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Type of Van
Silicone Roof Coat
A silicone roof coat is the first line of protection for the body of your van and also the heat reduction, preventing radiant heat from the sun into your van. I've measured internal temperature under direct sunlight on the roof and it decreases the temperature of the metal by about 25 degrees, greatly decreasing the temperature inside the van making insulation much more efficient by decreasing initial temperature. As an added bonus it protects the roof from deteriorating the paint and welding points, which are often the first things to show year over year wear on a van.
Type of Insulation
Different insulations have different efficiencies per inch thickness called R-Value. The higher the R-value, the more efficient the insulation. Insulation also varies on cost, installation time, and natural vs synthetic. The main decisions to make here are preferential based on natural vs synthetic and cost.
Noise reduction
Due to the nature of vans being large metal boxes they can have a lot of noise while driving. Adhesive rubberized matts greatly decrease the tympanic/reverb noise that occurs on the metal panels while driving. As a bonus, they provide and internal level of insulation preventing radiant heat going directly into the insulation (similar to the roof coat). Partial coverage decreases the noise and while full coverage decreases the noise and in addition provides greater heat reduction.
Framing
This is where we can fight for some extra room for those of you who are taller! Side frame furring allows the ceiling to be slightly 3/4" taller and due to the nature of the process is more labor intensive. Floor insulation is a way to gain up to an inch in floor to ceiling height.
Flooring
This is based on durability and aesthetic. both are good options. Sheet vinyl is slightly cheaper but can tear. Lifeproof flooring is prone to expansion and contraction when exposed to direct sunlight/rapid temperature changes which decrease the longevity/quality of the floor. No matter what the floor is a high use area and may eventually need maintenance or replacement in the long term.
Battery and Electrical Packages
This is an area that varies greatly based on your needs, wants, and budget. It doesn't necessarily change the function of electrical components in your van, just the ability to charge/monitor/think less about the status of batteries.
External Components
These aspects often create the biggest impact on the appearance and capabilities both externally and internal with the build of your vehicle. If you want additional components not mentioned here be sure to let me know so we can discuss)
Cooking area
Bathroom
Water Heater
I use an electric water heater that provides 3-4 minutes of hot water on demand for dishes/a quick outside shower
Partition
I usually add a partition in my builds between the driving cab and living area. It allows me to create an area that truly feels like you aren't in a van since you hide the seats/windshield. It also adds the greatest heat control factor keeping the uninsulated front area temperature changes from impacting the insulated area in the back of the van. A sliding or gate style door seals the area while making the front easily accessible. The biggest con is for people who really want swivel seats since it does separate the front and back areas. Partitions can be added into any build but I especially recommend them for longer wheelbase/extended builds.
Closet
I can usually add a half closet behind the drivers seat above the sealed propane compartment. A floor to ceiling closet/pantry can be added in other parts of the van, usually in longer wheelbases, but can be incorporated in any build.
Cabinetry
This we will talk about in depth. There are a few "standard packages" I can install, but am open to unique ideas and needs too.
Walls
This is mainly an aesthetic decision as there are aspects to both types of walls the add and minimize upkeep, longevity, and labor so much so that I would advice to make the decision based off of what you like the look of best.
Ceiling
The ceiling is possibly the largest aesthetic factor of the entire build. Lighting, patterns, color, trim, and art can all be incorporated into the ceiling.
Color Palate
My design usually feeds off of the tones of the live edge counter. I lean into the darks and lights of the woods for main, secondary, and tertiary color schemes to make a cohesive and defined style that flows through the van. That being said the preference of lighter/darker design depends on which colors are used primary and secondary.
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