Stop Using Radiant Reflectix As Vapour barrier in a self-build camper van

[@gbwildlifeuk8269]

Anyone who disputes polythene take the casing off your car door. You'll find polythene! Its been used for years and prevents any condensation getting into the casing material. You WONT stop condensation and what runs down the panel, the car manufacturer has provided drain holes so it runs out! After 40 years in the motor trade i know this guy is correct!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for your positive feedback really appreciated 👍🤓👍

[@adamshaw1032]

Great example. I never thought of it like that. Thanks for the info 👍🏻

[@malkaartpriv-lg4go]

I don't dispute poythene as a vapour barier, because that's what it does, this is simple. However, in terms of reflecting heat, I did an experiment - I used a radiator reflector (basically it is a 2mm layer of styrofoam covered on one side with aluminum foil) on the inside of the van directly on the metal body. The difference was huge I gained extra few degrees inside before coating the van with any further layers of insulation. I have placed that radiator reflector with aluminum foil touching the metal panels of the body and with the styrofoam side facing the inside of the van. I am now quite sure that the best way to insulate the van would be a sandwich of radiator reflector (aluminum side facing outside onto the metal of the van's panels), then rockwool, and again radiator reflector but this time with aluminium foil facing inside the van - all joinings covered with aluminum tape to create a vape barrier.

[@NMA_NoMoreAmmo]

Yeah, but a poly barrier fitted to the roof as per this video is trapping a lot of moist air (winter in the UK). That air will condensate on the metal roof every time you heat the wan up and especially in summer as it has nowhere to escape. The metal roof will rust quicker than you expect.

[@alanhat5252]

@@NMA_NoMoreAmmo other way round - warm air holds more moisture. Quite often people start their build in winter so it's all sealed up by the time the air gets warm enough to hold much moisture.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Mate, This is an interesting video for a number of reasons :D You are dead right about the insulation value of Reflectix being virtually nothing, that is very true. You are also right that it is an excellent radiant reflector, that is what it is primarily designed for. But the one thing it's also excellent at is being a vapour barrier because aluminium foil is totally impermeable to vapour. (value of 0.00) Nothing at all will get through aluminium foil in terms of water or vapour. That's why your Celotex insulation is covered in it. Whereas some polythenes are very slightly permeable (value of 0.06) depending on the thickness, grade of material and the difference in vapour pressure. Now it looks like you have chosen a good quality builders vapour barrier so you will be OK no problems, it is a good grade and thickness. You could have taken full advantage of that foil-faced Celotex and just foil taped over all the joints that would have done the trick. My question is? Are you going to remove all your wall and flooring to put a vapour barrier on there as I didn't see you do that previously? Sorry buddy, as you have titled this the truth about vapour barriers I wanted to give you the actual facts and figures so to speak. It's not a criticism mate, you know I'm a huge fan of your channel. Aluminium foil is the very best vapour barrier. 4.bp.blogspot.com/-yE9OE6--ah8/VvMEU11aTMI/AAAAAAAACS8/H201J9koo8wGYmjpvwMKpUh11ywFe8eHg/s1600/Table%2B-%2BPermeance%2Bof%2BCommon%2BBuilding%2BMaterials%2B500p.jpg

[@fraserhardmetal7143]

Well said Greg - I think you covered all the bases in your van build and the workshop you did later. I think people confuse the overall effect of Reflectix as part of the van insulation i.e. heat loss with, compared to heat loss without Reflectix. In that it reflects radiant heat as a component of total heat loss cannot be underestimated, with the additional bonus of being an impermeable barrier. Is the extra cost over cheaper polythene worth it ? - Any means of preventing heat loss is money in the bank over time ; if on a budget, then the cost may not be justifiable. If you want to do the job correctly then some form of reflective aluminised barrier is a no brainer, as you very capably showed.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hello mate yes I did cover the sides and the door panels too thanks for your input very much appreciated and really interesting hope you’re having a good time wherever you are now 👍🤓👍

[@GregVirgoe]

@@fraserhardmetal7143 I just found it very easy to apply too with a few squirts of trim fix the job was a doddle, the foil stuck to it really well also

[@stevebarnes1973]

The real question is though, dantheman 321, who builds vans for a living does not use vapour barrier at all and says you don't need it. He says ventilation is the key. Who is right then?

[@GregVirgoe]

@@stevebarnes1973 ventilation may help to dry out your wet van only if the following day is warm enough to evaporate it. If not it will just stay there to be added to the next night. Why does your van need to breathe? To dry out the condensation that has formed of course. A correctly installed vapour barrier will prevent it from happening in the first place. There is only one answer. Prevention or Cure? Which do you prefer?

