Covering reflectix with fabric Then I used a black quilted material to cover each side. ) Don't paint, that sound messy and flaky. Again, you may want to poke a few holes to ensure that the wall can breathe. One side is white, and one side is black. The product provides an R-4. Chances are you can find it at your local Walmart, Home Depot, or other home improvement store. Boy was I a bit sho Yes, it will. Ease of handling and quick installation make Reflectix® the first choice when selecting insulation for round or rectangular ductwork in HVAC systems. Seems like a small thing but I move them around 2 times per day so I’d love them to be more efficient. Cutting instructions: Fabric: Cut 121″ of fabric for the bow Cut 115″ of fabric for the tail Cut 26″ x 26″ of fabric for the center. DIY Window Curtains Connected to Rope. Reflectix: Cut 106″ of 16″ Reflectix for the bow Cut 100″ of 16″ Reflectix for the tail Cut 24″ of 12″ Reflectix (cut down the 16) for the Apr 22, 2008 · I just returned from my local JoAnn's Fabric store where they had a lot of decorator fabrics, foam, and linings on sale for 50% off. I mentioned the thick fabric-backing alternative if you cannot find the ironing board cover locally, obviously it’s not going to be same insulation value as the ironing board cover, but Apr 7, 2021 · They have 1 inch of polyester batting inside (I think IIRC) and heavy fabric on both sides. 0 when installed flush, with an overlap across the top of the duct. Oct 26, 2017 · We recently completed some upgrades which included sewing fabric to our current reflectix panels. You can also get it on Amazon. It will contract in direct sunlight—not permanently, but in the moment, it This blackout window covering is for the front windshield. Car Windshield Sun Shade-Sun Ray Reflective Front Window Cover,Foldable Car Sunshade Windshield Umbrella with Bendable Handle for Heat and Sun Protection,Easy to Install for Cars,SUVs,Trucks and Vans $49. Wrap it with fabric and sew (or staple) it shut. 0 when installed with a 0. Jan 1, 2022 · I may take the easy way out and just put a reflective light-blocking fabric backing on these, or I may hang something reflective separately, or I may start from scratch with something new. This tape worked really well for attaching the fabric too. If you cover your windows in reflective material - you will be pulled over, even with moderate tinting. Known for its radiant barrier properties, this material is a go-to solution for many looking to keep the heat at bay. Strong Neodymium bar magnets secure the cover in place. Despite being so light, it offers robust protection against the cold ground, ensuring a warm night’s sleep under the stars. The side that faces outwards is always covered with black cloth so that it creates a "tinted windows" effect for anyone that peers into the vehicle. So, for the Reflectix ( let's call it R. These blackout window coverings are for the driver and passenger side windows. Even in daylight (to a point). Therefore, I added Velcro patches to the corners and it has been working great. If you opt for regular curtains, consider the weight and pattern of the fabric, as well as whether you want to reuse old sheets or buy new fabric. Spray adhesive on reflectix and stick the fabric to it properly. Now I'm wondering it it's better overall to put the Reflectix inside the window covering or sew it onto the outside (facing the glass) ? The coverings were designed to be "stealth" and I used black fabric on the side facing out. Stack the fabric on top of the Reflectix and -this is the most important thing - make sure you have the fabric on the side that will be the inside of the window shade. 99 $ 49 . May 18, 2017 · Working with the foam is similar to the Reflectix, the foam is adhered to the wall with a compatible contact cement or 3M General Trim Adhesive followed by covering with marine hull liner. Dec 21, 2017 · Made with a shiny, insulating material called Reflectix, most projects using this material end up feel like the inside of a low budget spaceship. Originally, I hand-sewed insulated window covers. Patterned fabric, adhesive spray, and black duct tape proved the perfect solution. These look nice for the price! I am making something similar, but magnetic. Jun 17, 2023 · Purchase the necessary materials: Reflectix, fabric (like fleece or felt, one darker for the outward facing side and one lighter for the inside) and 3M’s Super 77 spray adhesive. I use spray adhesive and black cloth I bought at Walmart to cover the reflectix. After Reflectix (shiny side out), you can add your wall treatment to