DIY ceiling boards For Van Build, Jack Nuts Plus Nuts Van Conversion can make for a great Van life

Building out or converting a van is a series of small steps. One of the first and most important steps in a van build is the ceiling framing. Being sure that the ceiling of the van is secure an safe is critical to a worry free van life experience. What could be worse than the overlanding or road tripping and having an issue with the finish of your van ? Structural connections during your van build start with a good anchoring system and then a careful build on top of that. Identifying the fixture location in the ceiling comes first. Where will the MaxAir 750 or the Fantastic fan go. What kind of reinforcement do they require. Will there be a roof mounted air conditioner like the Colman Mach 8 cub model or a Indel B OFF Plein-Aircon 12V Air Conditioning unit. Some van lifers want to feel like they never left home, so air ventilation is a big consideration. Lighting is also something in a Van conversion and 12 volt ceiling pot lights are a staple in the van crowd. No matter what the ultimate finish will be, it may be naturally finishing T&G wood or it could be vinyl the substructure is the first major step to building a lasting camper van. The type of insulation will also come into play. Havelock Wool and Rock wool are softer products but thinsulate and spray foam can be less forgiving. For a complete van build the conversion needs to consider every aspect.
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[@esparka]

So yes, I have all of this important work to do on ole Bessie the ProMaster. I actually stayed in the van last night as a way to get the current condition of the van. You can see light between the sliding door & the floor. Some draft. The insulation is clearly warranted. 29°. No wind. A diesel heater made the stay bearable, pleasant, actually..
On with the show…..
Thank you for your time,

[@richardbillin5190]

I’m in the beginning thoughts to this…after watching this step do you feel before attaching ceiling boards etc. would a thin cork strip be beneficial between the ply wood and the steel frame? My thought is additional noise reduction and shock absorption to possibly prevent bolts from working loose. Your thoughts…new subscriber enjoy how you explain what your doing so those of us researching can gain knowledge…thanks

[@VanOfAction]

Hi Richard - thanks so much for joining the community and taking the time to comment, Personally I don't see any advantage to adding a cork strip that outweighs the time it would take and the height you'd lose. Drawing the bolts and washers into and compressing the plywood creates some tension. We've driven about 11,000 km with that ceiling and it's as good as new. I would only use 3/4 inch plywood for this operation. Solid lumber will shrink and that could create more of an issue for you. Looking forward to hearing from you again .... be well.