#Porthole window for van windows#
Porthole - Porthole windows can provide the benefits of bringing light in without the commitment of cutting large holes.
#Porthole window for van install#
You can also order factory windows from the passenger version of your van and install them in the proper locations in your panel van as many have the same body panel cutout locations that allow for seamless installation. Factory windows are usually available for the rear doors and slider door. Factory - Most factory windows in newer vans are fixed.The van metal is sandwiched between the outside frame and an inner trim ring using screws to hold it altogether.įixed windows are a solid piece of glass that has no openings. This frame slots in the hole in the side of the van. Rubber-mounted camper van windows are where a glass window sits in a large rubber frame. They typically come in exact sizes designed specifically for a certain make and model, as the vehicle will have panels ready to take these windows. They have a very flush fit, keeping the same smooth lines as the van exterior. Bolts, clamps or screws are not normally used. What are the different types of van windows?īonded camper van windows are normally attached to a van by a strong adhesive. Adding a window or two can really open up the space and make it feel larger. After all, most camper vans are less than 100 sq/ft and most of that space is taken up by beds and cabinets. Even one window can do wonders for the perception of how open the inside of a van feels. Windowless vans can feel like being in a submarine. This can be especially nice on rainy or snowy days when spending time outside isn’t an option. Windows are a wonderful way to bring nature inside. Natural light also means that powered lights don’t need to be used during the day and this helps conserve energy.Īlong with the light windows provide comes the view! After all, the purpose of a camper van is to explore the beauty this world has to offer. Windows provide a great light source during the day to help brighten up the inside space. Windowless vans can feel dark and cramped. Cracking a window to exchange the air can help mitigate this issue.Īnother main reason to add windows during a van conversion is what they can do to the feel of the space inside a van. The temperature difference from outside to inside creates an ideal environment for condensation and the inside can quickly transform into an icy cave. This becomes even a bigger issue when winter camping. Water from cooking food, burning propane and even breathing all contribute to increased levels of moisture in the air. Many things done in camper vans tend to create high humidity environments. Just remember that the inside of a van can only get as cool as the outside air. They can help keep air moving on a hot day.
To a degree, windows allow for some control of the temperature within a van. Combined with a roof mounted exhaust fan, windows are the perfect way to add the necessary intake to effectively exchange the air in your van.
Opening a window is a simple and effective way to improve air flow. A good ventilation system helps exchange air by bringing in clean, fresh air from outside and exhausting hot, humid (and sometimes smelly) air. The main benefit of adding windows to a camper van is improved ventilation. This guide lays out the benefits and drawbacks as well as the different types and location options for camper van windows. There are many things to consider and decisions to make when deciding to add windows to your van. One of the first things to tackle in a van conversion process is to install windows. There may be rear windows but the sides and slider door are often solid panels. Whether it’s a Transit, Sprinter or Promaster, many people find themselves in the same position at the start of any van conversion process.