[@hildegardesgoat6776]

Hi. My first build was a 1976 camper. Tore it apart, rebuilt it. I became sold on refectix when I installed it on the metal ceiling. I was working onthe camper in winter. The metal ceiling was ice cold to the touch. After I put reflectix on the ceiling, I touched it again and it felt room temperature with my space heater present while working. It does provide some R value, I must say. My second project was a cargo trailer conversion which I lived in for three years as a tiny house after I built it. Kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, office/desk, clothes storage. I decided to construct a pretty elaborately layered wall system for the "tiny house" cargo trailer. First I removed the osb wall cladding, next I cut sticky foam strips and placed them like a frame work inside the metal cladding to create a space between the insulation and the metal exterior. Then I installed 1/2 foam board in between the metal frames with foil on one side, facing the metal cladding with the foam strips providing the half inch gap between netal and foil-covered insulation. Then I re-attached the original wood interior cladding, 3/8" osb. Not a fan of oriented strand board. It really sucks. Then I wrapped the osb walls with reflectix, taping all seams with foil tape. Wanted to cover thermal bridging from giant screw heads. Then I built interior framing from 2" x 2" boards. Then I installed 1 inch foam board in between the boards. All of this on the walls and ceiling. Finally, I fastened 1/4 inch finish grade birch plywood to the walls and ceiling. Some people said I over-did it. I wanted sturdy wood framing to attach built-ins. To recap, here is my wall envelope in order from exterior to interior: Metal exterior, foam strips, 1/2 inch foil covered foam board, 3/8" osb, reflectix, 2" wood frames, 1" foam board in between wooden framing, and finally 1/4" finish grade plywood. Lol. That trailer turned out beautifully. However, I failed to insulate the floor. :( So, that was an on-going problem. Next I bought a smaller trailer and built out a teardrop camper with rear kitchen. Perfection. Did not make the same mistakes. My next project is going to be a Dodge Ram Promaster van conversion. I am looking now and plan to buy next month. Watching lots of van builds for research. Wish me luck! Although, I feel like I have nearly perfected the process now. We will see! One thing I have thoroughly learned over years of living out of trucks and campers and trailers is that there are many systems I just don't need. Plumbing, don't need it. Gray tank, don't need it. Formal toilet, don't need it. Running water, don't need it. Oven, don't need it. Shower, don't need it. 110 power, don't need it. All I need is: a bed, ample storage, a kitchen countertop, a refrigerator, some water containers, a few 12 volt dc plugs, a heater, a solar generator system with roof panels, a few deep cycle batteries, a few lights, and 2-3 windows. That'll do. This build should be the most simplistic one yet. I am already finding lots of materials on Facebook Marketplace for super cheap. Love your videos, btw. Heidi Urbana, Ohio USA I am a truck driver too, by the way.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

@@hildegardesgoat6776 thank you for sharing your experience with us that’s really interesting 🧐 wish we had your type of truck here in the uk 😁👍

[@steinjohansen3142]

A inner reflective sheet would reduce the inside heat to escape through the colder outer shell.. = Less condensation between the inner and outer layer, due to the fact that warmer air is able to contain more water. A ventilation fan is the best way to bring the human made moist out of the van. Closed cellfoam insulation prevent metal to condense, and at the same time make the stupid and heavy sounddeadening butyl mats totally unnecessary. If you compare metal with deadeningmat and cellfoam to only cellfoam, the best result is with only cellfoam! Every "wool-like" insulation will collect moist between the structure (no matter how waterproof the material it self are) and eventually sag. The water collected will eventually develope bacterias and harm you. Also, all wood should be sealed with paint/stain to prevent it from soaking condens water, and eventually create harmful bacterias. Every screwhole should be filled with polyurethane glue to prevent unwanted wear between different materials.( Everytime you drive you create earthquakes.) Weekend campers would not be affected as fast as full time campers. ;-)

[@hildegardesgoat6776]

Speaking of reflectix, check this out. As I mentioned, I am a truck driver and I travel the Midwestern United States picking up loads and delivering loads. My trailers are refrigerated and it's mostly food items that I transport. A couple years ago I was at a Pepsi warehouse to pick up a load. And I noticed reflectix behind the trailers in the grass, near a pond. I asked the security guard if I could have it and he said yes. That reflectix was a giant blanket that is supposed to be used inside a trailer to maintain the cold temperature of packaged food in a trailer. I found several rolls just laying on the ground. These rolls of reflectix turned out to be 10 feet wide and over a 100 feet long. So I grabbed two of them and I took them home and I've been using them over the years in different building projects. Pretty cool, huh? I often find free building materials in my travels. Perks of trucking. Peace.😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

@@hildegardesgoat6776 oh my goodness me if ever I manage to go state side to build out a van F350 😉 I’ll have to look you up 👍🤓👍

[@CALLUMISHER3]

Just brought a sprinter myself, I'm a total novice at this van building lark, your videos help alot 👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you that’s nice to know good luck with your build 👍

[@markx8659]

Mel just completed are crafter did it same way as you with a vapour barrier and found air gaps above the insulation condenses,front headliner plastic bottle insulation glued to the metal surface with no gaps vapour barrier lead to no water on any metal surface....same result auto carpet glued directly to the metall...just a trial and error thing ,guess were all getting different results for different reasons,good luck with the build mel👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Well done and thank you 👍🤓👍

[@livingthedreambuildingthedream]

I love these old videos from Mel I go back from time to time.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you ☺️ 🫶

[@nonlostsouls]

Just starting our build and the polythene vs reflectics in your vid is the first that makes perfect sense to me

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 🙏

[@jaymiddleton772]

That clear plastic looks like it would make it much easier to mount cladding because you can see through it. (compared to reflectix)

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s rite I should have made that point too 👍🤓👍🍻

[@nagualdesign]

Great point. 👍

[@desendean6488]

Man , I used reflectix as a vapour barrier and you are spot on with your assumption , if only I see your video before hand .

