Date:         Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:42:26 -0900
Reply-To:     Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET>
Subject:      "Permanent" poptop insulation
Comments: To: David Vickery <david_vickery@yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=Windows-1252

I've considered buying a potop insulation kit but I have been put off by th=
e idea of putting it up and taking down each time.=A0 Has anyone made a sna=
p on or velcro on set that you can leave up throughout the winter that does=
n't get in the way of closing the poptop.=A0 Seems like just another layer =
even if it is as thin as a curtain would help a lot.=A0
Thanks,
David

Hi David:
I think the problem is in order to get an effective R-value, you need to have some thickness or air space to whatever covering you apply.  The warm window product that Jonce sells is about the best product I can think of, but you're absolutely right that it's too bulky to leave up permanently.

If you're willing to settle for less, you can look at a product called Temptrol.  This is essentially a fabric with a metallic covering.  You can put the metallic covering facing towards the outside, and you'll be left with a white fabric on the interior.  This controls 95% of the radiant heat that would go through the canvas.  The stuff is really thin, designed to back window coverings and such and I believe it could be closed with the regular canvas without interference.

Troy