How to Insulate your Van Part 2 - The facts you need.

[@GregVirgoe]

If you are trying to get Stick Pins in small quantities try these links- In the UK there is a guy selling boxes of 25, 50, 100 on eBay rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?ff3=4&toolid=11800&pub=5575265109&campid=5338027957&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_from%3DR40%26_trksid%3Dp2380057.m570.l1311.R4.TR10.TRC2.A0.H1.Xstick%2Bpins.TRS0%26_nkw%3Dstick%2Bpins%2Binsulation%26_sacat%3D0 If you are in the USA try this link - www.amerisafe.net/mechanical-fasteners-for-insulation-1/2-1-2-self-stick-hanger-with-washer-100-pack-15902

[@michellecastaneda20]

This is a much better way. Thank you.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Michelle, yes they make it so much easier and really do stick well without any nasty solvents.

[@enetheru]

but the ebay seller might ship them to me, fingers crossed.

[@Mncrete3]

Thank you so much for the USA website. I just ordered both sizes.

[@kestas101]

@Explainer HQ @MrTree421 Metal pin do not really touch the outer metal skin - there is an adhesive layer after all!

[@markthompson2466]

After hundreds of hours watching van builders.... I wouldn't touch my van without checking in to watch how to do it right ..by Greg. But it's far more than the complete confidence he evokes. It's his manner and quality of production...even down to the best use of music

[@GregVirgoe]

Wow 🤩 thank you so much. It really does mean a lot to know the videos are so well appreciated Best wishes with your build 👍🏼

[@jodysutts]

Greg, there aren’t enough people like you in the world. Your videos are outstanding. Keep it up. Love, everyone.

[@GregVirgoe]

Wow I’m very flattered. Thank you so much 😊

[@todayfeelz5050]

wow, this video was posted in 2017 and you still answer comments, Subscribed!

[@GregVirgoe]

Absolutely, everyone including you is very important to me. I like to help by answering as many questions as I can across my whole channel. Welcome aboard :D

[@CruisingTheCut]

Exactly as anticipated, every second of this was another gem and I intend to shamelessly steal every single idea here for my build. Family will be surprised to find me asking for an electric carving knife for Christmas :-) Those pins are genius - thank you! Just a shame you've shown it can be done in the cold because I've been using that as an excuse not to get on with it!! Cheers.

[@GregVirgoe]

That is hilarious, made both myself and my other half laugh reading it. 😂 Thank you so much for such great feedback. Steal away, it's good to share. There was ice and snow on the roof, the front window was frosty but with a little electric heater plugged in it was surprisingly toasty inside the van. Once it's all insulated and wrapped it should make a massive difference to the temperature inside. Interestingly enough the new side windows had no frost or condensation on them? The problem I have now is I want to lift the old plywood floor, rub down any rust spots and paint the floor before insulating but I'm worried it will be too cold for the paint to cure?

[@CruisingTheCut]

Thanks Greg; I reckon you could be right - I've been lucky with mine that the floor is fine and needs no de-rusting :-) I could really do with finding a nice (warm) double garage to rent for a couple of weeks but I'm not having much luck, alas. Boosted by your efforts, I might tackle the insulation soon but the bonded windows really do need a couple of mild days and nights, I think.

[@tontonn9995]

Any reason why you are using both types of insulation on different sections of the van? Is it because of ease of use? Larger, easier sections get the solid material? Are you concerned you might eventually get some squeaking when driving over bumpy roads when the foam board rubs against the metal of the van?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi, sorry for the delay in replying. Exactly because of ease of application. The earthwool is easier to fit into the awkward areas of the van while the kingspan has much better thermal properties so will use that where I can on the flat panels.

[@sylvioks]

I’m mechanical engineer and this is the kind of information I really appreciate 💪🏻💪🏻

[@GregVirgoe]

Like minded folk we are 😊 glad you appreciate it 👍🏼

[@bid84]

Engineers love telling people “I’m an engineer 😅😅

[@johnterrett4035]

Greg we are about to embark on our first camper conversion, you video’s certainly shine a light on those dark areas for me! Thank you so much for taking the time to explain what’s what and especially why!! Keep ‘em coming. You are a legend!

[@SKWDMDYT]

Amazing video series. Those stick pins do solve solid insulation placement issues. I have viewed virtually every van conversion KZbin video, and you are the first to demonstrate this most effective product. I thank you for this tip!

