗
Hey! Thanks so much for helping me decide on whether to vapour barrier or not😂 can I just ask, what size of the thermafleece did you get? I’m converting a smaller van but don’t really know how much to get and what size would be helpful to fit into gaps
Hi Hannah, I know this might be way too late of an answer but if not, hopefully this helps. We went for 50mm thickness but what I’d do is measure how deep your cavaties are and select the thickness of the smallest bit. You can always double up but it’s not good to compress the insulation 🤗
I am pretty sure I am going to use styrofoam (the pink stuff in sheets ... or the kind with a metal reflector), and Loctite/LePage "spray foam" big gap to insulate my van. But my van is a step van, so everything is flat and square! :)
For this van we used foil insulation only 🤗. In other vans we have done rigid board insulation too. It really is up to you but of course the more insulation the warmer it is, but just know it knocks off from the hight of the van (May or may not be an issue depending on the van you go with) 🤗
Not odd, hot air rises and you loose a lot of space insulating them. Foil insulation will reflect any heat back in if it does try to escape and as they are situated in a trunk and the storage unit they’re pretty insulated anyway 😊
If that's trimfix glue, please get a mask, it's proper nasty carcinogenic. Totally agree with you on the lack of vapour barrier. Blast the heating open the windows. Plus without vapour barrier, it's easier to check for wet spots
I had to Google what trimix was 😂, you’re right we totally should have worn a mask! we know better but, holding your breath totally works 😂, i'm kidding.
Carpeting is so hard! It’s the best I’ve done yet so you don’t even want to know what my first lot ever looked like 🙃. I’m sure yours is awesome, the good thing about it is most people in a van spend their time outside, not staring at the carpet on a wheel arch 😂. And thanks for that, someone here will have to decide the forfeit 🙃
@@nicroams Being that you love that black bikini I reckon the forfeit should be working in it on a cold day. That would be impossible I think. But think of the viewing figures! Through the roof girl!
A 3 on the wheel arch carpeting tbh, and spray both carpet and arch, wait 30secs then put together. Start in the centre and work outwards, pulling it far tighter than you did, all of those creases would've pulled out and ended up in the excess, which is what you're after, then just trim them off. It took me 4 attempts to work it out though 😂
We foil insulated the floor, we run over why in more detail in our flooring video 🤗 just a couple of episodes back if you want to watch it. But essentially it’s because hot air rises and we have converted 5 vans with rigid board insulation and just foil on the floors. We find the floor is cold in the winter regardless and the best thing to combat it is to put a fluffy rug in there 🤗
Wool does not “create” moisture, its actually really good at regulating itself with moisture control, I'm not sure why you believe it should never ever ever be used for insulation.
@@nicroams Look when outside is cold and inside is warm, water condensation occurs in the walls of the van. Wool “absorbs” humidity that is the reason wool should never be used for insulation. You do not believe me? Look in RUclips for wool insulation moisture issues and you will be surprise what you find.
You got this wrong - i mean you should have named this video - we insulate our van with the vapour barrier in the wrong place !!! The foil is not insulation its main use is reflection of heat and as a vapour barrier - in fact the aluminium in the foil is an excellent heat conductor so placing it directly to the metal exterior and frame is allowing heat/cold to conduct directly into the van very effectively. Given the nature of the foil acting as a vapour barrier you have not avoided a vapour barrier but actually encouraged water to accumulate behind themoisture absorbing wool insulation and prevented ventilation of the wool. huge fail
We know the foil isn’t insulation and that it is used for reflection of heat only, which we stated in this video, so not sure why you said that. You can use it as a vapour barrier but you also don’t have to, that’s not how it is used in houses for example. In this instance, we chose to use it for its reflective purposes only. If vapour was to accumulate behind the wool and in front of the foil, it would do that without the foil there anyway. As mentioned in this video, the key is to have a well ventilated van and a heater to insure insulation can breath and stay dry. We have built vans with the foil as a vapour barrier in the ‘traditional’ way and found that vapour would pool behind. With the UK being so moist and having to build our vans outdoors, it is near enough impossible to build a van without trapping moisture behind the vapour barrier. Which is why we tried it this way and we have had no issues doing it this way. The insulation remains nice and dry, we remain warm in the winter and cool in the summer. So we believe… we got this right 😊 Sometimes, you don’t have to do as it says on the box and multiple methods work.
