How to create air space for Reflectix?

[BelgianPup]

I understand the need for a 3/4"+ airspace between the window glass and the Reflectix.  What I don't understand is how to create that airspace.

I watched Bob's video from 2 years ago, and he just pressed the Reflectix right against the glass, anchoring the edges in the metal groove around the glass.  This doesn't create an airspace.

I am obviously missing something.  HOW to create the air space???

 

[GntlStone]

I have always thought that using corrugated plastic (recycled campaign signs on Nov 4?) and using spray glue to hold the reflectix to it would work well to add a thermal and air space. It can be fit into the window area. Maybe use duct tape around the edges to prevent seperation if it is an issue.

 

[B and C]

I have mine pressed against the glass too. The reflective part keeps the heat (UV?) reflected back out the glass AFAICT. It does make the glass hot. The reflectix does get warm but not near as warm inside if it is not there.

It has been suggested to use bubble wrap as a spacer too but my thought process is that the heat is then on the inside already unless you can get a good seal around the edges to keep the hot air from getting in. The airspace you are saying is supposed to be dead air space. Hard to achieve in a van.

 

[tx2sturgis]

It's a compromise....but you can use two layers, and just consider the first layer as  your 'airspace'.

 

[highdesertranger]

I also press mine right against the glass. don't try to use Reflectix as insulation it's lousy at that but it works great at reflecting the UV. highdesertranger

 

[Ccfree]

Think of it as an air gap to break thermal bridging. I would try swamp cooler pad, polyester filter material, scotch bright, anything that’s not going to react poorly to condensation.

 

[user 423]

I also press mine right against the glass.  don't try to use Reflectix as insulation it's lousy at that but it works great at reflecting the UV.  highdesertranger

I'm using the Reflectix right on the glass as well but used silver VHT paint to dull the shininess. It's probably a little less effective but the look isn't as 'tacky'. Most windows also have 1/2" foam insulation panels over the Reflectix also.

 

[maki2]

The Reflectix is made with its own airspace built right into it.  But if you are talking about the air gap that is used when putting it into a building then you are not going to be able to achieve that in a van. But you can use EVA foam as a layer under the Reflectix. 

Black EVA foam, which is a closed cell foam that has flex to it comes in a variety of thickness...stated in millimeters.  It is now pretty easy to obtain from craft stores such as Michaels and Joann or on the internet. They sell it for making Cosplay outfits. You can spray glue Reflectix to the EVA foam.

EVA foam as I said is closed cell meaning it won't absorb moisture. It is mold resistant, it has good R value and it is also good as a sound absorbing material. I use it right up against my window glass with no issues.

 

[maki2]

Here is a reflective faced, 3/8" thick, EVA foam pad being sold on Amazon Prime. It will stop that cold winter draft you get from window glass plus reflect heat back at you if you have a heater on inside the van.  Of course in Summer you face the reflective side to the exterior. You can cut it to size with scissors.
https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Sle...&keywords=eva+foam+foil&qid=1602869816&sr=8-1

 

[MrAlvinDude]

As has been mentioned before,  when you use Reflectics on windows, you are mainly using the reflective attribute of the material. But because the glass is transparent, the reflective ability makes quite a difference, to keep the heat from the sunlight out of the vehicle. 

If Reflectics is used in an already shaded area, then the air gap is much more needed, in order to get much benefit out of the abilities of the Reflectics sheets.

 

[Permavan]

Hello all-wow I can't believe I haven't posted since before I started vanlife! Which is very strange ...but anyway- now I've been in my van full time since February and all is well ! But it's posts like this that really are so helpful to me -so I just want to say thank you !

 

[East_Coast]

Sorry if this is a dumb noobie question... but how does Reflectix impact window condensation? I will be urban stealth car camping and do NOT want anyone to have any reason to think I'm there. Does reflectix collect condensation on the inside of the van? Does it let water vapor escape through it to outside the vehicle?

 

[maki2]

If the reflectix which is made with a waterproof plastic bubble wrap was completely sealed with a waterproof material around the edge of the window so that no moisture could reach the glass then there is no moisture getting to the surface of the glass to condense on it. But if warm, moist, air can get behind the reflectix to the glass then you will have condensation on the cold glass surface.


People will always think someone may be inside a vehicle if all the windows are covered over from the inside. It is as much of a giveaway as condensation on the glass. But of course you want to prevent condensation for other reasons.

 

[East_Coast]

Thanks Maki2. 
I agree that having the windows all blocked off is a dead giveaway. In the area where I'll be, my vehicle would be the only one for miles around that had a bunch of stuff up in the windows. It would be the opposite of stealth.  :s

 

[highdesertranger]

you are only fooling yourself if you think you are hiding from anyone. anybody who wants to know, knows you are in the van. highdesertranger