Owning an RV is not the cheapest of hobbies to have, but there are things that you can do to cut down on the costs of maintenance. For example, if your RV windows need to be replaced, this is something that you can do on your own. There is no need to take your RV to the shop if you are in the market for new RV windows. As long as you are diligent and careful with the installation, it’s fairly easy to do all by yourself.
Here’s how you can replace your RV windows with the help of a friend and save some money to put towards your next trip.
Buying the right RV windows
Before you start, the most important thing you need to do is to make sure that you are buying the right RV windows. Make sure that you have all of the exact specifications that you need before going to the store. Look on the inside of your window frames, because that is where you will find the specifications on window sizing. If you can’t find it, measure the window opening manually.
If you are looking to upgrade your RV windows, check out insulated or tinted ones, which could help to control the temperature inside the vehicle and protect the windows from UV damage. But before you start looking at new RV windows, make sure that you have the right specifications so that your new window will fit into the opening smoothly and easily.
To make sure that the specifications are right, check the part number of your old window. This should be listed on the inside of the frame. This part number should be visible once you have removed the window, and it will give you the exact specifications: depth, height and overall construction details.
Removing your old RV windows
Removing your original RV windows is fairly easy to do. All you really need to do is remove all of the screws that are located around the perimeter of the frame. These screws are located on the inside of the vehicle. There are about 15 to 20 screws that you need to remove in the case of most RV windows.
Have someone help you by standing outside so that they can take hold of the RV windows once you push them out. If you are having trouble pushing the RV windows out once the screws have been removed, take a small putty knife and slide it under the window flange from the exterior in order to pry them out gently.
Once you have removed all of the RV windows, scrape off any tape or sealant that might be stuck on the wall of the window openings in order to prepare the openings for your new windows.
Preparing your new RV windows for installation
To prepare your new RV windows for installation, place them face down on a soft surface and apply the bulb seal tape around the window flange. The best way to do this is by starting from the bottom center of the window and then putting the tape on around the perimeter until you reach the point at which you started.
Installing your RV Windows
Once the bulb seal tape has been applied, place the window into the opening from the outside of your RV. There should be someone helping you from the outside by aligning the trim ring and then fastening the window with the screws that came with your new window.
Once all of the screws have been installed, the window should be secured in place nicely.
To make sure that the RV windows are sealed perfectly, run a bead of caulk around the perimeter of the window from the exterior. This should make sure that you are fully protected from the elements and that your RV windows are securely in place.