Insulation Of RVs: Myths And Facts

Jun. 7 2022 RVing By Rapidboost

Every time someone repeats one of these five falsehoods about RV insulation, RV lovers are quick to correct them. Some of these myths surrounding RV insulation are difficult to dispel, and unfortunately, some manufacturers still believe them.


What Is R-Value, and What Does It Mean?


The R-value of a substance is simply a number that indicates how quickly it transfers heat. Heat insulator with a high R-value. Heat conductor with a low R-value. The thicker the material, the more the R-value.  It's also useful to understand that heat can be carried in three different ways: conduction, convection, and radiation. There are many misconceptions about these three!


Myth: R-Value is important for RV skirting


Skirting is a wall of interconnecting panels that runs around the perimeter of your RV. They're mostly used in old camper vans for cold-weather camping. However, airflow, not R-value, is the most important factor!


Simply, cold air is prevented from taking heat from underneath the trailer floor and throwing it away by skirting your RV. To put it another way, skirting lets the air to do the job for you! The air is heated by leaking warm air, which is trapped by the skirting.

 Myth: Fiberglass Insulation is a Great Solution


In the walls and ceilings of many entry-level RVs, fibreglass batting is still used for insulation. Despite improvements in installation procedures, fibreglass remains one of the poorest options for RV insulation. Bumps and vibrations in a touring RV can result in the settling of the fibreglass, leaving empty chilly spaces. When looking for a four-season RV, look for one with a covering of foam insulation inside the walls.

Above all, fibreglass should never be exposed to water. Moisture attracts moulds, and the R-value also drops.  An unnoticed roof leak or a lot of inside humidity can swiftly damage a sidewall.


Myth: Reflectix Window Covers are for Chilly Camping Areas


This myth truly contains a kernel of truth. Yes, reflective covers made at home through Do-It-Yourself at home are good...in hot weather. Thanks to the aluminium foil, they do an outstanding job of reducing solar gain by reflecting the rays off from the RV. Reflectix is a type of radiant heat insulation that reflects heat. The reflecting side of the foil must be oriented at a blank space through which it may bounce heat in order for it to work. Want to invest in an RV? We will help you finance your dream RV without any hassle. We have low fixed rates and low monthly payments.  Cotact Vision RV Alberta.