[@GregVirgoe]

These are used in the mechanical services industry, typically for fixing rigid slab insulation to metal air conditioning ductwork. We use these products regularly in my day job. Thank you for great feedback.

[@RayLuomba]

@@GregVirgoe Thanks for this indeed unique method. For the sake of education, can you also explain why those stick pins would not become a "heat bridge" to defeat the purpose of isolation? FWIW, I believe bakeries use essentially same pins to conduct the heat from the stove into the inside of a cake, to ensure an even cook effect.

[@GregVirgoe]

@@RayLuomba the adhesive pad offer a thermal bridge and the pin is so thin by the time it’s go through the insulation the other end would be warm anyway. There is never an issue at all the effect is negligible.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Hi Greg great video. I had never ever heard of stick pins until now . Just proves even at 68 every days a school day. One new subscriber. Thanks again.

[@GregVirgoe]

They are not sold in DIY stores and were only used by insulation contractors, it's mainly off the back of my videos that a few are now being sold in smaller quantities to the home DIYer :D links in the video description

[@jangunnarrooth]

Same here. There was plenty of value in this video but worth watching for just this one piece of new information.

[@luckylimbo4816]

You are the GOAT of van builds

[@paulstanley6403]

I too don't like permanent fixtures. Those stick pins are a elegant method to mounting insulation. Removing the pins could be tricky but that's still a whole lot easier than removing glued on insulation. Thanks.

[@GregVirgoe]

Paul Stanley a cheese wire pulled through the foam of the sticky pad would be a quick removal method👍🏼

[@alanmay1945]

Greg, you're my kinda guy, super knowledgable, super intelligent, super capable, super interesting, I could very happily work with u all day long. Great vid, thanku! Alan, Norwich.

[@GregVirgoe]

Many thanks again Alan, I'm really pleased that you are enjoying this series and finding the information to be useful.

[@slev8871]

The stick pins and the carving knife are genius.

[@GregVirgoe]

Slev88 thanks again 👍🏼😃

[@harveysmith100]

Really good. It all makes sense from the first video now. The vapour barrier works in exactly the same way as those used on timber framed houses which I cut my teeth on during my apprenticeship. That was back 1880 though! Nice to see Cruising The Cut here. Worth watching, very dry. Which is ironic as he lives on the water.

[@GregVirgoe]

Exactly Harvey, those polythene wrapped timber frame panels were for exactly the same purpose. I'm also enjoying "CrusingTheCut" channel, the humour is very well delivered and great videos.

[@pbeb3081]

What an ingenious solution for holding the insulation to the roof, stick pins so simple but so effective. I watched a conversion vid where they glued the panels of insulation to the roof of the van then half a rainforest of wood to hold them all in place not to mention the time and effort to do that, bless em though it's all a learning curve and i myself didn't have the first clue until i started watching these sprinter conversion vids. I'm obsessed now lol and Greg is the main man. So easy to watch so easy to understand and such an amiable guy. Cheers Greg when's the next vid due m8 I'm cold turkeying here lol.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Phil, thank you so much, I try my best to get a video out every week. I work on the van at weekend and edit video during the evenings after work. Thanks for your support

[@grahamgarner2318]

I am watching your videos with enthusiasm, You are GOOD. Thank you Graham.

[@GregVirgoe]

You are welcome 🙏🏼

[@l_b7535]

Greg you're a legend. Best conversion guide on KZbin.

[@GregVirgoe]

Liam Ballinger cheers 🍻 much appreciated.

[@l_b7535]

@@GregVirgoe no problem. This is so comprehensive and it's really going to help me with a much more modest vivaro build. Your attention to detail is second to none mate!

[@nickappleby7289]

Cheers for turning gobbledegook in to something we mortals can understand 👍👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Glad you found it to be useful 👍🏼

[@martynnoble3665]

Cleaver stuff very interesting. Just about understand calculations, however it is good to know how you get to the final result. Well done.👍

[@diana3599]

have watched many videos now on insulating vans but this has been the first regarding using the stick pins. very interesting. thx !

[@WhisperingStormMag]

This was amazing! My nephew is going to do the build out for me. I’ve had long Covid for 2 1/2 years and I’m ready to move my bedroom into the van and hit the road! Neither of us know anything about converting a van, so this was absolutely fabulous! Thank you for sharing. I’ll share it with other groups that I’m involved with also!

