My Conversion van.....conversion

[masterplumber]

Installing insulation...

What R value do you recommend putting in for the...

1. roof
2. sides
3. floor

Regarding the roof and sides - as much as you can fit and afford. some foams have marginally better R values than others, but usually cost more. And the thickness of your walls/ceilings will dictate how much you can put in. For the floor, I really wouldn't bother, with the possible exception if you plan to winter in extreme cold weather. Even at zero Fahrenheit my cargo trailer floor just feels cool. It's just 3/4 plywood with 1/4'' felt carpet pad and indoor/outdoor carpet. Like many others who have tried it - I'll probably pull the carpet soon, paint the floor, and just use throw rugs. When I'm traveling I like things to be easy to care for, and the carpet requires constant care to keep the inside from looking like a pig pen. With a smooth floor I can just sweep it out in about 30 seconds each day.

 

[DannyB1954]

I recently watched an RV burn, so I am real leary of anything that burns and puts out toxic fumes. What I plan to use is an insulation that is described in this video about the 1:40 mark , (the whole video is worth watching). You can order it online from Home Depot http://www.homedepot.com/p/UltraTouch-48-in-x-24-ft-Radiant-Barrier-30000-11424/100661257

Some people will argue that this type of insulation absorbs moisture. Car manufacturers have been using a similar product in all their vehicles for years without major problems. Your van probably has it under the front section floor to help eliminate heat and engine noise. My thinking is if something can get wet easy, it can dry easy as well. If moisture gets trapped behind foam it does not evaporate easy and can cause problems not only with rusting, but also mold. I really like the series of videos that I gave the link to. He goes through a complete build on his Astro Van. Here is his Youtube page that lists the other videos. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfFIGeLH3rprJblgWb9u9DQ

Just my opinion, and some here will tell you that is not worth much.

 

[rvpopeye]

If you're going to stay someplace that is always 70* , none.
Adjusting for variation either way,,,R5-R10 should do for most places.
The advice of as much as you can fit might sound extreme but it depends on your personal tolerance of heat or cold, Over R20 might be overkill though!