11 Types of RV Windows

All RV enthusiasts know how easy it is to be distracted by a flashy interior or a powerful engine when shopping for a new camper. With all of those cool features, the last thing on your mind is inspecting the windows. But, the windows are an integral part of any RV. 

A high-quality window can save you money on heating, provide better insulation, and create a better RV experience for you and your family. Luckily, it is easy to swap out any old window for a new one. Keep reading to learn about the 11 different window options. 

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Mid day at a travel trailer campsite in autumn at Jordan Lake NC, 11 Types of RV Windows

There are many window choices out there. Let's take a look at them so you know the best window for your RV. 

Luxury motor home parked at camp ground site North Beach, Florida

1. Frameless Windows 

Frameless RV windows are a newer design using only one piece of glass. As their name suggests, they are frame-free and provide a seamless look. They are designed to tilt open from the bottom, but cannot open fully. 

Advantages

  • There is often UV protection
  • Rain protection when open
  • Aesthetically pleasing 

Disadvantages

  • Less airflow since they cannot fully open
  • More expensive to install and replace

Camco Sun Shield

Even though many frameless RV windows have some UV protection, it is still nice to have an extra layer. This sun shield serves as a reflective and insulating cover, so the internal temperature of your RV stays more comfortable. It's a perfect fit for any frameless window.  

Click here to see it on Amazon. 

2. Radius Frame Windows 

A radius frame RV window has rounded corners. They come in a variety of dimensions and are the most common shaped windows for new RVs. 

Advantages

  • Corners last longer 
  • You can replace a broken frame without replacing the whole window 
  • Round corners are safer when the window is opened 

Disadvantages

  • More expensive 
  • May experience seal problems over time

Lippert Components Window Frame 

This radius window frame is an excellent replacement for any damaged or very old frame. You can save your glass and install a new frame for a tighter seal. 

Click here to see it on Amazon.

3. Sliding Windows 

Just as their name implies, sliding windows slide open. Usually, they open in only one direction, but sometimes they can slide in either direction. 

There are horizontal sliders, vertical sliders, and T-sliders. Horizontals slide left to right. Verticals slide up and down. T-sliders are a combination of a fixed pane window with a sliding window directly on top. 

Advantages

  • More affordable
  • Durable
  • Easy to open and close

Disadvantages

  • Prone to seal problems in the center seam 
  • Get dirty faster than other window types 

ToughGrade Horizontal Sliding Window

 

This sliding window includes the mounting ring and a screen. The exterior fastening sits flush with the body of the RV, so a seamless surface is maintained. It is even tinted, so you don't have to worry about tinting it later. 

Click here to see it on Amazon. 

If you are interested in learning more about window tinting, check out this blog post: How Much Does It Cost To Tint Windows?

4. Crank Windows 

Crank windows are known by many names including awning, torque, jalousie, and louver. They come in one pane or multiple panes. These windows are on a hinge mechanism allowing them to open outward by cranking a handle. 

Advantages

  • Excellent ventilation 
  • Provide airflow in the rain
  • Easy to clean

Disadvantages

  • Insulation issues (only in old models, newer crank window have better insulation) 
  • Windows may leak when shut

To learn more about what to do when an RV window leaks, read this blog post: RV Window Leaking: What To Do?

Prime-Line Dual Grip Window Handle

Crank windows may break and prevent you from opening your awning window. Here is a 2-pack of durable window handle to get your window opening again. 

Click here to see it on Amazon.

5. Exit/Egress Windows 

Egress windows are escape windows. They serve as an emergency exit and open all the way. Every exit window has a quick release latch holding it shut. This latch is typically painted red so that it is visible.

Advantages

  • Wide variety to suit your needs 
  • Extra safety feature
  • Extra source of light 

Disadvantages

  • More important to upkeep than other windows

Emergency Window Latch Set

Here is a set of exit window latches. They are great to have on hand in case your current latch breaks. You don't want to find yourself in an emergency with an egress window that doesn't function properly.

Click here to see these on Amazon.  

6. Concession Windows

Also known as serving windows, concession windows are not a typical RV feature. These windows are larger and slide open with a retractable awning on the outside. They are more common in food trucks but are sometimes seen on RVs.

