This goes into the “I should’ve done this before anything else” category of camper van build conversions!
Vans are loud. They’re noisy and utilitarian. Built to haul goods and cargo and drive like nutters. But seriously – van are not manufactured to the same comfort levels as cars, so driving them is like driving inside a boom box. Sure you can add cabinets and some insulation, like we did, and still find it’s difficult to have a conversation or enjoy your iPod playlists (yes I do still)…I am retro….
After a few long road trips we realised more needed to be done to reduce the road noise inside the van – not just for our comfort but our sanity. We wanted car quiet – we wanted our VW Transporter T4 van to be more like a Golf. It would mean we could feel like we were traveling in a nice big car but with beds and a kitchen and all our surf gear! A comfortable rolling home not built on the verge of a highway.
The only solution was remove panels and trim, and install down sound deadening mat from a roll.
My advice – do this before you do anything else on your van build. Do it at the beginning before you add insulation. Sound deadening mat is fabulous stuff and will transform the comfort levels of your cargo van into something more like a car.
I literally stuck sound deadening everywhere I could in our VW T4 Transporter camper van. And the results were incredible! It quite literally transformed our journeys.
We could listen to music – even from those pokey 4″ dash speakers we upgraded – and you all know how important music is on a roadtrip right? Plus we could talk or sit in silence watching the landscape roll by without being killed slowly by road noise.
Hope you enjoy this video and get inspired to do this upgrade on your van build.
Please support us by Subscribing and also visiting our T-shirt shop at https://www.love-and-thunder.com.
We also have a website at https://adventures-and-automobiles.com/ – so please like and share.
Happy days!
Sound deadening mat installation
Sound deadening mats, often referred to as automotive sound deadening or damping mats, are materials designed to reduce and control noise and vibrations in vehicles, including cars, trucks, and campervans. These mats are typically applied to the interior surfaces of the vehicle, such as the floor, doors, roof, and side panels. Here’s a closer look at sound deadening mats and their purposes:
1. Noise Reduction: The primary purpose of sound deadening mats is to reduce external noise from entering the vehicle and to minimize noise generated within the vehicle itself. This results in a quieter and more comfortable driving or traveling experience. Sound deadening mats absorb and dampen vibrations, which are the root cause of most noise in a vehicle.
2. Improved Acoustic Comfort: By reducing noise levels inside the vehicle, sound deadening mats contribute to better acoustic comfort. This is particularly important for campervans, where occupants often spend extended periods of time. A quieter interior enhances relaxation and overall enjoyment during travel.
3. Enhanced Audio Quality: Sound deadening mats can significantly improve the audio quality of a vehicle’s sound system. By reducing external noise and vibrations, these mats allow the audio system to produce clearer and more balanced sound. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks while on the road.
4. Thermal Insulation: Many sound deadening mats also offer thermal insulation properties. They help regulate the interior temperature of the vehicle by preventing heat transfer, keeping the cabin cooler in hot weather and warmer in cold weather. This thermal insulation can contribute to overall comfort and energy efficiency.
5. Vibration Damping: In addition to noise reduction, sound deadening mats are effective at damping vibrations caused by the engine, road, and other sources. This damping effect can improve ride quality and reduce wear and tear on the vehicle’s components.
6. Easy Installation: Sound deadening mats are typically easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. They come in sheets or rolls that can be cut to fit specific areas of the vehicle. Proper installation ensures optimal performance.
7. Weight Considerations: It’s important to note that sound deadening mats add weight to the vehicle. While this added weight can have some positive effects, such as improved road handling and stability, it may also slightly reduce fuel efficiency. Vehicle owners should strike a balance between soundproofing benefits and weight considerations.
When selecting sound deadening mats for your vehicle, it’s essential to choose high-quality materials from reputable brands. Proper installation is equally important, as the effectiveness of these mats depends on correct application. Whether you’re looking to reduce road noise in your daily commute or create a quieter, more comfortable space in your campervan, sound deadening mats can be a valuable addition to your vehicle’s interior.