[@BreakerInc]

You sir, just saved me a ton of money. Thank you, as I'm on a very tight budget for my build.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely welcome good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

[@alanfox4914]

Finally someone talking a bit of sense. I don't think people read the instruction. A bit worried about the wood burning stove, in a van lined with timber. Coming on very well.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I’m worried too about the stove but wanted one all the same 😂😂👍

[@alanmay1945]

Very interesting, as well as being a practical guy in a down to earth realistic way, you're pretty brainy too, figuring all this stuff out, these qualities make your videos excellent, thankyou Mel! Alan, Norfolk.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you that’s really appreciated 👍🤓👍

[@traveltimeni1442]

Hi mel your right about the polythene we use it in the States as vapour barrier when insulating homes I worked for a company for 15 years doing this, I can see watching KZbin lots of vans will rot from the inside out the way they are using the foil ,keep the good work up buddy. And I liked the way you drained the water from the sills as it would interfere with the fibreglass insulation on the inside ,you will see alot of sprinter owner's doing this lol cheers mate look forward to your next vlog

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you I really appreciate your encouragement and support 👍🤓👍

[@lyndsayscott8866]

Totally agree with your comments on the stupid silver bubble stuff - absolutely useless. Had several heated arguments about the stuff. Polynsheet and foil tape all the way. Currently converting a transit custom for a freind. We have a converted horsebox to a mobile log cabin. It’s lush. Keep up the videos. Love them.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for your positive encouragement really appreciated your cabin sounds wonderful 👍

[@gromett]

Absolutely agree with you on reflectix. Always bemused me when people use it.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I think I may have upset somebody lol 👍🤓👍

[@mange2]

You dont need a vapour barrier over celotex if you seal the joints with foil tape. Ive had no probs at all. Your spot on about the air gap. I have a gap between the ceiling celotex and van roof. When we had 35 degree heat in summer, the ceiling inside was very cool.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Fantastic sounds really cosy 👍🤓👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes, that is very true Dave, Aluminium Foil is the best vapour barrier. But no harm done, because now Mel has double the vapour barrier :D

[@jonnypickett2546]

Yes, celotex, kingspan etc will not let vapour through, just tape the seams and jobs a goodun..

[@mange2]

@@GregVirgoe Very true Greg and like Mel said, hes taped all the seams and edges which is essential. 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

@Andy Min most places it is touching or as near as damn it with the little stick pins, only where the ribs are there is a small air gap but that nothing to worry about small air gap will also give small thermal properties.

[@Time2Go-in9ui]

Im high temp (max 175 degrees) gluing my Styrofoam to the metal, with any cracks filled with expanding foam - so no gaps, no condensation. I may use the old felt on inward facing insulation to work as a type of 'moisture battery' and reduce chances of mold. But just like an old house, best way to clear out is open windows and a working extractor fan.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Nice 👍

[@gardenweld]

Hi Mell, Marathon Runners given foil Blankets After the Finish Line to regulate their body temperature after a race, adding Reflectics will also keep your van cool in the summer. Love your van builds. xXx

[@Billiesvanlife]

Love your videos Mel but there is so much confusion with vapour barrier. Ive just insulated with dial recycled stuff and used the bubble foil over the top...wether ive done the right thing or not i dont know. However what you are saying does make sense with what you are saying. Informative video 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you

[@jakekalia4061]

Hi Mel, This is an old vid but it’s found very helpful for me. Recently bought a similar product but mixed with plastic. It’s 6 mil plastic sheeting from King frost. I’m wondering if you’d think the plastic would be an issue if it can reach melting point? Doesn’t seem like a big concern but I’d love to hear your thoughts. Thank you for the informative post! Jake

[@MDM1992]

Want to know the main reasons I think every van conversion should have a small wood stove? 1: fire is a lovely addition when it's cold and much more enjoyable than a noisy horrible diesel heater or gas heater. 2: the dry heat produced from wood stoves is perfect for drying clothes etc relatively quickly and laundry in a van can be an issue when it comes to drying when it's always raining out. 3: the dry heat from the wood stove that dries your clothes very quickly also helps to keep the vans wood and insulation dry from vapour and damp issues, anyone who's used a wood stove for a while for heating and cooking will agree that you sometimes need to add moisture back into the air because the wood stove makes everything so dry. Perfect for battling damp issues.

[@WereReallyRelayCamping]

exactly how i vapour barriered mine. used thinner plastic sheet though, i'm too tight to spend, so used painters sheets from poundland and brown parcel tape to mount it....

