How to hide a stealth window in your campervan or RV build

By Cheri Sicard
Having a stealth window you can see out of but others can’t see through from the outside keeps a cargo van looking like a work van, but inside, it’s bright and open. During the day, a stealth window lets natural light pour in while blocking eyes from peeking in. At night, when the van lights are on, the curtains deliver extra privacy. This method is a tried-and-true solution for vanlifers who want windows without drawing attention.

In today’s featured video, at the bottom of this post, the team from Outdoors Embrace shows us how.

Overview of the installation process

Installing a stealth window using the urethane method is something most beginners can do. Also, it’s the most reliable way to make sure there are no leaks over time. Here’s a simple overview (watch the video for a demo):

1. Mark the cutout on the van wall

2. Cut out the metal

3. File and clean the opening

4. Prime with urethane primer

5. Add trim lock edging

6. Apply urethane bead

7. Press in the window

8. Tape while drying

9. Add the perforated sticker

10. Build and install the curtain frame

Tools and materials you’ll need

The right tools make this safe and straightforward:

Must-haves:

• 26:1 ratio caulking gun (for squeezing thick urethane)
• Urethane tube and primer
• Drill with metal bit
• Jigsaw with metal-cutting blade
• Metal file or deburring tool
• Sharpie and straightedge
• Safety glasses
• Window install tape
• Window that fits your van
• Perforated vinyl sticker (find a recommended one here)
• Vacuum cleaner
• Acetone

Nice-to-haves:

• Trim lock for a finished look
• Suction cups for safely holding the window

A regular caulking gun will not work. Pushing out urethane with anything weaker will turn installation into a struggle.

Watch the video for a demonstration of how to do each of these steps.

Installing the perforated vinyl sticker

After installation, a perforated vinyl sticker masks the glass, letting you see out while blocking outside eyes. Start by peeling off half the backing, align the sticker, then work across the panel with a credit card or small squeegee. Smooth gently and avoid stretching. Do the bottom first, then repeat with the top half. Use a sharp new blade angled in to trim the edges right against the glass. If the sticker isn’t laminated, rain might blur the view temporarily. Laminated stickers are pricier and harder to source, but they shed water better.

Check for leaks after the first few rains and touch up with urethane if needed. The video says that with patience and the right tools, anyone can put in a stealth window like a pro.

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