I have looked at literally dozens of camper window treatment ideas on TH-cam for blocking light & creating privacy but in my humble opinion you have the best of the best. I especially enjoy your meticulous, thorough approach to solving issues and your narration voice has a tone quality of a professional radio announcer. Great work with a lot of thought. Much appreciated
Barry Begley Thank you for your kind comments! I keep trying till I find something that works. Sometimes that takes quite a while. Thanks for watching!
I was about to comment and then I saw this and thought "well this is what I wanted to say but better articulated than I could have hoped." Really a great video and great tutorial.
Hi I stay in my Corolla. Because of your video I made my own coverings like you did. The only difference was before I covered the actual piece of plastic with cloth I made the reflectix hanging off the edge of a little bit further. Then covered it with a cloth so it made kind of a gasket. It sticks in the window perfectly and doesn't allow any light to get through. No one can tell I'm parked and living in this car. I got the information from you video just thought I'd share the extra little tidbit of information. Excellent job thank you for that I probably stayed 80 times in my Corolla
Another way I learned doing flooring. Cut a 1 to 2 inch triangle opening in the the center area of the paper. Use masking tape over the opening to hold the paper to the glass. Also, if you cut thru two layers of paper where they overlap, you can align the triangle openings latter to assemble a multisheet pattern.
To make it easier to make each window section pattern. Put double sided tape on window 1st. Paper will stick to tape, won't move around. Better patterns made. Then cut out each material insulating with black material alittle bigger to cover all layers.
I’m moving into my car at the end of January to save more money and get out of the rental market. This is the video I needed! Thank you for making this.
Youre a freaking lifesaver, dude. Planning on moving into my outback very soon and im currently making these window inserts for my specific windows. Bless you for putting this online 💜
Jackie Gannon You’re comment made my day! Thanks for that. It’s so much more fun to do these projects thinking someone else might give it a go. Thanks for watching!
Looks like the best solution from what I've seen out there. Quick to set up & take down, looks like a dark-tinted window without gaps, and should insulate very well. All the things I've been looking for. Thanks for the step-by-step.
David Seapy Thanks for you kind comments. I have tested down to 30deg and there was zero heat loss. They take some time to make but have helped me stay warm. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the video. I've looked around for custom window covers but have determined I may just need to make my own. Very helpful. Although in my design, I might make it differently (one side is black fabric, and the other side is Reflectix) with foam in the middle to give it rigidity. The reason being that most car windows (from left to right) are mirrors of eachother, so for example, I can have the black side facing out when it's night time (to stealth camp in the car and block out any interior light) and then put the Reflectix side out (by switching which panel goes in which window, swapping panels from side to side) during the day so the Reflectix faces outwards and keeps out heat and possibly keeps warm or cool air inside. This way I can get away with having one set of window covers that can act as dual duty--reflect out the sun when I don't want it to heat up the car, and look stealthy at night with the black fabric facing outward. I would probably also let the fabric overlap the Reflectix side as well (just being lazy I guess) as it's not as important as having complete black on the other side, and the fabric can act as a seal or cover over the foam which I would probably first put tape over the seal the holes and then glue the fabric over. I would probably use the black sides facing outward most of the time anyway
Thank you for sharing your idea! Classy way to cover and insulate windows, and it doesn't look "home made." I appreciate your taking the time to make this step-by-step guide.
Kathy Endicott Thank you for your kind comments. They have been keeping me warm and also help keep out the noise. Glad you enjoyed and thanks for watching!
problem is the outside outline is not necessarily the same as the inside. just use a few drops of water on the masking paper and you wont have a problem even with the weirdest shapes.
Repositionable glue lets masking paper stick to glass easily (especially the hatch window) AND paper template to corrugated plastic for tracing the outline.
I believe after watching a few of your videos, you are simply the best of the best. A engineer is a understatement. This is so educational then car camping. Thank you sir.
watched #2 then #1 but very good advice and logic. I'm making these for cargo windows... thanks for the great tip and instructions. Walmart, Lowes here I come
So glad you found the videos helpful. If you have not already finished I did a second series on these that might give you a few more helpful tips. If you have finished, let me know how they turned out!
An easy way is to cut a hole in the center of the paper and tape over the hole to the window. This keeps the paper in place (like your hand would) and allows you to use one piece to fit the window.
Thanks for doing things well. The best I’ve seen. Helped me so much. Just beginning to start this project. So happy I came across this video. Makes me feel more confident. No problem with subscribing.