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s brilliant idea well done 👍

[@Leatherkid01]

Foil tape or Tuck tape is good for vapor barrier use. Thanks for supporting 🇨🇦 products 😀

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for your support really appreciated 👍🤓👍

[@BrewBeginner]

Here's a question what happens when you put a screw through the cladding and then it will rip the plastic membrane

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

It’s sill’s it’s self

[@TPSSCOOB]

You won’t regret putting a log burner in your van mate 👍 ours is a cyclops from Glastonbury burners and it’s in our lwb sprinter. Copper is the chap for reflecting heat, it’s so good that we went slightly overboard with ours 🤣

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for the positive message really appreciated 👍🤓👍

[@lizziegsack]

thanks Mel! I had a suspicion it was useless from what people have said! Insulating tomorrow woo and will find some of this for vapour barrier :)))

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely welcome thanks for your positive feedback really appreciated good luck with your build 👍😊👍

[@jessicahyde6244]

Hi mel, just going through some of your old videos for ideas. Was wondering why you used polystyrene insulation on the floor but changed to celotex for the roof?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Because I’m cheap skate 👍😂👍

[@jessicahyde6244]

@@BigVanSmallWorld 😂 can't blame u, considering using polystyrene for all of it so was wondering why u splashed out in the roof 😂 guess im an even bigger cheap skate

[@whu58]

After insulation, I was wondering if using `packaging bubble wrap`and a `commercial grade tin foil` used in cooking + foil tape would do the trick as a vapour barrier to save on costs compared to buying Reflectix? - another question to all you van owners;- Given that moisture is generated due body heat/cooking etc inside camper vans, are there advantages or disadvantages in using wood or other materials to line the inside of the vehicle?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

It’s all down to personal tastes build it how you want it 👍🤓👍

[@answerstewart1878]

My reflectix, is in fact a type of bubble wrap with a scrim( reflective side ) but i have access to industrial insulation supplies

[@johnvancamper1987]

whu58 hi mate. The amount of moisture that gets held within the van can vary a lot depending on how much is getting in there in the first place and what you do to then get rid of it. Do what you can to reduce and then thoroughly ventilate each day...doors open with a through draft. If woodwork is left porous rather than treated to be impermeable it will take up some of the moisture as will fabrics. Then it will give it back to the van atmosphere as the air inside dries up. The walls and seats etc 'breathe' ....its the same in a house...plasterboard or plaster loads up and dries out allowing a degree of moisture regulation by design. The main difference is that in a house you have huge air volumes and huge surface areas combined with generous ventilation. Van's get built with no thought to ventilation, air circulation in voids and moisture control. A vapour barrier is a good example; if you don't prevent moisture getting behind your plastic then you trap it there next to your metal van skin. This is so even during the build. Once that plastic goes up how does the moist air you just trapped get out? Hope this helps the thought processes. John

[@MrGenedancingmachine]

Hi Mel, I have a fiamma fan and I wired black and red wiring onto it, in a way that seemed most obvious, the red led to fuse box, the black to ground bar, when it came to firing it up, I put in the fuse in the fuse box, the fans comes on itself, just goes super fast and can't be adjusted at all, I googled this and fiamma troubleshooting says: "fan wired wrong", did I miss something? I don't have the instructions anymore, I've googled and googled looking for a wiring diagram but no joy, I'm planning on ripping down the wood trim frame I put over the fan and getting in at the hidden wires next week to try do it properly, (it was done around 8 months ago and I forget what it looks like in there, I was reminded watching this video that you hooked up a fiamma fan in your ford transit conversion and I thought I'd run it past you while you might be reading comments on a fresh video, should the fiamma be just two wires? And maybe all I have to do is switch them or is it more complicated than that? Thanks

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Send me an email and I’ll send you back photos wiring diagram 👍🤓👍

[@MrGenedancingmachine]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Perfect Mel, thank you! napoleonwilson13 at hotmail.com

[@christiangabasa1432]

Informative video sir... what do u think about laying moisture barrier on top of the van metal floors before the subfloor? Will that create moisture and rust the van floor?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I have never done that for that reason thank you buddy and good luck with your build 👍

[@jamiecurry7240]

Thank you so much mel for the advice of the polyethylene vapour barrier. cant wait until we see the design of your camper van. well done Mel.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely welcome thanks for watching and your support 👍🤓👍

[@ZenonPanteli]

Hello Mel do you have a link to the plastic sheet I don’t want to get the wrong one thanks 🙏🏽

[@Hadesdetecting]

Awesome, I was hoping you would do a solid fuel burner. Stayed in a Shephards hut last week with tiny log burner, my it got hot but shouldn't of been surprised as I have one indoors that heats most of the house

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ohh now I am jealous 👍🤓👍🍻

[@leeburton7901]

Hi mate, was wondering, was thinking of using this as a vapour barrier but wanted to carpet my walls, is it possible to carpet over it?? Thanks in advance!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yeah it’s possible I’m not really sure what that would end up looking like if I was you I’d try a little bit first to see 👍

[@Mister_G]

