SHOULD YOU INSTALL WINDOWS IN YOUR VAN CONVERSION!?!
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- Опубликовано: 5 сен 2024
- Window, or not to window, that is the question!
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Hello friends!! If you found this video helpful, let me know by leaving a comment! Doesn't matter what the comment is! Thank you and love you all!!
none of the cons apply if you just leave the window coverings (which are made of thermal insulation) in the windows all of the time!
Then just have the option of removing them when you’re someplace awesome! This is exactly like having no windows only with the option to upgrade in any moment, And then to go back the next moment.
You get the privacy, the thermal insulation, and you don’t have to worry about storing them because they’re in the windows.
Just buy all the windows all around! The whole point is to live the dream yes?
The old window covers have seen better days😂
Hahah hey we've gotten a good use out of them
I'm converting a passenger Vanagon and I deleted the two driver side windows with composite panels that I patterned off the original glass to install with OE style rubber seals. The weight savings was very noticable as I was handling the glass and composite panels during the process.
I then installed a small 10x33 CRL awning style window in one of the block-offs, which is great. I also installed shore hookups in the same panel, saving me the anxiety and potential future rust issues of cutting holes in the side of the body.
I don't want any window that I can't open, and I don't want any opening windows that I can't leave open in the rain.
I spent several months in an Adventurewagen high top camper with awning-style windows and a glass sunroof in the fiberglass top. THAT was great. The windows up high made a world of difference for an open, spacious feeling. Based on that camper, I'd rather have a panel van with windows up high versus a full window van with an opaque roof.
I'm in the middle of shopping for a promaster to turn it into my mini house. I've been struggling with the question of the windows so this video has helped. Doesn't hurt that you're a cutie 🥰
You mentioned something I hadn't considered, the weight on the slider. I already sometimes have to make a second attempt to close it even without a window. But, I hate pulling out at a T intersection and not being able to see. Dilemmas! thanks for all the info to help with my decisions.
You’re very welcome Sarah!
Agree the additional weight is a factor. However, I installed a CR Lawrence with the small swing out vent. I found that by keeping that vent open about 1/2 inch lets the door close easier, in that the air you are compressing into the van can escape out the vent. I know that sounds like complete BS, but in my case I find it to be true. Slider is now much easier to close, as long as I have that vent open a little bit. Not to mention the MaxxAir breaths much better.
@@patrickg3372 Interesting!!!
I love windows!!!
Same!
My wife and I have been building out our 2020 promaster high top. We aren't planning on doing any windows. We wanted to own it for a while and try out all different scenarios before committing to the cost.
We also really like not having all the radiant heat going into it. For now we are content with two maxxair fans and just opening the slider for views.
I will say that the natural light + the T intersection scenario may have us rethink that strategy 😁
Thanks for posting man. Appreciate all your videos.
You’re welcome! It’s all about personal preference. I think either decision you make you’ll be happy with! But it is a tough decision!
I'm doing what you are, wait and see. I know i would love the daytime light but if weather permits I'll open the doors. On cloudy rainy days, I'm sure it'll be dark and dreary inside. When I do my build, I'm planning it for a possible future window or 2 install. Small windows though, not the typical large window in the slider. I will be installing 2 awning windows on each side over the bed. About 10" x 33" and I had them ceramic tinted.
If you have windows look into 3m ceramic tint shuts out almost all heat! Especially if you do the windshield like I did, keeps the cabin much cooler in hot environments.
Interesting! I’ll look into it. Thanks James!
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds 👍 one the best upgrades I did well worth the 💰
@@jamesdorsijiuhjuh6151 awesome!!!! Glad you enjoy it!
Yes I want to do this!
I have a 2021 promaster. I noticed that the The sliding door opens and shuts super easy compared to my old sprinter. I just checked and the slider window is indeed made out of a plastic/plexiglass type of matwrial. I didn’t notice that until this video 👍🏻
Hey!! Rumor confirmed 😂😂😂
Thank for the clear advice
Your welcome Eric!
Some good points. On balance windows are a good thing. Curtains with insulating backing work well on rear and side windows. Great videos...keep them coming.