It takes a bit of work but the comments I have gotten are very positive. I hope they will work out well for you. Thanks for your comments and for watching!
Thank you! Quite a few people have made these and have found them helpful. They take a considerable time commitment but after making the first one the process goes faster.
My local Walmart didn't sell that black material. Is this the fabric www.walmart.com/ip/SHASON-TEXTILE-PRO-TUFF-OUTDOOR-FABRIC-BLACK-By-The-Yard/797594598 ?
I tried the black plasti-dip flat paint on the reflectix and it looked better but you could still tell is was reflectix when you got closer. The material is very hard to detect. Glad you found the video useful and thanks for watching!
that is an interesting design. One consideration I have for creating a template is to instead use masking tap along window edges.. then taping down some paper in the middle then pull the masking tape.. and you then reapply the stencil using the masking tape edges to the boards you are cutting. The reason I like to try using masking tape is that it is designed to be easily removable without leaving any residue and the edges of the masking tape can be added to give the exact edge you want and you can use a blade to cut the edge..and an idea on how to seal the edges of the cora plastic cardboard is to het glue plastic straws. that would be the edges a springy edge to hold onto the frame of the window?
Hi Tim, I live in my 2nd Gen Prius full time. I have made these window Covers! Thank you for such a fantastic idea well taught. How did (do) you make a window cover for the front windshield? 5-layer panels? Start w/ 4'x8' corrugated plastic panel? Since, it has to be stored inside the car, i'm guessing panels? Ideas are gratefully appreciated. Thanks, db
Finished making them and theyre great! Some different things I did. Instead of using hot glue gun I just used tape to adhere the reflectix with corrugated plastic. Also I stapled the fabric to the reflectix and corrugated plastic. Instead of marine vinyl (expensive) I used semi-waterproof fabric (the same kind underneath couch cushions). What I'm a bit confused on is how to crack open the windows with these on. Do you have any advice? I dont have a moonroof.
2 options. These are so well insulated that I use in the summer because even with the black fabric, the heat can't get through. You can use a different fabric (white) or just leave raw reflectix on one side, then to reverse, just swap them from one side of vehicle to the other.
Great job! Love it! I'm just curious, why use reflectix if you’re going to cover the reflective material anyway? Would it work as well with another non-reflective material?
The reflectix can still be used as a insulation piece. It's insulating the hot or cold air fro leaving the car, not trying to deflect the heat from the outside. He also chose to cover the outside with black so it draws less attention.
great vid. ive watched quite a few of these and i'm confused about one thing if anyone can help? People say covering the reflectix with fabric will negate the reflective ability. So if you want to keep the car cool in the sun heat during the day, you need to keep one side as the original silver to face out? and then at night you flip it to have your stealth black look on the outside. Also have you insulated the rest of the car? if no, surely there's still a lot of heat transfer through the car metal?
I understand the concern about the covers. I have found in testing that they are so well insulated that the heat on the black on the window side does not transfer any heat to the interior side. I use the Reflectix for it’s thermal insulation not it’s reflective property. I suppose it still works on some IR or UV wavelengths but not sure. If you are not worried about stealth during the day, having a silver side would work well. I felt that the dark color inside at night was less claustrophobic. Your periferial vision does not seem to pick up on flat black whereas the reflective side made me feel closed in. I suppose that depends on the person. Yes there is more heat loss from the door panels now than the insulated windows. I am afraid to take off the door panel for fear of damage. I did insulate in rear hatch and basement storage. I made a video on that - pretty easy to do. The back hatch is not well insulated on the edges. The area where the spare tire is not insulated well either and the back quarter panels have none. Check my video list for the 2 insulation videos for the prius. They should help.
+PSC Camper Conversions thanks for your comprehensive reply! I agree with interior silver, I was gunna make some other loose fold down aesthetic wall hangings with patterned fabric or something to make the interior homey. i have a truck so a bit more space to play. That's my current debate also, i want to maintain potential resale value so not commit too much interior damage by ripping things out for insulation etc. I'm still thinking about how to move ahead.
I absolutely love this idea, as I am about to have to live in my Jeep Liberty. My concern, is the cost of materials with so many layers? How much did this cost approx for a whole car?
