Outstanding! I've laid about 20 miles of hot glue in the last 30+years...I wish I'd known to use another material when two surfaces don't bond well! And after watching more videos than I'm willing to admit about using reflectix, your's is the FIRST one that acknowleges the importance of an air gap., plus provide a practical way to provide it. Your attention to detail will be so much appreciated when I get to window coverings...the bus has 18 windows plus windshield and back door. I know there will be oops, lots of them, but you've pointed out many that I may be able to avoid. Two tips with hot glue...I learned early to keep a cup of ice water near...my fingers always get in the way...and a hair dryer will help with the wisps! Thanks again for showing your experiences! Journey mercies.
18 windows - WOW! There is so much potential to capture heat. I think they will go faster and I figure your windows are square and the same size. You might be able to make a production line of it. Snag a 4x8' sheet of coroplast from the political signs that have to come down Wednesday. You might need 2 or 3. Glad you liked the videos. I made a video last year and really tried to address all the problems and questions people had from that one.
I would probably do a WIDER overlap to the back side, so you don't have to be as critical along the edges. I will probably incorporate "permanent" duct tape pull pads in mine. I have a large window on my sliding door, so I'll use velcro to store that shade right on the bottom of the door panel. I'm waiting for 2 RV windows for my Transit. Once they're In place, I'll DEF do your technique. WELL produced videos!
Thanks for a very helpful video. I'm going to be making shades for our MH which is a 2015 Winnebago Via built on a Sprinter chassis. I'm not worried about being stealth and want to keep one shiny foil side for reflecting sun rays. I'm going to use aluminum tape for sealing the edges and aluminum tape will blend in with the Reflectix which will be visible from the exterior of the camper. I'll be using a fabric on the interior side of the shade. There seems to be some debate about fabric attached over thee Reflectix reducing the efficiency of the product, but if you want to be stealth, I can understand the need for black fabric. Since I'm only using fabric on the inside surface, I hope to have the fabric match or be compatible with the interior of our MH. But...very well done video series and the best series I've found for using Reflectix and a corrugated plastic core.
@@timdillen Me too, but that will be much easier in the long run. When sewing, you put the two outside pieces back to back, stitch it on all the sides, and turn it inside out to slide the reflectix in, the stitch the final side with the tab. (Tip: if you need to make the corner turn, leave the needle in the down position to hold the fabric in place) I watched my mom sew when I was a little girl...shocked I remember that!
Perhaps I missed it, but why black material? Are these for winter use only? Since black conducts heat so readily, it seems unsuitable for sunny, hot climates.
Thought those looked like ambulance windows & doors in the first two videos. I’m looking at used ambulances to convert to a camper right now. Spent a whole lot of years riding in them working for FD’s, too. Great series
Who would dislike this video?! Thanks. This has been a life saver. My husband and I plan on doing this project this weekend to our travel trailer. We had one reflectix layer shoved under our blinds on all of our windows. Needless to say, that didn’t do much for the swampy Louisiana heat. Our air conditioner runs all day and it’s still not cooling right. Now I know why... I never thought about an air barrier. It definitely pays to take your time and think about what you’re doing. I’m also thinking about doing something like this to the inside of my cabinets. I wish I could wallpaper my rv in this! What would be great is to use a spray chrome for the body paint-if that didn’t cost and arm and a leg. I wonder if it would even be street legal.
Awesome! The first one takes a long time but if you have 2 people the process picks up speed. You will notice a difference right off. I have had people skip on some of the layers and it just does not work near as well. Need the reflectix on both sides of core with fabric for extra air gaps. If your trailer has square windows it will go faster too. Don't section 2 plastic pieces together, try to use one solid piece for each window. The seam buckles a little over time and makes them slightly smaller. Have them fit real tight at the start. Let me know how they turn out!
i have an astro van i use for over size load escorts and i converted the back to sleeping quarters to save money on motels. i am planning on gutting it out and starting fresh again and will double your design since i live in Texas. two air gaps and three layers of reflectix.
This is a great video. I am paying on an ol camper to which l was afraid of the insulation. This has given me something to do in order to keep it warmer. Thank you for making this video.
Great job...I don't have a van but I might use your technique for the windows in our north facing bedrooms for the chilly Canadian winters.I will however trace the reflexit layers onto brown paper for a sewing pattern for the cover fabric. Sew on 3 sides and glue the 4th side.Also I will sew the tab to one side and use a decorative fabric..
Suggestion...about taping around the pannel...I would tape the way I tape my stained glass projects. Holding the pannel up right with the tape flat on the work surface and just press down the edges to the tape. Thanks Great project
I saw you do this for your Prius windows and I made them for my Yukon Denali. They work great keeping heat and cold out. Thanks again for your expertise.
Awesome! I am glad they worked out for you. It's been a year since the last one and wanted to make another that answered many of the questions people had about the first one. I also wanted to do something more tailored to the edges. I really appreciate your telling me this.
Your videos are ALWAYS super relevant for nomads. Always fascinating and well-explained. You come up with some innovative techniques and let us know about the most useful materials out there. Thank you for SO much help.
Thanks for the instructions. I started gathering the materials for my van window project and could not find corrugated vinyl locally but came across 1/2 rigid foam insulation at Lowes and decided to try it as a substitute for the poly board. It only cost $7.50 per 4'x8' sheet, just enough to do the 6 windows of our Dodge Grand Caravan. The reflectix and cloth covering glued on just the same. While it is thicker than the poly by at least 3/8", the insulation value is probably considerably higher than the corrugated poly board. The foam insulation also has a foil face and vapor barrier to boot. It has proved to be really effective for sound insulation as well. The only drawback is that it takes up a bit more storage space when not installed in the windows. Once again, thanks for the detailed instructions. That was invaluable.