Mel - THANKYOU! Finally someone who understands what they're talking about when discussing insulation and vapour barriers on KZbin! Reflectix - absolutely! Vapour barrier (in whatever form it takes: polythene or foil faced board sealed up with aluminium tape) - absolutely!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for your positive feedback really appreciated 👍😂👍

[@andywilliment581]

Hi Mel, you should have made a video on making your bed. Then you would have known what you’d done.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Haha yes I should have 👍🤓👍

[@VanOnTour]

You're forgetting the air bubbles in reflectix material. The key to insulation is trapping air between 2 temperatures Having air bubbles in it will provide some insulation, albeit minimal so it's a better choice than polythene. Polythene is fine in houses as they are built warmer with thicker insulation, thermal blocks etc but in a thin walled van reflectix is actually a better choice. A van conversion company did proper monitored tests with the different types and combinations and the most effective combination at insulating was closed cell foam IE: Celotex or Kingspan coupled with Reflectix. The proof is in the science.

[@jcrefasi1]

Can you post a link to the article where the findings were published?? Would love to read it

[@ResilienceQd]

@@jcrefasi1 Me too!

[@jcrefasi1]

@vanontour will you post the link to that research???

[@chatteyj]

How about a link to research that vapour barrier is necessary?

[@ilikejelly7890]

So, does that mean when i stuck my tin foily bubble wrap stuff to the back of my ply board before attaching , i actually done the right thing because there is a space between it and walls of van. The depth of wood frame 1" ? Michelle.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

yes brilliant 👍🤓👍

[@samsurf5967]

YOur polythene is great for keeping water out but what about trappped miosture? Ther will always be leaks so it needs to escape

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

My god I cringe when I watched this old video lol 😂

[@michaelbernardin2085]

Do you mean you've changed your mind about how/whether to do a vapour barrier?

[@Tim1968-l9l]

Would a sheet of reflectix attached to a roof rack help keep a van cool in summer?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s probably the best thing you could do with it 😂👍🤓👍

[@amybee5345]

Mel! thans for your videos they're so informative!! Can I ask how you insulated your floor? wanting to save as much head height as possible. Ok for me as 5"3 but my partner is 6 foot! thanks

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks for the great question here’s my answer Staying safe living alone in a camper van - Are windows worth the hassle? kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXbXk5tpoJl1n9k

[@antla3043]

Hi Mel, I am from cold part of Turkey and in winter times we nail the plastic sheets to window frames and it realy helps keep the heat but we get heavy condensation on windows, do you know why ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi it’s the mostly due to lack of ventilation you need to get the damp air out good luck

[@pll2bs340]

Too much moisture. Could be from a lot of people. Some moisture is good for skin. Measure your room humidity at that window? So one knows what levels were speaking of.

[@antla3043]

@@pll2bs340 how we measure humidity ?

[@antla3043]

@@BigVanSmallWorld we don`t ventilate the room scared loose heat, thanks for advise

[@frankieroemusic]

Can I also use this plastic on the flooring before I put the floor board down?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yes I did 👍

[@frankieroemusic]

@@BigVanSmallWorld awesome! Thankyou so much for your response. I’m doing a vlog over on my channel of my conversion if you were interested in watching an amateur mess up 😂😂

[@sherried79]

I actually bought some with a quarter inch foam core with R8 value instead of the typical bubbles.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Oh that’s interesting is that similar to the type of stuff used behind radiators to reflect the heat back into the room? 👍

[@sherried79]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I really couldn't tell you since I'm not a carpenter obviously. But, I am using it for Windows and bought it because I wanted more insulation on the windows than the bubble wrap but thought it was interesting it had a R value too. But, I think you were trying to be a smartass when I wasn't at all so I'll leave you be. Have a great day!

[@CriftinsCampers]

I have found that stick pins don’t hold for long just a few months at best, especially once the sun starts warming the roof, or if under any tension, good for a temp fix though.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s interesting 👍🤓👍

[@CheckFred]

Having reflected on the reflectives value, my reflection is, that your reflection is deflected through the refractive reaction of the reflectations you create while driving down the M4 on a Sunday afternoon in the rain ;-)

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Well that’s giving me something to reflect on 😂😂👍

[@peteramberley9952]

Hi mel what about your dew point above the insulation where it meets the cold metal roof ,?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I haven’t a clue 😂👍🤓👍

[@preacher009]

What happens to the vapour once its get to the barrier ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

That’s the million dollar question

[@drtmendonca2009]

Hi mate wanna ask a nice question pls I’m building a camper van ford transit jumbo 2006 will I need tell Dvla if so how I do it many thanks all the best I will keep in touch cuz I have no clue about building a camper but I will give a try many thanks again Duarte

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi good question the dvla are quite clear you don’t have to tell them unless your conversation meets there requirements to qualify as a motor caravan google this and it’s all there for you me personally I won’t tell them keeps it under the radar meaning I can park in places that say no over night camping 👍😂🤓👍

[@drtmendonca2009]

Mel’s Van World thank you all the best

[@mikeclewlow6510]

Do you puncture the vapour barrier when your fitting the ceiling ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Yep 👍 screw rite through it no getting away from that 👍🤓👍

[@GregVirgoe]

Mike, the screws plug their own holes no breaks are made to the barrier. no holes are left in it.