@@nicroams it does not insulate when applied directly to the sheet metal body panels. And it is almost impossible to successfully use it as a vapor barrier. It becomes a vapor trapper.
@@patriciabrown8301 no worries at all haha. I’ll take the 8/10. The van will be for rent and in all honesty, I don’t think a van needs to be perfect for sale, it just needs to be priced right to reflect what you’re buying, just like a house 🤗. This van will be for rent at the end and the wheel arch will be hidden in a trunk and likely have timber covering the patchwork bit anyway 😄
The paper thin tin foil 1.2 mm you applied on the wall, doesn't do anything. It needs to be at least 6mm and up to 10mm thick to see an actual effects of energy from outside being blocked and not transferred inside. You wasted time and money. /facepalm
Disagree, this foil is used in households every day to reflect radiator heat back in. Not only that every DIY store sells this type of foil. Of course there is the chance you know better than everyone. I do agree however, the thicker the better. But this will still do a good job 👍🏼
The foil needs an 1inch of air between it and the next layer to actually work as a radiant heat insulator. By placing it directly to the van metal you essentially just moved your vapor barrier from over the wool insulation to under.
In fact, the foil will not act as a vapor barrier either, condensation instead of forming on the metal, will form on the foil.
If water were to collect between the metal of the van and the wool - the water would be absorbed by the wool, then gradually evaporate in air and the metal would be dry. But you have created a situation where water will appear between the metal of the van and the foil, the foil in this case acts as a vapor barrier and the water has no chance to evaporate. Therefore, the metal of the van will rust. Sorry if I upset you.
Yesss, I’ve used sheep’s wool insulation in my cabin and I’m going to use it again in my van that I’m converting..nice to have some natural material in a metal box!
Just for information the way the foil insulation works is it needs an air gap to prevent heat conduction and work properly you would have been better attaching it to the back of the plyboard lining for maximum insulation
Re: the foil insulation. My understanding is that unless there's an air gap on at least one side of the foil, it's ineffective. Other than as a vapour barrier, it's only use is as a radiant heat barrier. If there's no air gap then radiant heat becomes obsolete and conduction through foil is very efficient. Please let me know if you (or anyone else) have any insights into this?
You are absolutely right. The foil does absolutely nothing there and it was a complete waste of effort and money.
Just doing my 1st van, decided same no vapour barrier.... Using foil backed self adhesive closed cell foam direct to panels, ceiling, floor and that plastic fleece as it doesn't hold moisture. Your videos of van build are well timed for me, will definitely be watching!!!
Yesss, welcome to the van build and no vapour barrier club 🙌🏽. I would have loved to have used that but with my budget I had to ditch the closed cell foam 😢. Good luck with the rest of your van build and enjoy it 🤗
Another great bit of insight guys! Thanks! I'm just starting on a transit custom. Serious now thinking of ditching the complete vapour barrier and moving to more breathable option. The vapour barrier should not allow moisture in if its done properly, but IF moisture does get locked in, it could be a big problem.
How is any material going to breath behind ply and wood paneling ?
@@desendean6488when it heats up in the summer, water can escape
I'm on my first build a connect, iv done sound deadening & put some bubble foil double sided insulation on with adhesive, then going to put some plastic insulation like wool all over then was wondering to do foil bubble wrap or a plastic sheeting for vapour barrier? I'm lost. 😂
I haven't even finished my 1st van build yet and you are on your 4th!
