Humble Road Van Build Series - Four Layers of Ceiling Insulation

Insulation in a van is a hot topic! My ceiling insulation is comprised of four layers, each with a unique task, but lost without the others.
#onahumbleroad

[@HumbleRoad]

When considering the air gap in this scenario, you need to include the thinsulate as being within the air gap. By design, thinsulate traps air. In my application, I have approx 2 inches of air space above the reflectix.

[@jamesl1130]

I love hearing your design philosophy

[@charlevoix418]

So good to see someone really spending time to get the best design possible, while thinking about maintenance and accessibility of all components in case of repairs or improvement.

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, the day to day real world life in a van must be considered when building. I think.

[@beautyofflorida9781]

We wanted to take a minute and thank you for all your work. I have appreciated your technical and in depth approach on your van build. My wife and I also like your humor. We have started a channel as we approach Van Life that will consist of a 10 year plan as we change our way of life, and as we work to place ourselves in PCB for a retirement destination. Watching your work as well as others has helped to inspire us to step out in faith and do what we desire to do. Also, watching your camera work is spot on perfect, and it helps me to understand how to go about different ways to capture what I will be doing also, as I grow into it all, so thank you again!

[@bentnickel7487]

I sold (in the flooring business) a product that was tongue and groove and had two ribbons stapled to the unfinished side. When you pulled on slat one you automatically pulled on slat nine, the "t and g" grooves were hand waxed with bee's wax and moved without rattle or squeak like the tambour in a rolltop desk.

[@HumbleRoad]

I like that idea!

[@apriltatum5543]

I will never build a van, nor do I think we will ever give up the space in a fifth wheel to own a van....BUT.... I enjoy watching you and all your clear explanations of everything so much I wish I WAS going to build a van 😳. Your humor and expert editing is a huge plus as well! Keep it going ❤️❤️❤️

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you April! We enjoyed our 40ft Class A for many many years, and a fifth wheel lives even better than that!

[@billg1527]

I second what Free Eagle said..... Holy Hell you have done an OCD job of building this van, it is perfection in a van build which i know is your goal...many kudos to you !!

[@vickicromer561]

I think.... you are terrific at van building, van living and video making. Great work sir.

[@angelaborgen271]

You’re so smart and thoughtful about every detail ... I love it! Seems like the two pieces is the right way to go. 👍🏼😃

[@marylandgirl7358]

Your layers of insulation and wood ceiling are super nice. Looking forward to the next video.

[@jantrapnell01able]

Gotta love what you're doing. Im exhausted just watching. You set the standard high for van builds... perfection, my friend!

[@TravelingRobert]

It's coming out great. Can't wait to see the final product.

[@deborahgiles3649]

You are amazing! Absolute precision in everything. Your explanations are very good, as well. Even I understand most of them. As a novice looking into van life, I watch a lot of videos. Yours are my favorite. Be safe. God bless you.

[@HumbleRoad]

You're very welcome!

[@Andalusianworld]

The cabinet backers are a brilliant idea. You could even install LED lighting behind it (assuming translucent material) to provide a nice glow inside and above the cabinets.

[@bethcollier3789]

Oh man you are so extremely thorough, and your explanations are interesting and understandable. Such a good thing. I think I could earn a master's degree in housevan building by watching you. Loving the build keep going.

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you Beth! Happy Thanksgiving.

[@DrShonto]

The tongue and grove ceiling...NICE!...starting to really see the van come together....👍😎

[@exploringoptions9747]

There is so much debate over which insulation is best. I like your choice & love that mesh vinyl- definitely on my list! Great video, as always. Thanks!

[@rozswartzett180]

You are a genius and if I ever win the lottery, I want you to make one for me.

[@TheJamesLamb]

Well thought out... I love your home made ceiling concept! I like the way you explain every detail. You make a great shop teacher!!! I've enjoyed your channel since the first video, as I'm interested in the different van building techniques. This van build takes first place. 👍👍

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you, this are very kind words. And shop was my favorite class!