[@chunkyboyize]

I’ve used 7mm closed cell insulation doubled up with reflective out the outer skin will this be ok

[@g0rdyb1ker]

Closed cell means its a vapour barrier its what I have used

[@pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN]

Yeah, a little multi fuel burner 🙂 I think the mini cube works better with anthracite, no need to refill it every 30 - 45 minutes and will burn super clean. It will also save you from using the battery for the diesel heater. Expensive enough with shipping though, but hey! it's a little work of art! 👍👍👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Your spot on they look great 👍 🤓👍

[@Yahoomediaclub]

Nice analogy on th vapour topic ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 😊

[@maxv77]

Did you put the pollyfilm on the sides as well as the roof?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Absolutely yes and it’s working great good luck with your build 👍😊👍

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Absolutely yes and it’s working great good luck with your build 👍😊👍

[@debbie62140]

Hi Mel. At last someone telling the truth about insulation! The industry standard specification for insulation is the R value. The Reflectix website states that their product is a radiant heat barrier that has no R rating, so useless as thermal insulation. Many people (including yourself) use Celotex which is difficult to install on curved areas and still needs a vapour barrier. The R value of 40mm Celotex is 1.8. What I use is 13 layer 'Multicouche'. This product is super flexible, has an R value of 1.9, is only a few mm thick (less when compressed) and very lightweight. If taped properly It's also a vapour barrier. It's the same suff that was designed for use in spacecraft. Not sure if it's available in the UK, but here in France it's under 4 euros a square metre. Why mess around with big Celotex boards and a vapour barrier when you can use Multicouche to do exactly the same thing? We just staple across the timber supports then tape over the joins and staples. Cladding then goes over the top - simple. It comes in 1.5m x 10m rolls. - Search: Isolant mince 13 couches.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you that’s really interesting I do appreciate your taking the time to help 👍🤓👍

[@debbie62140]

This product in the UK seems similar. ybsinsulation.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/ThermaQuilt.pdf

[@chatteyj]

@@debbie62140 that stuff requires an air gap either side 38 mm in fact

[@willking3239]

Where will the chimney go on log burner if you already covered the ceiling with plastic and insulation?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I made a video all about that 🤓👍

[@willking3239]

Mel’s Van World is it the waffle on Wednesday video?

[@flybobbie1449]

I wonder if gold solar blanket material could be used. It was invented just in time to be wrapped around the Lunar Module to insulate against the heat and cold of the moon. Although probably $10,000/ metre!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

It probably would work wonderfully good but you will still get people disagreeing with you lol 🤓👍

[@ryankirk4257]

Wish I’d seen this before sticking sound deadening, deflective, and thermo fleece all bonded down the cladding over. Can’t reverse this without big expense and masses of work. Where do I go from here?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Just carry on your be fine

[@shane555]

Just remind me, as I'm not sure I got the message.... is Reflectix any good as a thermal insulator?

[@ResilienceQd]

😂😆😂

[@abbeyjane1306]

Mel addresses this issue starting at 5 minutes in. NO it is not.

[@answerstewart1878]

Id also like to piont out that blue tuck tape is suitable for vapor barrier, and a fraction of the cost of foil.

[@donaldmarks8707]

Usefull tip with the polythene Mel. Saves money too. Look forward to the next installment. :-)

[@pedrothecornishviking9981]

hey Mel, whats your thoughts on sound deadening mat, stuck on the panels before insulation? worth it or not?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi I have never used it personally if you mean the heavy black stuff I don’t like it at all adds wight to the van I’ve never have issues once the van is insulated so I don’t think I’ll ever use it 👍🤓👍

[@pedrothecornishviking9981]

@@BigVanSmallWorld yeah thats it. small pieces stuck to each panel to stop vibration. Bit like bitumen flashband. I had a feeling that would be your answer, as i've never seen you mention it. Thanks for the reply

[@davidhancock7377]

Love your videos Mel thanks, just a quick question for you about the vapour barrier, what if the side trim on the van leaked at some point and on a hot day surely the barrier would hold the vapour from escaping, just a thought, Cheers Dave

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you buddy and yes that’s always a worry I’ve had too 🤞

[@dieselbushcraft1299]

And you’ll be able to cook on the stove too 👍 Well you’ve answered a few questions for me Mel, been unsure about vapour barrier.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re welcome 👍🤓👍

[@adamparker6541]

Hi Mel, I agree with your reflectix criticisms. ...Also, what do you as regards to insurance with the wood burner. I've spent many an hour searching for affordable insurers that will cover such burners, and indeed the chinese heaters. Obviously you have to declare them as modifications on your insurance as an after market heat source. Did you have difficulty insuring them?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Not looked at that yet they must be out there as so many people have them 👍🤓👍

[@adamparker6541]

@@BigVanSmallWorld With experience those that have, haven't declared them.