complete the sandwich. Slowly spray the top edge of the Reflectix with spray glue, allow a few seconds for it to get tacky and the place the fabric. Reflectix® Duct Insulation is an alternative to other types of fibrous insulation products. Use a bead of hot glue on the black fabric around the outside edge of the Reflectix, which you’ll use to hold the two pieces of fabric together, thus creating a pocket for the Reflectix. From the Manufacturer. The first is dust cover that goes under furniture. The lower end of the rain guards are angled in towards the window which didn't give me the space I wanted so that is in fact the next step to take. It could attach to the back of the fabric cover. They are put up every night and taken down most days, then usually shoved behind my drivers seat. If doing it, I'm suggest only covering the one side (inside) so the outside can stillumreflect. Watch the video below to see how we got crafty to make this custom solution. Nov 19, 2024 · Reflectix is a good window covering. The second is thin closed cell foam. This is only a good idea if your fabric is a better insulator than air, which I seriously doubt. Cut out the fabric. Van Life Sara & Alex James October 26, 2017 vanlife , living in a van , window coverings for van , sprinter van diy , sprinter van window coverings , window coverings Jan 5, 2025 · Step 4: Spray the Reflectix (Optional) Using spray glue, lightly coat the top edge of the Reflectix, and then place the fabric on top. It’s about blocking the sun’s ray from shining in your vehicle all day. 2. Reflectix® has a Class A/Class 1 Fire Rating on the Reflective/Woven Fabric/Reflective Radiant Barrier meeting all fire and smoke safety requirements of federal, state and local building codes. Dec 27, 2019 · We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Just get some fabric (left over, old sheets, Home Depot/Walmart curtains, JoAnn Fabrics, etc. (Satisfies UL 723, NFPA 255 and UBC 42-1. Cut the Reflectix® product to this length plus 1”. Cut all of the pieces of fabric, reflectix, and Pelon. Sep 17, 2019 · Step 4: Spray the Reflectix. Pin the bias tape around the edge of each window covering so that the fabric is tucked underneath. As other mentioned, also tint the windows. Honestly, it’s not about “reflecting” the heat out. Pxl. Spray glued the fabric to the reflectix and then taped the edges. 2. Jul 17, 2022 · Covering the window covers. I decided to do a science experiment today and see just how well (or poorly) fabric-covered or painted Reflectix covers do in a heatwave. Two outer layers of aluminum foil reflect 97-Percent of Reflectix® Outdoor Duct Insulation is an alternative to other types of fibrous insulation products. I have noticed many people are covering BOTH sides of the Reflectix with fabric, and in one case someone even sprayed the exterior facing reflective side with black paint. that is "tall enough" to cover the height of the window. Does anyone know if covering the outward facing reflectix will diminish it's cooling properties? I have heard they will trap heat, but many vanlifers cover them to be more stealthy. 0 Summer & R-2. Aug 18, 2024 · Making Reflectix window covers is a simple DIY project with significant benefits for your home. Take note of the fabric design as you do so. Some choose to make one side black via spray paint or gluing fabric on it. Ninja Edit: In retrospect, vinyl fabric is the wrong choice here. However that said, I have also used the same type of Reflectix window covers in my non-Ford car, so they are somewhat universal in how they work. I've covered my reflectix in very thin fabric and I find they still work extremely well. Mar 25, 2023 · Reflectix Window Cover Inserts. I have started working on my permanent fix. 6, R-6. Good luck. Reflectix is the best inexpensive and insulative material for keeping your RV cool. Install a frame (see above), and think seriously about covering it with galvanized wire mesh. 6IN X 10FT) 4. Then, remove the pins. Using extra fabric left over, create pockets for your sewing magnets. Reflectix is a 5/16-Inch thick, seven layer, reflective insulation which is available in rolls of various widths and lengths. Next, grab your glue or staple gun, and start folding the felt tightly over the edges of the cover. Thinsulate is highly effective at keeping your space insulated and provides an R-value of 5. A spacer strip can be created by cutting Reflectix® into 2” wide strips and double wrapping (the strips) around the circumference of the duct every 24”. It's kind of hard to see, but the the tape has a smoother texture while the reflectix has a ribbed texture. Trailer: 2009 Jan 5, 2025 · Cut your chosen fabric to size, ensuring it covers the window and frame. If you're confident in your Hi there. This step can help hold the fabric in place when sewing. A scrap of fabric to reinforce the reflectix would act like interfacing in a garment. Apr 4, 2023 · Place your Reflectix piece onto the back side of your black fabric and put the decorative fabric on top. I installed rain guards and bug screens on the top few inches on the windows. Use some weights to stop the sheer fabric from moving around. 