Rethinking Insulation

So as we got to it and got going, we have been rethinking our choice of insulation. We were going to go with the pink fluff and foam boards behind the wall paneling but some of the pink fluff got wet and destroyed that plan. I was unaware that the pink fluff holds water like a sponge, so, word of wisdom, do not even consider the pink fluff!

We have chosen to go with the foam spray insulation instead. Wool insulation was what we we’re seeing a lot of, however, the cost was far above what we wanted to spend. So spray we did! And to spray the entire van cargo-living area only took about an hour and a half for the application, maybe a little longer. The prep time was what got the best of the time.

For preparing to spray, because spray gets onto everything in its way, you have to tape off all surfaces and wires, and anything else that you need full access to.

As you can see, it is quite a bit of work still overall, but the spray foam on the walls and ceiling make for an easier time putting up the wall panels and not having to worry about insulation sheeting possibly falling and becoming misaligned.

This process was one that during the first go-round we were absolutely just going for it, seeing what would happen as we went along. We were satisfied enough to be happy with the outcome. The next time around we know what improvements need to be made so we can apply the spray foam insulation even better and slightly more even. It is definitely one of those practices makes perfect situations. The more you do this kind of work the more your efficiency grows.

Over the entire day and process we spent probably 6 hours total, from start to finish: apply tape, spray the insulation, remove the tape. Our final outcome to our first project is shown in the below picture.

As you can see, I still have full access to all my wall and ceiling wiring after the spray process and removal of all the tape.