I made these same window shades for my Toyota 4Runner 5 years ago. Never watched a video on how to do it. And there were only minor differences between your and mine designs. So glad your making these videos it is an awesome service to people who have no choice but to live in their cars and suvs. Your awesome! The only thing I would has said that you didn’t was the cost of the materials.
Thanks for the great set of tutorial videos! I just went through them and made a fantastic set of insulated coverings for the back windows and vent in my Promaster. What great tips/tricks and instructions! Brilliant!
You could also put the pull-tab on the back before you secure the final flap of the material covering the back. But great idea/design for 'sealing' the windows from light and cold/heat.
Great idea! Looks like I have another project for my 5th wheel. A suggestion about the corners. I cover RC planes with fabric and heat shrink plastic, more fabric and dope than plastic. When you do the corners, to get a nice smooth surface, pull the fabric up the side and then cut a wedge out up to but not through the surface. When you do it right it will butt against the other part already glued down. No lumps will be there that can show, and gives a nice smooth finish. One thing I question, the black material will absorb heat, so is it really a good idea to place the black surface against the glass where the glass might get hot enough to shatter if cold water hits it from a sudden rain? I have seen car sun roofs shatter when they got too hot and hit with cold water.
Awesome video. Love the attention to detail. That's me 👍 FYI When I get a bit of glue on something or even if I want to separate it after hot gluing I warm it up with my glow dryer and it comes right off so easy. 😊
A thought: Reflectix works by reflecting the heat of the sun back out the window. It does an amazing job. Those auto window shades, silver, really lower the heat in the car by doing this. Opinion, if you cover the silver portion with fabric, the fabric cannot reflect heat as well and instead absorbs it, keeping the heat inside the vehicle rather than sending it back out the glass window. Think of it as a drape rather than a reflector. I would be interested in how much heat was kept out of the vehicle with our technique versus using a single layer of reflectix. Keep in mind that the heat buildup on the layer of fabric will eventually travel around to the other side of the device as it is all fabric. Use a laser thermometer to read the backside of reflectix and the backside of your device. Which is cooler after 3/4 hours in the sun?
Really awesome..could put the tab under the black back as you are finishing. That way tab can be at bottom for those windows that are covered on the top with the box curtain things . Thank you for the vid!!
Awesome! The demolition would really get me down, behind ever panel was more trouble. Once I got everything out I started to feel better about the conversion. The ambulances are so well built but that does make them harder to take apart. Having square walls made life much easier. Thanks for your comments and for watching!
Between the sofa, the big TV and the inserts, I am happy, comfy, entertained and WARM! Can ask for much more than that. These are the best inserts I have made and I have made a bunch. I remember life before velcro and glue guns and TH-cam - but don't know how we made it through!
Bit of a long story But it's worth the read ..First like your videos Hard to find small camper ideas Subbed and liked ! I have a 05' Chevy blazer 2dr 4x4 and just installed a 2.5" proper lift kit And swapped out all the other steering items with new My girlfriend has a 18" Chevy volt ( fills her tank every 3 to 4 months) We enjoy the truck for Camping and drive-in movies As we pull in backwards and drop the tailgate and have a few heavy blankets and the two small dogs However it is tight with the wheel well plastic interior So after a bit of thinking and asking myself how many times have i had more than 2 people in the truck or will in the future? the answer was Pull out the rear seats Take out the inside spare tire and frame remove the side plastic panels Which now added about a 1 1/2ft side to side But also gave me a area behind the frint seats to store my spare if i really wanted to Plus a a tight fit for 2 12vott batteries and a isolator and inverter Next will be welding in angle iron just above the wheel well along the sides of the truck for a bed frame with wood slats (removable) and 2 inch sqaure tube bars for the ground for flooring after the spray foam ..My friend does industrial spray foam for new buildings ( Case of beer and 20 mins later...) I will be adding small PVC plumbing tubes before hand for wires 2 per side for lighting and aux power Then wood flooring and side wall....Roof i still have not really thought about just yet .. Oh and i already changed out my old CS-130 (80 amp Alt) for a AD-244 (100amp Alt @idle) from a Chevy Tahoe which has heated power seats and other high amp use Both alts fit in the same bracket in the engine however the new one is has a 1 inch bigger timing belt due to the bigger wheel Lots of power left over to restore power in the starting battery and into 1 and 2 batteries Which have nothing to do with the starting battery if the other 2 are used But with a switch you can start the truck from 1 and 2 batts As i have 5 rear windows i will need this reflectix panels Question have you insulated your cars SUV? Spray ? batt?
Awesome! Sounds like you have caught the camper conversion bug. I put some video links below to some insulation and other videos that might be helpful. If you can find a video on removing interior panels for your vehicle then putting some insulation inside the doors and panels will really help. I was always afraid to use the spray insulation, I would get it everywhere. I have my batteries inside but in the Prius I insulated between them and metal outside panel. Hope this helps and thanks for subscribing! Post some videos, I'll subscribe to your channel. This video will show you how to make full window templates for the window inserts: th-cam.com/video/YfPYhDCbnG8/w-d-xo.html Good keepng warm video: th-cam.com/video/zuWWopNofBQ/w-d-xo.html Insulating behind panels: th-cam.com/video/SjLD3bRfglk/w-d-xo.html Great little heater setup if you have access to shore power: th-cam.com/video/gtf2pPFcqhk/w-d-xo.html Land Rover SUV Build: th-cam.com/video/gre-C79dPno/w-d-xo.html
@@timdillen Thanks will click the links I find if you buy some plastic sheeting from the dollar store or paint supply store and cover the area your spraying Your fine Wide plastic tape works well Duct tape a little too well (gummy) Not everyone needs a industrial foam machine on hand But you can buy the soild foam sheets and foam in a can to run the gaps I live in a moisture zone and Winter snow and slush So having dense foam keeps moisture from building up side the panels causing mold and rust .. I will make a video with your tips coming months ... Thanks for the reply
The best setup I've seen so far and very detailed instructions. Thank you! Question- Do you think using Locktite spray instead of a glue gun would work just as well? Thought I'd do a test and see with a small piece
Excellent, well done. I am going to make my own now. I am thinking though that I will fabricat exactly like you did but leave one side not covered. That way I would put the shine side out when I am in hot climes and black side out for the cold climes.