[@mattcaldecourt7861]

Greg this step by step guide is proving to be ideal. Certainly inspired me to try and build my own van. You’re attention to detail and engineering is fantastic.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks Matthew for your positive feedback. 😇

[@richardsmith5404]

Those stick pins are ruddy genius! I think I'd be tempted to use them on the walls too, in case the Earthwool wants to slump downwards from the vibration of driving. Great video Greg, as always.

[@GregVirgoe]

I will be using them for the Kingspan wall panels, they are about 65mm long so a little short for the lower wall panels. I made sure that I slightly oversized the Earthwool to completely fill the voids. I do not see this sagging at all. Thank you for great feedback and regular support.

[@davidmiller2556]

I used stickpins for wool insulation in 1988 on a Halfords building. Replaced roof sheets and the stickpins wouldn’t budge after nearly 30 years.....buy the way, brilliant professional videos Greg...thanks man🚍🚌

[@GregVirgoe]

I know David, I swear I could stick four of these pins to the roof and hang a swing off them. Really appreciate your support, cheers

[@richardobannon6301]

Thanks so much . I have watched 100's of videos on camper builds and your video is the only one that gives the best way to insulate the van and why. Great job!

[@GregVirgoe]

I wanted to put out the actual science and facts to help others make the right choices. Thank you

[@flashback9966]

Mega video, Greg. Stick pins, wow going to have to use those! You've done all the hard work for me. I hope to start insulating after Christmas.

[@GregVirgoe]

They really do stick too, I threw one on the side panel just to show a family member and couldn't get it off lol

[@raesalmon]

Just watched part 1 & part 2 insulation both excellent. Also watched the vapour barrier experiment have listened to some people say that you don’t need one. This proves you do. Thank you for the quality of these videos. My partner and I have zero experience with self build and I will have to up my DIY game through the conversion of our Vauxhall Movano. Your detailed approach gives me the confidence that I can do that.

[@GregVirgoe]

it is always best to try and prevent condensation forming in the first place rather than try and deal with the problems it will present afterwards, like wet, damp and mould.

[@TheSimonG]

This is the most informative camper van build I have seen. Really good stuff.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks, Simon, Pleased that you find them interesting.

[@grazynakaledek6228]

Hi Greg you are a very thorough in your Builds. The Stick Pins idea for hanging Insulation is Fabulous! Thank you very much for sharing your Ideas & Methods for working. Grace

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Grace, thank you for taking the time to leave such wonderful comment. I really do appreciate it. Best wishes

[@michaelschneider-]

+1. .. Excellent thermal/acoustic properties choices! .. A critical path thought process in action. .. Thanks for the details. .. Cheers, M/S

[@GregVirgoe]

You are most welcome Michael, I have tried to think of everything ahead of time, not always possible.

[@Paulmcsail]

Greg, i have watched some rubbish on youtube so i can find valuable and informative gems from a professional like this. Thanks so much, keep up the great videos. I have used hand saws and a pad saw to cut kingspan for years. I now have the carving knife in the tool kit.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi, I tried a large carving knife and that was the cleanest cut of all with minimal clean up. Great for shaping and shaving off small pieces to fit awkward areas.

[@williamdonnelly2705]

Thanks again Greg for sharing. A fantastic set of videos. Keep up the good work.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for the continued support William, pleased you are enjoying this video build. 👍🏼

[@horstszibulski19]

These sticky pins are great, never heard of them or seen somebody use them! You're the best "vansplainer" here on yt! Thank you!

[@zimbarush9142]

Greg, as so many otherrs have said v you have such professional, friendly videos as well as such detailed visual presentations and "why" you are doing certain procedures.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Wayne, very much appreciated.

[@Aboutavan]

thank you so much! it's hard to find someone who actually knows what they're talking about when it comes to insulating vans! subscribed!

[@GregVirgoe]

Welcome aboard, and thank you very much for your great feedback.

[@crikeymos22]

Greg I think I love you 😍 So many others skirt round the detail but your explanation is perfect. Thanks for this and all the other vids.

[@GregVirgoe]

Crikey indeed ;) i'm blushing here. Glad you like the detail and thanks for such great feedback

[@satheeshakulal2935]

Sir your vedio is most usefull .you explainining evirything nice I like your all vedio. Thank you

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much. Glad you like them.