I love how you solved the problem of needing the airspace for the reflectix to work correctly!!!! All I ever heard was you can't use it for insulation without the air space. You found the solution~ Thanks~
Fantastic video!! One question and one comment. Q: How well does the hot glue hold up over time? Does it get brittle? C: When making cuts that are straight lines, wouldn’t it be much easier to lay one straight edge along the already straight edge of the material? This way you only have to trace and cut the other edges.
So far the glue has held up and not become brittle. If you are in a really hot climate sitting in direct sun, the glue could possibly reach its melting point but if wedged in the window I think it would just reset when cooled below. I wish I could of found some high temp glue but the one I used is doing fine.
I'm about to make these window covers for my 2006 Prius but I am worried that I will be too hot at night because they are so insulated. Will these window covers work during the summertime (like right now)? I like these window covers the best, but I worried that the multi-layers will cause it to get too hot in the car. Will that happen? Do you use these during the summer?
Here's some information that hopefully will help you find it: Walmart Material: At store bar code: 48580210161 Online *I think this is the material - not 100% sure*: Walmart # 571225833 www.walmart.com/ip/Ottertex-Canvas-Fabric-Waterproof-Outdoor-60-wide-600-Denier-Many-Colors-sold-by-the-yard-Black/543662949?variantFieldId=actual_color
Awesome, thanks for the reply! I ended up going to my local fabric store and purchased "Marine Vinyl" used for boat seats/interior. I think this will work, too. Thanks, again!
Thank you sooooo much for this tutorial I can’t wait to do this and make my van my traveling hotel❤️🤪. Just one question, I can’t find that black fabric anywhere on the Walmart website, what exactly is it called, and what area in Walmart did you get it??
A very well done video man thank you. I recently bought a Jeep Wrangler and am planing to do just this for when I go camping on the trails. My question is would this be good to do for the front windshield since it’s such a large area? Should I keep one side of it the blackout material for cold and one side the silver reflectix for when I goto work in the summer?
Thank you! Having one side of reflectix is a great idea and will work well. The front windshield will work it is just a matter of finding space to store when not in use. I leave the rear window in place all the time so don't have to store. You could make with some small gaps and use duct tape on both sides of the white plastic so that it fold up accordian style. Then cover with material.
I enjoyed your video it was most useful. I am planning on going out in the spring and living in my car. I have a board fusion can I do the same thing on my back window?
The back window is made the same way however if your back window has a big tilt, it will tend to fall out with the hot/cold cycle. I had to take an flat aluminum rod from lowes and bend it to hold in the insert and then put a screw in each end and attached to the plastic trim. It causes 2 small holes but keeps the insert snug. If your window if pretty vertical then it should stay in ok.
Love your masking paper to create a pattern first! Got to find a Lowes nearby! Now, is there a pattern that is not so deluxe what do you say? barb/Sacramento
I’ve tried using a single layer of reflectix in my windows in freezing temps and I had a lot of frozen condensation on the inside of the windows. We use a large dehumidifier in out 5th wheel and keep the humidity level at 40-45%. I typically have very little condensation without the reflectix. Do these keep that from happening?
Anyone know what type of fabric this is? Been scouring Walmart, Home Depot and Lowes and can only find Vinly faux leather and I have a feeling that is NOT what is used here. Thanks!
There's no more condensation build up then there would be without using these. Ottertex is a weather resistant vinyl so I think mold wouldn't be an issue. The side windows have enough of an edge to sit nicely. The back window I had to attach a suction cup.
They would look great if sewn together but I don't have the skills. You might have some luck with black duct tape but it tends to be shinny and I think it might let loose when it gets too hot or too cold.
Thanks for the very clear training video on this subject. I feel confident that I can do this project successfully. One Question: When I checked out the Plaskolite at Loews, it looks like the hard plastic that goes under the kitchen lights in the ceiling? When I watched you remove the finished product from the car windows, they looked completely bendable, like the hard heavy plastic wasn't used? Can you clear this up for me? Also, if this is the material used, how is it cut? Thanks very much!
I know what you found, that is something different and very painful to cut - very sharp. The material you are looking for is over where they cut the glass in the hardware department. There are some bins with glass, plexiglass and then the white vinyl sheets. It is made of soft vinyl and looks like a corrugated box material. It cuts with standard scissors. It's the same material that they make those political signs on the side of the road from. I try to get you a link.
Here's the link, you can give the associate the stock number as well. Zoom in on the edge to see how it looks. www.lowes.com/pd/PLASKOLITE-2-5-ft-x-3-ft-3-9878-mil-Corrugated-Plastic-Sheet/3381288
Absolutely love 💕 this video thank you so much question does it matter which way the corrugated plastic lines are going? Also I’m planning on using polyester felt. Hope that works. ?