He covered both sides in black vinyl to give it that stealthy tinted window appearance. Rather then attract attention with the shiny stuff. Speaking off, window tint is black and still leaves your car cooler in the summer. (even non ceramic tint)
Very interesting. The only adjustment I would suggest is to attach the top tab on the window side before fixing the whole window side sheet, then it would look great without the final adjustment being necessary.
Not sure if this has been mentioned . As for the tab. Why didn't you just cut the full length with rhe tab. Ie the main material with the tab. But great video
Very Nice, I am going to have to live in my Prius soon.(2007 Prius ) I think i am too old to do so, but what r u going to do these day .Been watching your vid on how to live this way, Hope I can do good a job . Thanks for all the information and videos it will help..
Awesome! It will be a great adventure - make some videos and post them for others to be inspired. People don't have the money to retire to the American dream so we have to be innovative and minimize. Agonize over everything you put in the car. Clean out one room in your place, put everything you THINK you will need on the floor. Put your mattress or sleeping bag on the floor. Live out of the one room except for restroom access. Keep your food in the room and eat there too.Then start subtracting everything you don't use - it will be quite a bit. Limit clothes to just one week's worth - laundromats are everywhere. This is my best video on organization, you probably have already seen it: th-cam.com/video/JLoGSh8OUcM/w-d-xo.html And keep me posted on your progress!
I was wondering if I could use the foam board that you used in the car window insert ? Was wondering why you changed product. Thank you for this! I’m going to put these in my schoolie!!!!
I have been able to keep mine in year around. Even though the outside is black, they are so well insulated that the heat does not come though to the inside. Hope you stay cool this summer and thanks for watching!
In case it helps anyone, the fabric bar code at my local Walmart in NE PA was 48580210605 $4.97 called ‘PRO-TUFF OD’. OD probably means out door. Dec 2018
As that fabric is nylon, you can clean up the fresh cut edges with a butane grill starter. Just run it, lit, along the edges inch or so away and the heat, not flame, will singe/fuse the loose fibers. Sneakers, duffel bags, carpet, etc works too.
I wonder if I could make one of these that would fit my RV door… I don’t know how sturdy those are or if that would be a good idea or a waste of material. I have noticed that I lose a lot of heat through my door though (I am living in a 1987 gulfstream sunsport)
Do I need to use the material for the condensation? OR Can I just use black Coroplast on one side and reflectix on the other taped together with the 3M tape. Less insulating I know but I would like them thinner.
No. At a 32F ambient temperature it took my car 1 hour to drop from 70F to 60F. Performing the same test with the window inserts I gained an average of 15 minutes.
Walmart barcode / part # for black fabric with vinyl is given in video Part 1 I see now the fabric info & link are in the description/ show notes for this video. 😊
It’s all good - thanks for those great videos ! My daughter & I are making your covers for my Prius. I’ll be leaving for the RTR, it will be my first car camping experience. BTW - the high temp glue sticks couldn’t be found locally. They are a very good idea, but folks may want to order online them ahead of time.
after watching this video (great by the way) I went to the local fabric store. They only have regular vinyl. May I ask where you got this? can it be ordered online? Does it have a particular name? I have made window shades out of insulated poster board type stuff. works ok, i would just like "MORE" out of my window coverings. Great thing, I already have the templates made :)
I finally got around to copying your prius walkthrough for my Magna Wagon and holy heck this was way more time consuming than I thought 🤣 glad it is done though. I do have a question as I am in Australia and was only able to get polyester material very similar to yours inly without the vinyl/shiny inside of the material... I'm hoping you read this and give any info as to whether not having the completely sealed material will affect it negatively in regard to condensation and moisture? I no polyester is meant to be pretty resistant and non absorbing but just wanted your input? I went for a white and black double sided insert for the car so in summer the white and in winter the black and if stealth camping in the city the black is much better. Really wish i lived in the USA as for all materials in the end I reckon I've spent $200 but still cheaper than and upholsterer. Also how did the hot glue hold up after a year? I bought acrylic string incase mine falls apart and ill resort to doing a quick stitch around the edges just not sure if it'll wreck the R-value having somewhat sealed holes throughout it... But i did use hightemp hot glue gun sticks just basic ones though so hopefully they manage through summer.
Do you put these on windows that are not solid? We have split windows where there are screens on half of it. Not sure how to get these perfect seals for these split windows.
Yes, I do put in windows with openings and screens however my ambulance has quite deep frames so they can still press in. If you window has items that extend past the frame that can be more of a challenge. Some people make one solid on and then cut out a section for the smaller opening window. Then finish up both pieces so you can insert and remove that section as needed for ventilation but still get some privacy. It also possible to cut just one layer of the white plastic going with the lines which makes a hinge. Don't know if any of that will help.
Can you paint reflectix? Instead of using the vinyl cover, I figured I'd paint the outside black and leave the silver on the inside to reflect more heat back on me in the winter.
