I am going to use this, based on your research. Also, just want to say thank you so much, you have saved me so much time and given me a lot of confidence on my build
How does this only have 5k views? It's easily one of the best vanlife insulation videos on the net. Completely fair, unbiased, and comprehensive. Great job!
Are you kidding me?? This is one of the worst examples of insulation in existence. This van is not insulated at all. Putting the insulation INSIDE between the metal layers doesn't make sense at all. At the same time there are lot of exposed metal parts which are the direct cold bridge from the outside. Obviously she doesn't understand what she is doing
I started using scissors for cutting my thinsulate and hated how my hand got tired. I tried using a standard turkey carving knife and it was a game changer. I zipped through the thinsulate like butter. I know you have finished this activity but maybe another viewer can benefit from my experience. I love your videos. Your detailed explanations of your processes are so informative. Thank you so much!
@@LaurenLawliss I think some of the cordless toolmakers sell cordless cutting tools that would probably work great. It seems like the spray foam would work very well for those hollow ribs, it looks difficult to stuff the Thinsulate into them. Your woodwork is spectacular, and the overview look more specious that other people's videos.
This is the best DIY Van Build instructional video I have ever watched. Clear, concise, simple, step by step with some important little bits of info you don’t see in other videos covering this same topic. I have wanted to do a van for so long, and when I do Lauren will be my go to for ideas & instructions. Thank you Lauren‼️
You're to be commended on your tutorials. They're well written, very thorough and presented professionally. You speak clearly and at a good pace to be fully understood. Thank you for your insights.
As far as the windshield goes you can get a clear tint put on to where it blocks the heat and uv rays from entering your vehicle and helps keep your dash 33° cooler. You can also use them on any other windows in you want 👍
Good job, Lauren! I’ve watched countless van build product videos and you have definitely given the van community a top tier information video to learn from.
I absolutely love your videos. They’re incredibly helpful even more so than you think and the little tips and tricks are an ENORMOUS help. Thank you so much for posting these and I have to say it’s SO better than most professional do it yourself videos that I’ve seen absolutely love your contact again thank you thank you thank you.😊
This is probably the 5th time I've watched this video. You are fantastic at instructions. I'm in the process of purchasing my van and I decided to forego using kilmat and just use Thinsulate. I'm going to use all your videos for my build. Thank you!
Thanks Lauren for sharing this,I watched different videos regarding insulation in van conversions. 3m is quite well known. You bring up good safety concerns. Hope the conversion on the van went well. Have a great day.
did the van life in 2017, designed and build of my van including insulation and water proofing and you are the 1st person that did not ignore the realities of insulation and what it brings to the game, the only thing you did not mention but I found to be a significant addition is a Flettner fan, that is the one thing I did not do and wish I did because of it being self powered, one thing you might add down the road I found after a lot of experimenting is making your own AC/Heat devices based of Peltier ... the cost is so low and 100% can be solar powered is insane, that most van build people totally gloss over and ignore insulation is beyond ....... I did rigid foam board but the cracks and spaces it would not fit I used spray foam , as you say and explain quite well, there is not 1 perfect solution , my van did good (but knowing now what I know I would have been in heaven) was a life saver at Burning Man
@@jetv1471 life changed as did my goals and desires so sold it off, I go all in when I do something then after i'm happy with the experience I find new things, I have dozens of hobbies and very fortunate I can pursue them all
@@jetv1471 forgot, my IG which has a lot of the van stuff is same as my YT handle, I did my build 100% with no help as a challenge, I even built a 20x12 gazebo by myself which requires technically 3 people, i'm a bit nuts but it's Fun !
I can’t believe how tough Thinsulate is. To do my roof ribs I fed a wire through the rib and zip tied it to the Thinsulate. Pulling it through was kinda tough in some spots but the Thinsulate did not tear.
Excellent production value, super instructional. I think what I like the most is that you did your research and, importantly, EXPLAINED the results of that research in the vid - saved me some time & trouble. Thanks for that! Subbed!
Maaan I’m gathering info for my van build and this has to be the most comprehensive videos for insulation by someone who is building out their van themselves. I really appreciate all the time and energy you’ve put into creating this video for us. It’s extremely helpful and really helped me narrow down my options! Thank you!
For the ribs run a piece of wire with a string attached to a loop in end. Attach oversized piece of thinsulate to string. Pull wire then string thru length of rib followed by attached thinsulate. Using Oversize width of thinsulate will allow it to fill interior dpace of beam.
You are amazing the time you put into research and how you exacute each task is flawless you should start a school i know i would be there you make it all look easy and im on my third van this one is just for work but still need it insulated so stuff dont freeze in winter time but i am framing right now as you instructed with the cross nuts and pocket holes and i love it . Its very strong Thanks again. Will keep watching.
Wow! This comment means so much. Thank you for watching and commenting such kind words. I am glad you find my videos helpful and am wishing you the best of luck on your current work van build. The plus/cross nuts are the best!!!! Thanks again🥰
Just bought a 2017/159. Starting my build and stoked on your channel. I tried following the link for the 3m insulation- Wouldn’t work. But the spray adhesive did! I’ll be watching all of these!
Ive learned so much from your videos, and all your points are valid. Im planning on getting a Promaster and doing a no build build or minimal build but I want insulation and I was stressing on how to get all the angles. I love the shape of the Promaster's vertical walls, but it still has a lot of angles. I just want to find the least toxic best holding glue.