Top Tip. That spray adhesive is supposed to be sprayed on both surfaces. So wall and carpet. Let it go tacky then stick together 👍.
Build is looking good!
They have built 4 vans and lived in them for years, you haven't built any but you are giving them tips 🤔
@@stacileharve7084 I suggest you do some more research about me before posting misinformation. You don't need to build vans to give some one tips also. This stuff carries through to loads of different things. You need to brush up on your researching skills.
@@stacileharve7084 YOU SPELL STACEY WITH A I. read the instructions
The idea of one coated surface is to allow for moving contact when fitting, sliding, stretching and flattening. Something near impossible when stuck fast as in a two contact situation. They did it right. It will dry just the same but takes longer.
The adhesive is needed to apply on both sides and then wait for the glue to become sticky and not moist
Thank you, it’s all stuck fine 👍🏼
I agree...it's an 8 out of 10! Nice job. The carpeting looks good...but isn't it difficult to clean...especially in such a light color? And I'm wondering why you didn't use Kilmat/sound deadening on the wheel wells where much of the sound comes in.
Thank you Nancy 🤗. The carpeting will only be on show on the top left quarter of the door frames as the rest will be covered with fixtures so unlikely it will get dirty but if it does a wet wipe can scrub out any small marks from my experience.
I didn’t sound deaden these wheel arches because they are solid steel, they don’t have any wobble to them 🤗. I’ve never had a van this old but yes, usually the wheel arches are made from a thinner metal that wobbles 🫶🏼
Very thorough with your homework. Trapping vapour is never good, far better to let the insulation system breathe in my opinion. Seems to me van builds, like all tasks in life, is 20% ability and 80% STICK-ability. Good work guys. xx
Yesss! I’m glad someone has agreed haha. Although I’m confident with my decision, it’s nice to be reassured. And yes a van build is built on a lot of determination and swearing 😆
@@nicroamsSwearing yes. I find the word BOLLOCKS helps... a lot, Sorry for swearing mind :S
Contentious issue, but speaking from experience, I bought a second hand self build a few years ago that had no vapour barrier. It later failed it's MoT due to severe rust which had been covered up. When I investigated later and removed the panels the insulation was soaking wet. Moisture had collected in the cills and rotted it from the inside out. Personal choice, but the van I am building now has a vapour barrier throughout. I guess time will tell which is the best method.
It’s so hard to know which is truly best, my worry with a vapour barrier is that you do naturally trap moisture behind the scenes especially if building in winter. I know it’s not much but it’s something. Then there is making sure every single gap is covered because if moisture gets behind the scenes it will be trapped there for a while. Personally I think no vapour barrier gives you a better chance of keeping the insulation dry.
Personally I think the goal with whatever way someone decides to insulate is to just make sure the van is well ventilated and there is a heat source ♥️ I hope it all goes well for the both of us 🍀
I think you've hit the nail on the head. Ventilation and heating is definitely the key to keeping moisture at bay. Good luck with your build. Looking forward to seeing the results! 🙂
hi John, so does the vapour barrier go like this? sound insulation strips, sheeps wool/bottle plastic (whatever) then the foil strips on top?
@@CamperVan-K Yes, sound deadening material, then insulate, then vapour barrier. You will never make it air tight, but the object is to try and stop any moisture reaching the cold steel of the van panels where it will condense. The other option, and perhaps the best is to use closed cell adhesive foil backed foam stuck to all the panels first, then insulate with recycled bottle material etc. if you use this method then a vapour barrier shouldn't be necessary but it 8s a more expensive method. Hope it helps. Good luck!
hey! Thank you for sharing.
How is this combination of insulation materials working out for you?
I'm keen to establish a proven alternative to the commonly recomended PIR board with gap + vapour barrier because of the space it uses up.
So, let me get this right: you've put the sound proofing in, then the silver foil, then the sheeps wool, then the boards? Isn't the silver foil a vapour barrier?
