Renault Trafic 3 L1H1 Roof Lining – 5mm Poplar Plywood

Why 5mm poplar plywood?

Poplar is the go-to material for van ceilings: lightweight (~3 kg/m²), it won't overload the roof. Its natural flexibility allows it to adapt to the slight curves of the roof without forcing, and its cross-ply structure gives it excellent screw retention. It's easy to work with a jigsaw and a standard drill-driver.

CNC manufacturing from exact template

Each ceiling is CNC cut in our Breton workshop from the template taken from a Renault Trafic 3 L1H1. Pre-cuts are engraved on the back – visible during installation, invisible on the surface. They precisely indicate where to install the LED ceiling light, how to run the cable conduit, and how to adapt to the presence of a partition. No measurements are required from your side.

Insulation and installation sequence

Insulate the roof first (rock wool, sprayed polyurethane, or foam panels). The ceiling then goes over it. Position the two panels dry before screwing to adjust the lateral play. Screw into the transverse ribs of the roof with 3.5×25 mm self-drilling screws, spaced approximately 25 cm apart. For a removable and neat result, M4 or M5 threaded inserts crimped into the reinforcements allow the ceiling to be unscrewed without damaging the sheet metal.

Integration with side linings

The ceiling is ideally installed before the side panels. The linings then frame the edges of the ceiling, hiding screw heads and joints. If you are installing recessed spotlights, run the cables between the ceiling and the insulation before final fixing.

Raw or oiled finish: which to choose?

Raw: the wood is untreated. Ideal if you want to paint, varnish, or cover the ceiling with fabric before installation. The finish is entirely up to you.

Oiled: impregnated with a natural oil compliant with toy standard EN 71-3, odorless and solvent-free. The ceiling can be installed directly bare or behind a light covering.

Compatibility

This ceiling is cut for the Renault Trafic 3 L1H1. The same cut is compatible with the Fiat Talento, Opel Vivaro B and C, and Nissan NV300, which share the same platform.

Technical questions

Should the ceiling be glued or screwed? Screwing into the reinforcements is the strongest method. Glue alone is not recommended in a vehicle subject to vibrations.

What thickness of insulation can be placed behind it? From 20 to 50 mm depending on the available height in your roof.

Can additional openings be drilled? Yes, poplar is easily cut with a hole saw or jigsaw to integrate fans, sockets, or other elements.