Yes! I tried it and had decent results. I found that regular spray paint will not work. PlastiDip spray paint works but only if you start with just a light dusting for the first 3 coats and then add about 3 to 4 more for total coverage. If you put it on too heavy it will flake off. It makes a nice mat finish. The problem was that when it is in the window and the sun hits it or you get close to it, you can easily see the Reflectix pattern. I found the black material made it just look like dark tinted windows. It will work but I would make just one and see if you like it. The spray paint is a little pricey but WalMart carries it.
@@timdillen ok, thanks. Hmm, maybe black duct tape covering the window side and painted with a clear matte spray to dull down the shine. I'll have to do that on a piece of cardboard and see how it looks. Edit: Then again, now that I think about it, the sun will make the duct tape slippery and it will slide off, so I won't do that.
You said there was no sewing as if it was a bad thing. These need to be sewn, the quality would be superior over duct tape and hot melt glue and it would leave a nice fabric lip.
I'd like to know, as well. My guess, from looking at the thickness, is R-4. The metal doors radiate some heat and cold through conduction, but the window ports have to conduct the biggest difference. I'd also like to know if your portal treatment would help if it were black on one side and white on the other. Flipping it summer to winter. Black would draw heat to the window in the Winter and white facing out in the Summer may reflect as much as 10 degrees.
I think having a white side or raw Reflectix would certainly help with summer. I just hate hate hate the look of reflectix as it screams "homeless" to everyone who walks by. I did find a nice compromise. If you just put the raw corrugated vinyl insert in alone you get a nice bit of filtered light, some heat reflection, some insulation and it is unremarkable from the outside.
...I originally made these for my stealth Prius camper and just loved how you see absolutely nothing from the outside with the black material. I keep them in all the time all year long. Keeps the inside better regulated, protects the interior from sun damage and allows me to put the seats down in back and haul things without people looking in with intent to break in.
Love this! No boring chit chat...just great step by step and a wonderful creation. Thanks for sharing!
Ya I hate it when they talk for 20 min before they teach the 2 min method or what ever their trying to teach you lol.
this is one of the best, if not the best, diy tutorial I have ever seen. Thank you so much.
Outstanding! I've laid about 20 miles of hot glue in the last 30+years...I wish I'd known to use another material when two surfaces don't bond well! And after watching more videos than I'm willing to admit about using reflectix, your's is the FIRST one that acknowleges the importance of an air gap., plus provide a practical way to provide it. Your attention to detail will be so much appreciated when I get to window coverings...the bus has 18 windows plus windshield and back door. I know there will be oops, lots of them, but you've pointed out many that I may be able to avoid. Two tips with hot glue...I learned early to keep a cup of ice water near...my fingers always get in the way...and a hair dryer will help with the wisps! Thanks again for showing your experiences! Journey mercies.
18 windows - WOW! There is so much potential to capture heat. I think they will go faster and I figure your windows are square and the same size. You might be able to make a production line of it. Snag a 4x8' sheet of coroplast from the political signs that have to come down Wednesday. You might need 2 or 3. Glad you liked the videos. I made a video last year and really tried to address all the problems and questions people had from that one.
...and I have gotten a pretty bad burn on occasion. Not fun.
I would probably do a WIDER overlap to the back side, so you don't have to be as critical along the edges. I will probably incorporate "permanent" duct tape pull pads in mine. I have a large window on my sliding door, so I'll use velcro to store that shade right on the bottom of the door panel. I'm waiting for 2 RV windows for my Transit. Once they're In place, I'll DEF do your technique. WELL produced videos!
Thanks for a very helpful video. I'm going to be making shades for our MH which is a 2015 Winnebago Via built on a Sprinter chassis. I'm not worried about being stealth and want to keep one shiny foil side for reflecting sun rays. I'm going to use aluminum tape for sealing the edges and aluminum tape will blend in with the Reflectix which will be visible from the exterior of the camper. I'll be using a fabric on the interior side of the shade. There seems to be some debate about fabric attached over thee Reflectix reducing the efficiency of the product, but if you want to be stealth, I can understand the need for black fabric. Since I'm only using fabric on the inside surface, I hope to have the fabric match or be compatible with the interior of our MH. But...very well done video series and the best series I've found for using Reflectix and a corrugated plastic core.
I just sew a pillow case type cover that fits TIGHT over the panel. slip the panel in, and then just sew up the open end. No tape or glue needed.
That would definitely look better. I am just terrible with a sewing machine.
@@timdillen Me too, but that will be much easier in the long run. When sewing, you put the two outside pieces back to back, stitch it on all the sides, and turn it inside out to slide the reflectix in, the stitch the final side with the tab. (Tip: if you need to make the corner turn, leave the needle in the down position to hold the fabric in place) I watched my mom sew when I was a little girl...shocked I remember that!
Perhaps I missed it, but why black material? Are these for winter use only? Since black conducts heat so readily, it seems unsuitable for sunny, hot climates.
Stuart Stuart he addressed that in part 1
@@stuartstuart866 Funny how window tint is also black but yet leaves your car cooler in the summer. (Even non ceramic tint)
That is Classy!! Well done!
Thought those looked like ambulance windows & doors in the first two videos. I’m looking at used ambulances to convert to a camper right now. Spent a whole lot of years riding in them working for FD’s, too. Great series
Who would dislike this video?!
Thanks. This has been a life saver. My husband and I plan on doing this project this weekend to our travel trailer. We had one reflectix layer shoved under our blinds on all of our windows. Needless to say, that didn’t do much for the swampy Louisiana heat. Our air conditioner runs all day and it’s still not cooling right. Now I know why... I never thought about an air barrier. It definitely pays to take your time and think about what you’re doing.