[@hbjtf]

Your ten-minute videos go by in a flash.

[@HumbleRoad]

Well I think you should watch it several times! LOL!

[@HumbleRoad]

But thank you, I appreciate your comment.

[@hbjtf]

Of yes...multiple views are enjoyed. 👍👌😎

[@judyjudyjudy9593]

I think you do an awesome job, way beyond most peoples ability to think or do the things you do. If someone gets bored & wants you to get with it on this job it is because they (like me) don't have the ability you have, even possibly to understand what you are doing. But I don't want you to "get with it", I learn from you! LOL Judie

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you Judie!

[@mishu3271]

Awwwww Humble...you’re killing us...Spill the beans! 😯

[@Carolpb3]

I love the look of the wood on the ceiling. This van is going to be amazing! Remember to plan a stop in Elkin on your way down to Florida. Can’t wait to see you again. 🤗

[@shaunat589]

Thank you for the great detail you go into on your vids. Also the animation. I love working with wood and understand the time it took to make all those cuts in the ceiling boards. Nice face after you mentioned how many cuts had to be made😆. Cheers Toz.

[@freeeagle851]

I don't want to say overkill, but the way your going with all the intricate labor and top shelf materials, we're gonna be looking at the first million dollar van or close to it, for sale. But I'm sure you'll find a buyer with all the social media and interweb stuff going on. Carry on my good man. 👏☺💰

[@HumbleRoad]

I'm OK with that! :-D

[@montanasojourn]

I agree, except remember: the first prototype is always the most costly and labor intensive. You need to work out all the "kinks". We viewers are lucky to have him ride the learning curve.

[@freeeagle851]

Hey Susan M, your right I've picked up a few tips watching this mad scientist /engineer create this monster/van. 😉✌

[@Taylorsumnerstar]

High quality components dont come cheap.been enjoying the build.

[@judyjudyjudy9593]

Free Eagle...people with money always get to have these splendid things, many of which ordinary people don't even know about! I think "overkill" IS ordinary to people with money. And if it isn't overkill, they won't have it! He is an extraordinary man himself, with major talent!!! LOL Judie

[@GoodCybrations]

Mr. George, Thank you for taking the time to post your van build series. I appreciate you. May God bless you with a very happy Thanksgiving surrounded by loving friends and family. and Happy Holidays to all the other Humble Road followers...much Love from Santa Barbara, California

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you. The Humble Road followers certainly hold a special place in my heart.

[@robertschilling3308]

Looking great. 👍👍👍

[@timothyames8385]

Brilliant! I am excited to see how that turns out, regarding the bad potholes and such ( I live in Broome County NY, home of IBM, EJ, and Binghamton University! Our roads are likely among some of the worst in the nation!!). I think it looks amazing! I too, am not a big fan of the latch doors, so you have yet another part of this project that is pulling me in to see the result. Keep up the great work!

[@HumbleRoad]

Thanks Timothy! Stay tuned! (boy, that's an old saying! I wonder if young people even know where that comes from?)

[@timothyames8385]

@@HumbleRoad back in the day of live radio? "What will happen next...only THE SHADOW KNOWS!" stay tuned till next time to find out.

[@shamrockgirl6595]

Sliders - brilliant!

[@scottanson7524]

I think you should build my next van ! Your work is better than any of the companies building b vans ... 4x4 for off road / grid camping!

[@HumbleRoad]

Very nice of you to say, Scott. There is a whole lotta great work being done these days. I think it is the time for the van and a high tide floats all boats. (see what I did there?)

[@marko651]

Love the sliders , your always thinking of a better way to do things . Well done .