Yes 😊 the foil can be used as a vapour barrier if you’d like to insulate your van that way. For us, we are using it for its reflective purposes only
That's what the idea was I guess, but unfortunately, physics doesn't do favors. If you want a vapor barrier in that form, you need to use closed-cell foam (with or without foil) of at least 6-7mm thickness (more if you are in very cold environment) as a first layer and make sure it's very tightly glued on the metal, so use very sticky stuff only.
I don't know about a number rating (8-9) but Id say thats lookin pretty good around the wheel well. So is the carpeting like a finish look? Is it actually carpet material or a cloth? Anyway nice progress guys! Snuggles to Lord Onyx 🤗🤗be well Nic & Sam😉💕
Aww thank you Heather 🥰. The carpeting is a finished look for those areas only, although you won’t see the wheel arch and one side of the back doors once everything is in.
It’s a 4 way stretch carpet for vehicles and to me it feels like those A4 felt sheets you can buy in a craft store, just a lot more durable 🤗
Loving the build so far and picking up lots of tips, but not knowing Changing Rooms? I can hear Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen tutting flamboyantly from here 😂
Camper therm I find is the best for insulation there new 10mm is the best I have tried by a mile and great value
I know you've done a lot of research online regarding vapour / moisture barriers and that there are a lot of conflicting opinions online on the subject! So, time for some home science to find out for yourself!
Fill a bucket with some leftover wool insulation and add the equivalent of about a days worth of condensation from living in a van (Like what condenses on your windscreen overnight). Probably about half a glass. Leave the insulated bucket to breath and see how long it takes to dry out naturally.
What makes wool such a fantastic insulator is the fact it's really good at trapping air. Sadly this works both ways as also stifles airflow allowing moisture to build up; also promoting mould and rust. :(
Loving the van build videos so far! You're both making fantastic progress!
There are pros and cons with all insulations, I’ve used rigid board, recycled plastic insulation and now sheep’s wool, no matter what insulation you use, vapour will get to it.
Let’s say for instance I used rigid board, vapour will gather on the foil and if it isn’t removed it will just drip down. If I use recycled plastic or wool, it will gather within.
This sheeps wool is mould resistant but you’re right, if it was sodden, woods or fabrics that are unprotected could get mouldy nearby. As for the rust, the metal is all covered in foil so this won’t happen. The actual goal with insulation in a van (in my opinion) is to have it breathable and your space well ventilated and if possible heated. Without the first twothings the insulation could get ruined or cause damage to other parts of the van over time.
My decision to have no vapour barrier is so no condensation can get trapped behind the scenes and any condensation that does form can be dried out either via natural ventilation or the diesel heater 🤗
And thank you so much, we’ve really been enjoying another build and learning new things once again 🤗
@@nicroams Thanks for going the extra mile to make such a detailed reply to my comment!
I truly hope this approach works out for you moving forward!
I found the Tuff cut first aid scissors, ideal for cutting the 4 way stretch carpet.
Yes sealing it all in is bad news, your way is best, if you use a barrier then interstitial condensation occurs and will cause corrosion a common mistake with van builds. You don't even need the silver foil on a white van because it won't get too warm in the sun, especially in winter. 🌞👍
🥰🙏🏼
Love your videos guys...I am at about the same point in my van build as you guys, but I went with foam back foil on the van metal, then 25mm kingspan board, recycled loft insulation (cos I did not want to throw it out as it looked pretty new) and foil wrap as a vapour barrier......Now after watching your video am not too sure about the vapour barrier...but its done now so fingers crossed.
Sounds good enough I went for 50mm Celotex and the reflectix foil as a vapour barrier 3 years living in a van have had no problems
If in doubt get in touch with companies who convert vans for a living and ask their advice. Unfortunately there are so many You Tubers who think they know what they’re doing instead of knowing what they’re doing.
You guys are doing an amazing job! I am anxious to see it finished! I like the idea of the carpet on the walls!