Yup! Thats what he used for our window covers, they worked well for awhile but just haven't lasted!
Glad to see Logan made the cut in the video toasting the window cutout! Still waiting for my van and driver.....
Hahah had to include it!
We don’t have any windows in the back. We love the privacy and less work taking window covers on/off and taking up storage space. We leave the slider open when we’re camping.
My PM has side and back windows...But I drive a 45 foot bus and I depend on the mirrors, rocking in my seat catches blind spots. I think the only regret with the windows I'll have is the heat!! 🤔 thanks for ALL your videos...very helpful.
Right!!! It gets so hot! I have mine covered all the time
You're a natural in front of the camera
Thank you!!!
I was doubting a lot at first to about windows. I wanted windows in the back and the slider, but then I found a van that tacked off all the boxes for me except the windows... I also wanted them to look outside and enjoy the view... so I tought that I could always add them later... and now, I only want one in the slider for the visibility because it’s quit annoying and unsafe to drive when you can’t look over your right shoulder. I’m used to driving now without a rear view mirror, but the slider door window is a must for me.
Thank you for another video!
Very well said! You’re exactly right!
Very nice build. Simple yet beautiful.
Thanks!!!
Thanks for this post. I haven't see one vanlifer who wasn't terrified to install their windows, or should i say, cut a giant hole. I did 3! The company I worked with took alot of time to help me understand my windows install and choices for my van. Van windows direct. ( they do carry CRL you mentioned). I HIGHLY advice following the instructions to the tee. i got black primer outside my window area and now i have a huggge headache of removing it off my white van. nightmare! Make sure to use the RIGHT amount of bonding agent and at the right spots. Don't press too much, or too little to squeeze it out. 2 of my 3 windows ended up with leaks because I didnt use enough. I'd advice that you watch several install videos with clean clean and organized youtubers/intallers. - Thanks for this vid. I was afraid you'd say you regret windows. I even got a little one in my Restroom.
Yeah windows are SUPER technical!! Glad you enjoy yours :)
Dude I just installed my window the other day! Taking notes for what I'll have to deal with 😂
Hahah perfect!! Good job on your window 🤘🏻
Thanks for the advice, I've just bought a driver's side (UK) glass sliding window, tinted. It'll be for the kitchen/cook station. Defo want windows all around the van.
Nice!
I loved all the information on windows. My van has no windows. I like the idea of having windows in the back doors, especially for driving. I'm doing to look at windows with slide opening abilities for extra ventilation. There is nothing like flying with the doors open! That could go for back door windows, too.
We also made the mistake of buying a sliding window with no ability to open - however - totally love having a window and couldn’t afford anything more at the time! ....maybe in our next build!
Hahah well we live and learn 🤷🏼♂️
Well done
Great info. Love your videos!
You’re welcome Don!
Totally agree with your "cons" list - the only window I've ever added to a van is in the slider.
Yeah the slider one is important! It’s just so heavy
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds couldn't you just install a smaller one?
Good to know, sometimes less is more!
Yes sir!!
Great video library of most things - nice pros and cons. After all that, I like a polycarbonate opener on my sliding door, and hopefully some opening in the back,- though watch the exhaust (maybe rood vent there). You mentioned you installed your own window (and had snapshot photo) but I didn’t see any video on that. That would be super useful. Thanks for all the sharing
I found no window in the slider door can actually be dangerous when you are trying to enter traffic from the median or left side of the road. That is reason enough to have one in the slider door so you can see oncoming traffic on your right behind you.
I agree
Thank you for the pros & cons.. I’m currently looking for a van.. mostly older 1995 ish due to budget I found one that is budget friendly a 92 ford club e wagon with windows all around which I wanted for natural light but worried about heating & cooling.. being a female traveling alone your pros list gave me things I hadn’t thought of and are greatly appreciated!!
I'm still considering a window behind the driver but It will limit what I can build there for storage, cabinets or cooking options.
Agreed. That is another factor!
Definitely getting window covers ha you’re so rt during the day it’s fine but wow one light on at night and you can be seen clear as day!! Having my sister sew us some magnetic window covers(she went to school for fashion design so she definitely has sewing skills). Those prices online are ridiculous.