1:01 I think you are still getting benefit of the Kilmat! ..(forgive if I sound 'instructional' here :) I'm sure you know this but for everyone reading along ... The two products work very differently than each other and complement perfectly! :) The Kilmats word by making the metal heavier, sounds is moving air, to get sound INSIDE the air moves the metal andthe meta moves the air inside, then to your ears. The heavy weight of the Kilmat reduces the vibration of themetal. Like an Harmonic Balancer. Wile yihe Thinsulate has tine fibers that each individually absorb the sound waves, causing them to dissipate within the material itself. So I fell still money well spent. For ME? Personally, I am not working about to much sound getting in the van, I am hard of hearing and nothing awakens me while sleeping! :)
Great job as usual. Making some window shades from Reflectix or something similar on the front windows will really cut down the greenhouse effect in the front. An insulated curtain would help as well if you didn't want to use the other items. Plenty of 18 wheelers and motorhomes have a rail that runs around the front ceiling and has a runner assembly that holds a curtain that will cover the entire front window area. You should be able to find something like that online. You just slide the entire curtain to one side when you need it open and it tucks back behind the seat on that side, sort of like how a shower curtain operates.
Thanks! Yes, I highly recommend reflectix for window covers and I look forward to installing my thermal curtain when the time comes. Both will help a lot😊
About to start my own build and started down the rabbit hole of DIY building. I've been trying to figure out my gameplan on insulation and thinsulate seems to be what I'll go with. I was trying to figure out the best ways to work with it and stumbled on this video. I found this VERY informative. THANK YOU!
Your video are so helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this. A lot of people seem to insulate inside of the ribs. I was wondering why not insulate outside of the ribs when you can? It seems to me that there could be thermal bridge where metal is in contact with metal.
Glad you like the video! I personally did not insulate on the outside of the rib because I knew I’d be adding furring strips to the faces and running wires through the rib openings. Unfortunately, thermal bridges are inevitable in a metal box and the insulation won’t be 100% 🥲
In the grand scheme of things, I don’t think low e would make too much of a noticeable difference - however, I didn’t install it so I can’t say for sure, but over the course of this build I’ve learn steps like this can be over complicated and overanalyzed by everyone when at the end of the day I say make a choice and continue. Also, condensation and vapor is inevitable in the van and can’t be 100% prevented so I didn’t want another layer that would trap that moisture behind the walls. Also, the product would need a 3/4” air gap to work properly. Hope this helps 😊
Outstanding presentation. Wool also absorbs some moisture and I don't want anything that holds moisture behind my walls; it is waaaay over hyped (marketed) IMHO. But now you have me considering skipping sound deadening ... I think that the biggest benefit of sound deadening panels would be while driving which is a priority, but considering weight and cost I am now questioning it's use.
Excellent, EXCELLENT video! I'm buying my first van tomorrow to convert and have started to wonder about insulation, which is the best etc. You have just ticked that box, you clearly have done your research and I will follow suit. Gonna save this vid when it get round to insulating my van so I can refer to all your very useful tips. Will now be watching your other vids as I'm sure I'll learn something. Thanks!
If I may: 3M 90 is a "contact" glue type, so it has to be spreayed on both components you want to join, so even if you specified it at the very end of the process, it is important that viewers be aware of that.
TY Lauren, great edit. I also decided 3M, but concerns are the toxic adhesives available. This glue is right against the baked outer thermal layer, are there any concerns about off gases when the van is sitting in direct sunlight?
Lauren, thanks SO MUCH for the videos! We are tracking a step or two behind you with our van build so its SUPER HELPFUL! 2 questions: 1) we're trying to decide if we should use low-e/ez-cool on the exposed metal not covered by thinsulate (where furring strips will go), so curious what your thought process was on using vs not using low-e/ez-cool? 2) we just watched your furring strip video 👍👍... I know this is totally random but if you're done with the astro 1450, would you like to sell it to us? Really! Thanks soooooo much!!
Hi Milena! Thanks for the comment. Yes! If I had the chance to do my insulation over again knowing what I know now, I would have added a thermal break of some sort on the exposed metal not covered by the thinsulate to reduce the thermal bridges. In regards to the Astro 1450 tool, I have decided to hold onto it incase I need it for anything else during this build - and I have high hopes I’ll be building out another van in the future. Best of luck with the rest of your build. Feel free to reach out with any other questions🥰
Great question! I do cover this in the video - should be time stamped for you to jump to it. I used pliers to wedge under the headliner, grab the clip and release it from the opening. I recommend watching that section of the video again though because there are other details that will help!
Great video series. Although this video is about insulation. I wonder if cork would have a good option for your subfloor. It's thin, an insulator and deadens sound. It's used quite a bit in condos, to prevent sound transfer.
I'm not sure how far along you are on your build. Or, what you're using for flooring. I think, you mentioned LVP. Some of those products do have a cork of rubber on the bottom. You could also add a product called Quite-walk or something similar. It's thin, 1/8" and antimicrobial.
@@dougleclair5080 Thanks for sharing! I am happy with the way I did my insulation and don’t feel the need to make changes, but maybe others can look into this option.
@@LaurenLawliss I have no doubt that what you did was well planned out and executed. And yes. Maybe it will help someone else out. My build will be fairly basic. Sound deadening. Build a partition wall and shelving for my tools. It's a work van. 😊
After just watching you install the thinsulate I would just closed cell spray foam in everything.. so easy I've done it for attics and basements a $500 Set of cans at menards would easily cover the entire van. Also even though you didn't want to lose height all that work will be made useless if you don't have insulation for the floor. Xps with floating advantec subfloor. I've seen done before worth the inch or two you'd be losing in height. What was the cost of the thinsulate and the other sound deadining Sheets you used?