[@ange846]

you are a terrific teacher, so appreciate the detailed factual info you shared in the most pleasantly seren and good humored way . thank you 🌷

[@GregVirgoe]

You are most welcome 🙏🏼 and I’m pleased you liked it 😃

[@broadpete]

As a mechanical engineer who worked in the insulation industry I love your detailed approach. I wondered what your thoughts are on the factory made VW California camper van which I understand has no insulation! Most do come with large parking heaters so staying warm isn’t a problem. Discussion on the California forum tries to justify this approach as it reduces condensation/ eventual rusting of the panels from the inside, but it might also reflect the huge amount of work (therefore cost) of insulating properly. I’d be interested in your thoughts.

[@colemeeker908]

Most excellent. Knowledge I can trust. So much advise out here in Netland and so little is trustworthy. Thanks!!!

[@GregVirgoe]

Cole Meeker I’m pleased you noticed that and thank you for your feedback. 👍🏼

[@wallerwallacecomptronics6099]

You sir, are a knight in Van Armor!

[@GregVirgoe]

You are a gentleman, many thanks 😊

[@ryanllewellyn2071]

Saw most of your videos about 2 years ago when I had my T5. Rewatching every single one of them now I have a Crafter👍🏼 videos still relevant 3 years on and will likely be timeless. Thank you

[@selja91]

I'm such a big fan of yours Greg, your videos are so very useful for newbies like me. I'll definitely be using some of your know-how into my conversion this summer!

[@GregVirgoe]

Really pleased that you have found them to be useful and thank you for such great feedback. Best wishes for your forthcoming van build. Please keep me updated on your progress.

[@bernarddelangue844]

Hello Greg, it’s a real pleasure to see and hear from you. And it’s so nice to understand all your words, even for a french guy in Paris. Happy new year.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Bernard, your English is extremely good. I wish I had studied more languages as School. It’s much harder to pick it up now I’m a lot older. Really appreciate your kind comments. Best wishes to you and your family.

[@bernardmcmanus478]

Greg, Just a Note, when you pack earth wool into the lower part of your van, did you notice that water or dampness could form from where the mouldes on outside of the van are fixed to the metel of the van, there are damp or water run's from fixing tabs, I seen it when i removed the panels from my van. Bernard

[@GregVirgoe]

Bernard McManus yes I sealed the clips on the back with sikaflex 😀

[@glennclark762]

Thanks for the info on the pins. Still planning my build so will add those to my list.

[@GregVirgoe]

You're welcome Glenn, glad you found it interesting and useful.

[@chadclark5204]

When you were placing the foam board insulation I noticed it has a creaking noice. I have noticed this in my vehicle with a foam cup in the drink holder. Can you hear any of that foam creaking noise while driving?

[@hobbydiecast]

Thank you so much for this awesome info I have been searching for the CORRECT way to insulate my van and I am thrilled that I find your channel you really know what you are doing. Thank you so much.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much Dennis. There are different materials that you can use of course but the most critical part of van insulation is getting all the voids properly vapour sealed to prevent that condensation build up in the structure of your van.

[@HikerBiker]

May I ask why you did not use the sheet insulation in the larger areas at the lower section of the van, they don't look any more curved then the roof? Also instead of using reflectix couldn't you just use a heavy gauge plastic sheeting as a vapor bearer? Asking as I'm just staring my research in building my own van conversion so all this is new. Thanks for these videos, they're some of the best I've come across.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello, thanks for great feedback. 2 reasons - The lower voids have some really large pockets that needed filling and it was much easier to get the earthwool into those spaces. They are 100mm deep so i can take full advantage of the earthwool and it’s rating would be similar to one sheet of the kingspan. In simile terms it was easier. You can use polythene for a vapour barrier nothing wrong with that. I chose the foil because I know it’s 100% impermeable to water plus I get a small thermal break with the bubbles. Hope that helps.

[@user-mc8xm7ee7c]

You are so the most helpful person I've found. Love your step by step videos and explanations. I've subscribed. I can't stop watching.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you so much Ang. Always makes my day to know that the videos are helpful. Glad you like them 😀

[@DaRevan]

Hi Greg, love your videos, you're the first person I search for whenever I need good solid advice backed up with facts for sprinter conversions, too many people claim such and such is the best but don't back it up and there's a million contradictory videos out there, your channel is the shining light in the fog. I'm finally taking the plunge and am busy converting my own sprinter, I'm just looking to buy insulation and I've decided i'm going to go for the same sort of setup as you. How much of each insulation material did you buy? How much do you recommend I would need? I have a limited budget atm, and I don't want to waste money on more insulation than I need, any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for the lovely compliments, very much appreciated. I used 3 sheets of 25mm PIR for the floor, 4 sheets of 50mm PIR for the ceiling and walls and 3 bales of Earthwool cavity wall batts for the odd voids half a dozen rolls of foil tape and about a hundred stick pins.