Thank you so much 🙌🏽 me too, I love seeing a build come together 🥰
How big of a roll did you get for the therma fleece (length and thickness)? I’m not sure how much to get :)) Love your videos- so so helpful
Thank you for this video. I never knew about 4way stretch carpet. I'm converting my Kia picanto car to a mini camper. Will need a bit of insulation in places. I do like the wool & foil option. Looks very user friendly. Will be watch more of you vids for tips. 🙏
Do the screws go through the metal floor? In my van they do, so wondering how deep to drill and use screws without rusting out the bottom
Hey, our screws go through the metal too as we didn’t use battens. Make sure they’re not too long if they go through the metal and if you can, I’d seal them straight away. We haven’t been able to so once the van is done we are going to get under there seal them and paint a underbody protection on. That’s the plan at the moment anyway 🤗
Im assuming this build is completed by now, will it or does it have a shower in there?
Yes and yes 😊 there is a video on the ‘shower’ and a van tour 😊
Thank you for providing such great tips! I'm currently working on my first van build and I'm finding you guys AMAZING! So helpful!! That being said, what size/option did yous use for the sheep wool insualtion? Or what size would you reccomend? Keep up the great work!!💫
Thank you Finn and good luck with your van build 🤗. We got the 50mm thick insulation but I recommend measuring the depth of your cavities and selecting the depth to match it. You want the insulation to be able to expand and not be squished for it to work best 🤗. Thank you for tuning in!
Amazing!! Thanks so much for your help😊
Did you spray glue the sheep’s wool to the panel? Just getting tips for my build ..
Yes, contact spray adhesive 🤗
Your smashing this build out...Good job on the carpet - Can`t wait for the electrics because that's where i am at the moment with mine.
Would love to know how the van is holding up without the vapour barrier?
I’ve been living in it since we completed it and I believe it is holding up very well 😊
Good to know@@nicroams as I've chosen not to vapour barrier as well.Thanks!
Hiya, are you not concerned about water getting in under the floorbat the back? Will you seal u der the metal trim over the notches on the floor?
Not really, we don't intend to get the floor that wet. But if you tend to have wet gear in that area or open your doors in the rain etc then you could add sealant for extra precaution 😀
2:35 ... Still Air .. Air that cannot move is actually good insulation! I like your idea here!!
daft question, but just doing my first van,, will does the infra red heat from silver foil travel through the sheeps wool .. or panels ,, or does it just heat up the gap..... thanks
I’m not sure if I’ve read the question correctly so correct me if my answer is completely wrong. But the foil is there to reflect the heat in on the cold days and out on the hot days, similarly to how it works when you use it for radiators in a house or thermal blinds on your windows 🤗. The sheeps wool will also help with this but not in a reflective way 🤗
Hey! Thanks so much for helping me decide on whether to vapour barrier or not😂 can I just ask, what size of the thermafleece did you get? I’m converting a smaller van but don’t really know how much to get and what size would be helpful to fit into gaps
Hi Hannah, I know this might be way too late of an answer but if not, hopefully this helps. We went for 50mm thickness but what I’d do is measure how deep your cavaties are and select the thickness of the smallest bit. You can always double up but it’s not good to compress the insulation 🤗
I am pretty sure I am going to use styrofoam (the pink stuff in sheets ... or the kind with a metal reflector), and Loctite/LePage "spray foam" big gap to insulate my van. But my van is a step van, so everything is flat and square! :)
Love how you both say insulation haha. 'inshhulation'
Surely there is no other way of saying it 😂. But seriously, wait until you hear us say water and restaurant 🙃
@@nicroams Hahah can't wait. Absolutely love your channel. Such down to earth people....
It's a British thing.