If you’d prefer doing spray form then by all means do spray foam! There are many ways to skin a cat. This is just how I personally wanted to insulate my van and like I shared in the video, spray foam was not ideal for my wants and needs. As far as insulation on the floor goes, from the expertise of professional van builders and people who have lived in a van for years, many will agree that they did not find floor insulation to have much impact on their climate control. The floor will always be a little chilly since hot air rises. It won’t be hard to combat it. I have been in my van in the winter months and was comfortable. I have a floor heat pad, heater, and if I need to, I can wear socks or lay a rug. And honestly, I don’t have an inch to lose in order for me to stand up in the van so it’s worth not having to walk at an angle in my van. The insulation and sound deadening I used are linked in the videos for you to check out for pricing. I also share how much I used in both videos🫶🏻
@adamkwiatkowski4107 nope the don't work but based off what she used the proce for evethting is about $1,000 I had no idea I'd pay so much money for insulation lol😢😅
Hi Lauren. You are great at doing your homework on the projects. Also you must have OCD and are annul because I am and I appreciate your detail and how you want things done. ❤😊
If you make this your HOME then i want to make everything to the best i could. im a fim believer YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!!!!!! Great home work young lady!!!!
I agree, this should have a million views. I don’t understand TH-cam algorithms but some must know how to steer people or? Someone sleeps overnight in a truck, heats some soup up, = million views. This young lady is smart, very articulate, talented, and explained everything she does in perfect detail. On top of that, she is naturally beautiful and a really nice person from what I see, should overload TH-cam with views. I don’t;t get it
Lauren, since the 3M spray is toxic, does the manufacturer recommend any time for the product to off-gas before occupying the van after the installation is complete?
Hi Lauren, amazing video, Thanks so much , you convinced me to do it your way, my long van insulation quest in over ;-), I am looking forward to look at your other videos.actually . I have one question, you said in the beginning that you would have skipped the killmatt install since 3M Thinsulate is already an acoustic insulator. Do you think killmatt and Thinsulate are redundant ? in other words thinsulate will give me the same acoustic insulation with or without killmatt ? I would not mind to skip the killmatt step. What do you think ?
Thanks for watching and commenting! As far as using both kilmat AND thinsulate… I personally think it may be redundant. However, this is the only build I’ve done so I haven’t tested it with just thinsulate but I have a feeling the difference in sound is marginal. Therefore if I redid my build I’d probably just use thinsulate which saves you money, time and weight in the van for essentially the same outcome. Others may disagree but this is my opinion on the subject. Hope this helps☺️
I’ve never heard of these before. But after a quick google search, it seems the adhesive would be the fastest, cheapest and easiest way to adhere the insulate. It has held up well for me😄
Thank you for your videos - You are thorough and detailed - I like that. Regarding Thinsulate-Is there any way to attach it to the walls without the toxic spray on glue? I would like to use it, but am too chemically sensitive to use a spray glue. You seem like the one who would know if there is any other way to attach it. Thanks!
Thanks for the comment and good question. I fortunate, I think spray adhesive is the best option. Maybe some double sided tape and/or string, but I fear over time it will fall down and create gaps. If I think of anything else I’ll let you know. Best of luck with the rest of your build!
@@LaurenLawliss I did find some non- toxic glue on Amazon - not white glue, I ordered it, so we will see - I had thought of the string too - I will use both - right now I am just doing the ceiling. People like me with MCS cannot use spray glues, etc. It can cause life threatening reactions.😀 Keep up the good work.
@@LaurenLawliss of course! Just got my first van and I'm working on a very low-key conversion to do a trial run/see what I like. Your videos have been a great resource!
Yes, that is correct. The main purpose of Thinsulate is to provide automotive acoustic insulation. However, it does have some thermal insulation R value as well ☺️
I’m happy with it! Keep in mind that thermal transfer is inevitable in a van and there are many factors that will affect it so no van will truly be perfect for insulation.
Sorry to bring up another controversial topic, but why no vapor barrier. You mention the 3M insulation will dry out and the drain holes in the van, but why not prevent the moisture from getting to the insulation with a vapor barrier on the walls and ceiling?
Great question! In a van, there no way to avoid moisture build up - it’s inevitable. Even the smallest gap will counteract all the work you do to try and avoid it. So I personally didn’t feel the need to include a vapor barrier ☺️
Your noise reduction results are because you have kilmat AND Thinsulate. Kilmat lowers vibration frequency of all those square yards of sheet metal and thinsulate absorbs a wide range of noise frequencies. Like thermal insulation, noise reduction requires a system of solutions.
Dang you talk fast! I'm not a van-lifer, but this is great information to know. Who knows where any of us may end up? Do you think it would make sense to put down the Thinsulate first, and then cover it with Reflectix 0 or does that 3/4" gap need to be an air gap? Did you use anything to hold your insulation in place, like Construction adhesive? One other thing I heard Bob Wells/CheapRVLiving say in some of his videos on insulation is to not insulate your van/RV if you are going to live in the heat because by days end that heat has made its way from the outside to the inside and is stuck in the structure of your vehicle and impossible to get rid of. What do you think about that?
Haha I talk fast when I’m excited. Thanks for the kind words! Reflectix needs a 3/4” air gap to work. I used 3M 90 spray adhesive for the thinsulate. Personally, I think the insulate is still helpful in warm climates to help slow the speed at which the heat enters the van. I don’t notice the heat getting “stuck” in the van and there are ways to combat that if needed.
To my understanding, CA stands for contact adhesive. I assume they do the same thing, maybe just a change in bottle design or marketing… not 100% certain.