[@DaRevan]

Thanks for the reply! Appreciate it, I've ordered some stuff already think I've underestimated the wool and foil tape so I'll have to get some more of that! Would hate to be halfway through and have to stop. Keep up the great videos, cheers Gregg. Liam

[@alixr5926]

Oh man, this brings back memories. We used mostly rock wool, which is not quite the same as earth wool, which I have since looked up, but it's very similar in its installation. Lots of cutting to size for oddly shaped compartments. And "creative carving" for some board in the engine room (which has very little headroom, so we used a hideously expensive material that also suppresses noise better than regular insulation). I continue to enjoy your videos. Aside from the great explanations, your production values are excellent; time lapses for repetitive or tedious stuff (which I prefer over just leaving it out), and everything shown very clearly. You're making me want to convert a van!

[@Frantic618]

Do those stick pins have some kind of specific name? I've never seen them here across the pond, but they certainly look like a good way to install the foam insulation!

[@GregVirgoe]

Try searching for “Self adhesive insulation hangers”

[@oscarparedes5308]

Inspirational! Great advice with the foam spray. Well use of the refletix! In general thanks for sharing. Stay warm and dry. Cheers!!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thankyou Oscar, very much appreciated.

[@senpai16]

Wow this is super helpful! Might I ask how much the materials for the insulation came up to?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi ya, the celotex is £25 per sheet and I used 3 of those. The Earthwool is £20 each bale and I used 3 of those. The 50mm kingspan was £40 each and used 4 off them. Foil tape at £5 roll x4 Reflectix roll was £30 x3 rolls Box of stick pins at £40. So for everything it was £400! But this is a LWB HIgh Roof 4.3m long x 1.8m Wide x 1.9m high inside the back.

[@longhairmullet]

Greg Virgoe OXO!

[@tara7393]

Thank you!!!!!!!!! This is SO helpful, easy to understand, and informative.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you 🙏🏼 I’m glad it helped you

[@unknownmeaning8506]

Hi Greg your videos are brilliant and a massive help just starting my transit conversion did you use 25mm on the floor and 50mm insulation on the ceiling? Thanks again for all your videos

[@David-rx2to]

I love the stick pins and the electric carving knife! Can't wait to see the rest of the build. Thank you.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you David, I'll let you in on a secret, the knife was purchased especially for the van build lol

[@emstoadventures]

Hi Greg, I really like the videos you've done for the van conversion. I find them really informative and helpful. In one of you videos you are suggesting to use sticky pins for the isolation on the ceiling of the van. Are you using them for the side panels as well?

[@GregVirgoe]

Emanuil Stoyanov yes to hold the kingspan panels in place.

[@mytube0969]

By far the best information on van insulation that I have seen! Thank you sir!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you for the great feedback.

[@jasperbuitenhuis6771]

hi Greg great videos ! i am in the us im living in Texas right now where it can get very hot ive see your insulation part 1 video and you only covert the part were it is colder outside (i understand UK and all ;) ) but ive been hearing when it gets very hot out side that it takes long to cool down the van if it is insulated like your doing (trapping the heat) any thoughts on this? also i am going to covered and insulated my Van (chevrolet cargo g2500) in florida where the humidity is going to be around 70% !! using your methode i'm afraid i am going to be trapping the moisture instead of keeping it out. do you agree? ore is there a better solution in my situation ? i hope you will see this, im picking up my van next. sorry for the short notice hope you can answer even if it is just for other people to see it. Thank you for all that you have been sharing hope your doing well. Kind regards Jasper from the Netherlands now living in the United states going to be living the dream :)

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Jasper, I would still insulate in warmer climates, for the simple reason that it will reduce the heat gain to the van initially, keeping the heat out in the first place, like a cool box keep your beers from getting warm, insulation works both ways. The biggest source of heat gain in vehicles is the windows and solar gain (greenhouse) so having external window blinds or internal reflective blinds that cover the glass during the day will massively reduce the solar gain and heat build up in the van. We have insulated reflective blinds and even parked in the sun all day the van stays relatively cool. Then do have adequate ventilation a means of pulling clean air through the vehicle if you need that extra bit. As for those that say you trap moisture in the walls of your van, complete rubbish. If you're insulating in warm dry conditions the quantity of water present in the air will be minute, nothing to worry about. Ventilation at night is key to condensation free Windows, speaking from experience. Hope that helps

[@michaelstanley3833]

Hi Greg, Great videos, clear, informative, no messing and straight to the point. Well done, keep it up mate, and thank you.