Where did you find the black vinyl fabric? Where in Walmart? Would going to a fabric store work? Looks like it is thick but not too thick! Thanks, Barb
Has anyone tried to make this insulation for a Prius Prime 2019? The windows seem to have such an odd curve/shape to the frame, it's difficult to push even test pieces in it
You can use recycled campaign signs instead of buying corrugated plastic sheet.
Holy crap
I have looked at literally dozens of camper window treatment ideas on TH-cam for blocking light & creating privacy but in my humble opinion you have the best of the best. I especially enjoy your meticulous, thorough approach to solving issues and your narration voice has a tone quality of a professional radio announcer.
Great work with a lot of thought. Much appreciated
Barry Begley Thank you for your kind comments! I keep trying till I find something that works. Sometimes that takes quite a while. Thanks for watching!
I was about to comment and then I saw this and thought "well this is what I wanted to say but better articulated than I could have hoped." Really a great video and great tutorial.
I agree.
I agree
@@timdillen hiii do you sell these stuff or do you know anyone who can sell me this thing ?
Aluminum foil works amazing for the pattern. Great video!
Hi I stay in my Corolla. Because of your video I made my own coverings like you did. The only difference was before I covered the actual piece of plastic with cloth I made the reflectix hanging off the edge of a little bit further. Then covered it with a cloth so it made kind of a gasket. It sticks in the window perfectly and doesn't allow any light to get through. No one can tell I'm parked and living in this car. I got the information from you video just thought I'd share the extra little tidbit of information. Excellent job thank you for that I probably stayed 80 times in my Corolla
nice thing about paper is that if you spray water on the window the paper will stick in place while you draw your pattern. then removal is easy.
That's an awesome idea! I didn't think about that. Thanks for the great tip and for watching!
Another way I learned doing flooring. Cut a 1 to 2 inch triangle opening in the the center area of the paper. Use masking tape over the opening to hold the paper to the glass. Also, if you cut thru two layers of paper where they overlap, you can align the triangle openings latter to assemble a multisheet pattern.
I love how you cut out small samples to demonstrate the layers. Awesome!
To make it easier to make each window section pattern. Put double sided tape on window 1st. Paper will stick to tape, won't move around. Better patterns made. Then cut out each material insulating with black material alittle bigger to cover all layers.
Youre the bob ross of car living
Hehe! Thanks!
More like Bob Vila but ok
I’m moving into my car at the end of January to save more money and get out of the rental market. This is the video I needed! Thank you for making this.
Glad it helped! Thanks for your kind comment and for watching.
Did you do it?
Great video. I had to watch dozens of videos before finding the best one which is you
Youre a freaking lifesaver, dude. Planning on moving into my outback very soon and im currently making these window inserts for my specific windows. Bless you for putting this online 💜
I reeeeeaaaaallllly appreciate this tutorial. I will be using it for stealth reasons on my minivan. Bless you for helping us!
Loving your high quality stuff you're making! Thanks for sharing!!
I am gonna do this for my old windows in my older home for the winter cold months. And my SUV for camping. Thanks for the tutorial.
Best solution I've seen. Plus, you're a good teacher.
Jackie Gannon You’re comment made my day! Thanks for that. It’s so much more fun to do these projects thinking someone else might give it a go. Thanks for watching!
Actually You can make and sell it. I will buy
Looks like the best solution from what I've seen out there. Quick to set up & take down, looks like a dark-tinted window without gaps, and should insulate very well. All the things I've been looking for. Thanks for the step-by-step.
David Seapy Thanks for you kind comments. I have tested down to 30deg and there was zero heat loss. They take some time to make but have helped me stay warm. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the video. I've looked around for custom window covers but have determined I may just need to make my own. Very helpful.