[@TONSOFVANARCHY]

I think i like the idea of building each area separate so you can access, update or make repairs to them without needing to interrupt another area. I see so many people build all the insulating layers as one unit, then the floor, framing and walls all together. But, i have learned in my van that its hard to get to a section for something simple without removing an entire layer. I made my bathroom area one unit with its own floor, kitchen area with its own floor, bed area has each section separate too. Only thing i would have issues with are that the van is a conversion and id never be able to get behind the walls or ceiling without removing my entire interior....or cut my walls. So, i say make your cut mr! I hope i got this right...lol

[@theresalind8031]

Humble, I think your attention to detail makes you a formidable adversary of the devil. Love that you are sharing this information. I've a feeling the industry has probably got their eye on your work.

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you Theresa.

[@swolfe4096]

I would be inclined to leave the vinyl in one piece. Personally I think that less cuts in your vapour barrier would be better. You wouldn’t want your thinsulate to get damp.. It would probably be tighter and quieter too.

[@higbeedoug]

Congrats- I'm with you with the sliders. For the life of me why newer, upscale, installers still want to have a cabinet open into their face and also have the inherent door-pop. Slider, for a vehicle are the way to go. Even cheap floor sheathing once stained look good and you can stuff it too.

[@michelevitarelli]

Great build and video. Thanks for sharing.

[@mannyvaldes1101]

I think you are the best

[@jodymooney255]

Research pays. What an incredible job and I'm so glad you know of and used Advanced RV!

[@LostOnLandAgain]

Test run in January? AWESOME!

[@papadalethebandit5619]

Wow! Very impressive! New Subscriber here. Thanks for the how too. Happee Trails, Papa & The Bandit!

[@HumbleRoad]

Welcome to Humble Road, Papa! Hello Bandit! You have a bit of catching up to do! Go ahead and binge watch EVERYTHING! We'll wait.. ;-)

[@hacksaw413]

Great ideas. For me if it's not a big problem I'd go with the one piece system.

[@tami0627]

You never disappoint

[@annmcwilliams1230]

Great as always

[@anthonymarino4260]

really nice van b build looking great cant wait to next vid

[@sereniebellini8973]

Woah that’s dedication 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@GRAZINGARIZONA]

What do I think? I think you're idea of cutting the heavy vinyl mat short and just have the white material as a single backboard with a small overlap makes sense, vinyl looked a bit cumbersome. Looked like that white material held that beautiful rounded shape much better than the vinyl also. I also think you put so much thought into every aspect of this van, I can't wait to (respectfully) steal some of your idea's. Really good stuff, thank you for explaining everything and puttin it out there with such detail. I have a feeling the finished product will be awesome... like different level of quality awesome. Just also want to mention, you're video's are a pleasure to watch, definitely give a little "hell yeah" whenever I see you post one. Great video quality, great content is all.

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you B 9. I appreciate your watchful eye.

[@samwalker3441]

Hi George. There is a case to leave the backer in one piece. Two pieces will leave you w/ attachment issues where the would be two pieces meet. I guess that I would ask how many times one would expect to need access behind the mass vinyl as compared w/ any maintenance issues that would/could be created by making it two pieces. Without having the experience and vision of the van that you do, I would think that one piece would be better. BTW, I loved the insulation falling down almost on cue. Also, loved your reaction when it hit you. Some people would have cut that out. I love that you left it in. Great work, as usual.

[@HumbleRoad]

Thanks Sam. If I use two backer panels, the overlap would be 3-4 inches. Enough to settle in with each other. I have wrestled with one long piece and it was difficult. That wouldn't bother me to do so, but if I am building this van to sell, and sell at premium, everything MUST be as close to perfect as possible.

[@samwalker3441]

@@HumbleRoad Yep. I wasn't thinking about that much overlap. Should work well as you have described.

[@TravisPisot]

love the video George, 4 years later I'm wondering if you would still use the same 4 layers in the same order as you did in this video? thanks so much!

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes. All the same, EXCEPT...I replaced the HMV with polyiso foam to save weight up top.

[@Dulsanaya]

In the case of my (new to me) old RV (1966 Clark Cortez - first front wheel drive RV made in the USA), water and rust issues are real for those vehicles. I want to know before I have a problem and be able to check the roof/floor/walls regularly. Since the entire ceiling will need to be ripped out and replaced, this setup could be extremely beneficial.