[@GregVirgoe]

michael stanley glad you like them 👍🏼

[@pollyjones7414]

Hi Greg Really great videos! I noticed you used 50mm Kingspan for the walls and ceiling, but 25mm Celotex for the floor (is that right?) - is there any reason why you bought both Celotex and Kingspan - is there any difference between them (other than thickness in this case)?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Polly, great question, in this instance the trade name means nothing, it was just the thickness I was after, it's basically the same product, PIR foil faced boards. It has the same thermal conductivity and is one of the best insulators. Hope that helps

[@pollyjones7414]

Thanks for taking the time to reply - really helpful! Looking forward to watching the rest of your van build

[@ChrisShaw00]

I should have started by saying a big thank you for these videos. You've given me the confidence and loads of knowledge to start converting my Ford Transit - though it seems to be curvier hence more complicated than other straight-walled and -roofed vans!

[@GregVirgoe]

The only reason a van is curved must be for asthetics because it doesnt make sence for loading goods either and especially difficult for van conversions. Lots of templates and scribing to be done.

[@emilycooling1948]

Hello Greg, thanks for all your hard work making these videos. I wanted to ask you if you know how much of each insulation is needed for a Merc Sprinter LWB?? Also what do you do in the cab area under the bulkhead. ie which insulation do you use? many thanks emily

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Emily, we used 3 sheets 25mm for the floor and 4 sheets 50mm for the roof and side panels. The rest was 4 bags of loft insulation and 3 large rolls of reflectix over everything except the floor which was foil taped. Hope that helps

[@projectzorgo1085]

Thank you

[@grannieannie1371]

Thank you so much I have been planning to do a van this year to make a bit easier for my daughter and I to get away. I am on a carer's pension so I don't have a mass of cash. I would rather spent my moula on a reliable vehicle and do the conversion bit by bit. Your insulation video made so much sense.

[@tabatamusic567]

Hi Greg! First of all, thank you so much for making this series. During my current vanbuild your videos have guided me through my decision making in an invaluable way. It's nice to find someone with proper and well grounded knowledge helping others out the way you do. I have a couple of question about the Reflectics you use as a vapor barrier. Seems to me most vapor barriers in camper vans are made with this stuff. Are there any other reasons for this, besides it being more rigid than a plastic vapor barrier, like maybe having the capacity to not hold condensation behind the panelling, or something like that?. Also, what thickness would you recommend for the Reflectics? The options I have at hand is either 4 or 8 mm thick. Thank you!

[@GregVirgoe]

Tabata music thanks for nice feedback. 😃 Foil is totally impervious to water whereas some plastics are slightly permeable. As you say the reflectix is easier to apply because it’s a little more rigid. I used some trim fix spray adhesive to hold it in place and it made the job really easy. Just go with the single 4mm bubble as no need to go thicker. Make sure to seal all joins and all the edges to seal the void.

[@tabatamusic567]

Greg Virgoe Thank you! If we ever meet on the road, or if you happen to pass by Stockholm, dinners on us🙏🏼✨

[@GregVirgoe]

Tabata music that sounds great 👍🏼😃

[@stephanevanderlee]

Thanks Greg, catching up on our build is a treat.

[@GregVirgoe]

You are most welcome stephane. Is that your station wagon in your profile photo. Looks like a classic?

[@stephanevanderlee]

Yeah it’s an Australian ford falcon 1965 XP wagon, different shape to the US 65.

[@GregVirgoe]

What a lovely looking Motor

[@grim-upnorth]

Could plastic sheeting be used as a vapour barrier also? would that be cheaper than reflectix?

[@GregVirgoe]

Absolutely yes it can, be sure to get a good quality grade as they use in a home building.

[@manoftheroad55]

Joints are sealed with a weatherproof quality tape making it airtight

[@sethlael]

I'm looking into this view.ceros.com/orange-tap/certainteed-moisture-management/p/6

[@danothemano4129]

Happy I found your channel! Your ingenuity is fantastic and I learn something new on each one I watch! Thank you sir!