Although in my design, I might make it differently (one side is black fabric, and the other side is Reflectix) with foam in the middle to give it rigidity. The reason being that most car windows (from left to right) are mirrors of eachother, so for example, I can have the black side facing out when it's night time (to stealth camp in the car and block out any interior light) and then put the Reflectix side out (by switching which panel goes in which window, swapping panels from side to side) during the day so the Reflectix faces outwards and keeps out heat and possibly keeps warm or cool air inside. This way I can get away with having one set of window covers that can act as dual duty--reflect out the sun when I don't want it to heat up the car, and look stealthy at night with the black fabric facing outward. I would probably also let the fabric overlap the Reflectix side as well (just being lazy I guess) as it's not as important as having complete black on the other side, and the fabric can act as a seal or cover over the foam which I would probably first put tape over the seal the holes and then glue the fabric over. I would probably use the black sides facing outward most of the time anyway
Thank you for sharing your idea! Classy way to cover and insulate windows, and it doesn't look "home made." I appreciate your taking the time to make this step-by-step guide.
Kathy Endicott Thank you for your kind comments. They have been keeping me warm and also help keep out the noise. Glad you enjoyed and thanks for watching!
I’ve seen the template drawn from the outside of the window. They were able to create a more accurate temple . And it was easier to do !
problem is the outside outline is not necessarily the same as the inside. just use a few drops of water on the masking paper and you wont have a problem even with the weirdest shapes.
Maybe they did not want to cut the window tint.
Repositionable glue lets masking paper stick to glass easily (especially the hatch window) AND paper template to corrugated plastic for tracing the outline.
Thanks for sharing! Your video gave us inspiration for our Honda Pilot window covers!
I just bought a Prius; you are my mentor!
justicel62 Awesome! You will have so much fun both getting your Prius set up and traveling for cheap. What year did you buy?
PriusStealthCamper Adventures 2015 trim 3, 23k miles looking forward to the adventure
justicel62 Post some videos of your progress. I’d enjoy seeing a modern Prius conversion.
Awesome video. 👌 Best one I have seen on diy custom window covers!
Thank you.
ABSOLUTELY AWESOME VIDEO! I am in a crisis situation in Canada and need to build these today. Thx so much! I'm subscribin'!
Thank you!
@@timdillen No, no. Thank YOU good sir. You saved my frozen heiny.
You are a great teacher!!! Thanks 🙏!
Great video. Thanks for the paper tip. Was looking for an easy way to trace the window shape. Good job.
I believe after watching a few of your videos, you are simply the best of the best. A engineer is a understatement. This is so educational then car camping. Thank you sir.
It's a fun hobby. I had to find a way to travel cheap...and comfortable! Thanks for the vote of confidence!
Thanks for sharing. Absolutely the best how to video, I’ve seen on this issue . Well done.
Thank you! I tried to show every step. Thanks for your kind comment and for watching!
watched #2 then #1 but very good advice and logic. I'm making these for cargo windows... thanks for the great tip and instructions. Walmart, Lowes here I come
So glad you found the videos helpful. If you have not already finished I did a second series on these that might give you a few more helpful tips. If you have finished, let me know how they turned out!
Nice Closeups! Great video. Thank you for posting this!
An easy way is to cut a hole in the center of the paper and tape over the hole to the window. This keeps the paper in place (like your hand would) and allows you to use one piece to fit the window.
Thank you for this. I've been trying to figure out the best way to make these
Thanks for doing things well. The best I’ve seen. Helped me so much. Just beginning to start this project. So happy I came across this video. Makes me feel more confident. No problem with subscribing.
Thank you so much for this. I didn’t know how to create an air gap with the Reflectix. This is perfect!
I though that was pretty neat too. They work great in the summer and winter. Thanks for your kind comments and for watching!
Wow! Excellent job
Such a great idea and such a great job. Love to hear your clear voice and instructions. Thanks a lot! ❤️👍🏼
Excellent tutorial! But I had to go HUH at 5:20 ;) haha thanks!
Your videos follow an excellent instructional format. thank you.
Jane IsOnAJourney Glad you liked it. It’s a long process but rewarding to make!
Whoa! Deluxe! Great video. Very thorough. You're basically a Prius camping superhero!
Thanks for your kind comment, glad you liked the video. They take a bit of time to construct but they are really insulated. Thanks for watching!
havent finished the video yet but im so excited. looks like its the best method so far thank you
It takes a bit of work but the comments I have gotten are very positive. I hope they will work out well for you. Thanks for your comments and for watching!
If you do one side black and the other side white, you can switch window sides depending on if it's winter or summer.
Or the other side reflexive? Did you try it the way you mentioned it?
At the curved corners: make a series of cuts at right angles to the edge. Glue and fold over the strips for a smooth curve. Trust me.
Great advice - thanks!
Thank you! You are an excellent teacher!
