Installing Windows on a Van

[citytravelfotos]

Has anyone here added windows to their van?   Like, windows to a cargo van?  I'm just trying to get a ballpark figure of how much it costs to install a window, thanks.

 

[Wabbit]

Either my google skills are slipping, or adding windows to a cargo van is not something that is done too often. I finally found this thread on page 3 of my search results for this forum. I also see that it went unanswered lol, not looking good!

I am trying to find a how to or if it is even possible to add windows to a cargo van yourself(without doing it at a shop). Anyone have experience with this? If so, thanks in advance!

 

[SoulRaven]

It's possible. Most conversion vans started out life as a cargo van which explains their noticeably lower gas mileage.

To make a long story short, you're just so much better off to start with a window van. The factory window/passenger vans aren't nearly as prone to leaking as those with aftermarket windows. The pop out design of the factory windows also allows many of them to be open in the rain, where sliders don't fare so well.

It's also much easier to black out any unwanted windows than it is to add new ones.

Good Luck!

 

[Wabbit]

I really see the benefits of starting with a passenger van, but I also want to have the "cool factor" of a finished interior. I imagine it with wood paneling wall/roof(the nice looking stuff) and lighting and switches lol. I will most likely go with a passenger van(2 travelers, need the room) and in bad weather the extra space will be appreciated. I tell myself that the issue is settled in regards to what type I am going to start searching for, then I see some decked out interior...lol.

So I guess now I need to look into a passenger van in which some of the windows can be opened. I am talking about the 15 passenger van models, not sure if any of them come stock with windows that open in rear. I just need to make a decision and then tattoo it somewhere so I stop going back and forth!

 

[akrvbob]

It's very easy to add windows to a cargo van. I have a cargo trailer and added two vents to the roof and two windows to the sides and it's all just very basic work. The cargo van is exactly the same thing!! Instead of cutting a hole in the roof and putting a vent in, you cut a hole in the sides and put a window in. Anyone can do it!! 


Camper windows are very common and you can find them in every conceivable size, shape and openings. The best source is ebay!! Just do a search on camper windows or RV windows and you'll find a ton of them both new and used. I got one that was one unit and it was an emergency exit, windows that opened and had screens. Best of all, it was real cheap. 

The thing is don't cut the ribs, then you are doing structural work, you don't want that. Since the cargo van is already exposed you can see exactly how big a window you can put in an open area. You won't have any problem finding a window to fit it perfectly.

Once the windows are in you can insulate it and put paneling on it exactly like you want. It really sounds perfect for you!

Check out this post I did on a friends conversion of his cargo van:
http://www.cheaprvliving.com/blog/brians-van-conversion-not-enjoying-life/

He didn't want any windows but he did put in a vent. Remember, putting in a vent is exactly the same as putting in a window, it's just on the walls and not on the roof. In this shot you can see he insulated, then paneled and later cut a hole around the vent. Easy! You can do the same thing with your van!

 

It came out looking really good, and exactly how he wanted it!

 

[Wabbit]

Thanks Bob, I think after reading your encouragement and the logic behind it, I prob am going to go cargo van. Quite a bit more expensive, but if I am going to be spending 5 years+ in it, waking up and seeing it the way I envisioned it will be worth it. Rent is paid up to May, then it's tent camping and van shopping! Wheeeeeeee! Lol

 

[highdesertranger]

I have done it many times. I need a little more info to give you instructions. are you insulating and installing paneling on the interior? also if you are installing any but the smallest window you must get van windows. they have a curve to them that matches the curve of you van sides. if you try to put a flat window in you will have bad results, guarantied. highdesertranger

 

[Wabbit]

I do plan on insulating. Not going to go overboard on it, but would love to be able to get up some reflextix with the 1/2 inch space from metal(bubble wrap if that suffices as air gap), then an inch or so of foam or polyiso board(would like it if the insulation was flat with the ribs), then a layer of plywood, then the wall covering(some form of paneling material). Not sure if I need a vapor barrier under paneling, but if recommended, that would also be there. Also not sure if plywood is needed, but I am planning on small shelves/cupboards where it won't affect head space. Now that I know I am going to commit to a cargo van, I will have to do more than light reading on the "how to" of it.

As to window size, they will have to fit between ribs. Possibly 12x12 towards rear on both sides. Circular seems like it would be spiffy, but I also want to be able to open them...so prob not those.

 

[cdiggy]

I do plan on insulating. Not going to go overboard on it, but would love to be able to get up some reflextix with the 1/2 inch space from metal(bubble wrap if that suffices as air gap), then an inch or so of foam or polyiso board(would like it if the insulation was flat with the ribs), then a layer of plywood, then the wall covering(some form of paneling material). Not sure if I need a vapor barrier under paneling, but if recommended, that would also be there. Also not sure if plywood is needed, but I am planning on small shelves/cupboards where it won't affect head space. Now that I know I am going to commit to a cargo van, I will have to do more than light reading on the "how to" of it.

As to window size, they will have to fit between ribs. Possibly 12x12 towards rear on both sides. Circular seems like it would be spiffy, but I also want to be able to open them...so prob not those.

Be careful with the paneling. Previous owner of my truck used cheap stuff (particle board stuff) and it absorbed moisture throughout the course of its life. When I ripped it out it came out in little itty bitty pieces and fiber dust. I am tossing around the idea of FRP (fiber reinforced plastic) that they use in commercial kitchens and bathrooms. Stuff is expensive $30 to $60 a sheet depending on color but is bullet proof and water proof. Very washable.