Looking to replace the windows on your caravan andinterested in learning how much it will cost? Replacing caravan windows is anessential aspect of keeping your vehicle in top condition, ensuring comfort,safety and efficiency. The cost of this replacement can vary widely based onseveral factors, including the size and type of window, the materials used andthe complexity of installation.
To help you with the decision of whether your caravan windowsshould be replaced, we discuss what causes windows to deteriorate and the costsinvolved with a full window replacement. This article aims to provide acomprehensive overview of these factors to help you estimate the costs involvedwith your caravan.
What Causes Caravan Window to Deteriorate?
Caravan windows, much like other components of a caravan, are susceptible to deterioration over time due to a variety of factors. One of the primary causes is exposure to the elements, particularly UV radiation from the sun. UV rays can cause the materials, especially plastics like acrylic or polycarbonate to become brittle, discoloured and prone to cracking. Extreme weather conditions such as high winds, heavy rain and hail can also physically damage the windows and cause scratches and cracks.
Temperature fluctuations also play a significant role in the deterioration of caravan windows. The expansion and contraction of materials in response to changes in temperature can lead to the weakening of the rubber seals, resulting in leaks and draughts. Over time these temperature-induced stresses can cause the window frames to warp or the glass to crack.
Another factor contributing to the degradation of caravanwindows is the wear and tear from regular use and aging. Components like thewindow seals lose their elasticity and sealing compression leading to reducedinsulation and water leakage. Mechanical damage, either from road debris or roadtraffic collisions can also cause immediate and noticeable physical damage to thewindows on your caravan.
Windows and Frames
The size and type of your caravan window are the primary factors that influence the cost of replacement. Naturally, larger windows or those with unique shapes and designs typically cost more due to the increased amount of material and the complexity of the design. Factors such as whether the windows are fixed, sliding or hinged can also affect the availability of replacement parts and their associated cost.
In most instances, the windows on your van will be double-glazed opening windows that are hinged at the top. These windows comprise of two acrylic plastic panes that are bonded together. The gap between these panes creates an insulated area that functions in a similar way to the glass windows within your home. Double-glazed opening windows can be supplied with or without an external frame, depending on how the original manufacturers of your caravan designed these areas. They will be available in clear and various coloured tints such as grey and bronze.
Typically, the front window will be the most expensive window on your caravan and cost between£900 and £1,250to replace. The side windows, as these are significantly smaller in size, often cost between£250 and £400each. These prices are dependent on the make and manufacturer of your caravan, with newer and larger models often being towards the top end of these price brackets.
This cost can be significantly reduced if you are able to find a second-hand caravan window that fits your vehicle.
Other Fixings
Although not always necessary, replacing the fixtures and fittings on your window may be desirable in instances where you are considering a complete refit. This can include replacing the window lever lock catches, window stays and latch plates. Here are the typical costs for replacing these items:
Window Lever Lock Catch: £7 to £12
Window Stay: £25 to £35 for a pair
Window Handles: £13
Latch Plates: £2
Window Blocks: £2
Window Rubber Seals
Replacing the rubber seals around your windows is considered the most common part of caravan window replacement. Water can enter your van through damaged or split seals, causing issues with water ingress in the walls. Failing to identify and fix these issues in a timely manner can create problems with damp and mould resulting in more expensive and intensive repairs. Here are the typical costs associated with replacing your caravan window seal:
Double Glazed Opening Window Seal: £12 per metre
Fixed Window Seal: £6 to £13 per metre
Sliding Window Seal: £4.50 to £9 per metre
When replacing the window seal, it is often necessary to replace the cover or filler strip that fits into the rubber. These, acting as decorative pieces, enhance the overall appearance of your van hiding staples and other fixings. Priced around £1.50 to £2 per metre, these parts are a relatively inexpensive part of your window seal replacement.
Fitting and Installation
Although replacing the windows on your caravan is considereda DIY job, it may be necessary to instruct the help of a professional. If thewindow frame is split or water ingress has damaged the wall of the caravan, youmay wish to use a professional repairer to ensure that every issue is reliablyfixed.
Labour costs for installing a replacement window, fixingsand rubber seal typically costs around £60 per hour. This work can be completedby a mobile caravan engineer, such as members of the Mobile Caravan EngineerAssociation.
Estimated Replacement Caravan Window Cost
Although replacing the windows of your caravan is an unwantedexpense, it is an essential part of maintaining your van to ensure that it is watertightand unlikely to experience damp related issues. Replacing caravanwindows is an investment in your vehicle’s functionality and comfort. The costvaries based on the size and type of window, materials used and installationcomplexity. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decisionthat balances cost with quality and performance.
Here is an estimated cost for replacing a doubled-glazedopening window on a standard caravan or motorhome:
- Window: The cost to replace the window on yourcaravan will be between £250 and £1,250, depending on the size of the window.Side windows, and those located in the habitation door, will be towards thebottom end of this price bracket, whereas larger front windows are typicallyover £1,000.
- Fixings: Even though your existing windowlevers, stays and handles may be in good condition, it is often necessary toreplace these parts when changing the window pane. These items are pricedbetween £7 to £17 per unit, but are often sold in pairs.
- Caravan Window Seals: Motorhome and caravan windowseals are often considered the most common item to replace on your van. Theserubber seals will cost around £12 per metre. There may be an additional chargeof £2 per metre for the decorative grey, white or black cover strip that slidesinto the top of the seal and hides the screws securing the seal onto the edgeof your van.
In most instances, you can solve most issues with yourcaravan windows by replacing one of these elements. For example, replacing yourcaravan window seal may help resolve issues with water ingress. This isbeneficial and often negates the need for expensive complete windowreplacements.
Seals Direct, as a specialist in motorhome and caravanseals, can help with the identification and supply of replacement seals foryour caravan window. If you would like assistance with purchasing the correctseal for your motorhome or caravan, please feel free to contact our knowledgeteam. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 01452 617722 or submit yourenquiry via email at sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk.