99 Jun 26, 2022 · RV Door Window Shade - Magnetic Foldable RV Blackout Window Cover with Thermal Insulation and UV Protection, Camper Trailer Door Window Cover, Waterproof Thickened Oxford Fabric, 25" L x 16" W 4. Spray the top edge of the Reflectix with spray glue (optional) and attach the fabric, working in small increments. x 10 ft. 3M 70 or 3M 90 Hi-Strength) can make quick work of covering the insides of the reflectix (or whatever you used). 0 Summer & R-1. You can buy reflectix in different size rolls online or from big-box hardware stores. Apr 15, 2018 · I have been considering using Reflectix/EZ Cool/ etc with a nice fabric side for the inside of the van. This product is a reflective window insulation similar to windshield sun visors. Option #3 – Carpet, probably the least popular alternative is Olefin (polypropylene) carpet which is still used today by companies like Casita as their Apr 30, 2022 · Also, I currently have an E-350. Each panel is lined with a solid board keeping the windshield cover solid in place Jul 20, 2023 · Reflectix is a game changer for your backpacking adventures. This stuff is completely non-toxic, easy to use, and very thin. We have a conversion van. After pouring the cement floor and covering the cement ceiling, it's a really nice pantry room now Sep 5, 2023 · Losrik Reflectix Insulation Roll, Reflective Foil Insulation, Double Side Aluminum Foil Bubble Shield, Aluminum Foil Thermal Insulation Radiant Barrier for Windows, RV, Garage Door (23. It used to ice over in the winter. Reflectix is also a good window covering as it is stiff, which makes fitting it into the window and having it stay there much easier. Oh, and for windows that roll down, we made the felt 5mm bigger than the reflectix, just helped it fit tight around the seals to keep all the light out. Sep 23, 2019 · DIY Camper Window Cover Option #1: Reflectix. Select a fabric that reflects your style and preferences. 5" all the way around (see illustration above), then lay it down on a flat surface. Use long pieces for straight lines and shorter pieces for corners or rounded edges. 2 when installed directly to the duct. Pin the sheer fabric in place on top on the reflectix then hand sew them together around the edge. Fabric. Well hand-crafting a Reflectix cover is not likely to be a virtual service you could just do online. Same van here with a similar conundrum. They fit in the windows pretty well but will not stay in place completely on their own. Reflectix insulation faces the window reflecting sunlight and keeping the inside cooler. 1 out of 5 stars 52 I was able to create window covers with reflectix and black fabric (thanks to anyone who suggested that) for all the window except the front windshield. Feb 3, 2023 · And best of all, no sewing at all is involved in this DIY RV window covering project. Once we had the reflectix cut to the right size we used it as a template for the fabric. 0 and R-8. Would love to hear your thoughts Reflective RV Door Window Shade, 16” x 25” Car Door Window Cover Double-Layer Sunshield Blocking Light, Heat and UV Rays for RV Trailer Camper Windows 4. Amazing stuff. I wanted a more homey, bright look to my space that didn't feel quite so shoddy or depressing. Step 2: Cut out the shade pieces. com Mar 16, 2022 · In this guide to how to make DIY insulated van window covers, you’ll not find us covering Reflectix with pretty fabric, because after all, if you do that, there’s no reason to spend the money on Reflectix in the first place. This blackout window covering is for the side sliding crew door window. 