XL Storage Compartment Insulation

**rionapo** · 09-14-2013, 05:56 PM

We're headed north and expect to spend an extended period in colder temps, including below freezing. We're carrying ski boots and Sorels in the storage compartment, at least until they're needed. Should I throw some insulation in there for some warmth?

Don

Ford_6L_E350 · 09-14-2013, 06:15 PM

I'm guessing you are talking about an underfloor storage compartment. In that case, a layer of insulation under the door would help.

Or a rug over the compartment door.

Heat rises and cold sinks, so you will lose more heat through windows than through a compartment on the floor. And if you have a penthouse..........that is the prime candidate for insulation.

Mike

BrianW · 09-14-2013, 07:37 PM

Our SMB-installed under-floor compartment is wood with carpet on top, which I assume is a fairly good insulator. If you really want more, you could screw some rigid foam to the underside of the lid, or glue it or something. Gonna use up a lot of space, though. Use double-stick carpet tape if you don't want it to be permanent.

Do newer SMB floor boxes just have a metal lid with no carpet on top?

**rionapo** · 09-14-2013, 08:38 PM

Mike, Yes it's underfloor and, therefore, exposed and not warmed by the van furnace. We have insulation above it. We do have a PH and may buy some Reflectix for its walls but we haven't been bothered in the past. This trip will be longer, however.

Brian, I think SMB's lid insulation depends on what flooring you buy. We have Loncoin, which I doubt has much R-value, with pads over it that help a lot. You're right about the space loss. That's why I'd like to ignore it all.

Don

Jeffrey · 09-14-2013, 08:50 PM

Insulation does not provide heat, only helps retain what you already have. Ain't much down there under the floor. I'll bet the temp in the compartment (I have one, too) will be the same as the outside temp, with it's exposure to the outside on 5 sides and no source of heat for it. Why don't you simply bring your shoes inside the van?

**rionapo** · 09-15-2013, 08:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffrey

Insulation does not provide heat, only helps retain what you already have. Ain't much down there under the floor. I'll bet the temp in the compartment (I have one, too) will be the same as the outside temp, with it's exposure to the outside on 5 sides and no source of heat for it. Why don't you simply bring your shoes inside the van?

True. Trying to save space but may have to accept reality. :-(