Thank you! Quite a few people have made these and have found them helpful. They take a considerable time commitment but after making the first one the process goes faster.
My local Walmart didn't sell that black material. Is this the fabric www.walmart.com/ip/SHASON-TEXTILE-PRO-TUFF-OUTDOOR-FABRIC-BLACK-By-The-Yard/797594598 ?
Wow! THANK YOU.
Plaskolite is the brand name--the company makes a lot of different products. This is "corrugated plastic sheet."
Awesome video!
I found it to be very helpful.
Dry nicely done. Thanks you for sharing. I have to cover my teflextix.
I tried the black plasti-dip flat paint on the reflectix and it looked better but you could still tell is was reflectix when you got closer. The material is very hard to detect. Glad you found the video useful and thanks for watching!
that is an interesting design. One consideration I have for creating a template is to instead use masking tap along window edges.. then taping down some paper in the middle then pull the masking tape.. and you then reapply the stencil using the masking tape edges to the boards you are cutting. The reason I like to try using masking tape is that it is designed to be easily removable without leaving any residue and the edges of the masking tape can be added to give the exact edge you want and you can use a blade to cut the edge..and an idea on how to seal the edges of the cora plastic cardboard is to het glue plastic straws. that would be the edges a springy edge to hold onto the frame of the window?
FINALLY,someone applying the gap!excellent example.appreciate the great example to make a template.
It really makes quite a difference having the gap. Thanks for your kind comments.
@@timdillen 👍👍
Thanks for the tips!
Wow helpful video
And you can use a felt marker instead of a sharp ball point pen.
Great list of materials and fabulous job! I’d prefer to use a pen and a checkbook! Does anyone sell these already made?
Hehe! Sadly no. There are certain projects I feel the same way as you!
I'd be willing to use a checkbook too!
Can you do this on home windows? I want to cover them because so much cold air comes through and my window treatments don't keep the cold air out.
To make the circle I would have made the shape by using a compas
To start at your stracing with the pen how about just tracing around the bottom outside on the paper like tracing around the outside of a coin.
Hi Tim, I live in my 2nd Gen Prius full time. I have made these window Covers! Thank you for such a fantastic idea well taught. How did (do) you make a window cover for the front windshield? 5-layer panels? Start w/ 4'x8' corrugated plastic panel? Since, it has to be stored inside the car, i'm guessing panels? Ideas are gratefully appreciated. Thanks, db
Amazing vid!
What about the front window?
It takes up a lot of storage space. I though of making one but having it be able to fold at least once.
use a felt pen instead too, if you don't want to risk puncturing.
Good idea!
Could you just leave the coroplast on the window side so white shows on the outside? I live in an hoa and can only have white showing to the exterior.
The ottertex fabric comes in numerous colors :)
Finished making them and theyre great! Some different things I did. Instead of using hot glue gun I just used tape to adhere the reflectix with corrugated plastic. Also I stapled the fabric to the reflectix and corrugated plastic. Instead of marine vinyl (expensive) I used semi-waterproof fabric (the same kind underneath couch cushions). What I'm a bit confused on is how to crack open the windows with these on. Do you have any advice? I dont have a moonroof.
I ended up using gorilla glue.
Thanks so much dude.
You are very welcome - glad you found it helpful!
Would it work just as well if you left the black material off one side so you can use it to keep the heat out by putting the foil side out?
What if you want to black out in hot weather conditions. What would be a better material than reflectix
2 options. These are so well insulated that I use in the summer because even with the black fabric, the heat can't get through. You can use a different fabric (white) or just leave raw reflectix on one side, then to reverse, just swap them from one side of vehicle to the other.
@@timdillen cool thanks for replying.. I'll try it out see how it goes. 👍🏼
good job
Excellent post thanks for your share
Glad you liked it! Thanks for your kind comment and for watching!
Would this work to keep car cool during summer heat if the ac is on in the car?
Great job! Love it! I'm just curious, why use reflectix if you’re going to cover the reflective material anyway? Would it work as well with another non-reflective material?
The reflectix can still be used as a insulation piece. It's insulating the hot or cold air fro leaving the car, not trying to deflect the heat from the outside.
He also chose to cover the outside with black so it draws less attention.
You the best
Any thoughts on adding another layer for acoustic insulation? As an added value? Please.
You might start running into storage limitations based on the size of your vehicle.
@@HondaFit4Adventure thank you! :)
great vid. ive watched quite a few of these and i'm confused about one thing if anyone can help?