0 Winter or a Radiant Barrier - Blocks 96% Radiant Heat Note: Installation instructions and illustrated drawings are recommendations only, while Sep 7, 2024 · Sewing the fabric. self-adhesive roll of butyl/foam core/Reflectix made for vehicles, and rag wool to fill the gaps and weird spaces. Or flip it around in the cooler months. Cut strips long and wide enough to fold over a magnet. Spray adhesive from Home Depot (e. For those that aren't familiar with these, people create inserts from Reflectix that can be pushed into each window, and then cover both sides of the insert with cloth. Step 1: Choose Your Fabric. We have deleted the windows on the driver side, and the rear doors. g. I got this heavy duty "fabric" that resembles a screen window from the same place I got the black fabric from that I am going to do that with. I put the white side facing out when I'm parked in the sun, obviously it doesn't 100% prevent my car from heating up but it makes a significant difference. It comes in convenient roll sizes that install cleanly and quickly. Additionally, as it is non-porous, it provides a good air barrier, forming a pocket of air between the glass and the Reflectix that helps with insulation. Mar 14, 2013 · The purpose of the ironing board cover is to provide extra insulation, adds durability to the Reflectix, and it looks better than the bare Reflectix cover. Each panel is lined with a solid board keeping the windshield cover solid in place Reflectix® Duct Insulation is an alternative to other types of fibrous insulation products. It kinda looks sparkly through the window. This blackout window covering is for the front windshield. 0 Winter and a Vapor/Moisture Barrier Southern Zone of the USA - With Reflectix® Above the Mass Insulation: R-6. That's a great idea. The fabric will go on both sides of the Reflectix. Strong Neodymium bar magnets secure the window cover in place. With the reflective window covers up on all windows, our sliding door T-vent open and our rooftop fan on full blast, we can keep the van within a few Dec 18, 2020 · I just layed the battens on top of the reflectix and taped them down. 0 out of 5 stars Mar 6, 2023 · 3M Thinsulate is one of the absolute best insulation options you can use for your window covers. That's assuming you really could work from a spec, and have it turn into a fitted reality without any problems. ) Northern Zone of the USA - With Reflectix® Below the Mass Insulation: R-7. Consider the weight of the fabric, as heavier fabrics may not be suitable for certain mounting methods. Sew around the window covers to permanently attach the bias tape. As MrsNomer said I have reflectix with some thin insulation material from Walmart that is glued to the inside side of the reflectix. I went with a $50. We did this by painting the inside of the windows with black epoxy paint and covering the interior with 1" XPS foamboard and taping. Feb 19, 2018 · I made temporary reflectix window covers with magnets that we've been using since November. Its thin profile and featherweight build make it an ideal companion for long hikes in any national park. Jun 12, 2017 · My technique was simple — I cut the pieces roughly to size, put them in place (on our boat, it was easiest to set them against the bottom snaps), made the cutouts for the snaps on that side (on ours, the bottom), slid the Reflectix into its “final” spot, trimmed up the other sides and cut the holes for the rest of the snaps, then snapped the fabric covers back into place. Make sure to buy enough fabric to cover all the Reflectix pieces. Place your window cover on top of the felt. Pin these to the window covers. If there are some small gaps, they may be covered by the fabric, but if there are any large gaps, you may need to recut your insulation to fit. Feb 14, 2021 · 2. This will help prevent your Reflectix from sagging under gravity and vibration. This is quite the improvement over my early days when I car camped in a soft top jeep - all I had then was some swatches of dark fabric that I had to fuss with every night to hang over the rear supports of the soft top. Each panel is lined with a solid board keeping the windshield cover solid in place Dec 20, 2020 · We started by trying to cut the quilted fabric to fit the driver window and quickly learned that it was much easier to cut the reflectix to the approx window size then trim/round corners to fit. That’s right—blackout RV window coverings that also insulate! Brian used a blackout curtain he bought at Walmart for the fabric for his window covering. Lay the sheet of reflectix flat and lay the sheer fabric directly on top. But the burning question is: Does Reflectix work when covered? To cut […] Mar 30, 2015 · Update on black out reflectix Ok, so I finally got around to sewing some products on the reflectix. Reflec MAIKER Windshield Cover for Ice and Snow,600D Oxford Fabric Windshield Frost Cover with Side Mirror Cover and Reflective Strips Compatible with 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler JL JLU 4XE Gladiator JT 5. I use the Reflectix/black fabric set up. The product provides an R-6. Mar 3, 2025 · Trim away the excess fabric along the diagonal ends of the bow. The outer layer of this insulation features a heavy gauge aluminum foil, to better weather the elements. Ironing the fabric beforehand is recommended to avoid wrinkles. 