The importance of a window's benefit and functionality are most often overlooked until a windows isn't there. Whether you’re remodelling an older campervan or buying a new RV van, renovating a vintage motorhome, or even designing and building your own rig, it’s always a good idea to understand your options when it comes to deciding the type of window you want to live with. 

RV windows are different from standard car windows. Unlike your regular vehicle, RV vans are more susceptible to various elements. They are always on the move and are exposed to different weather conditions. For instance, constant beating by rain, wind, dust and heat is likely to damage your windows. Therefore, your RV window not only needs to be tough but durable as well. 

Understanding RV windows and their terminology can sometimes be a whole lot of confusion. Thus, we have a list of terms that you may come across in this guide and when dealing with windows of glass in your RV.

• Clamp rings: They are the single outer ring of the window frame. It is locked to an inner ring by mounting screws on the inside of the frame that creates a smooth appearance on the outside of the window frame.
• Double pane window: This type of window has two panes of glass. There is a sealed pocket of air between the glass that acts as an insulation barrier. This helps to prevent heat loss from colder weather or air-conditioned air in warmer weather.
• Insulated glass: It describes a double pane window
• Radius frame: This type of window frame has rounded corners. It is the most widely used frames for RV windows.
• Egress window: These windows are used for emergency escape portals. The window is hinged on top, opens fully for fast exits and has quick-release levers. 
• Laminated glass: It is used for windshields. 
• Tempered glass: It is the most common glass found in RVs. Unlike laminated glass, tempered glass offers breakage resistance and strength. These glasses are manufactured using a precise heat temperature and cooling process, therefore making them more robust than standard glass. Thus, the extra strength and durability make tempered glass an excellent option for windows on an RV.
• Safety glass: Both laminated and tempered glass is commonly referred to as safety glass. This type of glass protects you better in case of an accident, bodily injury and provides numerous other benefits. 
• Single pane window: This window uses only one pane of glass.

How to Measure Your Windows

Different RVs have different window sizes. That’s why, correct measurement is crucial during the replacement of your campervan window. Making sure you have the proper fitting window will save you time and money, and eliminate installation issues. Listed below are a few guidelines on how you can measure up your windows the right way.

• An easy way to begin is to get hold of a trusted RV windows supplier with your measurement. Emprise Global has been providing quality RV windows and installation services for more than two decades. We have since established ourselves as one of the best RV accessories suppliers in Western Australia!
• Depending on the size of your window, you will have to remove screws around the perimeter of the window. 
• RV windows have rubber trims around the glass frame. Removing the screws doesn’t mean the glass will pop out. It’s always good to ask for some extra help while removing the rubber trimming and taking the window pane out. 
• After you take off the window and supporting accessories, measure the height and width of the rough opening in your sidewall, not the old window. Do not try to duplicate the old window dimensions. Your measurements must be to the nearest 1.57mm. Always measure twice to be sure!
• If the windows aren’t trapezoidal or square, use masking tape on the sidewalls to extend the measurement lines beyond the radius and to the intersection point. 
• Measure sidewall thickness from the exterior to the interior wall surface. Do not include the window frame in this measurement.
• Wall thickness should typically range from around  25.4mm to 6.35 mm to 50.8mm to 12.7 mm. 

Different Types of Window for Your RV

Fixed Pane Window 

One of the widely used and cost-effective window options for your RV is the fixed pane window. Generally, this type of window is small and works ideally for areas where you may want to let in more light. These windows come in various sizes and designs such as single fixed pane windows or bonded fixed pane windows. They are straightforward in design and provide a minimalistic look for your RVs. As fixed windows don’t open or close, air can’t leak in and out. There are no handles to deal with, and there’s likely a lower chance of such windows breaking! One of the biggest perks of fixed windows is they provide expansive views and brighten up your RV. 

Egress Window

These windows can be a single pane, double pane, a slider, or even an awning window. It is an escape portal in case of an emergency. All egress windows are marked with an exit label and have red handles or levers. We can denote Egress Windows by its mark which has an exit label and have red handles or levers. Depending on the type of window, an egress window may be a large section or an entire window. Additionally, they can be fitted with quick-release screens to keep insects at bay. Since they are hinged at the top and open outward, they work great for repelling rain. 

Sliding Pane Window

It is one of the most commonly used windows in a new or used RV. These windows glide horizontally and provide easy access to fresh air. Due to their minimalistic design, they are more economical than awning windows and are very durable. These bonded sliding windows can withstand extreme weather conditions as well as offer easy-care benefits. Sliding pane RV windows come in three different types:

• Horizontal slider: Windowpane slides horizontally, with the sliding pane on the left or right side of the window.
• Vertical slider: Windowpane slides vertically, with the sliding pane on the top or bottom.
• T-slider: A combination of a fixed and sliding pane window, with the upper pan being set, while one or more sliding panes are down below. 

Awning Windows

Enjoy the rain, and fresh air as the window panes repel water away. These are weather friendly windows that can be cranked outwards. They repel rain and allow fresh air to enter your RV. Additionally, they provide shade with privacy while reducing energy costs from less use of air conditioning. Due to their high-tech design, these windows are comparatively expensive. 

In the previous years, awning windows did not have excellent seals to keep out the cold or rain as they were more suited to warmer climates. With the increased demand of such windows for RVs, however, present-day awning windows have better seals. They are also available with double-paned glass which provides insulation from the cold and the heat!

Frameless Windows

No frame? Sounds a bit crazy, right? But frameless windows have also been a favourite of many RV campers. With a frameless RV window, your RV has an aesthetic and streamlined look. Frameless windows also usually have UV protection to protect the inside of your travel trailer. UV treated tinted windows allow the vehicles to stay cool on warmer days. This prevents any interior items or furniture from fading due to extreme sun exposure. Additionally, it acts as an added privacy feature for your RV. 

The windows are located underneath the actual window and these are less likely to be damaged or need replacement. Since there is no frame in this style of window, there is less risk of any part of the window becoming faded over time. This also keeps the aesthetics and appearance of the windows looking better over time.

Final Thoughts

Like many of the RV-specified equipment, tools and parts, RV windows are also a crucial part of maintaining the quality of experience. It is integral in both interior and exterior appearance, comfort and maintenance. We understand that choosing the ideal RV window isn’t an easy task. It will require more time and patience to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each product. Still, confused about your next RV window purchase? the friendly staff at Emprise Global are here to help. 

With over two decades of experience, we have been providing quality service and unforgettable road travel experiences to our clients. Our experience with road travel adventurers for an extended period undoubtedly makes us one of the best RV window and accessories suppliers in WA. We not only provide on-demand support to our clients but also educate them about our windows, accessories and their installation processes.