[@GregVirgoe]

It must be my engineering mind, i'm always looking for a better solution ;) Thank you very much for watching.

[@jimbarry6693]

Hi Greg. Any thoughts on sheep wool for insulation? seeing about a thousand pros and cons on the web

[@jeffthompson8663]

Greetings from USA,,,Thank you for doing our homework, I will follow your insulation example.... even after watching many KZbin videos. You know your way around the van build.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Jeff, good to know that the videos have been useful to you and best wishes with your own build, thanks for watching

[@ellivy8885]

Hi Greg! do you insulate the cargo doors too? I’m midway through and I can’t find anything regarding the doors

[@GregVirgoe]

It's a great question and I have some key advise for you. water can get into your doors via the door handles so you need to allow them to drain. My best advice is to use wollen type insulation and seal it into plastic bags like pillows before putting it in your door pockets. This will give you insulation value, allow the door to drain and keep the insulation dry. Hope that helps. 😀

[@augustohernandezayala6312]

i have been like 2-3 days watching your videos, and Im starting to love the music!! you know, those TV shows you start watching and some day, the music of it starts, and you start moving, thats whats happening to me lol

[@GregVirgoe]

That is very nice to hear, thank you for watching them all 😃

[@augustohernandezayala6312]

@@GregVirgoe Lol, the working process music sounds adictive to me haha

[@GregVirgoe]

I play a little acoustic guitar and like that style of country / folk music.

[@E3CB]

How did you fit the PIR board to the van wall? Used Stick pins too or glue? Thanks

[@GregVirgoe]

E3CB I used the stick pins again for the walls 👍🏼😀

[@E3CB]

Wow! Thank you for the Super Fast reply :)

[@neilsparks.4447]

Great informative vlog, your attention to detail is second to none. Good tip with the knife too! I will refer to your info when i come to build my van, Keep up the good work Greg.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Neil, what are your own plans for van and design?

[@neilsparks.4447]

Greg Virgoe , im hoping to build a smaller van vw t5/6 lwb, just for weekends away etc. Im aiming to start early next year.

[@GregVirgoe]

Neil that’s great. You won’t need as much stuff or space but still nice to do those few bit the right way. Thanks for your comment.

[@dawgydawg6264]

is this still ideal for hotter climates? I live in Australia

[@GregVirgoe]

DawgyDawg yes absolutely please watch my insulation workshop video for details on how to keep your van cool in summer heat.

[@LiveLifeInABox]

Wow stick pins are a revelation! We are totally going to order some tomorrow! Thanks for such an amazing tip! 🎉🎉🎉

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes, they are brilliant, I saw your ceiling video where you were having problems with different glues etc looked like very hard work. In my latest video on the vinyl headliner, you can see how quick and easy they are to fit and so clean no mess too.

[@sethlael]

Hi how did it go? Any further tips? Do the panels squeak at all?

[@stephan20008]

Simple question Earthwool v plastic bottle insulation.. What's best

[@GregVirgoe]

Stephan177 simple answer plastic bottle insulation

[@keithjohnson3275]

Thank you Greg, another faultless well presented video.

[@GregVirgoe]

Always pleasing to receive such great feedback, Many thanks

[@lurcheradogs4life]

Thank you Greg. Thank you for sharing your obvious extensive knowledge up this subject matter. Thank you for the science in part one. Keep them coming. Loving the gained understanding of how i well progress my planned build. Merry Christmas buddy ;)

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much Russell, very much appreciated. Best wishes for your forthcoming build and please do send me details when you start. I will be really interested to see what you are planning to do.

[@Makelifehappennow]

Excellent. I plan to build a Sprinter and will adopt some of your techniques. Great video.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Mike and best wishes with your own build.

[@SP-vw3pg]

NIce work, ive seen similar in other van projects but yours is well launched with explanation. i like the foam idea as opposed to knauf, but as you rightly pointed out, its not for novices and can expand too much , but i think it adds a bit more rigidity to the carcass.plus theres nothing really to stop you from doing a conduit through the van cavity to act as a service duct, then foam over it. ive fitted out narrow boats in the past and like the crossover in most of the systems and best practices. have a good christmas and lets hope the snow stays away.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Simon, nothing wrong with using spray foam, and flexible conduit will help to future proof it. Have a great Christmas your self and thanks for watching.

[@darrenwilliams7087]

Great stuff again Greg......don't forget to put that carving knife back...love it !

