If you are looking at used or new static caravans for sale in North Wales you might find that there is no underfloor insulation. Although manufacturers install underfloor insulation in some models as standard, you should check before you buy whether the van has it or not.
It’s not the end of the world if there is no underfloor insulation because it can be installed or if you are ordering a particular model of static caravan it will often be offered as an optional extra, usually called a “Winter Package”.
Why should a static caravan have underfloor insulation?
It’s really about making your holiday home or residence more energy efficient, saving money on energy bills, keeping you warm in the winter and helping reduce condensation.
The construction method of static caravans doesn’t lend itself to the best form of insulation, especially with older vans. New ones tend to be better but usually you will be offered varying types of “Winter Packages” including:
• Underfloor insulation
• Additional insulation
• Double Glazing
• All of the above in one package
Underfloor insulation, benefits caravan owners in many ways such as:
Prevents moisture from penetrating the floor
A lot of static caravan parks experience high levels of ground water and this means that moisture underneath your van can cause problems inside if it permeates through the floor. This causes much more moisture in the air resulting in more condensation and therefore making furnishing, rugs, walls and sills damp. There are few people who do not know the problems condensation can cause but the black mould, once it takes hold, will not only damage clothes and soft furnishings but also is the devil of a job to eliminate.
Radiant heat loss reduction
Heat is attracted to cold floors, so even when you have your heating on, you will feel less warmth because a floor without underfloor insulation will draw the heat to it preventing the heat from circulating around the van.
Reduced warm air loss
There will always be warm air leakage in a static caravan that doesn’t have underfloor heating and it will escape through the gaps where pipes exit the van, usually through the floors of kitchens and bathrooms. An installation of underfloor insulation will dramatically improve this problem.
More benefits of static caravan underfloor insulation
1. The caravan will be more comfortable in the winter because you won’t be losing heat
2. Insulation assists in protecting your floor
3. Underfloor insulation deters rodents from building nests
Whilst it is possible to install underfloor insulation yourself, unless you are experienced it really is best left to the professionals. However, if you really are determined to do it yourself, check out our blog next week for some useful hints and tips.