The price is SO ridiculous!! We definitely didn’t go to school for fashion 👌🏻
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds 🤣🤣🤣
Very useful info for van life beginners like me. Thank you!
You’re very welcome
Excellent video. Thank you. I have a promaster 2021 Ext cab with no windows. I thought I wanted windows all around but... don't like the lack of insulation compromise. I'm going to put in rear door slider windows for cross ventilation with my max air in the front. You sold me on getting the slider door window and will pay the extra to have it slide open to cut down on the compression as someone else stated. I think I will go ahead and put in the rear quarter windows on both side because I can... and then call it a day.
Very nice!! Good luck :)
Great vid!
Thanks!
Thanks for sharing this. I have a a slider door, driver side and rear windows. None open but plan to install 2 roof fans for airflow. I like the idea of a lower platform bed too, even though I have a back up camera. Old school driver training has me prone to looking over my shoulder to check blind spots etc.
Can you tell me how you built out your open shelves? Dimensions etc? I'd like this over my galley area and also the bed area for more open access and less closed in feeling. I plan to use storage basket (like yours) to keep items organized.
It takes some adjusting to no constantly look over your shoulder when backing up hahah.
The open shelf was a lot easier than the closed cabinets. I basically just made it the width of the window and 11” deep.
It was just plywood and I used a piece of trim as the lip :)
@@AnkeneyVanBuildsawesome. I want to keep cost and weight down with your open shelf style!
What colour did you use for the lower? Is it a dark blue?
@@1lifewanderlust it’s actually a dark grey :)
Thanks
Welcome
I like the pros and cons but would love to know if you would recommend adding windows. I have to make a decision asap.....
If you have the budget for it, go for it!!!
Just bought a 2019 Promasterand am about to look into having windows installed. Right now I'm too chicken to do it myself. Altho that might change once I get the estimate. Going to add to the slider and 2 in the back sides above the bed. Thanks for the info.
Very nice!!! Good luck :)
Have you thought about "fixed" window covers. I'm kicking around the idea of taking two blackout curtains, black facing out (for stealth) and a pretty color facing in (to coordinate with the interior colors), sewing them together with rod pockets at the top and bottom. Hang them on metal rods with the ends bent into eyes and bolted above and below the window, like a tension rod situation. I'm not explaining this very well unfortunately. I got the idea from the curtains on the kitchen door at my grandma's house a million years ago. There were two panels on the window, she would slide them apart from the center during the day and pull them closed at night. You could even slip reflectix between the curtains and windows on super hot days if you needed to. Just a thought.....
Sounds like a great idea !
I want windows when we get our van but the security makes me nervous. Privacy and having someone break in through a window. Though apparently there’s a film you can add to make that near impossible which is cool.
Oh that’s is cool!
I read reviews on the film and apparently it isn't very effective.
I’m on the fence hard 😩 don’t wanna lose all the r value with a window but also want a Cross breeze for the maxx air fan. Hmmm decisions decisions, they’re endless 😂
I feel like EVERY decision in a van build is like that 😂
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds exactly. I haven’t even purchased the van yet either 😂
@@obey_giant it doesn’t get easier 😂
I really appreciate your pros and cons of having windows. I had actually considered getting a Ford Transit Wagon Medium Roof (same as a Ford Transit Cargo Van, except full of seats and with windows all around). Then taking out the seats, and doing a build out in that. That would be a lot of window covers to take down and put up! And I am concerned about especially the cold and insulation. Thanks! You always have such well though out comments and ideas.
Thanks Susan!
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds Still considering! It could be lovely, but overhead cabinets skimpy for sure. A sardine camper with great views:)
@@susanshaver912 I bought the 148 cargo van med roof. Hoping I don't regret the med roof - upper cabinets size issue. I bought without windows, am installing 2 awning windows over the bed. 10"x 33". Why are you buying a van full of seats that you don't want? And a bunch of windows.
I slammed the like button as hard as you slammed that door shut
That what I like to hear!!!
Great info! Very thought out so others can make a decision, thanks!