5yds of black vinyl fabric from Joann, plus two small cans of 3M 77 spray adhesive (should have gotten one large instead). Jan 22, 2025 · Choosing a curtain type: Reflectix, fabric, hanging, roll-up, insulated. Window covering consists of black waterproof fabric facing the window, Reflectix insulation, and fabric of your choice facing the interior. It works great. Also genius! Sep 4, 2019 · Reflectix is a good choice for reflective insulation (but misused by many people building vans!), was easy to find, and seemed very similar to what the average car window cover is made from. Window covering consists of black waterproof fabric, Reflectix insulation, fabric of your choice facing the interior and the option to add an additional layer of insulating Polartec Powerfill 200 insulation. NO Velcro, tape, suction cups, buttons, magnets, elasticyou get my point, necessary. The best fabric to use holds up in the heat and doesn’t fray when cut. Water resistant fabric would be unnecessary, the only advantage would be marine fabric that has UV resistance. I am scratching my head at this. We sprayed both the reflectix and the felt with the adhesive, let them get tacky for 5 minutes, then stuck them together. This step is optional but we feel that it helped to hold the fabric in place when we sewed. ) ones, I start out with R. Pin the fabric and Reflectix together, and then sew around the edges. These insulating window covers will also block out all light. Mar 19, 2021 · My method for making reflectix window coverings for a vehicle. 2, R-5. Senior Member . There are several options to consider when choosing a curtain type for your camper van, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Use your templates to cut a piece of Reflectix and a piece of quilted fabric for each window. The fabric should extend 2" beyond the Reflectix. This project is relatively inexpensive, easy to complete, and doesn't require many tools. Apr 18, 2022 · Place and trace the reflectix on any fabric you choose. I made mine following this tutorial, using a roll of 24" x 25' Reflectix plus 2. I used some in my basement about 30yrs ago to cover the ceiling of my pantry room (used to be root cellar) which was basically the concrete from the front porch. I made reflectix window covers and sewed black fabric on one side. Gorilla Glue makes a fabric glue, but the best fabric-to-plastic glue I’ve used is Loctite Vinyl glue. 4 out of 5 stars 5 Reflectix® Duct Insulation is an alternative to other types of fibrous insulation products. Best of all, Reflectix is cheap and easy to find. I cut the fabric a little larger than the reflectix then wrapped it over the edge and held it down with tape. It’s time consuming but the difference in temperature control and sound deadening is appreciable. Both are black. You can use a sewing machine or hand sew, depending on your INSULATION MARKETPLACE SmartSHIELD -3mm 48inx10ft ReflectiveINSULATION roll, Foam Core Radiant Barrier, ThermalINSULATION Shield - Engineered Foil - Amazon. Absorbing light shined in your windows is a good thing. Continue working your way down in small increments. It allows me to have my windows down a few inches and not seen from the outside and provides air flow. Their exterior material is Reflectix® Duct Insulation is an alternative to other types of fibrous insulation products. See full list on hi-van. You'd need manufacturer's specs for vehicle windows to do "virtual fits". 0. Here are four of the most popular options: Reflectix Window Covers Dec 31, 2022 · First I cut the Reflectix to fit the window, then lined / wrapped the raw edge of the Reflectix with the tape, then every 16" I used about 4" of the grip tape to make a tab which held the magnet, the tabs hag about an inch past the edge of the Reflectix. ), spray the adhesive on the reflectix, stick the fabric on, let it dry, and trim the edges. Feb 26, 2019 · Hi everybody! After a few years living in my van full-time, it’s time for my current window covers to be replaced. I take you step by step, with LOTS of detail, how to make CUSTOM cut, to your window shape, foldable and reversible, do it yourself reflective, insulated an Feb 16, 2023 · Get a sheet of felt and cut it in the shape of your window cover, but make sure it's wider by about 1. I discovered a product