People say covering the reflectix with fabric will negate the reflective ability. So if you want to keep the car cool in the sun heat during the day, you need to keep one side as the original silver to face out? and then at night you flip it to have your stealth black look on the outside.
Also have you insulated the rest of the car? if no, surely there's still a lot of heat transfer through the car metal?
I understand the concern about the covers. I have found in testing that they are so well insulated that the heat on the black on the window side does not transfer any heat to the interior side. I use the Reflectix for it’s thermal insulation not it’s reflective property. I suppose it still works on some IR or UV wavelengths but not sure. If you are not worried about stealth during the day, having a silver side would work well. I felt that the dark color inside at night was less claustrophobic. Your periferial vision does not seem to pick up on flat black whereas the reflective side made me feel closed in. I suppose that depends on the person. Yes there is more heat loss from the door panels now than the insulated windows. I am afraid to take off the door panel for fear of damage. I did insulate in rear hatch and basement storage. I made a video on that - pretty easy to do. The back hatch is not well insulated on the edges. The area where the spare tire is not insulated well either and the back quarter panels have none. Check my video list for the 2 insulation videos for the prius. They should help.
+PSC Camper Conversions thanks for your comprehensive reply!
I agree with interior silver, I was gunna make some other loose fold down aesthetic wall hangings with patterned fabric or something to make the interior homey. i have a truck so a bit more space to play.
That's my current debate also, i want to maintain potential resale value so not commit too much interior damage by ripping things out for insulation etc. I'm still thinking about how to move ahead.
@@DavidPuckArtist Also you have to think that tinted windows are black and actually keep your car cooler during the summer.
I absolutely love this idea, as I am about to have to live in my Jeep Liberty. My concern, is the cost of materials with so many layers? How much did this cost approx for a whole car?
how about using a fine point felt tip marker to make your first mark. It would be less likely to tear the paper.
Linda Doxtater I think that would work well. The paper does tear easily. Thanks!
I love how you solved the problem of needing the airspace for the reflectix to work correctly!!!! All I ever heard was you can't use it for insulation without the air space. You found the solution~ Thanks~
Linda Doxtater Thanks! It was sort of an accidental idea.
Fantastic video!!
One question and one comment.
Q: How well does the hot glue hold up over time? Does it get brittle?
C: When making cuts that are straight lines, wouldn’t it be much easier to lay one straight edge along the already straight edge of the material? This way you only have to trace and cut the other edges.
So far the glue has held up and not become brittle. If you are in a really hot climate sitting in direct sun, the glue could possibly reach its melting point but if wedged in the window I think it would just reset when cooled below. I wish I could of found some high temp glue but the one I used is doing fine.
This is a great idea for insulating from the cold with the black fabric and all. Will these window coverings work to keep the heat out of a vehicle?
Yes! I keep these in year around. Even though the black does absorb some heat in the summer it can't penetrate the insulation layers.
I'm about to make these window covers for my 2006 Prius but I am worried that I will be too hot at night because they are so insulated. Will these window covers work during the summertime (like right now)? I like these window covers the best, but I worried that the multi-layers will cause it to get too hot in the car. Will that happen? Do you use these during the summer?
Imagine running the A.C. in your car until the temperature inside is low. This will help keep the cooler air in longer.
Does it work in the summer for keeping the car cooler?
What is the black vinyl called at WalMart?
Here's some information that hopefully will help you find it:
Walmart Material:
At store bar code: 48580210161
Online *I think this is the material - not 100% sure*:
Walmart # 571225833
www.walmart.com/ip/Ottertex-Canvas-Fabric-Waterproof-Outdoor-60-wide-600-Denier-Many-Colors-sold-by-the-yard-Black/543662949?variantFieldId=actual_color
Awesome, thanks for the reply! I ended up going to my local fabric store and purchased "Marine Vinyl" used for boat seats/interior. I think this will work, too. Thanks, again!
Great! Let me know it turns out.
It looks great! Fits super snug! I'm so grateful of you for sharing this method.
Glad I could help!
Now for the pattern paper. Is the wax side up or down when drawing out the pattern? Thanks! barb
Really cool, thank you for sharing.
Kenneth Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for your comment and for watching!
Thank you sooooo much for this tutorial I can’t wait to do this and make my van my traveling hotel❤️🤪. Just one question, I can’t find that black fabric anywhere on the Walmart website, what exactly is it called, and what area in Walmart did you get it??