I’m also thinking about doing something like this to the inside of my cabinets. I wish I could wallpaper my rv in this!
What would be great is to use a spray chrome for the body paint-if that didn’t cost and arm and a leg. I wonder if it would even be street legal.
Awesome! The first one takes a long time but if you have 2 people the process picks up speed. You will notice a difference right off. I have had people skip on some of the layers and it just does not work near as well. Need the reflectix on both sides of core with fabric for extra air gaps. If your trailer has square windows it will go faster too. Don't section 2 plastic pieces together, try to use one solid piece for each window. The seam buckles a little over time and makes them slightly smaller. Have them fit real tight at the start. Let me know how they turn out!
i have an astro van i use for over size load escorts and i converted the back to sleeping quarters to save money on motels. i am planning on gutting it out and starting fresh again and will double your design since i live in Texas. two air gaps and three layers of reflectix.
This is a great video. I am paying on an ol camper to which l was afraid of the insulation. This has given me something to do in order to keep it warmer. Thank you for making this video.
Good video! Vinyl products can melt in some extreme weathered conditions. Glad you researched how reflectex really works.
Great job...I don't have a van but I might use your technique for the windows in our north facing bedrooms for the chilly Canadian winters.I will however trace the reflexit layers onto brown paper for a sewing pattern for the cover fabric. Sew on 3 sides and glue the 4th side.Also I will sew the tab to one side and use a decorative fabric..
Suggestion...about taping around the pannel...I would tape the way I tape my stained glass projects. Holding the pannel up right with the tape flat on the work surface and just press down the edges to the tape. Thanks Great project
Awesome detailed tutorial. I'd leave one side reflectics and the other black so I can flip them for stealth vs heat reflection.
Cars have tinted windows that are black and also leave your car feeling cooler in the summer. I doubt the layer of fabric will heat up much.
I saw you do this for your Prius windows and I made them for my Yukon Denali. They work great keeping heat and cold out. Thanks again for your expertise.
Awesome! I am glad they worked out for you. It's been a year since the last one and wanted to make another that answered many of the questions people had about the first one. I also wanted to do something more tailored to the edges. I really appreciate your telling me this.
Your videos are ALWAYS super relevant for nomads.
Always fascinating and well-explained. You come up with some innovative techniques and let us know about the most useful materials out there.
Thank you for SO much help.
You are very welcome. Thanks for your kind comments and for watching!
Works great watched all 3 parts. Thank you! Very well needed this video. Now how about making a video on how to connect a tankless hot water heater?
Yeah, I'll bet *his* would be one we could actually follow, complete and use!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! You’ve done all the trial and error problem solving so I don’t have to. Excellent presentation as well.
Thanks for the instructions. I started gathering the materials for my van window project and could not find corrugated vinyl locally but came across 1/2 rigid foam insulation at Lowes and decided to try it as a substitute for the poly board. It only cost $7.50 per 4'x8' sheet, just enough to do the 6 windows of our Dodge Grand Caravan. The reflectix and cloth covering glued on just the same. While it is thicker than the poly by at least 3/8", the insulation value is probably considerably higher than the corrugated poly board. The foam insulation also has a foil face and vapor barrier to boot. It has proved to be really effective for sound insulation as well. The only drawback is that it takes up a bit more storage space when not installed in the windows. Once again, thanks for the detailed instructions. That was invaluable.
Sounds like a great setup. Nice about the sound deadening. Thanks for posting!
I made these same window shades for my Toyota 4Runner 5 years ago. Never watched a video on how to do it. And there were only minor differences between your and mine designs. So glad your making these videos it is an awesome service to people who have no choice but to live in their cars and suvs. Your awesome!
The only thing I would has said that you didn’t was the cost of the materials.
Thank you for your kind comments. I have had great feedback on this type solution and glad it works well for you! Thanks for watching.
So this solution works good for car / suv windows too? Not just campers?
Thanks for the great set of tutorial videos! I just went through them and made a fantastic set of insulated coverings for the back windows and vent in my Promaster. What great tips/tricks and instructions! Brilliant!
Thank you so much! Mine are over 3 years old and I still use them daily. Hopefully yours will too!
The pillow case tip is awesome.
You could also put the pull-tab on the back before you secure the final flap of the material covering the back. But great idea/design for 'sealing' the windows from light and cold/heat.
I watched all 3 videos on this ,excellent excellent excellent job, I will make these for sure .
This was VERY informative. I hadn't thought to use corrogated vinyl board.
What an especially good way to recycle/repurpose/reuse those unwanted political and yard slogan signs that are so popular nowadays!
Absolutely genius! So perfectly explained. Thank you for taking the time to share.
Great idea! Looks like I have another project for my 5th wheel. A suggestion about the corners. I cover RC planes with fabric and heat shrink plastic, more fabric and dope than plastic. When you do the corners, to get a nice smooth surface, pull the fabric up the side and then cut a wedge out up to but not through the surface. When you do it right it will butt against the other part already glued down. No lumps will be there that can show, and gives a nice smooth finish.
One thing I question, the black material will absorb heat, so is it really a good idea to place the black surface against the glass where the glass might get hot enough to shatter if cold water hits it from a sudden rain? I have seen car sun roofs shatter when they got too hot and hit with cold water.
Best ones I've seen yet.
Excellent and professional job done.. Was getting ideas for my car so am hoping can get all the materials needed in the U.K.. Well done 👍
Thank you for creating this series! I have been on the search for my Dodge ram van and now feel I've got the perfect solution.
