No window in the side door...

[ChezCheese:-)]

Studying the pics of our new van from the auction, I suddenly realize that there is no window in the sliding side door. :s

What would be easier: having someone put one in, or trading out the door altogether?

 

[Allan Greenblazer]

I think getting a window installed would be much easier than getting a door replacement. A door replacement would have potential issues with alignment, and paint matching. Adding a window is a task that many DIY types have accomplished, so it's probably the easiest/cheapest route. Also you could install an RV style window instead of a standard van window which is almost certainly a plus for van dwellers. I don't have a window in my slider and I don't think I would want one. I suggest trying to live without the window first, you might find it works. Benefits of no window are easier for stealth, insulation, less weight, and you don't have to cover the window for insulation purposes. Most people living in vans cover their windows if they have them, but that is just my opinion based on what I have seen.

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[ChezCheese:-)]

Good points. We are planning on having a window put in on the opposite wall anyway, so we may as well put in a window on the door at the same time.

We are not concerned with stealth -- ours will be mainly a camping and roadtripping van. Since deciding to get a cargo van for this purpose, now I see these white vans everywhere and many are clearly vandwelling vans...I am not convinced of their "stealth". They might as well have neon signs on them saying "VANDWELLER HEREIN".

 

[Allan Greenblazer]

I get what you are saying about stealth. Keep comfort in mind as well as storage space. If you are sleeping in your van, it is likely that you will want your windows covered for various reasons cold, heat, and privacy to name a few, and you will need a place to store the covers.

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[Beeps and eats]

Install a window that fits your needs.
You get the best of both worlds that way.

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[captain]

I don't get the stealth thing. What are you hiding from?

 

[ChezCheese:-)]

So I'm looking at the different kinds of aftermarket windows. I want them to be openable, slideable, or have a sliding section below. Then I'm thinking about security, and I'm thinking how easy it would be for someone to slash the screen, reach in and pop open the door and make off with your stuff or worse, your whole van.

What's the solution for that?

 

[Beeps and eats]

Have mesh installed so you can open it, the tilt out windows work best for that.
But the opening is just large enough for the release latch so no finger room.
Plus you have the wires in the mesh to hang things on.

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