VOILIER ODINvideo

THERMAL REFLECTIVE INSULATION FOR PORTLIGHT

26 January 2025 · 25 min · 6K views

What this video covers

To mitigate condensation and heat loss in cold weather, a sailor installs custom-cut thermoreflective bubble insulation over the aluminum-framed portlights of a sailboat.2:15 The material, typically used for garage doors, costs approximately 25 euros for a 6-square-meter roll.9:25 The owner cuts the insulation to fit the 70-by-70 centimeter hatches, applying it in double layers to the interior and securing it with adhesive tape and existing fabric covers.10:14 While Armaflex insulation remains a preferred choice for larger surfaces like the chain locker and ceiling due to its adhesive properties, the thermoreflective bubble material provides an effective, low-cost solution for portlights.17:34 The project also includes re-inflating fenders to 200–250 grams of pressure using an electric pump and applying grease to valves to prevent salt buildup and air leaks.6:07 Following these maintenance tasks, the boat departs La Rochelle for a three-hour coastal test sail in light 8–10 knot winds.22:36 The insulation successfully reduces interior condensation and cold transfer through the metal frames during overnight temperatures near -3°C.15:59

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