called "Warm Windows Insulated Shade Window Covering Insulation Fabric - Fiberglass RV. When considering options for a basement ceiling, Reflectix® Reflective/Bubble product is the easiest (to handle) choice available. If you cover it directly, the fabric will heat up accordingly and the reflectix is not a good choice to deal with conductive heat. With this decided, and the shape of the window covers finalised, I could begin looking through my pile of automotive carpet scraps to find two pieces that were larger than my window covers and then start carpeting the opposite side that will face inside the van, using a high temperature contact adhesive. Outside fabric facing the window will be black (standard) or Reflectix. 75” air gap between the duct and the insulation. Dec 12, 2024 · Fabric choices: For blackout curtains, you can either buy premade ones or purchase blackout fabric by the yard and attach it to fabric of your choosing. I wouldn't paint reflectix, though, I would hang a very loose fabric that will absorb light, but also allow heat to pass through. The fabric of your choice faces the interior. (I'm referring to heat in summer). If you want patterned fabric, ensure that the pattern is level and continuous or symmetrical across all windows. Jul 11, 2018 · Reach glass hatch cover Made a cardboard storage sleeve for 'em. Sold as a pair. I glued black satin fabric on reflectix insulation and custom fit the windows. Aug 15, 2023 · You can attach the fabric to one side of the window shade using spray adhesive or a good fabric/plastic glue. Does Reflectix Work When Covered: An In-Depth Analysis ️ When it comes to insulation, Reflectix is a name that often pops up. Feb 17, 2007 · Reflectix BP48010 Double Pack Insulation, 48 in. Stick duct tape around the edges of the cover. Multiple performance options are available, they include R-4. Nov 17, 2014 · In the spring I'll probably cover the Reflectix with a lightweight fabric Attached Thumbnails 11-17-2014, 07:39 PM #10: Roger C H. DIY window curtains involve using fabric, grommets, and utility rope. This DIY window cover solution involves buying a roll of Reflectix and cutting out window inserts for each window. Assembly. Secure one long edge of the fabric to the Reflectix following the same steps as above, then fold the angled edge of the fabric inward toward the Reflectix and secure it in place with hot glue. It is intriguing to have a separate reflectix layer that would only be carried in winter. Verify the circumference of the duct at the mid-point of a spacer strip. They've worked well. We recommend using a blanket stitch. The dust cover has pin holes in it that you can see the reflextic through. The product is dust and fiber-free, and does It's nice to have a helper, but you could probably do it alone. com Apr 12, 2022 · Step 3 – Sew Sheer Fabric To Reflectix. No, it is not efficient once you cover it. Pin the fabric in place, and then sew around the edges. 6 out of 5 stars 263 Mar 31, 2018 · QUESTION: would covering the outside of the Reflectix/LowE with black fabric have much effect (positive or negative) on the insulating properties of the window cover? QUESTION: in either scenario above, is the Reflectix/LowE acting as true insulation, or just as a sun barrier? Jul 21, 2021 · We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. From what I've found, reflectix itself only has a r-value of about 1, so using that reflective side is pretty important for radiant heat reflection and I'd be a little concerned about reducing that effectiveness by covering it with cloth on both sides. Aug 14, 2023 · Another option would be sewing buttons on the reflectix and making buttonholes if you have a machine with that feature. Step 5: Pin and Sew. It is used extensively in both specialty and standard construction projects. Reflectix, a reflective insulation material, helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter by reflecting heat away or back inside. By covering both sides in fabric, you allow the fabric to absorb heat via radiation, then trannsfer it to the reflectix via conduction. It needs an air gap between the reflective surface and the radiant heat source. Ease of handling and quick installation make Reflectix® the first choice when selecting insulation for outdoor round or rectangular ductwork. Before you wrap the Reflectix with fabric and staple/sew it shut, make sure it fits snugly in your windows. The tinted windows combined with the black on the inside just look like limo tint. ljg mwgrmjho htnv szul bbafi out gvfpfagwf miv wjxgh hzqvzkw fcubvs tgysjz ygl coiz yroyxg