Vibrations, Cold, Noise: Insulate Your Van Like a Pro in 4 Steps

May 13, 2026

 

 

Complete van insulation is essential to face all temperatures and travel with as few constraints as possible. Not only does good insulation keep you at the desired temperature, but it also absorbs vibrations and protects you from outside noise.

By using the Van d'ici insulation collection, you have access to everything you need to set off on your adventure. Whether you drive a Sprinter, Transit, or Promaster, good insulation will ensure comfort and a friendly atmosphere for your converted van.

With this four-step guide, you can install your own insulation suitable for all four seasons and that is also an effective system against condensation.

FIRST STEP: Dampen vibrations with the DETOUR LAB vehicle soundproofing material
 

The first step to achieving complete insulation on your van is to dampen vibrations using the DETOUR LAB soundproofing material. This self-adhesive mat is based on a three-layer composite structure. The outer face is made of laminated aluminum film. The central layer is 2 mm butyl rubber. The back is coated with a high-adhesion acrylic adhesive.

Once the metal is cleaned and degreased, you can remove the protective film. Then, apply the sheets to the desired spots with pressure. Simply place the DETOUR LAB panels directly on the bare metal, whether on walls, doors, or the floor. It is not necessary to cover the entire surface. Only 25-30% of the total surface is enough to break the panel resonance.

The Role of Detour Lab Soundproofing Material

The DETOUR LAB soundproofing material is available in 30 x 40 cm sheets. There are 34 sheets per pack, covering 4.08 m2.

Its main role is to stop vibrations at the source, such as rolling rumbles, body resonances, and low engine frequencies. It also withstands temperatures from -20°C to +120°C.

However, it has its limits in thermal coverage, and that is where Thinsulate comes into play.

SECOND STEP: Thermally insulate and absorb sound with Thinsulate 

To continue, now that your van is soundproofed, it is time to insulate it using 3M Thinsulate. These products are available for Sprinter, Transit, and Promaster, in seven different sizes.

To apply this material, you will need to spray the 3M 90 spray adhesive glue on the Thinsulate and on the wall to achieve optimal adhesion. It is recommended to apply the glue working on small sections at a time and wait 30 to 60 seconds for it to become tacky. Then, you can apply the portions of Thinsulate and press them in place. The white side sticks to the metal, while the black side remains exposed. Finally, the structural cavities must be stuffed with a flexible rod or wire.

Advantage of 3M Thinsulate

The Thinsulate insulation is made of hydrophobic synthetic microfibers, which makes it resistant to mold and moisture. This is particularly important because the interior of a van can quickly become a very humid environment. This provides thermal insulation as well as acoustic absorption of mid and high frequencies, such as air noises and whistles. This thus complements the complete soundproofing.

The combination of Thinsulate with the butyl rubber from DETOUR LAB ensures total soundproofing and insulation. This reduces the load on the heating system in winter and limits overheating in summer. Your vehicle is therefore ready to face all four seasons of the year.

These materials have been designed to be as light as possible so as not to overload the vehicle. Their quality meets the requirements of the automotive sector and is perfectly suited for vans, which is why they also comply with the FMVSS 302 standard.

THIRD STEP: Prepare the insulation finishing surface with Landau Foam 

The third step is now to prepare the finish using Landau Foam 1/8". To install it, you need to glue it onto the plywood panels, again using 3M 90 adhesive. This step fills gaps and imperfections, softens edges, and creates a smooth surface before applying the fabric. It also provides a slight padding effect.

Advantages of Landau Foam

Landau Foam consists of a fine closed-cell cross-linked polyolefin foam. This product offers excellent thermal, acoustic, and anti-vibration insulation properties. It perfectly complements the materials used in other steps and ensures a quality finish.

This foam is ideal as padding because it is thin and durable, fine and resistant. Indeed, it is 60" wide and 1/8" thick. Like the other products in the insulation collection, it is water-repellent. It is very suitable for van conversions in Quebec.

FOURTH STEP: Dress and finish with an ENDUREPEL or AEROTEX van interior finishing fabric
 

The last step, but not least, is the vehicle's aesthetics, to make your van as comfortable and cozy as possible.

For the finish, you can choose between two fabrics, either ENDUREPEL Medley or AEROTEX. ENDUREPEL Medley is available in 4 colors and is stain and dirt resistant. It is even antibacterial and easy to clean. AEROTEX, on the other hand, is made of tweed, is available in 13 different colors. It is also stain and dirt resistant. It is designed for heavy use and has been treated to be water-repellent and stain-resistant. It is durable and easy to maintain.

To apply them, you need to cover the panels with ENDUREPEL or AEROTEX fabric, then staple or glue it depending on the part inside your van.

This fourth step ensures an aesthetic but also durable finish for your vehicle. These products have also been designed for automotive use, which is why they are lightweight and will not clutter your camper van.