Advantages

  • Wide variety of sizes and types
  • Adds a unique touch to your RV 

Disadvantages

  • The outer awning cannot open from inside
  • Not common on RVs, so they need to be specially installed 

7. Picture Windows 

This type of RV window is a large fixed pane window. This means it does not open, but still provides plenty of light. 

Advantages

  • Low cost
  • Better outside views

Disadvantages

  • Do not typically open
  • No ventilation 

Grandekor Roller Blinds 

If you have a large picture window in your RV, these blinds are a great way to get some privacy when you need it. They even reflect sunlight to keep your RV at a comfortable temperature.

Click here to see these on Amazon. 

8. Bay Windows 

A bay window is a picture window with two smaller windows on either side. In RVs, they are located at the end and are not a common feature of most campers. 

Advantages

  • Better outside views
  • RV feels more open

Disadvantages

  • Expensive to install
  • More windows mean more lost heat

9. Double Pane Windows 

Double pane windows have two layers of glass for extra insulation. Almost any RV window comes in a double-pane option. 

Advantages

  • Excellent insulation from heat, cold, wind, and sound
  • Lower heating/AC costs
  • Better security from break-ins

Disadvantages

  • Expensive 
  • Heavier 

RV Designer Window Latch

These window latches are specifically designed for double pane windows. If your latch breaks, these are a great replacement option. 

Click here to see it on Amazon. 

10. Single Pane Windows 

Single pane windows are only one panel of glass. Just like double pane windows, they are available in almost any RV window style. 

Advantages

  • More affordable
  • Let in more nature sounds

Disadvantages

  • Less insulation
  • Condensation problems

To learn more about how to prevent windows from fogging up, check out this blog post: How to Keep Windows From Fogging?

11. Tempered Windows 

These windows are a type of stronger safety glass treated with chemicals. If it breaks, it crumbles into cubes instead of breaking into sharp angular pieces. This material is used more and more in RV windows. 

Advantages

  • Safer 
  • Stronger

Disadvantages

  • More susceptible to break-ins 
  • Less soundproof 

How Much Does It Cost To Replace An RV Window?

RV Travel Trailer Window Seal Check by Recreational Vehicles Service Technician

So now that you know about the different types of RV windows, you are probably wondering how much replacements cost.  Unfortunately, there is no standard price range for replacing RV windows. Some windows cost as low as $100 while other replacement and installation costs can easily top $1,000. Your local RV dealer will be able to give you a good estimate of the cost of replacing your individual RV's windows. 

To learn more about RV window replacement costs, read our post about it: How Much Does It Cost To Replace RV Windows? 

Are Dual Pane RV Windows Worth It?

Dual pane windows are an expensive investment. They can save you money on heating and cooling costs. However, if you only occasionally use your camper in moderate temperature conditions, it is probably not worth the extra money. 

However, if you live in your RV full time or use it in extremely cold or hot climates, dual pane windows will save you money over time by providing better insulation. 

Are Frameless RV Windows Better?

Frameless windows are not necessarily better for your RV. They may look sleeker but may be less stable and don't provide as much airflow. It all depends on what you, as an RV owner, want. If you are looking for a cohesive aesthetically-pleasing look, then frameless windows are better. 

Time To Find The Perfect Window! 

Long trailer at a campsite at Jordan Lake in late autumn

There are so many RV window options. Now that you know more information about the different styles and types, you can find the best window for your beloved RV. 

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4 Comments

  1. So far so good, the Vintage windows open up to about 10″x10″ so you do get some airflow, the windows have a dark tent so they block the sunlight but can be seen through at night if a light is on inside the trailer, overall I like them and would buy them again.

  2. I purchased Valterra to replace the existing pieces on the travel trailer and it works great! Very easy to install and was the same size as the existing one. When it was dry I silicone around where the frame would install on the door and then installed the window. Everything went very well. Great product!

  3. If you want to improve the appearance of your RV, you should start with the door. Changing the window is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to do it, short of replacing the complete thing. The RecPro entry door window will instantly improve the look of your RV.

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