Insulation is an essential yet often misunderstood step when converting a campervan. Proper insulation keeps your van comfortable all year round, prevents condensation issues, and improves energy efficiency.
At Bhode Vans, we combine tried-and-tested materials—like recycled plastic insulation, sheep’s wool, hardboard, and vapour barriers—to achieve the perfect blend of performance, cost, and sustainability.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective insulation options for campervans, compare their benefits and cost per square metre, and highlight why our approach ensures long-term protection for your van.
Insert Image Here: Example of van insulation in progress (walls and vapour barrier installation).
Why proper campervan insulation matters
Before we delve into materials, it’s important to understand the benefits of proper insulation:
- Temperature control: Keeps your van warm in winter and cool in summer.
- Condensation prevention: Stops moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and wood rot.
- Energy efficiency: Reduces the strain on heaters and fans, saving on power usage.
Comparing insulation materials for campervans
We’ll discuss popular insulation options, their approximate costs per square metre, R-values (thermal resistance), and suitability for vans.
1. Recycled plastic bottle insulation
- R-Value: 3.7–4.3 per inch.
- Cost: Around £10–£15 per square metre.
- Pros:
- Made from recycled PET bottles—an environmentally conscious choice.
- Naturally moisture-resistant and mould-proof.
- Lightweight and easy to fit in campervan cavities.
- Cons:
- Slightly less effective at managing moisture compared to natural wool.
Bhode Vans’ Choice: We use recycled plastic insulation in the walls and ceiling. It’s eco-friendly, efficient, and ideal for damp environments often encountered in vans.
2. Sheep’s wool insulation
- R-Value: 3.5–3.8 per inch.
- Cost: Around £20–£25 per square metre.
- Pros:
- Natural and sustainable, offering excellent breathability.
- It can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without losing thermal performance.
- Cons:
- More expensive than recycled plastic.
- Requires treatment to avoid smells and pests.
- Depending on the supplier, wool may not always be sourced from the UK, increasing its environmental footprint.
Is Wool as Eco-Friendly as It Sounds?
While wool is a renewable material, it has a processing footprint. By contrast, recycled plastic insulation repurposes existing waste, making it equally, if not more, sustainable.
3. Expanding foam insulation
- R-Value: 6.0–7.0 per inch (closed-cell).
- Cost: Around £15–£20 per square metre (installation costs may vary).
- Pros:
- Excellent thermal performance in minimal space.
- Acts as a secondary vapour barrier and soundproofing layer.
- Cons:
- Permanent and difficult to modify later.
- Not as environmentally friendly as other materials.
While expanding foam is effective, it’s not ideal for van converters who may need flexibility for wiring and modifications.
4. Hardboard insulation for floors
- R-Value: 0.3–0.5 per inch.
- Cost: Around £8–£12 per square metre.
- Pros:
- Provides a durable, solid base for flooring.
- Adds moderate thermal resistance to reduce heat loss from the ground.
- Cons:
- Minimal insulation properties compared to other materials.
Bhode Vans’ Choice: We use hardboard on the floor as a base layer alongside recycled insulation for optimal performance.
The role of vapour barriers: preventing condensation
Condensation is a campervan’s worst enemy. When warm, humid air inside the van hits cold metal walls or ceilings, moisture forms—a process known as thermal bridging. Over time, this can lead to:
- Rotting wood and damp patches.
- Mould growth poses health risks.
A vapour barrier solves this by sealing the warm interior air away from the cold van walls, redirecting condensation safely down the van’s sides.
Bhode Vans’ choice: We install vapour barriers absolutely everywhere—walls, ceilings, and floors—ensuring your van stays dry and protected.
Simple explanation: Think of the vapour barrier as a waterproof jacket between the van’s insulation and metal structure. It blocks moisture from entering the cavities where problems could occur.
Why Bhode Vans uses a multi-layered insulation system
At Bhode Vans, we’ve perfected an insulation method that combines the benefits of several materials:
- Walls and Ceilings: Recycled plastic bottle insulation for its moisture resistance and eco-friendly properties.
- Floors: Hardboard for durability and added thermal protection.
- Vapour Barrier: A fully sealed vapour barrier across all insulated areas to stop condensation at the source.
This system ensures:
- Optimal temperature control.
- Long-term protection from condensation damage.
- Sustainability without compromising performance.
Which insulation is best for your campervan?
- If you’re looking for eco-friendliness and affordability, Recycled plastic bottle insulation is your best bet.
- If you want natural breathability and moisture control, sheep’s wool may be ideal, though cost and sourcing must be considered.
- For flooring, Hardboard offers stability and moderate insulation.
- Always include a vapour barrier to prevent condensation.
Conclusion: stay warm, dry, and eco-friendly
Insulation is the backbone of any good campervan conversion. At Bhode Vans, our combination of recycled materials, hardboard, and full vapour barriers guarantees comfort, energy efficiency, and longevity.
Ready to build your dream campervan? Get in touch today to learn more about our bespoke insulation solutions.