Great! So glad you are finding the videos helpful. Thanks for watching!
Awesome video. Love the attention to detail. That's me 👍
FYI
When I get a bit of glue on something or even if I want to separate it after hot gluing I warm it up with my glow dryer and it comes right off so easy. 😊
Pro attention and dedication, for a perfect finish and efficiency... very good job, bravo !!!
Wow! This was a great video! Thank you for a thorough explanation and demonstration! 👍🏻👍🏻
A thought: Reflectix works by reflecting the heat of the sun back out the window. It does an amazing job. Those auto window shades, silver, really lower the heat in the car by doing this. Opinion, if you cover the silver portion with fabric, the fabric cannot reflect heat as well and instead absorbs it, keeping the heat inside the vehicle rather than sending it back out the glass window. Think of it as a drape rather than a reflector. I would be interested in how much heat was kept out of the vehicle with our technique versus using a single layer of reflectix. Keep in mind that the heat buildup on the layer of fabric will eventually travel around to the other side of the device as it is all fabric. Use a laser thermometer to read the backside of reflectix and the backside of your device. Which is cooler after 3/4 hours in the sun?
Its definitely cooler then one layer of reflectix.
Tinted windows are also black but leave your car cooler in the summer...
Hence the name?
Wow, very thorough and helpful tutorial! Thank you!
I have a beautiful oil cloth for the inside..this is great...thanks..
Thanks for the very detailed information.
the edges build up with the layers of tape and cloth, but doesn't seem to be a problem. the curved gasket effect around the edge blocks light gaps
Nice I did the same thing except each window has 6 layers of reflectix
Outstanding video series! I will be doing this exact method for my RV this summer!
You are simply wonderful.
A heat gun on low will erase seems and make the fabric folds lay down.
Really awesome..could put the tab under the black back as you are finishing. That way tab can be at bottom for those windows that are covered on the top with the box curtain things . Thank you for the vid!!
Kia ora brilliant 3 part step by step video. Thank you arohanui 😍💖
Thank you. Fantastic! Well- explained and executed. Watched part 2 also. Final product looks great!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS!!!!!!!! I APPRECIATE YOUR INFORMATIVE VIDEOS, YOUR VIDEOS ARE HELPING US SLOWLY CONVERT OUR AMBULANCE INTO A HOME!:)
Awesome! The demolition would really get me down, behind ever panel was more trouble. Once I got everything out I started to feel better about the conversion. The ambulances are so well built but that does make them harder to take apart. Having square walls made life much easier. Thanks for your comments and for watching!
Thanks so much! I will be using your method to insulate my windows. Your rig is looking so comfy and homey. Great job :))
Between the sofa, the big TV and the inserts, I am happy, comfy, entertained and WARM! Can ask for much more than that. These are the best inserts I have made and I have made a bunch. I remember life before velcro and glue guns and TH-cam - but don't know how we made it through!
Yep, times sure have changed :) I'm so happy for you!
I enjoyed your video; you’re a great teacher.
Very detailed, thank you! Really appreciate you sharing the dos and donts!!
Thank you! These have been so helpful this winter. Thanks for you comments!
You do an excellent job of explaining and demonstrating without too much info. Great job.
Thanks buddy, you saved me lots of money.
Bit of a long story But it's worth the read ..First like your videos Hard to find small camper ideas Subbed and liked !
I have a 05' Chevy blazer 2dr 4x4 and just installed a 2.5" proper lift kit And swapped out all the other steering items with new
My girlfriend has a 18" Chevy volt ( fills her tank every 3 to 4 months) We enjoy the truck for Camping and drive-in movies As we pull in backwards and drop the tailgate and have a few heavy blankets and the two small dogs However it is tight with the wheel well plastic interior
So after a bit of thinking and asking myself how many times have i had more than 2 people in the truck or will in the future? the answer was Pull out the rear seats Take out the inside spare tire and frame remove the side plastic panels Which now added about a 1 1/2ft side to side But also gave me a area behind the frint seats to store my spare if i really wanted to Plus a a tight fit for 2 12vott batteries and a isolator and inverter
Next will be welding in angle iron just above the wheel well along the sides of the truck for a bed frame with wood slats (removable) and 2 inch sqaure tube bars for the ground for flooring after the spray foam ..My friend does industrial spray foam for new buildings ( Case of beer and 20 mins later...) I will be adding small PVC plumbing tubes before hand for wires 2 per side for lighting and aux power Then wood flooring and side wall....Roof i still have not really thought about just yet .. Oh and i already changed out my old CS-130 (80 amp Alt) for a AD-244 (100amp Alt @idle) from a Chevy Tahoe which has heated power seats and other high amp use Both alts fit in the same bracket in the engine however the new one is has a 1 inch bigger timing belt due to the bigger wheel Lots of power left over to restore power in the starting battery and into 1 and 2 batteries Which have nothing to do with the starting battery if the other 2 are used But with a switch you can start the truck from 1 and 2 batts
As i have 5 rear windows i will need this reflectix panels
Question have you insulated your cars SUV? Spray ? batt?
Awesome! Sounds like you have caught the camper conversion bug. I put some video links below to some insulation and other videos that might be helpful. If you can find a video on removing interior panels for your vehicle then putting some insulation inside the doors and panels will really help. I was always afraid to use the spray insulation, I would get it everywhere. I have my batteries inside but in the Prius I insulated between them and metal outside panel. Hope this helps and thanks for subscribing! Post some videos, I'll subscribe to your channel.