[@HumbleRoad]

That was my motivation for this design. While I have never experienced any kind of heartache when it comes to repairs, I can certainly anticipate and be proactive.

[@keosh777]

Your skill level is amazing. You are at a level to which I can only dream. You asked our thoughts about cutting the mass vinyl for easier access. Since the mass vinyl serves as a vapour barrier I would be concerned about moisture, over time, finding its way through. ?

[@HumbleRoad]

You are correct. This is why I am focused on a "breathing" van. Unless you can guarantee a 100% flawless vapor barrier, you will have created a worse condition by not giving the moisture any air flow in order to evaporate. My idea is to minimize condensation, close to nil, but with the ability to keep fresh air flowing throughout every nook and cranny of the van.

[@esparka]

Thank you

[@Roobah]

IMO: Keep it one piece. Gravity is working against you asking that cut piece to not keep falling down, but in one piece, the tendency to fall down is transferred to the full curve down to the shelf floor. If you do cut it, maybe cut it lower down the wall. (I didn't see side support inside the shelving to help keep the heavy mass vinyl propped up on its own.) After all, how many times to you really think you need to get behind that wall? It is already "accessible" by loosening up the ceiling and pulling the vinyl back if need be. Suggestion? Maybe you can slit the heavy mass vinyl in half or thirds vertically to get access to a section that is lighter in weight. Velcro the strips together in one piece on the back side. Just thinking inside the box...

[@HumbleRoad]

I like the way you think.

[@Sandy_Loam-088]

I like the idea of the mass vinyl being layered where the sides meet the top. Again, thinking what-if. Easier to get behind the mass vinyl over the cabinets without disturbing the ceiling system.

[@PerfectWoodGrain]

I think I can't wait to see your shower/toilet design.

[@davidburchettephotography6513]

I don’t see a separation between the structural ribs and the “plates” attached to them. Two words - thermal bridging. Everything else about the system seems good 👍. You do outstanding work. Keep it up!

[@HumbleRoad]

2” by full length strip of rubber on each of the 4” plates where they mount to the chassis ribs.

[@firecracker3911]

Amazing!

[@PhotoAlbert]

This is going to be one amazing RV and I am so looking forward to seeing your maiden voyage. You may have mentioned it before, but if so I didn't catch it. I've read that the vinyl comes in different thicknesses and I was wondering which you went with. It looks pretty heavy in the video so I was wondering if you went with the thickest vinyl?

[@HumbleRoad]

The vinyl is one pound per square foot.

[@higbeedoug]

1) loved seeing the 'sliders' concept. 2) 3 yrs later, would you do this '98 boards' ceiling method again or has time revealed more favorable methods?

[@HumbleRoad]

(2) Yes we did tongue & groove in the latest 4x4 Sprinter we just released a couple months ago. And I'm considering it for one of the Transits in house now.. (3) Reflectix needs an air gap in front of it to work. If you glue it directly to the van sheet metal, it does nothing.

[@higbeedoug]

Thank you-Doug

[@tranquilitytravels2994]

Lovely build. Thanks for explaining the radiant heat floor (I’d love that but have settled for thick carpet) thought you didn’t want to put the heavy mass rubber on the ceiling? Why didn’t you just buy tongue & groove? I’m learning a lot, thanks.

[@HumbleRoad]

I hand made the tongue and groove for 2 reasons. First, my finished thickness is less than dimensional lumber, so if I milled down the store bought T&G, I might have had an alignment problem. And second, I just wanted to have hand made tongue and groove on the ceiling! 😆

[@leiflillandt1488]

Unfortunately I haven't seen the first steps in the ProMaster/Ducato rebuilding, but an important thing is how to avoid air making contact with the outer wall behind and inside all frames. Then there must be some ventilation behind the inner wall layer. I just wonder how all DIY campervans will look like after ten years... There are reasons why they don't use frames of wood any more in caravans. I'm about to build a campervan of my 2011 Ducato 636 cm van, and this problem I have to solve at first!

