How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Caravan Window?

Looking to replace the windows on your caravan and interested in learning how much it will cost? Replacing caravan windows is an essential aspect of keeping your vehicle in top condition, ensuring comfort, safety and efficiency. The cost of this replacement can vary widely based on several factors, including the size and type of window, the materials used and the complexity of installation.

To help you with the decision of whether your caravan windows should be replaced, we discuss what causes windows to deteriorate and the costs involved with a full window replacement. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these factors to help you estimate the costs involved with your caravan.

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 caravan windows is the wear and tear from regular use and aging. Components like the window seals lose their elasticity and sealing compression leading to reduced insulation and water leakage. Mechanical damage, either from road debris or road traffic collisions can also cause immediate and noticeable physical damage to the windows on your caravan.

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.

This cost can be significantly reduced if you are able to find a second-hand caravan window that fits your vehicle.

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

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:

Although replacing the windows on your caravan is considered a DIY job, it may be necessary to instruct the help of a professional. If the window frame is split or water ingress has damaged the wall of the caravan, you may wish to use a professional repairer to ensure that every issue is reliably fixed.

Labour costs for installing a replacement window, fixings and rubber seal typically costs around £60 per hour. This work can be completed by a mobile caravan engineer, such as members of the Mobile Caravan Engineer Association.

Although replacing the windows of your caravan is an unwanted expense, it is an essential part of maintaining your van to ensure that it is watertight and unlikely to experience damp related issues. Replacing caravan windows is an investment in your vehicle’s functionality and comfort. The cost varies based on the size and type of window, materials used and installation complexity. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision that balances cost with quality and performance.

Here is an estimated cost for replacing a doubled-glazed opening window on a standard caravan or motorhome:

• Window: The cost to replace the window on your caravan 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 the bottom end of this price bracket, whereas larger front windows are typically over £1,000.
  
  
• Fixings: Even though your existing window levers, stays and handles may be in good condition, it is often necessary to replace these parts when changing the window pane. These items are priced between £7 to £17 per unit, but are often sold in pairs.
  
  
• Caravan Window Seals: Motorhome and caravan window seals are often considered the most common item to replace on your van. These rubber seals will cost around £12 per metre. There may be an additional charge of £2 per metre for the decorative grey, white or black cover strip that slides into the top of the seal and hides the screws securing the seal onto the edge of your van.

In most instances, you can solve most issues with your caravan windows by replacing one of these elements. For example, replacing your caravan window seal may help resolve issues with water ingress. This is beneficial and often negates the need for expensive complete window replacements.

Seals Direct, as a specialist in motorhome and caravan seals, can help with the identification and supply of replacement seals for your caravan window. If you would like assistance with purchasing the correct seal for your motorhome or caravan, please feel free to contact our knowledge team. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 01452 617722 or submit your enquiry via email at sales@sealsplusdirect.co.uk.