Insulation?

[lars36]

Have been doing my research for a Class A Gas MH. Have been reading lots and lots forum posts.

My question is: Why do Newmar MH still use batten insulation or have the changed that?

To me it seems outdated if they do?

They seem, from reading the forums and watching videos, they are one of my top 3. The other two are Tiffin and Winnebago.

[BBelanger]

What do you think they should use?

[oakcreekeric]

If insulation is a "hot button" issue for you... I would strongly suggest you investigate/research Entegra's. I believe they have some of the best insulation packages available.

Good Luck !!

NOTE: If insulation is a "hot button" issue, I'd re-evaluate WBGO being on that list.. and this is from a WBGO owner.

["007"]

Welcome to the forum and irv2.
If you want a warm coach in the winter and a cool one in the summer you want a Newmar.
This link will get you to the 2017's and many other answers you may need.
All the coach's are built the same only higher end the parts will be more expensive.
Below in my signature are links that will be related to any coach your may want.
In QT's # 3 read the HOOT members links and find more than enough info to satisfy you.
Enjoy the forum and good luck in your choice.

[Sweetbriar]

Originally Posted by lars36

,,, My question is: Why do Newmar MH still use batten insulation or have the changed that? To me it seems outdated if they do?,,,

It works, easy to install, low cost, minimal clean up, no special equipment, no special training, low level hazmat to take care of, doesn't burn, no set time, minimal if any out gassing,,,,

[lars36]

Originally Posted by BBelanger

What do you think they should use?

Structural Insulated Panels

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are prefabricated insulated structural elements for use in building walls, ceilings, floors, and roofs. They provide superior and uniform insulation compared to more traditional construction methods (stud or "stick frame"), offering energy savings of 12% to 14%. When installed properly, SIPs also result in a more airtight dwelling, which makes a house quieter and more comfortable.
SIPs not only have high R-values but also high strength-to-weight ratios. A SIP typically consists of 4- to 8-inch-thick foam board insulation sandwiched between two sheets of oriented strand board (OSB) or other structural facing materials. Manufacturers can usually customize the exterior and interior sheathing materials to meet customer requirements. The facing is glued to the foam core, and the panel is then either pressed or placed in a vacuum to bond the sheathing and core together.

[Algoma]

Might work if motorhome walls were 8" thick but they are only about 2". My previous motorhome had foam insulation vacuum bonded to the walls but the advantage was somewhat lost by the large windows that let in a lot of heat. The difference I notice is how much quieter the Newmar is. Solid foam sheeting conducts noise very easily. Yes, fiberglass batten insulation is "old school", but so is a wooden chassis, and Morgan still makes cars using those.

["007"]

Maybe out of the price range for Newmar coach never was cold during winter camping or hot during the summer months, good luck in your hunting.

[dms]

If you're concerned about insulation, nix Tiffin. Take it from one with experience (me), Tiffin has NO insulation in the front cap and minimal R-value in walls compared to Newmar. Had a 40' Tiffin w/3 AC's and they ran continuously in 90 degree weather. Now have a 45' Newmar and they only run intermittently as they should in 90 degree weather. Noise factor in the Newmar is 90% less. Tiffins ac units are so loud, we had CG neighbors complain. You can't even hear the Newmar units running from outside.

[PDR John]

Coaches with laminated walls have an R value of around R-7, with the exception of Winne. Theirs are around an R-4.


Nobody builds RVs with SIP panels.

Newmar (R-11) and Entegra (R-15) both use fiberglass batten insulation, with Entegra also adding a layer of foil.

[JMH]

I wouldn't worriy about the "old school" insulation on a Newmar. So far we have been in 110 degree weather and the AC keep the coach at 70 degrees (we ONLY have 2 ACs in out 38'). Will be in Colorado/Nebraska in December so will be able to report how our Newmar does in the cold.

We used to own a class C that was insulated like a Newmar with the same R values. Spent a Christmas in that coach in -17 degree weather. Kept nice and warm. Yes we did use vent covers and a blanket to isolate the front cab.

Mark and Louene Hetrick
Newbee the last VTDP 3725

[az99]

Originally Posted by oakcreekeric

If insulation is a "hot button" issue for you... I would strongly suggest you investigate/research Entegra's. I believe they have some of the best insulation packages available.

But it is built by Jayco. I had a Jayco MH with great insulation specs also. But the "Amish Craftsmen" did not bother to put any insulation in one wall.
Insulation is as much about the quality of installation as it is the spec.

Good Luck

[BBorgo]

Originally Posted by lars36

Structural Insulated Panels

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are prefabricated insulated structural elements for use in building walls, ceilings, floors, and roofs. They provide superior and uniform insulation compared to more traditional construction methods (stud or "stick frame"), offering energy savings of 12% to 14%. When installed properly, SIPs also result in a more airtight dwelling, which makes a house quieter and more comfortable.
SIPs not only have high R-values but also high strength-to-weight ratios. A SIP typically consists of 4- to 8-inch-thick foam board insulation sandwiched between two sheets of oriented strand board (OSB) or other structural facing materials. Manufacturers can usually customize the exterior and interior sheathing materials to meet customer requirements. The facing is glued to the foam core, and the panel is then either pressed or placed in a vacuum to bond the sheathing and core together.

My best guess on why SIPs are not used, is the word "house" in the quote above.
A motor home, (much as we cherish them) is not a house. Solid insulation transmits sound easily, is not as easily engineered to respond to the flex required in a motor home, and very likely are not going to be "installed properly".
From a personal perspective, my Newmar is so far superior to my previous MH in every respect (including insulation) that it ins't even a discussion.

Bob

[JFXG]

So what you are suggesting is that Newmar ought to go to a laminated wall construction. Many RV manufacturers are already doing this, and a great many of the vehicles eventually encounter wall delamination problems when leaks occur after a few years of body flexing and not quite so diligent maintenance.
My 14 y/o Newmar is toasty warm in winter and comfy cool in summer. Newmar has spent near 50 years figuring the best way to build a motorhome. When and if there is a valid reason to completely change their manufacturing process I'm sure they will consider it.


John & Diane, fulltiming since '12 02 DS, FL, Cat330, '04 Element NHSO RVM103