[@HumbleRoad]

We think alike. Good luck with your build!

[@277kne]

Very good system. I would prefer the 2 piece. Ceiling and wall. I like the wood board ceiling. Was wondering why you didn't buy the T and G and plane it yourself. I know standard is 3/4. I have seen on KZbin,builders using thin cedar planking. I admire your wood working.

[@HumbleRoad]

I chose the pine boards for their insulative properties. As far as the milling, I don't mind doing it all myself. I like the idea of handmade.

[@leoneranger9348]

Here for the sound effects 😉

[@kayfalls5807]

I think the whole build is great! Such a perfectionist look forward to each episode. Will you keep both vans?

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you! This van that I am building is for sale. I hope to have enough of it completed by the Tampa RV Show that prospective buyers will have a better idea of exactly what kind of product this is. Can't blame anyone who may be interested to continue to lurk in the shadows, it's an empty van for Pete's sake! I am building it, however, as if I were going to live in it full time for the next few decades. Now if I win the lottery, all bets are off! :-)

[@Roobah]

@@HumbleRoad Suggest: your next build is on a wide-body van (8-foot). That extra 12" - 14"+ width (and no wheel well to deal with) really makes a world of difference toward not making you feel like you are in a cave. Not too many manufacturers are still making widebody vans though Check out the specs on this: www.startransbus.com/product-details.aspx?LineID=398&Image=17126 Mine work in progress is a used original Senator version with 4 doors and I love how unobstructed the floor is and how vertical the walls are and how flat the ceiling is. I love the ground clearance, too, but I need a step ladder to climb into the driver's seat! Still building it out, but using some of your ideas, too.

[@birdnest5814]

What do I think? I think you should come visit me, in Florida, in January 😂 love the ceiling 😊

[@chulkim8542]

When is your next video coming out? I can't wait to see.

[@kevinromania]

By attaching the aluminium extrusions for the cabinets and the aluminium stock on the ceiling direct to the steel of the van body you have given yourself a big problem. The body steelwork inside will get as cold as the outside temperature, the aluminium will end up the same temperature as its a very good conductor of heat and cold. This cold metal will condense any humidity in air of van and end up covered in condensation. Two people sleeping in the van overnight will produce a lot of moisture in the air just by breathing, nevermind if you start cooking in there. This is why in all comercial builds, if done right, the van body is completly insulated from the inside.

[@HumbleRoad]

Oh no! I don't think the result would be as serious as you describe, but I have a thermal break between the van body and any interior aluminum.

[@HumbleRoad]

The only mount point where I could not install a thermal break is with the 4 carriage bolts that hold the topmost rail of the wall cabinets. Now, once I start re-installing all the framework, I will point out all those details.

[@LadyMarie880]

two parts are better it makes the space look bigger and pleasing to the eye. if you put light/ lights it would also help to brighten up the spaces and make it pleasing to the eye. The door opening down yes better or think about this ,,,,,make it both sliding panel and the whole frame opening hinged on top / or bottom you choose.

[@ShakespeareCafe]

How do you deal with condensation on the metal ceiling? No getting around the thermodynamics of air moisture. When the cold metal meets the warm moisture-laden air it's going to condense on the ceiling and infiltrate the Thinsulate. I would install the Reflectix on the ceiling tight with spray adhesive, then the Thinsulate over that then the vinyl. It's a myth that Reflectix doesn't insulate. I installed two layers thick and it provides plenty of insulating potential even without the specified air gap requirement. There's two layers of air bubbles and loose fit between the two with more air all sealed with HVAC foil tape...Go to the HVAC supply store to get the good stuff.

[@Taylorsumnerstar]

Your build is very impressive. Wood expands with changes in weather. Did you by chance look at pvc sheeting for your ceiling panels?

