How to Install Van Conversion Windows
When you are working on your DIY van conversion, one of the important steps is deciding how many windows you want in your van. It’s important to decide where you want the windows, as this can really help with ventilation throughout the van. Here is how to install van conversion windows, with our complete step-by-step guide for installing our camper van windows.
When we bought our 2018 Ram Promaster, it came without any side windows. It only had the 2 windows in the back. We knew we wanted to install some windows. We think its important to have more windows for a couple reasons, ventilation being one. Since we have 2 dogs that will be with us in the van, we decided to put 2 windows in the back over the bed. We thought this would help with air flow. Since we already have 2 maxxair fans in the van, we figured this would create a lot of ventilation.
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Why you need to install van windows in your conversion
Having windows in your van is an important part of ventilation in the van. Being able to open a window will help with air flow through out the van. Not only that, it will help with smells in the van. It is also nice to add a little bit more light into the van. We also really wanted it, so we could enjoy the beautiful scenery outside.
Related: How to Build a Campervan Bed Frame
Choose how many windows and where to put the windows
Most people put windows on the slider door, which helps with the blind spot. This is also a popular choice so you can look out your window when you are parked somewhere.
We decided to go with 2 bunk windows in the back, because that is where are bed is, plus it allows for a great cross-breeze with both of them open.
You don’t want to put TOO many windows in, as you will lose a lot of insulation that way. You need to decide what is a good balance between having some windows for light and airflow, but still staying warm and having privacy in the van.
Where to buy van windows
Some of the most popular places to buy van windows are:
CR Laurence
CR Laurence windows are a popular choice when it comes to van conversion windows. They have vented and fixed all-glass look. They have a variety of windows that fit almost any type of van.
Motion windows
Motion windows have half slider and T-slider windows available. The windows from motion windows for the various ProMaster models are all uniquely custom manufactured and built to order. They have multiple sizes and styles to choose from. Motion windows is located in Vancouver, Washington.
Van windows Direct
Depending on the van you have, Van Windows Direct has a ton of options that will fit. Van windows direct is located in Victorville, California.
RV windows
Not every van will be able to fit RV windows, but if you can, this is a good way to save money. You can buy RV windows and fit them yourself, like we did. You can follow our video to watch how we installed ours.
Why we chose RV windows for our Promaster
Due to the curvature of the Ram Promaster, you can actually use non-curved windows in the Promaster. Because of this, we were able to use RV windows, which are flatter than van windows. We were able to save over $400 on our windows, because we used windows from a RV store that were $50 each.
But because we found our windows at an RV store, we didn’t really have a guide or instructions for how to install them, so some of our install is made up as we go. It’s not pretty, but it works!
What you need to install van windows in your camper van
- jigsaw
- drill
- woodworking clamps
- metal file
- cardboard or paper
- butyl tape
- painters tape
- van window
- rustoleum
DIY window Installation steps
Here are the step-by-step van installation steps.
If you prefer to watch the installation steps, you can watch our window installation window here:
- Once we decided where we were placing the windows, we had to remove a rib on each side of the van, before cutting our hole
- We traced the smaller side of the window on paper to make a template
- We measured where we wanted the windows, since we had 2 we wanted them to be fairly even
- We taped the template to the inside of the van wall
- We drilled a hole in each rounded corner of the template
- Then we moved the template to the outside, using those holes we just drilled
- Now we can trace around the template on the outside of the van
- Before we start cutting, we put tape right on the lines to protect the van when we cut
- Now you’re ready to begin cutting the window **we recommend hanging up a blanket/towel or some plastic on the inside of the van to catch the metal shards**
- Make sure the window fits in the hole, if not, keep cutting
- Once the window fits, we filed it down a bit and then put some rusteouleum on it to protect it
- If your window didn’t come with a window trim, you can make your own by tracing the window claim ring.
- Put some glue on the back of your window trim, attach to the van and then clamp it for a few hours to get it to hold
- Once the window trim is glued in, apply some butyl tape around the edge of the window
- We applied some windex to the butyl tape so we can make some adjustments while its still drying
- Once the window is in, screw the window clamp ring nice and tight
- Scrape the remaining butyl tape off the van with a putty knife
- Put the window trim onto the wall of the van, so the window can be clamped onto something
Related: Ceiling Installation in DIY Campervan Conversion
Van conversion window install complete!
And there you have it, we now have 2 back windows in our van. We love the way it turned out, and it creates enough airflow for us and the dogs. Hopefully this helps you install your van conversion windows! If you need any help, comment down below!
Other DIY van conversion posts you might be interested in:
- Which is the best van for a van conversion?
- Installing a fan in your conversion van
- What to use for your van insulation
- Campervan ceiling installation
- How to build a van bed frame