This video will show you how to make full window templates for the window inserts: th-cam.com/video/YfPYhDCbnG8/w-d-xo.html
Good keepng warm video: th-cam.com/video/zuWWopNofBQ/w-d-xo.html
Insulating behind panels: th-cam.com/video/SjLD3bRfglk/w-d-xo.html
Great little heater setup if you have access to shore power: th-cam.com/video/gtf2pPFcqhk/w-d-xo.html
Land Rover SUV Build: th-cam.com/video/gre-C79dPno/w-d-xo.html
@@timdillen Thanks will click the links I find if you buy some plastic sheeting from the dollar store or paint supply store and cover the area your spraying Your fine Wide plastic tape works well Duct tape a little too well (gummy) Not everyone needs a industrial foam machine on hand But you can buy the soild foam sheets and foam in a can to run the gaps I live in a moisture zone and Winter snow and slush So having dense foam keeps moisture from building up side the panels causing mold and rust .. I will make a video with your tips coming months
... Thanks for the reply
Clever and effective.
The best setup I've seen so far and very detailed instructions. Thank you! Question- Do you think using Locktite spray instead of a glue gun would work just as well? Thought I'd do a test and see with a small piece
Excellent, well done. I am going to make my own now. I am thinking though that I will fabricat exactly like you did but leave one side not covered. That way I would put the shine side out when I am in hot climes and black side out for the cold climes.
I found tan colored vinyl backed fabrics like his black , I used that for summer heat!
He covered both sides in black vinyl to give it that stealthy tinted window appearance. Rather then attract attention with the shiny stuff.
Speaking off, window tint is black and still leaves your car cooler in the summer. (even non ceramic tint)
Excellent!! Thanks so much!
Excellent tutorial!
Could you add the removal tabs before putting on the exterior covering, and not need that cosmetic step?
Very interesting. The only adjustment I would suggest is to attach the top tab on the window side before fixing the whole window side sheet, then it would look great without the final adjustment being necessary.
Great idea - thanks for posting!
Why not make the pillow case one side nacho & one side light grey or some color to match the interior of the vehicle.
I would just make the tab part of the layers, where it is anchored between everything.
Love this idea!
Going to stow those behind the couch?
Good step-by-step explanation!
Thank you! Yes, lots of room behind and under the sofa. I could not find bins that will fit under the sofa so will have to build them.
Awesome video. Did you ever find out if these are safe to use with double pane glass?
Need to do an updated fast version all in one video
did you film how you measure and cut the black fabric?
Not sure if this has been mentioned . As for the tab. Why didn't you just cut the full length with rhe tab. Ie the main material with the tab. But great video
Very Nice, I am going to have to live in my Prius soon.(2007 Prius ) I think i am too old to do so, but what r u going to do these day .Been watching your vid on how to live this way, Hope I can do good a job . Thanks for all the information and videos it will help..
Awesome! It will be a great adventure - make some videos and post them for others to be inspired. People don't have the money to retire to the American dream so we have to be innovative and minimize. Agonize over everything you put in the car. Clean out one room in your place, put everything you THINK you will need on the floor. Put your mattress or sleeping bag on the floor. Live out of the one room except for restroom access. Keep your food in the room and eat there too.Then start subtracting everything you don't use - it will be quite a bit. Limit clothes to just one week's worth - laundromats are everywhere. This is my best video on organization, you probably have already seen it: th-cam.com/video/JLoGSh8OUcM/w-d-xo.html And keep me posted on your progress!
Great job....thanks
Nice job..
Thank you and thanks for watching!
Put the tab inside before the final layer since you're not folding the last layer over to finish.
Great idea!
What about using 3m spray adhesive to bond the chloroplast to the reflectix?
He wanted it loose to create more of an air gap. Bbetttrerr insulated. How much who know.
I was wondering if I could use the foam board that you used in the car window insert ? Was wondering why you changed product. Thank you for this! I’m going to put these in my schoolie!!!!
Foam board will break down over time.
Would be cool if you make these with solar panels instead
00:30 by using black on both, you have 2x the useage, but if u leave it silver 5:30 it will reflect sun in the summer too, wouldnt it?
I don’t think I need r value where I’m at in Arizona because is almost 100 degrees everyday. I just need to keep the heat out and be stealth
I have been able to keep mine in year around. Even though the outside is black, they are so well insulated that the heat does not come though to the inside. Hope you stay cool this summer and thanks for watching!
In case it helps anyone, the fabric bar code at my local Walmart in NE PA was 48580210605 $4.97 called ‘PRO-TUFF OD’. OD probably means out door. Dec 2018
As that fabric is nylon, you can clean up the fresh cut edges with a butane grill starter. Just run it, lit, along the edges inch or so away and the heat, not flame, will singe/fuse the loose fibers. Sneakers, duffel bags, carpet, etc works too.
I have one of those, I'll give it a try. Thanks!
I thought he said the fabric is polyester.
@@anniewilliams4840 either would work for the ‘window side’ and anything you wish for ‘inside’ side, aka avoid cotton on window side
Well synthetic. You use it to singe the edges of the frayed synthetic material So you don’t have any loose edges or ends@@anniewilliams4840
I wonder if I could make one of these that would fit my RV door… I don’t know how sturdy those are or if that would be a good idea or a waste of material. I have noticed that I lose a lot of heat through my door though (I am living in a 1987 gulfstream sunsport)
Do you also put the clear plastic over the inside as well after all these steps? Can the plastic go on the outside of the camper?
I thought one side was going to be shiny reflectix to deflect the sun ? What am I missing ?
I'd like for someone to test if these keep it warmer than bubble wrap
Do I need to use the material for the condensation? OR Can I just use black Coroplast on one side and reflectix on the other taped together with the 3M tape. Less insulating I know but I would like them thinner.