Indeed they are. I have window insulated covers for every window. I installed a heater, floor heat pad, fans and two venting windows. I generally chase comfortable climate.
@@LaurenLawliss I guess it’s like an insulated pad? i may need to invent insulated window replacements for these vans so you can maintain the open glass view
You have one of the better channels about camper conversion, but I don’t understand why you place insulation in the beams rather than over them. The sheet metal is connected to the outer metal, so cold easily transfers through to the bare steel without insulation. To the inside. Cold blank metal will cause condensation. The interior insulation doesn’t prevent the thermal bridge, and could even block drainage routes. The same issue applies to the doors. They aren’t properly sealed, which allows water to get in.
Thank you! I did not add installation over the beams because I knew I’d be connecting my furring strips to it and running wires throughout them. Also, unfortunately, heat transfer is inevitable in a van - especially my van with all the windows. So even if I add insulation to the beams, it probably won’t have made much of a difference at all. Thankfully thinsulate doesn’t absorb water so drainage can still occur. Regardless, thinsualte is a good sound deadening material too so I still get those benefits too - hope this provides clarification.
What insulation would you use? Personally, I am happy with my decision to use Thinsulate.
I am going to use this, based on your research. Also, just want to say thank you so much, you have saved me so much time and given me a lot of confidence on my build
How does this only have 5k views? It's easily one of the best vanlife insulation videos on the net. Completely fair, unbiased, and comprehensive. Great job!
Wow, thank you for the comment! I appreciate it a lot❤️
Exactly. I keep thinking the same thing. How has this gem remained hidden for so long. This should be in the 10k view range.
@@whiterabbit2786 I appreciate that🥹
Are you kidding me?? This is one of the worst examples of insulation in existence. This van is not insulated at all. Putting the insulation INSIDE between the metal layers doesn't make sense at all. At the same time there are lot of exposed metal parts which are the direct cold bridge from the outside. Obviously she doesn't understand what she is doing
@@Fedkar perhaps you could tell the community how you would insulate a van?
I started using scissors for cutting my thinsulate and hated how my hand got tired. I tried using a standard turkey carving knife and it was a game changer. I zipped through the thinsulate like butter. I know you have finished this activity but maybe another viewer can benefit from my experience.
I love your videos. Your detailed explanations of your processes are so informative. Thank you so much!
Great idea. Thanks for sharing!☺️
@@LaurenLawliss
I think some of the cordless toolmakers sell cordless cutting tools that would probably work great. It seems like the spray foam would work very well for those hollow ribs, it looks difficult to stuff the Thinsulate into them. Your woodwork is spectacular, and the overview look more specious that other people's videos.
This is the best DIY Van Build instructional video I have ever watched. Clear, concise, simple, step by step with some important little bits of info you don’t see in other videos covering this same topic. I have wanted to do a van for so long, and when I do Lauren will be my go to for ideas & instructions. Thank you Lauren‼️
Thank you for the kind words; I really appreciate it❤️🥰
You're to be commended on your tutorials. They're well written, very thorough and presented professionally. You speak clearly and at a good pace to be fully understood. Thank you for your insights.
Appreciate the kind words!!
Your OCD is very much appreciated. Thank for you for the very detailed videos. Can't wait to see the next one.
As far as the windshield goes you can get a clear tint put on to where it blocks the heat and uv rays from entering your vehicle and helps keep your dash 33° cooler. You can also use them on any other windows in you want 👍
Thanks for sharing! I’m hoping window covers will do for me but if I need something extra I’ll be sure to look into this😁
You have a link to that product? Thank you!
I have linked the insulation in the video description for all the check out🤩
Good job, Lauren! I’ve watched countless van build product videos and you have definitely given the van community a top tier information video to learn from.
Thank you so much! That means a lot🥰
Lauren, you do a great job explaining everything.
Thank you!
Hands down the BEST video tutorial on this subject! Thank you!
Is appreciate it 🫶🏻
I absolutely love your videos. They’re incredibly helpful even more so than you think and the little tips and tricks are an ENORMOUS help. Thank you so much for posting these and I have to say it’s SO better than most professional do it yourself videos that I’ve seen absolutely love your contact again thank you thank you thank you.😊
Glad you like the videos! I appreciate your kind words and reassurance that the small things are helpful. Welcome to the channel😄
This is probably the 5th time I've watched this video. You are fantastic at instructions. I'm in the process of purchasing my van and I decided to forego using kilmat and just use Thinsulate. I'm going to use all your videos for my build. Thank you!
That is so exciting! Good luck with your build - you got this!
Thanks Lauren for sharing this,I watched different videos regarding insulation in van conversions.
3m is quite well known.
You bring up good safety concerns.
Hope the conversion on the van went well.
Have a great day.
Thanks for watching and commenting! Good luck on your install 😄
did the van life in 2017, designed and build of my van including insulation and water proofing and you are the 1st person that did not ignore the realities of insulation and what it brings to the game, the only thing you did not mention but I found to be a significant addition is a Flettner fan, that is the one thing I did not do and wish I did because of it being self powered, one thing you might add down the road I found after a lot of experimenting is making your own AC/Heat devices based of Peltier ... the cost is so low and 100% can be solar powered is insane, that most van build people totally gloss over and ignore insulation is beyond ....... I did rigid foam board but the cracks and spaces it would not fit I used spray foam , as you say and explain quite well, there is not 1 perfect solution , my van did good (but knowing now what I know I would have been in heaven) was a life saver at Burning Man
You no longer “van “? Did you find you were not using it ?