[@GregVirgoe]

HaHa excellent Darren, think you may be the only one to have watched right to the end and seen my final comment lol Thank you for watching and great feedback my friend. Cheers

[@darrenwilliams7087]

You gotta stay for the credits! Like you, I'm planning on a busy Christmas break installing insulation etc. I've got 38 degrees c here today. Meet you half way :)

[@GregVirgoe]

WOAH 38°C!! make sure you keep all the van doors open. Where about's are you?

[@darrenwilliams7087]

Hi Greg. Lucky I have a shed to keep the van in. Just installed a fiamma awning on the side of the van & I can tell you the silicone sets fast! Adelaide, south Australia. Cheers

[@johngreenaway5736]

Now I know what that electric knife thing is for; cheers for that :-). Enjoying your channel and looking forward to seeing the build progress.

[@GregVirgoe]

It was a cheap one I got just for this job. However, a sharp Stanley knife does a less messy job. thank you for watching

[@sheyedlington9046]

I'm starting at the beginning. You are great. Can't say I understand all the tech. Thank you Greg.

[@GregVirgoe]

You will find some easy tutorials in this build series.

[@deranocasper]

Hello Greg your stick pin and cavity wall insulation is really good hard to beat great practical video and the electric carving knife 👌🍻👍🍀

[@wallerwallacecomptronics6099]

Greg: I am very appreciative that you are taking the time to make these videos.. I did not know that stick pins were even a thing! Salute from USA, Kentucky, Symsonia, McGuire Rd. My pet peeve is how our addresses in the USA are given

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello, they are not widely know about because they are used by insulation contractors in industry and not sold from local DIY stores. You can purchase, as I did, from local insulation suppliers in boxes of 250 or 500 but you will have to pick up the phone and call them to purchase. Not seen an online store for these yet.

[@jimihitide7608]

cool videos. van life needs a corner of supreme knowledge to look to and you seem to be that guy! thanks

[@johnnymfbravo7163]

Good job, I like the stick pins instead of glue, great idea!

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks, Johnny, yeah they are GREAT! No mess, really strong, quick and easy.

[@Konushku]

I’m finally watching a van insulation video that makes sense to me. Keep them coming!

[@nordicdreams6779]

I'm just about to start my first conversion and find your videos so informative and helpful. Thank you 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Steve Ellershaw that’s brilliant. Good luck with your van build 👍🏼😃

[@philrob57]

Great Video Gregg :-) nice to see how to install the insulation without getting expanding foam all over ...

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks Phil, it is great as an insulator but makes a right mess.

[@TheRoadTaken]

THANK YOU for addressing the spray insulation. I've watched so many videos of people explaining one insulation material over another but no one has commented on the potential expansion issue let alone being able to run/changes to service cables. While now it's a "duh" moment, it wasn't a thought I had even considered, I was just going with foam spray but your points have swayed me over to use the wool.

[@tombates2642]

Greg, thank you so much for all the skills and knowledge you've shared on here. It's so useful! Could you comment on the use of mineral wool vs the recycled plastic fluff? The fact that you use the former is good enough for me tbh, but I was under the impression that it was a no no.

[@wimm1392]

Thanks very much, as a sparkie I learned a lot and will apply this to my project.

[@GregVirgoe]

You are welcome, thanks for watching

[@karlbartelt3939]

Thanks for another informative video, I have never seen those spikes before, so that is a great tip. Its also good to see you becoming more confident behind the camera. By the end of this series you will probably be hosting a TV Show "Sprinters Tonight"

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you Karl, I'm finding what I want to say flows more naturally, still make loads of mistakes. Thinking of doing a bloopers reel at some point with all the things that have gone wrong. I'll get around to your fan questions very soon. Any comments with links in automatically get quarantined for review so I don't see them unless I go on my PC. Thanks again for your kind praise.

[@simontonks8903]

Great video again Greg , highly enjoyable and well thought out keep up the great work 👍🏼

[@GregVirgoe]

Thankyou Simon, really appreciated, cheers

[@mylifeontour6664]

fantastic video. You have answered so many of my questions on this topic. Thank you for taking the time to make this. I will be using your methods in my van!

[@GregVirgoe]

Really pleased you found it to be useful. Thanks for watching.

[@rdfilms.]

just the best van build tutorials on KZbin. Great job! you deserve way more subscribers

[@GregVirgoe]

Razvan D. That’s nice of you. Many thanks 😊