[@HumbleRoad]

I will be using pvc sheets in the shower area.

[@zdenekholy2634]

When it comes the area where the metal roof and thisulate meets ... isn't there a space for condensation? If I remember correctly - the only way how to avoid it is by spraying the van with insulation foam, which sticks to the metal. Since the video is almost 2 years old ... I think it would be great idea to inspect the roof - don't you think?

[@floridabeardedwoodworker]

When you come to Florida I have a house you could boon-dock at.. I would love to check out the van.

[@HumbleRoad]

Starting out in Tampa for the big RV show.

[@MichaelJanzen]

Wouldn't the radiant (Reflectix) barrier work better next to the van's exterior - then add the insulation on the inside layer?

[@HumbleRoad]

No. The reflection needs an air gap in order to work.

[@MichaelJanzen]

@@HumbleRoad gotcha... because the bubble Reflectix is also a vapor barrier. Like Joe Lstiburek says... a vapor barrier in the wrong place is worse than none at all. Thanks!

[@garylauzon4055]

smart man .

[@marcotesti3909]

Well, Chip... I think that you'll figure out the best solution.

[@williambrown1172]

Question: Wouldn't it be more effective to use the reflectics (spelling?), then the thinsulate, then the mass load vinyl? Maybe I am thinking of it in terms of my climate (southwest) and the intense sun! Thoughts?

[@HumbleRoad]

Reflectix needs an air gap to reflect the heat back across. The Thinsulate serves as the air gap. Reflectix right up against the van roof does nothing.

[@williambrown1172]

@@HumbleRoad 👍 thanks!

[@JGnLAU8OAWF6]

@@HumbleRoad it doesn't do anything next to thinsulate or vinyl either.

[@edithp.7213]

I agree!

[@rogerlittlejohn475]

I have been thinking about the way you insulated your ceiling. Would it not be better to apply the reflectix first then the thinsulate. If the reflectix does reflect back then the thinsulate would have less heat to insulate from the outside, thus keeping the van cooler on the inside during hot summers? looking at it from an engineering standpoint.

[@HumbleRoad]

The reflectix requires at least 3/4” air space to reflect through. The white fiber of the Thinsulate is the air space .

[@rogerlittlejohn475]

@@HumbleRoad I was looking at how you wrapped your tires. reflectix first then thinsulate? Thanks.

[@HumbleRoad]

roger littlejohn that is not reflectix on the wheel wells. It is Noico- sound deadener.

[@jimdearborn2539]

How are you going to handle the inertial effect on the sliding doors during acceleration or hard stops?

[@HumbleRoad]

That can be solved with a travel lock. Just spitballin' here but something as simple as a clevis pin going through both doors at the overlap.

[@claudiafrasca-jones5006]

Hey George, loving your video's - for the second time! I notice you didn't use the mahogany detail between the white boards on the ceiling. Is there a reason for that decision that you can tell us?

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, with the segmentation of the boards and the cross banding of the supports, I thought it would be too busy, visually, to have those dark strips running front to back. So rather than use the walnut strips to define the boards, I decided on using shadow (tongue & groove). Now, the first thing you see is an entirely white ceiling. Then the more defined shape of the boards and banding comes into focus.

[@claudiafrasca-jones5006]

@@HumbleRoad yes walnut, not mahogany! Makes perfect sense, thanks :)

[@LadyTSurvival]

the plastic bent sheet that you use for your cabinet backs is a vapor barrier all by itself. my question is that.... do you really need to overlap the heavy vinyl? or just end it at the edge of the ceiling. its a double vapor barrier at that point... or more precisely... a triple one since the reflectix is going to be behind it. the reflectix is a vapor barrier by itself if its taped with the metal tape to the edges of where it ends to keep the insulation sealed. it seems like way overkill at that point and alot of trouble that doesnt seem necessary.

[@HumbleRoad]

You cannot maintain continuity between the van and the reflectix. If so, you have one big thermal conductor. I had not considered the cabinet backing as a vapor barrier, but you are correct it is! In which case I might add another layer of thinsulate.