[@derykmacleod4979]

hmmm a log burner. I once thought about it on a boat that I used to live on, but with the firebox is so small you can't bank it to well to go to bed at night. Now I have heard in the UK their are compressed wood/wax logs that are more dense and will burn longer... makes ya think about it.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

I’m really excited about getting one and experimenting with different logs 👍🤓👍

[@derykmacleod4979]

@@BigVanSmallWorld yeah, harder woods like oak will burn longer then softer woods like pine. There has been a lot of advances in the compressed log products...so you get to experiment. I am heading in Dobby up to my mountain cabin for the weekend where I get to sit in front of a "larger wood burner " lol

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Arrrr I’m so jealous have a great weekend buddy 👍🤓👍

[@David_11111]

Vapour Barrier so you put them in to keep water out, what if it does get in ? is not then sealed in so it can rot your van ? just something ive always wondered ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Your absolutely right 👍🤓👍

[@answerstewart1878]

You dont need to be in a vacuum chamber when putting up your vapor barrier, even a full lung full of moist air will be to little to effect your insulation. Just dont put up your vapor barrier in the middle of a tropical rain forest, keep the area well ventilated and you'll be fine.

[@David_11111]

@@answerstewart1878 so if water gets in whats happens

[@answerstewart1878]

@@David_11111 seems pretty straight forward, if water gets into your insulation dont seal it until youve had a chance to dry it completely. If water gets in after you sealed it, find the route it got in dry the insulation and fix the tear.

[@David_11111]

@@answerstewart1878 lost my reply LOL.... not sure you understood my question I dont see it as "pretty straight forward" when the van is finished and water is tracking, like it does. would it not be better to have no Barrier ?

[@grumbleweed5570]

Looking good mate. I wouldn't get paranoid about the weather forecast . They can't get 3 day forecast right 😂😂

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re probably rite 😂👍

[@sonnythebull5767]

i will share this video to help others choose.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you I really appreciate your support 👍🤓👍

[@GaryYoung-eq1ph]

What is the best insulation, and in what order, (from home depot?)

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Closed cell foam 👍

[@GaryYoung-eq1ph]

Where 2 purchase?

[@Ray-ic7cr]

Where did you buy it from mell

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

B&Q

[@Ray-ic7cr]

@@BigVanSmallWorld what the make off it mell

[@sharrod4]

Hi Mel liked your idea for the tap using air pressure. When is the video

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi thank you it’s the one that followed this one 👍🤓👍

[@trailerparkingboys45]

Log burner episode can’t wait 😊

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks I’m quite looking forward to fitting it it’s a first for me 👍🤓👍

[@chatteyj]

Who doesn't like a mobile sauna?

[@rogerrabbit6522]

Rumour has it reflectix is great to protect your van if you fit a wood stove....quick rush out and buy a load 😂😂. On another note, have you considered wrapping a copper coil around the bottom of your flue for gravity fed hot water?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Lol that’s brilliant and yes I did think about the pipe thing but way to complex for me I like things simple 😂🤓👍

[@rogerrabbit6522]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I'd like a small rocket mass heater with a glass window ideally, they are amazing but I can't find one small enough unless I make it myself with aircrete and box section tubing

[@sonnythebull5767]

i wish you had this video 9 weeks ago mel. lol i used reflectix. at greater expense.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Oops sorry 😬

[@tedy2009tedy]

Very true. I used the dodomat sound deadning and just over that went with 10mm insulation the one that has the aluminium on one side and sticks on the other and in 2 weeks it formed a tone of condensation. Now I have to take everything out and reinsulate the whole roof. 😢

[@kenmackenzie7338]

Forgot to say great vlogs/ blogs keep em coming

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you I really appreciate your support and encouragement 👍🤓👍

[@gavkit]

Awesome information Mel helped with my thoughts 💭 on the matter of vapour

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 👍🤓👍

[@GarethJonesMusic]

Hi Mel, really enjoying the build videos it means so much to us novice van builders! Which polythene sheet did you use as the barrier please? Keep the videos coming :)

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi think you I used building poly from B&Q thanks for watching and good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

[@GarethJonesMusic]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Thanks for your help Mel, much appreciated :) Hope you are having a great christmas

[@victorz.copeland7895]

HimMel, thank you from California. I like your van can you tell me how you did that nice stainless silver paint look in the inside i see. Looks like silver, thank youu

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you really appreciate your encouragement and support I think what you’re looking at is the auto-carpet not sure it it’s called something different in US though

[@SkySamsung-u4c]

I'm sorry did you say stealth that ship sailed two years ago every cop out there knows what to look for😅

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

This video is over two years old 😂😂👍

[@ROUTEPLANNERPAUL]

Your vans really coming on Mel, you've been working hard I see

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you again really appreciate your encouragement and support 👍🤓👍

[@Drew_Eden]

That silver tape...looks a bit like reflectics :) Van build is coming on well, great to see Mel

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 👍🤓👍

[@carmel-wayfinder5401]

Very informative mate🌟

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you that’s really appreciated 👍😊👍

[@markdowling5162]

When putting the insulation on the van roof, where did you get the adshive pads with the spike ?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi I had trouble finding them too so I put a link to them on eBay it’s in the description of this video good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

[@rogerfaulknershomefromhome4458]

Did you have any problems with your insurance when you told them you were fitting a log burner

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Not told them yet 👍🤓👍

[@CriftinsCampers]

Roger Faulkner why would anyone need to tell an insurer about something before it is actually done. They cannot quote yet. Once installed all they will require is an engineers report, a chimney safety certificate, analysis of the fuel type versus proximity of combustible materials in the roof and walls , confirmation there is secure off site storage of all fuel, confirmation no children can get within 2m of the unguarded stove, and finally confirmation that bobble hats will not be worn inside the van. With all that info I reckon his premium will only increase by £365.77 HTH.

