Having trouble with your campervan windows?
We’re not just talking about being able to see the view properly; we’re talking about the little issues that have a big impact. The ones that we often brush aside or leave for later, but with the wet winter weather and plunging temperatures just around the corner it’s time to check your windows for these signs that they’re not performing at their best, and to upgrade your campervanning experience with the right replacement windows.
They’re scratched or cracked
Most UK and continental-built campervans have acrylic windows, which cannot be repaired if they sustain any major cracks or chips. This includes crazing - a collection of tiny, barely visible cracks along the surface of the window - that can occur if the wrong cleaning solution is used.
The good news is that, since acrylic is shatterproof and strong, these windows don’t crack easily. It will take a hard, direct impact to the edge or centre of the pane to crack it to the point of needing to be replaced. However, if you do start to notice multiple small cracks, or signs of crazing, then it is already time to start thinking about sourcing a replacement.
The panes look cloudy
Double-glazed windows are composed of two acrylic panels that are bonded together with an adhesive. If the adhesive layer between them breaks down then the two can begin to separate, allowing moisture to seep inside this space and create a foggy, cloudy effect that is known as delamination.
In most cases, delamination is easy to mistake for excessive condensation, but since it is within the window it can significantly impair its visibility. If you notice any of your older windows starting to appear permanently cloudy past the point of being steamed up, then this is likely delamination.
In minor cases, delamination can be repaired by removing the old adhesive and applying a new layer, but if the window is cracked, then you won’t be able to do so. The structure will be permanently weakened, and rainwater will keep getting caught inside the window, rather than running off it, and so it will need to be replaced.
They keep letting heat out
When extreme temperatures hit, campervan windows keep the heat inside and the cold winter air out. This means that you have your windows to thank for being able to sleep in a warm campervan during your winter road trips, but it also means that if your vehicle is failing to keep the heat inside then your windows are likely to blame.
Opting for a thick window cover or a thermal screen will help to keep your campervan warm, but only if the windows themselves are performing as they should. Since most windows for campervans are double glazed, if they are not living up to your expectations as temperature-control measures then it’s time to inspect them and their seals to find the cause of any heat loss.
The seals have deteriorated
This is less of an issue with the windows and more of an issue with their fittings, but if the window seals in your campervan have become worn down over then this will start to impact the performance of your windows.
There are a few key indicators that your window seals need to be replaced:
● The windows are frequently letting water in, despite there being no signs of cracks or delamination.
● There are visible gaps between the seals and window, often caused by shrinkage.
● Wind is forcing its way into the campervan through these cracks between the seals and the window, or the seals and the side of the vehicle.
● The seals themselves are brittle or cracked.
● The seals are beginning to lose their elasticity and are failing to provide the tight seal needed for insulation and weatherproofing.
Provided that there are no visible signs of damage to the window and you are confident that the window itself is not the cause of any leaks or drafts, then replacing the seals is often all that is needed to restore this tight seal.
You can’t open them anymore
This might not sound like much of a pressing issue now whilst it is cold and rainy, but just because you might not need to open your campervan windows over winter does not mean you should put this off until spring.
If the windows that are stuck are sliding or hinged ones then don’t worry - they might have become hard to move after not being opened for a while, or a few water droplets may have become frozen and caused the window to stick shut. A quick clean and a small amount of lubrication on the sliders or hinges is usually all that is needed to get them moving again, but if this does not solve it then they may have become warped.
Warping is caused by a fast and intense change in external temperatures, among other factors, and results in the window pane being bent or bowed without breaking. Warped windows will be easy to spot as they are a very visual issue, but they cannot be straightened out again, so they will need to be replaced as soon as you notice them.
They look mismatched
Finally, if there is still something wrong with the windows in your campervan but you just can’t put your finger on it, then it might be that one is a non-genuine copy or that it’s not the right window for that part of the campervan.
Our range includes windows for campervan side panels, sliding doors and rear doors, so get in touch with us to verify that you have the right windows for your vehicle. All of our windows for campervans are genuine, and E-mark approved, and are available in various tints, so find a replacement window that ticks all your boxes in our full range.
Replacement campervan windows
Don’t let non-genuine or damaged windows hold your adventures back any longer.
Whether your issue lies with the seals and fixtures, or with the window itself, please fill in our contact form today and we will get back to you with the best campervan windows for your requirements.