By Dave Solberg
Dear Dave,
Has anyone used shrink wrap on their RV windows for insulation in place of bubble wrap? —Tom, 2015 Dutchmen Voltage
Dear Tom,
Thanks for the question, as it will help spark some conversation on what’s the best option to insulate RV windows while cold-weather camping. I have used a variety of methods over the years and have camped in some brutally cold weather, not only in my home state of Iowa but in Montana and even Alaska. Yes, I have used shrink wrap many times.
For the most part, RV windows are not the most efficient for either cold or hot weather, especially the single-pane models. From what I can find on used RV sales sites, it looks as though your Voltage has frameless, tinted windows. It does not show anywhere that they are double-pane, so adding some type of insulation would be beneficial.
Bubble wrap
I am not a big fan of bubble wrap as it doesn’t have the consistent air gap insulation, but rather the indentations and pockets. Plus, it is hard to apply, with some instructions recommending spraying the window with water before application to allow it to stick better. This just adds condensation to the unit and a messy window, in my opinion.
Shrink wrap
Shrink wrap is my preferred choice, as you can apply the product not only on the glass but around the frame, which can also allow heat to escape. There are several kits available at home improvement stores, and they are easy to apply.
Some kits come with a bulk film that can be cut or customized to fit several windows, while others have specific sizes. Apply the two-sided tape around the perimeter of the window frame. Also, I have always applied it to the sidewall paneling outside the frame. I recommend the premium version of the product, as the two-sided tape is a superior product that sticks well but doesn’t peel the wallpaper off the paneling. However, I use a heat gun to warm it up when removing it, just in case. Peel off the paper on the tape and apply the film around the window.
There are various thicknesses, and I generally go with the heavier thickness of at least .75 mil. I have found some that are 1.5 mil. After application, use a hair dryer to “shrink” the plastic and create a tight air gap between the window and the room. You can then cut off the excess plastic. However, be careful not to cut into the wallpaper!
Custom window covers
Another option is to create an interior window cover that is made of heavy fabric or even blankets and insulation that can be attached with hook-and-loop material or snaps. The downside of this method is you can’t see out the window in most cases. I have even found some RVers that customize block foam to fit inside the entire window frame and roof vents.
Just recently I came across a product on Amazon that looks to be an interesting idea. The thicker plastic cover is fastened with a hook-and-loop tape so it can be easily installed each season (winter or summer) and can be removed if there is condensation on the window. You can find it here.
There are a variety of products and methods, depending on the type of window you have and how much you want to spend. However, for any cold weather camping, I do think it is a great idea to add some type of additional insulation to the windows.
Here is me camping at Mt. McKinley, Alaska, a couple of years ago. 😉
You might also enjoy this from Dave
Ask Dave: What is the best RV window insulation?
Dear Dave,
I have just arrived to work in a pretty cold climate. Winter will be over soon. However, right now it is still fairly cold, with frost on the windows. I have noticed here that some folks have insulation types on the exterior of the windows and some on the inside. Any thoughts, other than leave for Florida? lol! Thanks. —Andrew
Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”
Read more from Dave here.
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A couple years ago? 😜
Obviously back when it was called Mt. McKinley, rather than the earlier native name, Denali. I understand the name is reverting again to the non-native name as of yesterday.
On my motorhome I’ve used heavy duty 5mm reflective insulation . It comes in rolls and you can buy it on Amazon or at Lowe’s/Home Depot. It can be cut to the size of your window and attached with velcro. It does a great job of keeping out heat from the sun beating down on the 4X8 foot windshield in the summer. Should also keep the heat in when it’s cold outside. The downside is you can’t see thru it.
We have found that this stuff works wonders. We have installed it in all the windows throughout our 27 foot motorhome. We don’t do it on the front windshield as we have a curtain that we put across there as well as a reflective cover on the windshield. The one we have in the Dining room we are able to remove so we can see out and that seems to work just fine but if we are gone, and it is warm, we put it in for the day.
In my house, I made frames that fit into the window opening and used the shrink film. I put foam insulating tape around the edges for a tight fit.
I did not put the tape on the top and it left a slight gap to allow any moisture between the glass and film to escape.
Most RV windows, especially the sliders, do not seal completely, and outside moisture will seep through.
Thank you for the discussion, Dave. I expected your answer to be bubble wrap. Have a great day and safe travels!
I use PRODEX, it’s 7/64 thick dbl foil faced
Rigid but flexible enough for a one piece windshield blind using only 1 Velcro attachment & visors, Take down quick & store behind recliners. Ive done all windows and wall by my bed,ts SWEET.20 VIEW 24V
We have had non-typical freezes 3 years out of 8 winters we have been here in south-central Texas (Hill Country). I think each of these years about extra glass insulation, but inevitably we want to open windows seemingly the week before or after the cold snap. I just pay for the extra propane.
I’m sure some remember “storm windows” ya had to go into your cellar & get um & then hang them outside over your wood sash windows. Hopefully the matching numbers were still there! Reverse in the summer when you took down the storm windows & put the screens on! So much fun!!
Snoopy