How to Insulate RV Windows for Winter

Insulating RV windows can have many benefits in terms of cost-saving, health and safety. Adding an insulation layer to your RV’s windows can help cut heating costs by not allowing heat to escape in cold weather, thus saving energy. It can help decrease frequent use and wear-and-tear of your heating and AC system. 

Using alternative ways to heat your RVs can also cause potential safety hazards. Heating techniques such as gas heaters, running stoves or any heaters which burn fuel require proper ventilation. Without such arrangements, your RV can be filled with carbon monoxide or other harmful gases. 

As moisture is more likely to form on RV windows by condensing humidity and also cause mould to grow, it is necessary to insulate RV windows during winter. 

Reflective insulation consists of layering a reflective material, usually, aluminium attached with plastic or cardboard with air bubbles. The reflective side keeps the heat from escaping, so it is advised to install the shiny side towards the RV interior. It is a great way to prevent the heat from escaping and be installed for both bonded fixed windows and sliding windows. 

However, reflective insulation can also block out sunlight, so it should be used in spaces where sunlight is not a big necessity. Most RV users also like to put up reflective insulation at nighttime and remove them during the day. 

Bubble wraps are excellent for trapping heat as the “bubbles” provide air pockets where heat can get trapped. These can either be placed on the inside or outside part of the windows. The best way to put up bubble wrap is by placing the bubble side towards the window. Thicker bubble wraps are better to help with the insulation. 

First, the glass needs to be dampened to cover up the windows, a spray bottle or a damp rag can help with this. Next, the bubble wrap should be placed on the windows and have them stick on. This will stay in place for the entire winter. If the bubble wrap falls apart, you can dampen the surface to stick it back. 

Curtains made from thick and dark materials can help insulate the windows. The curtains’ thickness will prevent the heat from escaping easily, and dark colours will provide privacy. Insulating curtains can be made from quilted or polar fabrics. These curtains are best suited for bonded sliding windows as the curtains can be hung over the windows and don’t need sticking on the windows. This will allow you to slide the windows open during the day time to let the sunlight in. 

You can buy shrink wrap kits to cover your windows. They reduce heat loss and prevent the infiltration of cold air from outside. The plastic films can be placed over the windows by sticking them in place with a double-sided tape around the window. Once the shrink wrap has been completely placed over the window frame, you can use a blow dryer to shrink it and smoothen out the edges. This traps a layer of air that acts as the insulator. It will help keep the windows draft proof and is an easy and efficient way to insulate your RV windows.