Too many windows

[Ballenxj]

Hi all, As I mentioned in the introduction area, I have a 93 GMC Safari. Problem is that it is a window passenger van. The seats can either come out, (which I think is probably best) or fold down to make a bed. I want to remove those to make room for a regular mattress bed. <br />But what do I do about the windows? Someone once said I could paint them Black from the inside, but I still feel that is way too much glass. <br />Other than that, I really like the van.<br />Idea's and suggestions now would really be appreciated.<br />Or should I give up and look for another van? <img src="/images/boards/smilies/rolleyes.gif" alt="" align="absmiddle" border="0" /><br />-Bruce

 

[ice_maiden]

I have a 94 Pyl Voyager with the same window condition.... my windows were already tinted so my solution was to buy some of those silver sunscreens at the dollarstore..&nbsp; I cut them to fit each window..&nbsp; This way I can remove and fold away the ones I want gone when I am driving.&nbsp; After that I drilled small pilot holes for eye hook in the corner of each window. Top and bottom.&nbsp; From this I made curtains using bungee cords for the rods.&nbsp; If you want them out of the way you just unhook them from one side and hook it with it's partner on the other side.<br /><br />This serves several purposes.&nbsp; It helps insulate, it blocks light and adds privacy but still leaves everything so you can open it back up if need be.&nbsp; If you want to open a window the curtains will continue to block light

 

[Seraphim]

We made night covers for our windows out of sheet ABS plast (about 1/8") and velcro.&nbsp; No reason they couldb't stay up permantly, or take down if you decided you liked the view.&nbsp; Insulation could be glued to the inside of the panels to go against the glass.

 

[gypsydreamer]

edited

 

[Willy]

What works to insulate, let light in, and provide privacy is coroplast. You know, the stuff that's like corrugated cardboard, but is made of plastic? I prefer the translucent clear (for light) but you can get opaque black (or other colors), tape or friction fit to the windows, and VIOLA! instant privacy.. and can be removed at any time. Thing is, that stuff provides a fair amount of insulation, trapped air + plastic, given the channels are going sideways instead of up 'n down (minimizes convection). ..Willy.

 

[Ballenxj]

Thanks for all the fast replies Willy, Ann, Bear, &amp; Ice Maiden. I'll look into those idea's. <img src="/images/boards/smilies/cool.gif" alt="" align="absmiddle" border="0" /><br />-Bruce

 

[macho momma]

BEEN RUMMAGING AROUND THE NET &amp; SINCE i,M TEARING MY VAN DOWN TO METAL TO ISULATE , SOMEONE SAID IF YU DON,T WANT THE WINDOWS , TAKE OUT &amp; SHEET PANEL THE HOLES(IF YUR REPAINTING LIKE ME) THIS GUY HAD HIS BED IN BAK SO AT END OF BED HE COVERED THE SHEET PANEL W FRAMED WOOD &amp; MOUNTED HIS TV TO WATCH AT FOOT OF BED !! LOOKS COOL!!IF YUR NOT DOING MAJOR WORK PUT THE FLEX STUFF (AT HOME DEPOT) LOOKS LIKE THE WINDSHIELD MYLAR COVERS..&amp; IT COMES IN A ROLL ..CUT WHAT YU NEED &amp; TAPE.. X0

 

[SoulRaven]

There is a product that most van-dwellers use as insulation but also reflects heat from the sun... The product is called "Reflectix" and works great in windows and as insulation... Buy a roll at any home depot like store or buy off of Amazon... A roll 2 foot x 24 feet will do ya just fine...

 

[Les H]

Windows? Someone mention windows?? Yup, i got em, 5 down each side. Tint to max allowed by law and refletix will do wonders for you.

 

[peacetara]

I have no coverings over my windows at all (most of them are tinted tho). I am urban dwelling in cities, I normally change clothes and stuff under a sheet, but if it's dark outside with out much light, which is where I like to park anyways, then I don't bother with the sheet. &nbsp;It works for me. &nbsp;I *LOVE* being able to see out the windows. &nbsp;I've had people walk right by me and never even glance or notice that I'm in there.<br /><br />I imagine eventually I'll want something, especially as I start to venture away from the coast more, and end up with more extreme weather to deal with. &nbsp;I'll probably go the way of Reflectix, it seems everyone here pushes the stuff. I'll probably cover at least the inside facing portion with fabric tho, to make it look nicer.

 

[Ballenxj]

Thanks again to all that replied. <img src="/images/boards/smilies/biggrin.gif" alt="" align="absmiddle" border="0" /><br />

<span id="post_message_1274886641">Windows? Someone mention windows?? Yup, i got em, 5 down each side. Tint to max allowed by law and refletix will do wonders for you. </span> <br />

<br />I believe you can go as dark as you want down the side and back windows, just leave the front passenger and side front windows legal. <img src="/images/boards/smilies/smile.gif" alt="" align="absmiddle" border="0" /><br />-Bruce

 

[Guest]

I made rod pocket curtains with pockets at both the top and bottom, mounted with spring tension rods.&nbsp; I doubled the heavy fabric for extra insulation and light proofing.&nbsp; I did have to remove the pleated shades from the four windows on the doors to allow space for the rods.&nbsp; The others I left up (extra insulation).

<br /><br />In my first van I made window covering the same way as this and it was terrific! &nbsp;I had the tall, narrow windows (4 on one side and 2 on the other) and I could slide the curtains into the space between the windows. I also made the same curtains for the side door windows and the back door windows. &nbsp;I used fabric from drapes which I purchased in a thrift store.