DayDreamer
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Post by DayDreamer on Jul 31, 2021 12:07:17 GMT -8
I have used this in a couple of campers as an alternative to Reflectix. It has a foam core instead of double air bubbles. Of course the true secret to getting anywhere near the efficiency they claim, is to have an air gap....but that is not always possible on campers. They have with reflective on both sides or just on one. Probably doesn't matter on a camper. 400SF White/Foil400SF Foil/FoilWhen you talk about having an air gap do you mean leaving some space between the paneling and the insulation?
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DayDreamer
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Post by DayDreamer on Jul 31, 2021 12:26:49 GMT -8
I am trying to use the insulation with least amount of off gassing. From what I’ve read fiberglass is made with formaldehyde, then there is EPS, XPS and Polyiso foam boards which are petroleum based.
Also, foam board loses its gasses over time and becomes less effective or so I’ve read and then there are comments that fiberglass holds moisture(bad) but also that fiberglass breaths(good?)
Opinions please....🤪
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Post by vikx on Jul 31, 2021 19:12:09 GMT -8
Fiberglass in the belly is a No No, especially if the trailer has a metal belly. I always use foam board in my bellies if they are insulated.Fiberglass will work in the walls and ceiling but has to be thin, so not a lot of R value.
You can probably find foam board that doesn't gas and is made with hypoallergenic materials. Can you say SPENDY??
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n2hcky
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1967 Serro Scotty Hilander
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Post by n2hcky on Aug 1, 2021 6:30:21 GMT -8
I have used this in a couple of campers as an alternative to Reflectix. It has a foam core instead of double air bubbles. Of course the true secret to getting anywhere near the efficiency they claim, is to have an air gap....but that is not always possible on campers. They have with reflective on both sides or just on one. Probably doesn't matter on a camper. 400SF White/Foil400SF Foil/FoilWhen you talk about having an air gap do you mean leaving some space between the paneling and the insulation? Yes....it would be a dead air space. But almost neve possible on a camper. It just points to the fact you won't get the advertised R value.....but still better than a lot of options.
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DayDreamer
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Post by DayDreamer on Aug 1, 2021 7:54:24 GMT -8
Fiberglass in the belly is a No No, especially if the trailer has a metal belly. I always use foam board in my bellies if they are insulated.Fiberglass will work in the walls and ceiling but has to be thin, so not a lot of R value. You can probably find foam board that doesn't gas and is made with hypoallergenic materials. Can you say SPENDY?? Yes Spendy is what I was guessing.🤣 will stick with the foam board.
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DayDreamer
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1955 Aljoa & 1960 Oasis
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Post by DayDreamer on Aug 1, 2021 8:07:37 GMT -8
When you talk about having an air gap do you mean leaving some space between the paneling and the insulation? Yes....it would be a dead air space. But almost neve possible on a camper. It just points to the fact you won't get the advertised R value.....but still better than a lot of options. So if I leave the air space between foam board and paneling that is better than filling the whole space? My frame is 1 1/4” so is it better to use 1” or 3/4” foam board and to leave 1/4” or 1/2” of air space? Of course then I would have to use some kind of extra spacers to keep the foam board away from the paneling and would it really be worth it.
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Post by vikx on Aug 1, 2021 10:26:26 GMT -8
To me, the foam should fit the framing. Fit the 1" foam in each section. I cut mine a little big so it fits tight with no need to glue. If a piece ends up loose, you can caulk at the edges or glue to the panel. I would not leave any gap next to the panel.
*Note: Check the 1 1/2 foam board; it may be 1 1/4. Perfect.
No matter the insulation, you will have an air gap next to the skin, as it doesn't fit flush/tight against the trailer. Vapor barrier or not is your choice.
Worrying about 1/4" difference in air space is not worth it.
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DayDreamer
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Post by DayDreamer on Aug 1, 2021 17:25:34 GMT -8
Thank Vikx. I will check the thickness of foam board, would be nice if is only 1 1/4”.
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Post by vikx on Aug 1, 2021 19:28:45 GMT -8
Foam can also be easily sanded with a belt sander but what a MESS!
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aslmx
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Post by aslmx on Aug 2, 2021 19:17:25 GMT -8
Spray foam is best but takes prep and equipment. It adds super strength but don't spray it onto the aluminum from inside. You would never be able to remove skins again! LOL You would have to take skins off and spray from outside, let set up, trim. then reinstall skins. I use foam boards all over. I learned doing custom vans in the 70's that fiberglass holds moisture. Foil bubble wrap (Automat) is great in areas with bends. Used in vintage autos all the time now. Welcome to VTT mattyshorts! Enjoy the site. soup I’d love to see some of those 70s vans
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