[@HumbleRoad]

Brilliant observation! Thank you!

[@LadyTSurvival]

@@HumbleRoad how are you sealing up the thinsulate from the air in the van.... are you sealing the edges of the heavy vinyl to the metal struts? since they are inlaid in between the roof and wall supports.... the edges are at risk for leaking humid air into the thinsulate unless sealed off somehow. maybe you are covering that in a different video im not sure.

[@HumbleRoad]

Lady-T, you have an excellent understanding of these systems. What I neglected to say in this video was that I will have a four inch piece of vinyl laying on top of each of my 4" aluminum flat crossbars, acting as a thermal break from the van roof struts. So the vinyl that runs inside the channels will rest on a 2 inch overlap of vinyl on top of the aluminum flat bar. It is a mechanical seal via weight.

[@LadyTSurvival]

@@HumbleRoad my bad. lol i do like your videos, and your build looks fantastic btw.

[@daleannharsh8295]

Looking good! What are you doing about the temperature transfer along those metal ribs/supports?

[@HumbleRoad]

The van roof struts will be insulated on the inside and isolated with a gasket of rubber.

[@daleannharsh8295]

Thanks....I have a much older shuttle bus I'm converting. Square metal supports that I hope to fill with closed foam before I cover them up. Hadn't thought about rubber gaskets!

[@HumbleRoad]

Make sure the foam is non toxic and will not retain moisture, mold resistant.

[@daversj]

Not trying to be pedantic but what’s the point of a vapor barrier if its in pieces and not taped or sealed? Aren’t we trying to have a complete envelope for living space and keep humidity from cold surfaces to prevent condensation?

[@DennisWintjes2]

#615! Thanks 4 sharing. I am a year late from this debate!

[@sunflower17k]

How did you land in photography instead of engineering? You are amazingly detail oriented. I bet your mind is a scary place, lol :)

[@HumbleRoad]

My mind never lets me rest... 😩 In order to be a good commercial studio photographer, you need to be an artist, engineer, carpenter, rigger, physicist and first aid expert!

[@ZillaYT]

Someone mentioned you had a van where ceiling planks went east-west. I tried to find but after 30 videos I gave up. Can you please point me to it?

[@HumbleRoad]

@@ZillaYT someone mentioned wrong!

[@ZillaYT]

@@HumbleRoad 😂

[@journeyman4328]

My vote is 2 pieces, but you know that. 😎

[@HumbleRoad]

Yep.

[@johnhodg8400]

and i agree with you.

[@romancicak9764]

The vapor barrier doesn't need to be continuous?

[@HumbleRoad]

While that may be optimal, all factors must be considered and practicality weighs heavy. It is after all, still a van, not a house.

[@HumbleRoad]

Thanks for watching and commenting! It's what keeps this wonderful community going.

[@romancicak9764]

Thank You kind sir, for taking the time and effort to catalogue this journey and the generosity to share it... And for your patience in answering pesky questions. :) Although I must admit, watching someone approach a project such as this so meticulously, thoroughly and consistently, while mesmerising, has made it rather difficult to enjoy other videos about van conversions. :D

[@johntatman1436]

What is that white material you're using for the upper cabinet liner?

[@HumbleRoad]

It's a PVC Utility panel called Poly-Wall. Very flexible lightweight PVC in 4x8 sheets. Very easy to work with. And when bowed, it retains a nice semi-rigid shape. Home Depot or Lowes

[@PhamVans]

Interesting, that vinyl mat seems a little over kill though. Looks like it would defeat the purpose of the reflectix.

[@marklll8368]

9:16 heavy mass vinyl, is there a specific brand or thickness recommended? also have you tried Decidamp DC30

[@AlanAlanAlanDave]

What is the name of the heavy mass vinyl product?