Is there a reason why you did not use spray adhesive instead of the hot glue? It seems that the hot glue is so much harder to perfect!
Could I use styrofoam for the middle and yard of the corrugated vinyl?
Wete you able to figure out what R-value your panels are?
No.
At a 32F ambient temperature it took my car 1 hour to drop from 70F to 60F.
Performing the same test with the window inserts I gained an average of 15 minutes.
Remember to sew in a tab. Lo
is this good for warm weather too
Yes.
Walmart barcode / part # for black fabric with vinyl is given in video Part 1
I see now the fabric info & link are in the description/ show notes for this video. 😊
Hehe thanks! There are a total of 5 videos and I need to get a definitive setup of links that match for each video.
It’s all good - thanks for those great videos ! My daughter & I are making your covers for my Prius. I’ll be leaving for the RTR, it will be my first car camping experience. BTW - the high temp glue sticks couldn’t be found locally. They are a very good idea, but folks may want to order online them ahead of time.
Awesome! Hope they will be helpful in your trip to the RTR. I would like to attend someday.Let me know how the covers turn out.
Why not just cut the tab when you cut the extra fabric on one end? 🤔 Is there a reason for not doing that?
after watching this video (great by the way) I went to the local fabric store. They only have regular vinyl. May I ask where you got this? can it be ordered online? Does it have a particular name?
I have made window shades out of insulated poster board type stuff. works ok, i would just like "MORE" out of my window coverings. Great thing, I already have the templates made :)
So i love this but i font have much depth in my windows. How much depth us needed for these to stay in the window
Im going to use magnets in the tabs to hold them up and in.
I finally got around to copying your prius walkthrough for my Magna Wagon and holy heck this was way more time consuming than I thought 🤣 glad it is done though.
I do have a question as I am in Australia and was only able to get polyester material very similar to yours inly without the vinyl/shiny inside of the material... I'm hoping you read this and give any info as to whether not having the completely sealed material will affect it negatively in regard to condensation and moisture? I no polyester is meant to be pretty resistant and non absorbing but just wanted your input?
I went for a white and black double sided insert for the car so in summer the white and in winter the black and if stealth camping in the city the black is much better.
Really wish i lived in the USA as for all materials in the end I reckon I've spent $200 but still cheaper than and upholsterer.
Also how did the hot glue hold up after a year? I bought acrylic string incase mine falls apart and ill resort to doing a quick stitch around the edges just not sure if it'll wreck the R-value having somewhat sealed holes throughout it...
But i did use hightemp hot glue gun sticks just basic ones though so hopefully they manage through summer.
Do you put these on windows that are not solid? We have split windows where there are screens on half of it. Not sure how to get these perfect seals for these split windows.
Yes, I do put in windows with openings and screens however my ambulance has quite deep frames so they can still press in. If you window has items that extend past the frame that can be more of a challenge. Some people make one solid on and then cut out a section for the smaller opening window. Then finish up both pieces so you can insert and remove that section as needed for ventilation but still get some privacy. It also possible to cut just one layer of the white plastic going with the lines which makes a hinge. Don't know if any of that will help.
Is there any options other than a glue gun? Could I just use super glue?
I used gorillaglue. The dry time was long.... but strength is unbelievable.
Why don't you build a factory
Can you paint reflectix? Instead of using the vinyl cover, I figured I'd paint the outside black and leave the silver on the inside to reflect more heat back on me in the winter.
Yes! I tried it and had decent results. I found that regular spray paint will not work. PlastiDip spray paint works but only if you start with just a light dusting for the first 3 coats and then add about 3 to 4 more for total coverage. If you put it on too heavy it will flake off. It makes a nice mat finish. The problem was that when it is in the window and the sun hits it or you get close to it, you can easily see the Reflectix pattern. I found the black material made it just look like dark tinted windows. It will work but I would make just one and see if you like it. The spray paint is a little pricey but WalMart carries it.
@@timdillen ok, thanks. Hmm, maybe black duct tape covering the window side and painted with a clear matte spray to dull down the shine. I'll have to do that on a piece of cardboard and see how it looks. Edit: Then again, now that I think about it, the sun will make the duct tape slippery and it will slide off, so I won't do that.
I think it is great idea to test. I got in a hurry with one paint setup and over time the paint flaked off the reflectix and stuck to the door trim.
You said there was no sewing as if it was a bad thing. These need to be sewn, the quality would be superior over duct tape and hot melt glue and it would leave a nice fabric lip.
I suppose you could take a thermo gun and laser both sides to get tempertures, then google the difference to get an R-Value?
I probably have a friend who has one. I am interested in knowing.
I'd like to know, as well. My guess, from looking at the thickness, is R-4. The metal doors radiate some heat and cold through conduction, but the window ports have to conduct the biggest difference. I'd also like to know if your portal treatment would help if it were black on one side and white on the other. Flipping it summer to winter. Black would draw heat to the window in the Winter and white facing out in the Summer may reflect as much as 10 degrees.
I think having a white side or raw Reflectix would certainly help with summer. I just hate hate hate the look of reflectix as it screams "homeless" to everyone who walks by. I did find a nice compromise. If you just put the raw corrugated vinyl insert in alone you get a nice bit of filtered light, some heat reflection, some insulation and it is unremarkable from the outside.
...I originally made these for my stealth Prius camper and just loved how you see absolutely nothing from the outside with the black material. I keep them in all the time all year long. Keeps the inside better regulated, protects the interior from sun damage and allows me to put the seats down in back and haul things without people looking in with intent to break in.
I would heat my car up to 70F and time how long it took to drop 10* with and without the inserts.
Aeent the finished 5 layer panels too heavy to stay up on windows