gbowman wrote:I'm at the beginning of my 7x16x7ft cargo trailer conversion. I have installed some with the silver backed foam insulation.
Before I move on I wanted to make sure this would be enough. I live in AR. I have already experienced some nights in the 30's! I plan to add a 13,500 btu AC, haven't decided about the heat strip yet.
Here are some questions!
Is 1in insulation on walls and ceiling enough for summer and winter?
What about sweating? Will it or will it not?
Should I insulated the floor? If so, from the bottom or on top of the subfloor.
I'll just looking for feedback or ideas. Thanks.
Arkansas Ozarks in the winter, North Central and North East, will get you to appreciate insulation... what ever amount you choose!Will it be enough? One inch of xps rigid insulation on the walls will be adequate for most. But don't forget folks have different expectations when they go camping. Some desire the climate to be similar to their home. If that's one's expectations... 1 inch won't even come close because of the R-Value difference. However, if one want's it to be a step or two up from tent camping, then you are on the right path. 1 inch of xps rigid insulation on the walls and 1.5 inches in the ceiling is what we have for our 7x16.
Heat Strip: Don't expect an AC heat strip to be your only heat source. The owner's manual usually specifies that the heat strips are to be like a "chill chaser" in the morning before you turn on your main heat source. It is to be used as a supplement, not a source to heat the entire trailer in frigid temps. I have one in my AC, but plan on using a small safe digital space heater in ours this winter and we have at least one Arkansas Ozark winter trip planned.
Sweating: I think others have already shared their expertise in that area and all seams to make since. You just have to ask yourself if you want to go that extra route or not. There will be forks who swear by it and others who seem to get by OK with out it. Just one of the many choices you have to make based on your preferences, budget and expertise.
Floor: More is always better I've heard and I have never read where someone who installed insulation in the floor wishing they had not or taken it out afterwards. So again, look at cost verses value to you. We intend to try it with out it, but realize that we may eventually have to go that route if we have difficulty with our floor buckling. My wife wants to try some residential wood flooring... we will see how it goes...