[@rogerfaulknershomefromhome4458]

@@CriftinsCampers does that include VAT .

[@firstmotorhome8024]

Good video buddy . Subscribing 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you for your support and encouragement really appreciated 👍🤓👍

[@garrybeard2031]

Great tips MEL great video well done.👍🇬🇧🍺🤘

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thank you 👍🤓👍

[@jonathandixon8456]

Any vapour barrier is only 100% impermeable if it is not punctured ! Fixing wooden boards with screws to the ceiling puts 100s of small punctures though the barrier so moisture can pass through .

[@beardog1z]

Good morning Mel. Fantastic vid's mate,really getting useful info from these. @1:35 what are those 'spikey things' called ? I'm going to need them for my roof/ceiling,cheers mate,and all the best.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

hi thank you you are welcome Stuart heres a link for the stick pins rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5575467911&toolid=10001&campid=5338454651&customid=&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fitm%2F62mm-stick-pins-insulation-hangers-camper-van-conversion-box-of-50-%2F392122242422%3Fhash%3Ditem5b4c4e9576

[@beardog1z]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Fantastic, mate! really appreciated. keep up the great work! All the best!

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

You’re absolutely welcome

[@mattt1974UK]

Gongratulations Mel, this is the best how to build channel that I have come across so far so I'm a new subscriber. My girlfriend is obsessed with having a camper van so now I'm up until late watching all your productions. Question, in the Transit build you cladded the roof first and here it looks like you have done the sides first? Which is best?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Hi Matt thank you that’s really appreciated and thank you to your wonderful girlfriend for encouraging you she’s a keeper mate look after her. I don’t think there is any advantage to doing the roof or side’s first but if you’re building in winter you can get your lights up and running it helps on the dark evenings hope that sheds light on it for you good luck with your build consider becoming a member of my channel for quick response to any questions you may have sometime I miss them here 👍🤓👍

[@WhipperdeetsAdventures]

How much was the micro wood burner? :)

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Have a look on there website they have a deal going at the moment cubic mini wood stoves 👍🤓👍

[@WhipperdeetsAdventures]

Thank you just found the website I’ll have a look ;) be exited to see the video on you fitting it ;)

[@mogdaboi]

What is your view on reflectics for insulation?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Basically Waste of time and money 👍🤓👍

[@mogdaboi]

@@BigVanSmallWorld LOL I'm just being silly

[@mogdaboi]

@@BigVanSmallWorld On a serious note. If I put kingspan in the ceiling, then tape the joints up with foil tape, wouldn't this do as a vapour barrier?

[@mogdaboi]

@@BigVanSmallWorld Haha that stumbles everyone, when I ask that they all go "oh damn why didn't I think of that" LOL

[@cocobunjee6676]

Can you please show us how you do stuff rather than describing how you did it? It's all going over my head. Thanks.

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Ooh I’m sorry it’s just so difficult filming and working at the same time as I work alone I will try for you 👍🤓👍

[@ResilienceQd]

@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm sure you can think of a way to demonstrate how it's done, Mel. Maybe by using a small cardboard box as a van model, or drawing on a whiteboard or something. It's just a thought, but it would definitely take the educational value of your videos up a notch or two. And something tells me you would enjoy the challenge too... =)

[@LostNative]

Aww, at least I know this. Thanks Mel, I'll see how it goes either way I've only wasted £20 on foil wrap 😂 watch me do it again lol

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Look forward to seeing you do it lol 😂👍😬

[@shane555]

Love your vids Mel, loads of good tips! Quick question (serious one this time!).... is a moisture barrier needed? I ask because I've seen and read different schools of thought for and against it. Would not having one let the van "breathe" and would the recycled plastic insulation still go mouldy if moisture got into it?

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

From my own personal experience with mould and getting a really bad chest infection I would definitely have barrier if you’re thinking of going full time in a van if you’re using it weekends and summer time only then no worries as long as you have good ventilation I remember my old VWs no insulation at all and no problems at all just put up with the heat in the summer and cold in the winter thanks for watching and your support really appreciated 👍🤓👍

[@shane555]

@@BigVanSmallWorld thanks for the reply matey. Yep, only weekends and short hols for us, so will probably skip the barrier then. Love your down to earth style, keeping it simple, but informative fella 👍

[@scottl5028]

Mel how about this idea... A periscope flu for the log burner?. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

scott L I that’s brilliant 👍🤓👍

[@pauldav5096]

Nice one mel ..

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Thanks dude 🍻🤓👍