Insulation

[Rick T]

Im redoing the ceiling in my old camper, water damage has ruined the insulation. Does anyone have any suggestions on which type I should use??? I was thinking about that reflective stuff, would that be a good choice for this purpose

[Raya]

Could you tell us a little more about how the rest of your camper is insulated or what you're looking for? For example, Ensolite-type foam is both an insulation and a finished surface (might need to paint it depending on how it comes), whereas Reflectix (foil/plastic) really needs another covering (carpet, marine fur, etc.).

Does the rest of your camper already have a finished covering that you would like to match? What is the rest of the camper insulated with? What do the walls look like?

Raya

[Rick T]

The camper still has its original insulation from back in 79, I'm not sure what its called, All I know is that its yellow and fluffy . I would like to replace it with newer tech stuff. That ensolite kind sounds like the stuff I'm after. I'm just replacing in the bedroom, so it doesn't have to really match with rest of the white ceiling in the camper, although that would be nice. Where would i find this type of insulation, is it available in Canada.

[Raya]

I'm not sure about Canada, although you could look in the "helpful links" section to the left as there is a link, or search with "Google.ca" IR Speciality Foam in Washington sells it (they sent me samples). It's black and comes in various thicknesses and densities (you can paint it). Volara is another type I was considering (and it comes in more colors), but I didn't follow through with it as I ruled out the trailer with no insulation (for other reasons).

I would like to know of a source for the Ensolite with the "shiny" whitish covering like is in Bolers/Trilliums and others - haven't searched madly but also don't know of one.

Yellow fluffy insulation.... is your camper molded fiberglass? That sounds like the "house type" of fiberglass insulation; didn't know they put that in any molded FGRVs. Or maybe it's some type of carpet? Would love to see a photo.

Raya

[Raya]

Another member sent a helpful PM which described the insulation in (some) Boler 17s, and it sounds like that may be what you have I'm thinking of a yellowish, open-celled foam, with a thin whitish layer on the living side. It's commonly used in boats and as headliners. Here is a link to what I'm thinking of --- is this like what you have?

http://www.sailrite.com/Headliner-Fo...d-Off-White-54

Raya

[Rick T]

Another member sent a helpful PM which described the insulation in (some) Boler 17s, and it sounds like that may be what you have I'm thinking of a yellowish, open-celled foam, with a thin whitish layer on the living side. It's commonly used in boats and as headliners. Here is a link to what I'm thinking of --- is this like what you have?

http://www.sailrite.com/Headliner-Fo...d-Off-White-54

Raya

The stuff in my vanguard camper is more like the insulation in a house, no whitish layer at all. Must be old school, but must be good.

[Raya]

Could you post a photograph of your camper, or maybe a link to one that looks like yours? Does it have a double-hull, like a Burro? (Otherwise I can't imagine how the fiberglass batting type of insulation is used).

I realize you aren't necessarily looking to replace like with like, in terms of the insulation, but I think it will help people to give suggestions if they can get a look-see.

Plus I've never seen a Vanguard and there are no photographs of one on the home page -- are you sure it's molded fiberglass (the camper, not the insulation)

Raya

[Donna D.]

Rick, I've just searched for a 1979 Vanguard Camper. Is yours like this one?
1979 Vanguard Camper

We may be able to help you. However, the focus of FiberglassRV is molded lightweight fiberglass towables. If you do not find the answers you seek here, I suggest you try a forum that has a recreational vehicle focus more in line for the way yours is made:
RV.net Open Road Forums

[Alf S.]

Hi: Rick T... If you're from the lower Mainland is that B.C.??? If so maybe Escape Trailers could supply you with a source, or the material they use!!! Our 5.0 is lined with insulation then over layered with an airplane headliner finished layer. It's very smooth/soft and easily washable.I know they are extremely busy in Chilliwack at the moment but they may be able to help you.
Alf S. North shore of Lake Erie p.s. My brother in law has a new Vangard 5th.wheel...I think they're still in business!!!