What thickness of insulation did you use for the van? Thanks :)
Hello, sorry for the slow reply but we went for the 50mm thickness 🙌🏼
Hi, im looking to use hemp or sheeps wool what thickness did you go for thanks
Hello! we used sheets wool, its in the videos description under therma fleece, you can check all the details like R value etc from there :)
7:20 - Lord Onyx in all his glory haahaha x Great Video, I'm hooked x
its coming together very nice work just look out as the cold tends to make you not concentrate
We will blast some heating in to the van as we work powered by… Steve 😆
Do you insulate the floor as well by any chance just because I'm thinking of buying the van and regards Dan
For this van we used foil insulation only 🤗. In other vans we have done rigid board insulation too. It really is up to you but of course the more insulation the warmer it is, but just know it knocks off from the hight of the van (May or may not be an issue depending on the van you go with) 🤗
What thickness of insulation did you use ?
Hello! we used sheets wool, its in the videos description under therma fleece, you can check all the details like R value etc from there :)
No insulation on the wheel wells? Odd
Not odd, hot air rises and you loose a lot of space insulating them. Foil insulation will reflect any heat back in if it does try to escape and as they are situated in a trunk and the storage unit they’re pretty insulated anyway 😊
If that's trimfix glue, please get a mask, it's proper nasty carcinogenic. Totally agree with you on the lack of vapour barrier. Blast the heating open the windows. Plus without vapour barrier, it's easier to check for wet spots
Once Trimfix has been applied, is it no longer carcinogenic? I can't find any info online, just that it is carcinogenic.
I had to Google what trimix was 😂, you’re right we totally should have worn a mask! we know better but, holding your breath totally works 😂, i'm kidding.
yep, the van exterior is a vapor barrier
rate my carpet 1... lol only because I would have folded the top bit over the lower bit but it does look fab :)
TBH Nic your wheel arch carpeting is better than mine but I am going to give you 2 as I want to see you do a forfeit. (But really it's an 8).
Carpeting is so hard! It’s the best I’ve done yet so you don’t even want to know what my first lot ever looked like 🙃. I’m sure yours is awesome, the good thing about it is most people in a van spend their time outside, not staring at the carpet on a wheel arch 😂. And thanks for that, someone here will have to decide the forfeit 🙃
@@nicroams Being that you love that black bikini I reckon the forfeit should be working in it on a cold day. That would be impossible I think. But think of the viewing figures! Through the roof girl!
love your choice of insulation
Well I think you did a 10/10 job! 🎉
Never ever used a vapour barrier and vans just have been back to after several years still bone dry
That is amazing to hear 🤗 makes me feel like we made the right decision
@@nicroams
Definitely
You’ll never see a vapour layer in a Hymer
Are you organising any meet-ups soon BTW?
Hola chicos bonita camper y bonito paisajes ,saludos .
4:26 Love your hair up like this! :)
Hallelujah, no vapour barrier and common sense prevails. You realise though that Virgoe will be having heart palpitations! 😂😂
Right!!! 😂
Lol Im American and I know changing rooms....HGTV ripped it off and called it trading spaces
It’s that well known 😆 I’m obviously very clueless 😂
A 3 on the wheel arch carpeting tbh, and spray both carpet and arch, wait 30secs then put together. Start in the centre and work outwards, pulling it far tighter than you did, all of those creases would've pulled out and ended up in the excess, which is what you're after, then just trim them off. It took me 4 attempts to work it out though 😂
That for the tip, the next time I cover a wheel well will be my first.
Why have you not insulated the floor of the van
We foil insulated the floor, we run over why in more detail in our flooring video 🤗 just a couple of episodes back if you want to watch it. But essentially it’s because hot air rises and we have converted 5 vans with rigid board insulation and just foil on the floors. We find the floor is cold in the winter regardless and the best thing to combat it is to put a fluffy rug in there 🤗
definitely an 11 for carpet
Haha thank you 🥰
Wool should never ever ever be used for insulation. It will create moisture like there is no tomorrow.
Wool does not “create” moisture, its actually really good at regulating itself with moisture control, I'm not sure why you believe it should never ever ever be used for insulation.