Thank you 🙏🏻
I Needed the slider and rear doors for Driving! I want to SEE Cross traffic!
Yeah super important
Nice
Hmm, loss of insulation and/or gain of heat. I may change my mind.
Decisions!
When will we see the PAWG again?
😂😂😂😂
Thanks for another great video and share! I would like to get a silver version of the Promaster, and from what you said, upgrade side window(s) to CR Lawrence tyoe, or better yet, an acrylic double pane one from Europe? All the BEST to you and Cheers from WA :)
Thank you and all the best to YOU Marty! Cheers!
Do you recommend a style of window coverings to make. I too do not want my big budget items to be covers. (eyes rolling). Maybe use some of my left over Thinsulate?
I cheaped out on my first set of widow covers, they were okay for what it was but over time the shrunk and started to fall apart. I bite the bullet and got a set of pretty good ones and they’re much better. I can’t remember what brand I got. Just googled a set and went with it
👍
Did u do a video on the electrical?
I have a few videos where I talk about it. Check out my “12V and ceiling video” and my “finishing touches video”
My next van build I’ll do a more detailed electrical video
I can't believe after looking at hundreds of van build videos I finally found you. Subscriber and bell for sure. We just bought our Promaster 2014 2 days ago. All these things we are thinking about. Love the comments about the windows. After your review me might move the big window out of the door and behind the driver instead. i never thought about the weight on the door. Question, is it safe to cut out one of those vertical ribs from the van to insert the window, I know that might be a silly question because you have to in order to get the window in but it just seems scary, like your cutting out the support system and the van wall will be weak. Thanks so much. I am watching everything you are doing.
Thanks for all the compliments and comments! Don’t cut into the main structure of the van! Those little pieces on the sheet metal
Is fine!
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds Wow, you answered me thank you!!!
@@msmargiek48 always !
window covers? what about pulldown blinds?
I have window covers and I talk about them in my previous video!!
@@AnkeneyVanBuilds sounds good. Thanks for your awesome vids.
@@hammyjames you’re welcome!!
Constantly great content
Thanks Howard !!
I want to add window that Open for cross ventilation and I don't want the same view as a submarine
Hahaha so many choices!
Thank u for the information
You’re welcome Blanche :)
Love your videos
Thanks 🙏🏻
Just found you and going through your vids since I'm getting a 21 promaster soon. I appreciate you sharing the tips and the mistakes you've made and learned from so we don't.
I like the over head fan, I love fresh air flow. Is it possible to add a screened, closeable vent somewhere low far away as possible, to pull air in when the fan is running?
You mention a good observation about outside security. Is there available a small outdoor security camera system?
I have the ability and tools being a former USAF aircraft mechanic. I'm excited to get the van and get started, probably gradually, and hit the road.
New sub, look forward to more vids.
Thanks for the sub and thank you for your service! What aircraft did you work on in the Air Force? Im currently a pilot for the UH60s in the Army.
I haven’t seen any vents but I’m sure they exists somewhere! That’s a great idea.
Same with the security system. There’s a company that makes some specific for vans, can’t remember the company. But I know a lot of the solo female vanlifers are sponsored by them.
That's awesome that you fly UH60s! Thanks for your service! I worked on the KC-135 and FB-111. I'll do some research on the two ideas I mentioned. I was leaning towards getting a promaster but now looking at transits.
@@sixstrings1063 right on! Those are awesome airplanes!
This is dope
Thanks!
Our 2020 Promaster van did not come with windows in the cargo area. Can anyone recommend a good slider window for it?
C.R. Laurence makes some good windows!
Smack it and thanks!!!
Perfect 👌🏻
Are there any more security concerns about having windows, especially those with sliders or tilt out features?
yup thats also a thing
The more the better I always say!!
Right on!!!
Where is your company based out of? Can I hire you to do some work on a van?
I’m out of Boise Idaho! Email me at ankeneyvanbuilds@gmail.com
yeetrdun
You look to the right, then you look in the camera, then you look to the left. Then you do it agaIn, a hundred times more.
Hey now talking to the camera is difficult and awkward. I’m doin my best lol
meow