OtterTex
Great info. How about spray paint to do your outline.
A very well done video man thank you. I recently bought a Jeep Wrangler and am planing to do just this for when I go camping on the trails. My question is would this be good to do for the front windshield since it’s such a large area? Should I keep one side of it the blackout material for cold and one side the silver reflectix for when I goto work in the summer?
Thank you! Having one side of reflectix is a great idea and will work well. The front windshield will work it is just a matter of finding space to store when not in use. I leave the rear window in place all the time so don't have to store. You could make with some small gaps and use duct tape on both sides of the white plastic so that it fold up accordian style. Then cover with material.
I enjoyed your video it was most useful. I am planning on going out in the spring and living in my car. I have a board fusion can I do the same thing on my back window?
The back window is made the same way however if your back window has a big tilt, it will tend to fall out with the hot/cold cycle. I had to take an flat aluminum rod from lowes and bend it to hold in the insert and then put a screw in each end and attached to the plastic trim. It causes 2 small holes but keeps the insert snug. If your window if pretty vertical then it should stay in ok.
What's the black out material used ?
Love your masking paper to create a pattern first! Got to find a Lowes nearby! Now, is there a pattern that is not so deluxe what do you say? barb/Sacramento
Great idea. I plan to make some myself. How do you take care of ventilation?
Did you ever figure something out for ventilation?
Is it possible to do this without the glue gun?
Yes there are numerous ways one could accomplish this each with there own pros and cons.
I’ve tried using a single layer of reflectix in my windows in freezing temps and I had a lot of frozen condensation on the inside of the windows. We use a large dehumidifier in out 5th wheel and keep the humidity level at 40-45%. I typically have very little condensation without the reflectix. Do these keep that from happening?
Good for summer too? Also, where did you get your vinyl fabric? Thanks!
Anyone know what type of fabric this is? Been scouring Walmart, Home Depot and Lowes and can only find Vinly faux leather and I have a feeling that is NOT what is used here. Thanks!
What about condensation? And mold issues! How do you keep them at bay?
There's no more condensation build up then there would be without using these.
Ottertex is a weather resistant vinyl so I think mold wouldn't be an issue.
The side windows have enough of an edge to sit nicely. The back window I had to attach a suction cup.
If you have no access to a hot glue gun what else do you recommend to connect it together?
They would look great if sewn together but I don't have the skills. You might have some luck with black duct tape but it tends to be shinny and I think it might let loose when it gets too hot or too cold.
I used gorilla glue. Very time consuming because of the drying process.
Nice
Is this good for the hot summer ? Keeping the heat out the car ?
Yes! I keep mine on the windows year around. The insulation is so good that even with the black fabric, the heat does not get through.
PSC Camper Conversions nice , I’ll see if I can do this in a few weeks . Just moved in my Prius a few weeks ago and it’ll get hotter here in NJ
Thanks for the very clear training video on this subject. I feel confident that I can do this project successfully. One Question: When I checked out the Plaskolite at Loews, it looks like the hard plastic that goes under the kitchen lights in the ceiling? When I watched you remove the finished product from the car windows, they looked completely bendable, like the hard heavy plastic wasn't used? Can you clear this up for me? Also, if this is the material used, how is it cut? Thanks very much!
I know what you found, that is something different and very painful to cut - very sharp. The material you are looking for is over where they cut the glass in the hardware department. There are some bins with glass, plexiglass and then the white vinyl sheets. It is made of soft vinyl and looks like a corrugated box material. It cuts with standard scissors. It's the same material that they make those political signs on the side of the road from. I try to get you a link.
Here's the link, you can give the associate the stock number as well. Zoom in on the edge to see how it looks. www.lowes.com/pd/PLASKOLITE-2-5-ft-x-3-ft-3-9878-mil-Corrugated-Plastic-Sheet/3381288
Lowes item number: Item # 345710
Thanks! This is really helpful!!! Can't wait to custom fit my Subaru's windows.
Absolutely love 💕 this video thank you so much question does it matter which way the corrugated plastic lines are going?
Also I’m planning on using polyester felt.
Hope that works. ?
Where did you find the black vinyl fabric? Where in Walmart? Would going to a fabric store work? Looks like it is thick but not too thick! Thanks, Barb
Has anyone tried to make this insulation for a Prius Prime 2019?
The windows seem to have such an odd curve/shape to the frame, it's difficult to push even test pieces in it