@@jetv1471 life changed as did my goals and desires so sold it off, I go all in when I do something then after i'm happy with the experience I find new things, I have dozens of hobbies and very fortunate I can pursue them all
@@jetv1471 forgot, my IG which has a lot of the van stuff is same as my YT handle, I did my build 100% with no help as a challenge, I even built a 20x12 gazebo by myself which requires technically 3 people, i'm a bit nuts but it's Fun !
SAME. It’s a balance everyday.
How fun!
I can’t believe how tough Thinsulate is. To do my roof ribs I fed a wire through the rib and zip tied it to the Thinsulate. Pulling it through was kinda tough in some spots but the Thinsulate did not tear.
It’s a durable material for sure 🤩
There are a lot of people doing these videos. I just have to tell you. Yours are OUTSTANDING! (maybe the best)
So helpful and confidence building.
I appreciate the kind words. Thank you so much!!
Excellent production value, super instructional. I think what I like the most is that you did your research and, importantly, EXPLAINED the results of that research in the vid - saved me some time & trouble. Thanks for that! Subbed!
Awh, thank you and welcome to my journey :)
Thanks for this video. It is simple but gave me the confidence to tackle my project. Well done.
Glad to hear! Good luck 👍🏼
Very high quality , thorough info. GREAT JOB...
YOU GO GIRL
Thank you for watching and commenting!
I like your videos because they are full of good information.Thanks for posting them.
Glad you like them!
This girl is a very good teacher! Scientific mind very intelligent
Thank you so much🫶🏻
Maaan I’m gathering info for my van build and this has to be the most comprehensive videos for insulation by someone who is building out their van themselves. I really appreciate all the time and energy you’ve put into creating this video for us. It’s extremely helpful and really helped me narrow down my options! Thank you!
I am glad you found it helpful. Thanks for the kind words 💖
For the ribs run a piece of wire with a string attached to a loop in end. Attach oversized piece of thinsulate to string. Pull wire then string thru length of rib followed by attached thinsulate. Using Oversize width of thinsulate will allow it to fill interior dpace of beam.
You could certainly do it that way too.
One word: Flawless great information now I know what I need!!
Thank you😊💖
Paisley’s tail wag sped up is priceless ❤❤❤❤❤😍😍😍
She’s the best ☺️
Great to know about the bugs in wool! Thanks for that feedback.
You got it!
Fantastic, no-nonsense presentation. Amazing job!! Loved it!!
Thank you! Glad you liked it.
You are amazing the time you put into research and how you exacute each task is flawless you should start a school i know i would be there you make it all look easy and im on my third van this one is just for work but still need it insulated so stuff dont freeze in winter time but i am framing right now as you instructed with the cross nuts and pocket holes and i love it . Its very strong
Thanks again. Will keep watching.
Wow! This comment means so much. Thank you for watching and commenting such kind words. I am glad you find my videos helpful and am wishing you the best of luck on your current work van build. The plus/cross nuts are the best!!!! Thanks again🥰
Thank you for the detailed explanation. Very informative and easy to understand step by step instructions.
Thank you! Glad you found it helpful.
this is a wonderful video, Lauren! thank you so much!
Thanks for the kind words!!
You are a pro at this. Good choice on 3M. Nicely done.
Thank you!
This is the best van insulation video I've found on TH-cam! Thanks!
I appreciate it! Thank you.
Great video. I helped a friend insulate his van. He used the thinsulate but he also used reflextics and it is good.
Very cool!
You put so much thought into everything you do, so impressive and you do a great review of insulation choices. Best one I have seen
I appreciate it!
Thanks Lauren for sharing this,I watched different videos regarding insulation in van conversions.
3m is quite well known.
Happy to help 🤗
I really enjoyed watching your videos, you work professionally, I can't wait to see the van when it's complete 🚌 .
Thank you!
Great Job! thank you for sharing your talent and knowledge with us.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the video😊
It is already looking great
Thank you! I am very proud of it🥰
Just bought a 2017/159. Starting my build and stoked on your channel.
I tried following the link for the 3m insulation- Wouldn’t work. But the spray adhesive did!
I’ll be watching all of these!
Congrats on the van - that’s so exciting!!
Ive learned so much from your videos, and all your points are valid. Im planning on getting a Promaster and doing a no build build or minimal build but I want insulation and I was stressing on how to get all the angles. I love the shape of the Promaster's vertical walls, but it still has a lot of angles. I just want to find the least toxic best holding glue.
Glad you like the videos! Best of luck on whatever you choose to do :)
1:01 I think you are still getting benefit of the Kilmat! ..(forgive if I sound 'instructional' here :) I'm sure you know this but for everyone reading along ... The two products work very differently than each other and complement perfectly! :)
The Kilmats word by making the metal heavier, sounds is moving air, to get sound INSIDE the air moves the metal andthe meta moves the air inside, then to your ears. The heavy weight of the Kilmat reduces the vibration of themetal. Like an Harmonic Balancer.
Wile yihe Thinsulate has tine fibers that each individually absorb the sound waves, causing them to dissipate within the material itself.
So I fell still money well spent.
For ME? Personally, I am not working about to much sound getting in the van, I am hard of hearing and nothing awakens me while sleeping! :)
Thanks for sharing! Def up to personal preference and I see pros and cons either way 😁
Thanks for saving me hours of research.i like your solution and your reasoning.excellent job.just subbed
You got it! Welcome to the channel 🫶🏻
Great job as usual. Making some window shades from Reflectix or something similar on the front windows will really cut down the greenhouse effect in the front. An insulated curtain would help as well if you didn't want to use the other items. Plenty of 18 wheelers and motorhomes have a rail that runs around the front ceiling and has a runner assembly that holds a curtain that will cover the entire front window area. You should be able to find something like that online. You just slide the entire curtain to one side when you need it open and it tucks back behind the seat on that side, sort of like how a shower curtain operates.