@@nicroams Look when outside is cold and inside is warm, water condensation occurs in the walls of the van. Wool “absorbs” humidity that is the reason wool should never be used for insulation. You do not believe me? Look in RUclips for wool insulation moisture issues and you will be surprise what you find.
You got this wrong - i mean you should have named this video - we insulate our van with the vapour barrier in the wrong place !!!
The foil is not insulation its main use is reflection of heat and as a vapour barrier - in fact the aluminium in the foil is an excellent heat conductor so placing it directly to the metal exterior and frame is allowing heat/cold to conduct directly into the van very effectively.
Given the nature of the foil acting as a vapour barrier you have not avoided a vapour barrier but actually encouraged water to accumulate behind themoisture absorbing wool insulation and prevented ventilation of the wool.
huge fail
We know the foil isn’t insulation and that it is used for reflection of heat only, which we stated in this video, so not sure why you said that.
You can use it as a vapour barrier but you also don’t have to, that’s not how it is used in houses for example. In this instance, we chose to use it for its reflective purposes only.
If vapour was to accumulate behind the wool and in front of the foil, it would do that without the foil there anyway. As mentioned in this video, the key is to have a well ventilated van and a heater to insure insulation can breath and stay dry.
We have built vans with the foil as a vapour barrier in the ‘traditional’ way and found that vapour would pool behind. With the UK being so moist and having to build our vans outdoors, it is near enough impossible to build a van without trapping moisture behind the vapour barrier. Which is why we tried it this way and we have had no issues doing it this way. The insulation remains nice and dry, we remain warm in the winter and cool in the summer. So we believe… we got this right 😊
Sometimes, you don’t have to do as it says on the box and multiple methods work.
Reflectix is almost absolutely useless in van builds. It does nothing.
What exactly do you think it doesn’t do?
@@nicroams it does not insulate when applied directly to the sheet metal body panels. And it is almost impossible to successfully use it as a vapor barrier. It becomes a vapor trapper.
@@this-is-slammin-549agreed, that’s what we said in this video. We are using it to reflect heat back in. Thanks for not watching and commenting 😂
The wheel arches could have been better should have ask Liam The Terrible hes good at carpeting watch his van builds
You are suppose to rate the carpeting out of 10, not just tell us it's bad 😂 Maybe one day we will be as good as Liam... The Van Builder 🥰
@@nicroams Sorry 8 out of 10 if your selling the van it needs to be perfect thats what i meant sorry xx
@@patriciabrown8301 no worries at all haha. I’ll take the 8/10. The van will be for rent and in all honesty, I don’t think a van needs to be perfect for sale, it just needs to be priced right to reflect what you’re buying, just like a house 🤗. This van will be for rent at the end and the wheel arch will be hidden in a trunk and likely have timber covering the patchwork bit anyway 😄
So a summer van😂
I’ve lived in it through the winter and it’s been nice and toasty ☺️
that carpet will last 1 year
I disagree 😊
Look into lizzard skin
Insulation not InSHUlation 😂
The paper thin tin foil 1.2 mm you applied on the wall, doesn't do anything. It needs to be at least 6mm and up to 10mm thick to see an actual effects of energy from outside being blocked and not transferred inside. You wasted time and money. /facepalm
Disagree, this foil is used in households every day to reflect radiator heat back in. Not only that every DIY store sells this type of foil. Of course there is the chance you know better than everyone. I do agree however, the thicker the better. But this will still do a good job 👍🏼
Hey you guys lol 😝
🫶🏼🙌🏽
👍
yay
a 3
😂 one step closer to a forfeit 😆
InSULation
Shit 😮…….. only joking 😊😊
😂😂😂 anything to get me to do a forfeit
@@nicroams the vans coming along very nice you guys are a breath of fresh air keep it
condensation wont build up no matter how hard you try if just have a maxxfan on like 20%
"like" 20%? What's "like" 20% mean?
its got 10 speed settings @@jamsams
"Inshalation"