BEST VAN INSULATION

By Adewale Omotayo
3 min read
BEST VAN INSULATION

BEST VAN INSULATION

At The Build Out Shop, we believe proper insulation is the foundation of any successful van build. That’s why we only recommend the best insulation on the market. Introducing 3M Thinsulate™, a proven product trusted by thousands of professional builders and van lifers worldwide.

Whether you’re building a weekend adventure rig or a full-time home on wheels, choosing the right insulation makes all the difference in comfort, sound control, and long-term durability.

What is 3M Thinsulate™?

3M Thinsulate™ is a lightweight, high-performance insulation material that traps heat while still allowing moisture to escape. It is the same material used in many North Face and Patagonia jackets. This product is considered the gold standard for van insulation and will significantly improve your overall van life experience.

Unlike traditional insulation, 3M Thinsulate™ is specifically designed for automotive and marine applications, making it ideal for vans that experience constant temperature changes and vibration.

What does 3M Thinsulate™ look like in my van?

Once installed behind your wall panels and ceiling, 3M Thinsulate™ is completely hidden, giving your van a clean and professional finish. It conforms easily to curved surfaces, ribs, and tight cavities, ensuring full coverage throughout the vehicle shell without bulky buildup.

Why is it good for van life?

3M Thinsulate™ delivers more acoustic absorption per unit weight compared to competitive insulation products. This helps create a noticeably quieter interior by reducing road noise, wind noise, and vibrations.

In addition to sound control, the non-woven fibers improve thermal efficiency while remaining breathable. The hydrophobic fibers resist moisture, mold, and mildew — a critical feature for vans exposed to condensation and changing climates. It also helps vehicle owners meet mass reduction goals without sacrificing insulation performance.

Additional Benefits of 3M Thinsulate™

  • Lightweight material that won’t add unnecessary weight to your build
  • Excellent thermal performance for both hot and cold climates
  • Mold, mildew, and moisture resistant
  • Safe to handle — no itching or protective gear required
  • Long-lasting durability with no settling over time
  • Ideal for walls, ceilings, doors, and hard-to-reach cavities
  • Trusted by professional van builders and OEM manufacturers

How do you install insulation?

One of the biggest advantages of 3M Thinsulate™ is how easy it is to install. All you need is 3M Thinsulate™, spray adhesive (we recommend 3M 90), and a pair of scissors.

Simply cut the material to size, apply adhesive to the metal surface, and press the insulation firmly into place. The flexibility of the material allows it to conform to complex shapes with ease.

Below is a quick video showing how simple it is to insulate your van using 3M Thinsulate™:

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How much 3M Thinsulate™ do I need for my entire van?

Below is a general guide for how much 3M Thinsulate™ is needed per vehicle:

SPRINTER 144 WB = 60 linear feet for entire vehicle

FORD TRANSIT 148 WB = 60 linear feet for entire vehicle

PRO MASTER 159 WB = 50 linear feet for entire vehicle

SPRINTER 170 WB = 70 linear feet for entire vehicle

SPRINTER 170 WB EXTENDED = 80 linear feet for entire vehicle

Note: Quantities may vary depending on window cutouts, door coverage, and insulation preferences.

Is 3M Thinsulate™ worth it?

Absolutely. While 3M Thinsulate™ may cost more upfront than traditional insulation materials, it saves time during installation, performs better long-term, and helps prevent moisture-related issues that can lead to costly repairs down the road.

For serious van builders, it’s an investment in comfort, durability, and peace of mind.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to hit us up in the chat box or reach out to us directly. We’re always happy to help guide your build in the right direction.
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See you out on the road!