Thanks! Yes, I highly recommend reflectix for window covers and I look forward to installing my thermal curtain when the time comes. Both will help a lot😊
This video is great. Great instructions and information about thinsulate. Side note: Use a shot in those shorts for the thumbnail
Glad you like the video!
About to start my own build and started down the rabbit hole of DIY building. I've been trying to figure out my gameplan on insulation and thinsulate seems to be what I'll go with. I was trying to figure out the best ways to work with it and stumbled on this video. I found this VERY informative. THANK YOU!
Glad you liked the video! Good luck with your build.
Your video are so helpful! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this. A lot of people seem to insulate inside of the ribs. I was wondering why not insulate outside of the ribs when you can? It seems to me that there could be thermal bridge where metal is in contact with metal.
Glad you like the video! I personally did not insulate on the outside of the rib because I knew I’d be adding furring strips to the faces and running wires through the rib openings. Unfortunately, thermal bridges are inevitable in a metal box and the insulation won’t be 100% 🥲
Nice work Lauren! This is exactly how I would like to insulate my van. Thanks! :)
Best of luck with your build!
What about adding “Low E” as the final layer over the thinsulate? Many say to do this
In the grand scheme of things, I don’t think low e would make too much of a noticeable difference - however, I didn’t install it so I can’t say for sure, but over the course of this build I’ve learn steps like this can be over complicated and overanalyzed by everyone when at the end of the day I say make a choice and continue. Also, condensation and vapor is inevitable in the van and can’t be 100% prevented so I didn’t want another layer that would trap that moisture behind the walls. Also, the product would need a 3/4” air gap to work properly. Hope this helps 😊
Outstanding presentation. Wool also absorbs some moisture and I don't want anything that holds moisture behind my walls; it is waaaay over hyped (marketed) IMHO. But now you have me considering skipping sound deadening ... I think that the biggest benefit of sound deadening panels would be while driving which is a priority, but considering weight and cost I am now questioning it's use.
I agree and am happy with my decision. The van will never be 100% perfect for any condition but at least we can try 😆
First of all. 10/10 with the matching tops and shoes. 😂❤
I love blue 😆
Great build so far! Keep up the great work.
Appreciate it!!
Another great video. 😊
Appreciate it🥰
Love the Nike's....Blue becomes you.
Thanks!
Excellent, EXCELLENT video! I'm buying my first van tomorrow to convert and have started to wonder about insulation, which is the best etc. You have just ticked that box, you clearly have done your research and I will follow suit. Gonna save this vid when it get round to insulating my van so I can refer to all your very useful tips. Will now be watching your other vids as I'm sure I'll learn something. Thanks!
Glad I could help! Best of luck with your van build, have fun :)
@glendahill - did you pick up your van? How was your build going?
Awesome job, very helpful. Starting my van soon.
Good luck on your build !
Thermal curtains to separate the cabin from cargo. Ha! I had the same idea.
It’s a great solution!
If I may: 3M 90 is a "contact" glue type, so it has to be spreayed on both components you want to join, so even if you specified it at the very end of the process, it is important that viewers be aware of that.
Correct and I do mention that, as well as show that throughout the video.
Very informative!!! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful😁
TY Lauren, great edit. I also decided 3M, but concerns are the toxic adhesives available. This glue is right against the baked outer thermal layer, are there any concerns about off gases when the van is sitting in direct sunlight?
Honestly, I don’t know for sure, but I wouldn’t doubt it.
learning a lot from you Lauren, thank you!
You are very welcome! 😊 Thanks for watching and commenting 💖
Nice work and well planned.
Appreciate it!
So well done ! Thanks for sharing
Thank you!!
Lauren, thanks SO MUCH for the videos! We are tracking a step or two behind you with our van build so its SUPER HELPFUL!
2 questions: 1) we're trying to decide if we should use low-e/ez-cool on the exposed metal not covered by thinsulate (where furring strips will go), so curious what your thought process was on using vs not using low-e/ez-cool? 2) we just watched your furring strip video 👍👍... I know this is totally random but if you're done with the astro 1450, would you like to sell it to us? Really! Thanks soooooo much!!
Hi Milena! Thanks for the comment.
Yes! If I had the chance to do my insulation over again knowing what I know now, I would have added a thermal break of some sort on the exposed metal not covered by the thinsulate to reduce the thermal bridges.
In regards to the Astro 1450 tool, I have decided to hold onto it incase I need it for anything else during this build - and I have high hopes I’ll be building out another van in the future.
Best of luck with the rest of your build. Feel free to reach out with any other questions🥰
@@LaurenLawliss thanks for reply! Again, the work you're doing on TH-cam has been invaluable to us!! Good luck with your build and THANK YOU!!!
@@milenas3797 Comments like this are what keeps me going, so thank you!
You are the best wow
Appreciate it 🫶🏻
Nice info and work. Thanks for sharing :)
Thank you for the kind words!
Thanks for showing! How did you remove the headliner to insulate above the cab? That's the 1st place to want to insulate...
Great question! I do cover this in the video - should be time stamped for you to jump to it. I used pliers to wedge under the headliner, grab the clip and release it from the opening. I recommend watching that section of the video again though because there are other details that will help!
Great video series. Although this video is about insulation. I wonder if cork would have a good option for your subfloor. It's thin, an insulator and deadens sound. It's used quite a bit in condos, to prevent sound transfer.