The Best Way to Insulate Your Van

By following these four steps and using the recommended products (DETOUR LAB soundproofing material, Thinsulate, 3M Spray adhesive, Landau Foam, and ENDUREPEL or AEROTEX finishing fabric), you will be able to achieve complete insulation on your vehicle. 

Not only will your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, or Ram Promaster conversion van be insulated, but It will provide excellent soundproofing. Both against external noises and vehicle vibrations.All with a flawless finish and an aesthetic that makes the van welcoming. Even with the addition of several materials, these products are specially designed for vehicles and therefore do not cause any overload.

Insulating your van is the foundation for having a comfortable camper van. Whatever your project, good insulation will last you a long time.

 

 

 

FAQ about camper van insulation

What is the best insulation for a camper van?

The best insulation for a camper van is 3M Thinsulate, a hydrophobic synthetic microfiber insulation. It resists mold and moisture, two major problems inside a van. It offers both thermal insulation and acoustic absorption of mid and high frequencies. For complete insulation, it is combined with a butyl rubber soundproofing material like DETOUR LAB, which handles low frequencies and vibrations.

How much does it cost to insulate a van?

The cost of insulating a van varies depending on several factors: the length and height of the vehicle (a Sprinter 144 vs 170 extended will not have the same needs), the number of windows already installed (which reduce the surface to be insulated), the intended use (4 seasons, winter trips, or summer use only), expectations regarding soundproofing and thermal performance, as well as the choice of finishing fabric (AEROTEX and ENDUREPEL Medley do not have the same price per square foot).

For an accurate estimate tailored to your project, we invite you to contact us by email at info@vandici.ca or by phone at (819) 300-8887. You can also directly check our Insulation collection to see individual prices for each product.

Can you insulate your van yourself?

Yes, insulating your van yourself is completely doable, even without conversion experience. The process boils down to 4 steps: dampen vibrations with soundproofing material, insulate thermally with Thinsulate, prepare the surface with a thin foam like Landau Foam, then cover everything with automotive finishing fabric. With the right materials and a bit of patience, it’s an accessible DIY project.

Do you need to cover 100% of the walls with soundproofing?

No, it is not necessary to cover the entire surface with soundproofing material. Covering 25 to 30% of the total surface is enough to break the resonance of metal panels and eliminate vibrations. The purpose of butyl rubber is to stop vibrations at the source, not to create a thermal barrier — that’s the role of Thinsulate applied on top.

What is the difference between soundproofing and thermal insulation?

Soundproofing targets vibrations and noises (rolling rumbles, body resonances, low engine frequencies) — this is the role of butyl rubber materials like DETOUR LAB. Thermal insulation is used to maintain indoor temperature and protect against cold or heat — this is the role of Thinsulate. For a comfortable 4-season van, you need both.

Does Thinsulate mold in a van?

No, Thinsulate does not mold. It is made of hydrophobic synthetic microfibers, which makes it resistant to mold and moisture. This is a major advantage in a van, where condensation and humidity can quickly become a problem — especially in winter in Quebec, due to the difference between indoor heat and outdoor cold.

Which van models can be insulated with these products?

Van d'ici insulation products are designed for the three main van models used in conversions: the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Ford Transit, and the Ram Promaster. Thinsulate is notably available in seven different sizes, pre-cut according to the model, which greatly simplifies installation.

Does insulation add a lot of weight to the van?

No. The materials used (DETOUR LAB, Thinsulate, Landau Foam, ENDUREPEL and AEROTEX fabrics) have been specifically designed for automotive use and are as light as possible. They meet automotive industry requirements and comply with the FMVSS 302 standard (fire resistance). Adding all these materials therefore does not cause any significant extra weight for the vehicle.

What temperatures can the DETOUR LAB soundproofing material withstand?

The DETOUR LAB soundproofing material withstands temperatures from -20°C to +120°C, making it perfectly suited for Quebec winters and hot summers. Its three-layer composite structure (aluminum film, 2 mm butyl rubber, high-adhesion acrylic adhesive) guarantees excellent durability over time, regardless of the season.

Which finishing fabric to choose for the interior of a van?

It all depends on the desired aesthetic and use. The ENDUREPEL Medley is available in 4 colors, stain-resistant, antibacterial, and easy to clean — ideal for a clean look and minimal maintenance. The AEROTEX, in tweed, comes in 13 colors and has been treated to be water-repellent and stain-resistant. Designed for heavy use, it is perfect if you want more color variety and a textured finish. Both are durable and designed for automotive use.

 

 

 

We invite you to check out the collection Insulation directly on our website to see even more details about our products.

Contact us if you want more information or if you want advice, either by email: info@vandici.ca,

or by phone number: (819) 300-8887.

 

 

 

 

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