[@jeanrenemongeau1232]

Do you have the product name for the celling insulation. Finishing after thinsulate and bubble wrap, like rubber mat Merci 🙏

[@HumbleRoad]

It's called heavy mass vinyl. You should source it locally, it's 1lb per sq foot.

[@dougmanck4149]

Leveling blocks for the tripod? Great as always but I have to ask: "Dad, are we there yet?" LOL

[@HumbleRoad]

My camera angles are never random! LOL! I am starting to hear grumblings about when this project will end…dunno. I'll copy and paste a reply I made a few comments back: I planned on full completion in five months. Now I'm halfway through the eighth month! I think to two major issues here are (1) I did this build backwards, intentionally, to demonstrate the modularity of my designs. So now, after all this time, I'm back to an empty van doing utility systems. And (2) honestly, working outside in Northern NJ presented many weather delays. Rain, rain and more rain. No worries, I'm not going to rush, I've been a creator all my working life and I know the way to quality's doorstep. As always, Doug, I appreciate your support and good commentary.

[@dougmanck4149]

@@HumbleRoad Hey, I was just kidding of course. Sure I'm a bit anxious to see completion but I love the design/build/plan part. I really enjoy and admire people demonstrating skills and ingenuity I will never possess. Thanks.

[@HumbleRoad]

No worries, Doug. I know you were kidding. :-)

[@emadd3451]

so what is that white panel ? you keep referring to it as this stuff :-).

[@HumbleRoad]

Not sure, I'll have to re-watch that video!

[@TheCowgirlNiamh]

What do I think? I think she's a keeper! 😂

[@HumbleRoad]

I wish! Ima gonna start buying lottery tickets!

[@MykSr]

😎

[@SupercarEngg]

A white van is usually all you need to insulate from heat in the summer. I camped in Texas this May, two weeks in full sun, and my white painted bare steel ceiling was still cool to the touch on sunny 85F days. Winter may be a different story. But not that different. I suspect most people way overthink and overdo the ceiling insulation.

[@desmondtutu7916]

I don't think the Reflectix will reflect anything unless it is spaced apart the adjacent layer (from the high density mat and/or the wood). I think that's typically a few inches. From their website: "For either a reflective insulation or a radiant barrier, an air space of a minimum thickness is required on the reflective side of the product. (Most Reflectix® products are reflective (shiny) on both sides.) The reflective insulation benefit is derived from the interaction of the highly-reflective surface with the air space. If the reflective surface is in contact with another building material, it becomes a conductor (transmitting the energy by conduction). An air space may be specified on one or both sides of the product (always on a reflective side). Enclosed air spaces, when instructed, are required to provide the stated R-value."

[@HumbleRoad]

Sure, an air space of a few inches would be beneficial, but in the case of a van build, not very practical. I am considering the air "in and around" the Thinsulate to be the required airspace for the reflectix. The black layer of the thinsulate is very porous and a non-conductor of heat, nor cold.

[@calburnIII]

By itself, Reflectix is an insulator. I have cut pieces of it to fit my Ascent’s windows and wrapped all of the under-floor plumbing with it, too. Without additional airspace, I can say with some certainty that it does provide noticeable insulating barriers to both summer sun and winter cold. So my guess is that your sandwich with Reflectix as the salami will do a credible insulating job, Chip.

[@desmondtutu7916]

It has an R value of 1 if it is sandwiched between other material. That's not very good. The R value is much higher if you leave it exposed. Nobody wants their van to look like it's wrapped in aluminum foil, but that's what it takes to get the higher R value they advertise. I see van-build videos of photogenic but blissfully ignorant millennials making the same mistake all over the place. This is basic physics and stated right in the manufacturers specs.

[@colleenkaralee2280]

@@desmondtutu7916 There is a white-sided reflectix - one side is white. How would that work in a van build without looking like a tin-foil space ship?

[@ronmiller7916]

@@desmondtutu7916 I agree with you 100%. There is a time and place to use reflectix and this is not it. Some people just won't do what little homework is required or they just love throwing away money.

[@KatyInNH]

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