Cork is something I did not look into so I am unfamiliar with its pros and cons. Thanks for the comment!
I'm not sure how far along you are on your build. Or, what you're using for flooring. I think, you mentioned LVP. Some of those products do have a cork of rubber on the bottom. You could also add a product called Quite-walk or something similar. It's thin, 1/8" and antimicrobial.
@@dougleclair5080 Thanks for sharing! I am happy with the way I did my insulation and don’t feel the need to make changes, but maybe others can look into this option.
@@LaurenLawliss I have no doubt that what you did was well planned out and executed. And yes. Maybe it will help someone else out. My build will be fairly basic. Sound deadening. Build a partition wall and shelving for my tools. It's a work van. 😊
@@dougleclair5080 Oh nice! Best of luck with the build☺️
After just watching you install the thinsulate I would just closed cell spray foam in everything.. so easy I've done it for attics and basements a $500
Set of cans at menards would easily cover the entire van.
Also even though you didn't want to lose height all that work will be made useless if you don't have insulation for the floor. Xps with floating advantec subfloor. I've seen done before worth the inch or two you'd be losing in height.
What was the cost of the thinsulate and the other sound deadining
Sheets you used?
If you’d prefer doing spray form then by all means do spray foam! There are many ways to skin a cat. This is just how I personally wanted to insulate my van and like I shared in the video, spray foam was not ideal for my wants and needs.
As far as insulation on the floor goes, from the expertise of professional van builders and people who have lived in a van for years, many will agree that they did not find floor insulation to have much impact on their climate control. The floor will always be a little chilly since hot air rises. It won’t be hard to combat it. I have been in my van in the winter months and was comfortable. I have a floor heat pad, heater, and if I need to, I can wear socks or lay a rug. And honestly, I don’t have an inch to lose in order for me to stand up in the van so it’s worth not having to walk at an angle in my van.
The insulation and sound deadening I used are linked in the videos for you to check out for pricing. I also share how much I used in both videos🫶🏻
@@LaurenLawlissHi, that link for insulation is not working , not sure if it's just me
@adamkwiatkowski4107 nope the don't work but based off what she used the proce for evethting is about $1,000 I had no idea I'd pay so much money for insulation lol😢😅
Hi Lauren. You are great at doing your homework on the projects. Also you must have OCD and are annul because I am and I appreciate your detail and how you want things done. ❤😊
Haha yes, a little OCD. Thank you!
If you make this your HOME then i want to make everything to the best i could. im a fim believer YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!!!!!! Great home work young lady!!!!
Absolutely! Thank you😁
Hello Lauren firstly as always very detailed video. Can I asked what thickness of insulation did you use please? Thank you.
Thank you! I used 3M Thinsulate SM600L.
@@LaurenLawliss I appreciate that thank you, how’s the build going I’m gagging to see more.
The van is 90% done and I recorded every project. Just need to sit down and edit more😆
Looks like you're doing great work wish you for the best☕ hope all your endeavors be what you want them be😇🎃🤗
From a old guy in Minnesota 😊
Thank you!!
I agree, this should have a million views. I don’t understand TH-cam algorithms but some must know how to steer people or? Someone sleeps overnight in a truck, heats some soup up, = million views. This young lady is smart, very articulate, talented, and explained everything she does in perfect detail. On top of that, she is naturally beautiful and a really nice person from what I see, should overload TH-cam with views. I don’t;t get it
Haha, thanks! I need to be more consistent 🥹
Lauren, since the 3M spray is toxic, does the manufacturer recommend any time for the product to off-gas before occupying the van after the installation is complete?
Good question. I do not know the answer to that, but you bring up a fair point.
Hi Lauren, amazing video, Thanks so much , you convinced me to do it your way, my long van insulation quest in over ;-), I am looking forward to look at your other videos.actually . I have one question, you said in the beginning that you would have skipped the killmatt install since 3M Thinsulate is already an acoustic insulator. Do you think killmatt and Thinsulate are redundant ? in other words thinsulate will give me the same acoustic insulation with or without killmatt ? I would not mind to skip the killmatt step. What do you think ?
Thanks for watching and commenting! As far as using both kilmat AND thinsulate… I personally think it may be redundant. However, this is the only build I’ve done so I haven’t tested it with just thinsulate but I have a feeling the difference in sound is marginal. Therefore if I redid my build I’d probably just use thinsulate which saves you money, time and weight in the van for essentially the same outcome. Others may disagree but this is my opinion on the subject. Hope this helps☺️
Lauren, how did you get the insulation inside the ribs, looks very tricky
Lots of patience. I used a screw dryer too!
Good job!
Thank you!
Cute dog!!!
Thank you - she’s my sidekick!
@@LaurenLawliss My wonderful girl Blaze passed 4 years ago. Still miss her. Black and tan German Shepherd.
Sorry to hear - pets are wonderful companions 🫶🏻
Would Self stick insulation pins be used instead of glue to adhere thinsulate?
I’ve never heard of these before. But after a quick google search, it seems the adhesive would be the fastest, cheapest and easiest way to adhere the insulate. It has held up well for me😄
Thank you for your videos - You are thorough and detailed - I like that. Regarding Thinsulate-Is there any way to attach it to the walls without the toxic spray on glue? I would like to use it, but am too chemically sensitive to use a spray glue. You seem like the one who would know if there is any other way to attach it. Thanks!
Thanks for the comment and good question. I fortunate, I think spray adhesive is the best option. Maybe some double sided tape and/or string, but I fear over time it will fall down and create gaps. If I think of anything else I’ll let you know. Best of luck with the rest of your build!
@@LaurenLawliss I did find some non- toxic glue on Amazon - not white glue, I ordered it, so we will see - I had thought of the string too - I will use both - right now I am just doing the ceiling. People like me with MCS cannot use spray glues, etc. It can cause life threatening reactions.😀 Keep up the good work.
@@cherylstewart8633 Fingers crossed the glue works! Have fun installing your ceiling😆
21:39 Your dog is escaping!
Haha she loves exploring
Well earned like and sub! Great video.
Thanks! Appreciate you watching, subscribing and commenting 🫶🏻
@@LaurenLawliss of course! Just got my first van and I'm working on a very low-key conversion to do a trial run/see what I like. Your videos have been a great resource!
Congrats! Enjoy it.
really nice ! congrats !
Thank you so much!
I looked up Thinsulate SM600L, and 3M describes it as “Acoustic Insulation,” and not as “Thermal Insulation.” So…. Does it provide thermal insulation?
Yes, that is correct. The main purpose of Thinsulate is to provide automotive acoustic insulation. However, it does have some thermal insulation R value as well ☺️
@@LaurenLawliss Thank you so much!!! Has it been insulating your van well?
I’m happy with it! Keep in mind that thermal transfer is inevitable in a van and there are many factors that will affect it so no van will truly be perfect for insulation.
You should put in floor heating. I have it in my boat, and cargo van. And live in cold Sweden.. it works very well.
I am installing a 12v floor heat pad when I lay my final floor🤗 So excited!!!😁😁😁
@biggerminds523
What type of floor heating do you have? Is it a glycol system? Brand?
It’s a 12v heating pad from Expedition Upfitters!
Fantastic video!
Glad you liked it!
How did you attach the Thinsulate to the wall or didn't you? Don't you worry about it sagging inside the wall?
I used 3M 90 Spray adhesive. It’s held up great after 2 years.
Sorry to bring up another controversial topic, but why no vapor barrier. You mention the 3M insulation will dry out and the drain holes in the van, but why not prevent the moisture from getting to the insulation with a vapor barrier on the walls and ceiling?
Great question! In a van, there no way to avoid moisture build up - it’s inevitable. Even the smallest gap will counteract all the work you do to try and avoid it. So I personally didn’t feel the need to include a vapor barrier ☺️
SUBSCRIBED!
WELCOME!
Your noise reduction results are because you have kilmat AND Thinsulate. Kilmat lowers vibration frequency of all those square yards of sheet metal and thinsulate absorbs a wide range of noise frequencies. Like thermal insulation, noise reduction requires a system of solutions.
Dang you talk fast! I'm not a van-lifer, but this is great information to know. Who knows where any of us may end up?
Do you think it would make sense to put down the Thinsulate first, and then cover it with Reflectix 0 or does that 3/4" gap need to be an air gap? Did you use anything to hold your insulation in place, like Construction adhesive?
One other thing I heard Bob Wells/CheapRVLiving say in some of his videos on insulation is to not insulate your van/RV if you are going to live in the heat because by days end that heat has made its way from the outside to the inside and is stuck in the structure of your vehicle and impossible to get rid of. What do you think about that?
Haha I talk fast when I’m excited. Thanks for the kind words! Reflectix needs a 3/4” air gap to work. I used 3M 90 spray adhesive for the thinsulate. Personally, I think the insulate is still helpful in warm climates to help slow the speed at which the heat enters the van. I don’t notice the heat getting “stuck” in the van and there are ways to combat that if needed.
Did the adhesive spray get all over your floor? I’m wondering how to clean it up.
Great question! No, I had nothing on the floor when I finished😁
did you just do one layer of insulation? it looks like you may have done 2 in some places... Thanks!
Yup, just one layer😊
@@LaurenLawliss Thank you!!
Anytime!
What is the difference between the 3M 90 and the 3M 90ca spray?
To my understanding, CA stands for contact adhesive. I assume they do the same thing, maybe just a change in bottle design or marketing… not 100% certain.
the windows are a massive thermal loss point, how do you contend with that?
Indeed they are. I have window insulated covers for every window. I installed a heater, floor heat pad, fans and two venting windows. I generally chase comfortable climate.
@@LaurenLawliss I guess it’s like an insulated pad? i may need to invent insulated window replacements for these vans so you can maintain the open glass view
Yeah, the window covers I have from Overnight Van Supplies have reflectix and Thinsulate in it to assist with climate control.
You have one of the better channels about camper conversion, but I don’t understand why you place insulation in the beams rather than over them. The sheet metal is connected to the outer metal, so cold easily transfers through to the bare steel without insulation. To the inside. Cold blank metal will cause condensation. The interior insulation doesn’t prevent the thermal bridge, and could even block drainage routes.
The same issue applies to the doors. They aren’t properly sealed, which allows water to get in.
Thank you! I did not add installation over the beams because I knew I’d be connecting my furring strips to it and running wires throughout them. Also, unfortunately, heat transfer is inevitable in a van - especially my van with all the windows. So even if I add insulation to the beams, it probably won’t have made much of a difference at all. Thankfully thinsulate doesn’t absorb water so drainage can still occur. Regardless, thinsualte is a good sound deadening material too so I still get those benefits too - hope this provides clarification.
I love ❤️ ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ great information 🎉
Appreciate it!
Lauren is a compendium of van knowledge. She's my nigga
Haha thanks!
was trying to use your affiliate link for the 3M insulation, but the page is nonexistent. You may want to check that.
Oh, bummer! Thanks for letting me know - I’ll get it fixed.
You r amazing 👏🙏💒⚒️🧰🍻🎸🥰🇨🇦👍👌
Appreciate it!!