I made these for the windows of my wagon and they work terrifically. I double layered my insulation and used a darker carpet fabric on the inside. Also sewed on a label to each one so that the window they belong to can be easily identified. For the larger window at the back of the car I adhered cardboard cut outs to allow for it to be folded after use and to give it some more stability over the bigger window size. I also didn't need suction cups because the car has gaps between the window and seals where the sunshields can squish in. Thanks heaps for this video, it's the neatest version of this idea that I've seen executed on YT.
If you used black carpet you could make it reversible, reflective out for the day and in for the night. It would keep more heat in the car at night and make it look black from outside.
There are other ways to attach them. I was also considering Velcro/hook and loop tape attached to the edges. That way you can flip them over. Also, there are snaps you can permanently attach, or spring clips that push the panel down. I'm sure there are clips that you could twist onto the edge or binder clips.
What’s your height for sleeping in the Element? I’m 6’3”. I hear it’s good for tall drivers, just wondered about laying down in the back, with seats no doubt pushed all the way up.
I have watched close to 300 videos trying to figure out how to make a template to create an accurate inset and this is the very first one that I just somehow stumbled upon after I already gave up😅
I must say, there are a lot of videos out there but hardly any of them explain the process in as detail as you have explained! even a total DYI beginner can follow your instructions and do a great job! thanks a lot for such great videos mate!
my problem has always been cutting a perfect template for my windows. You have just solved my problem.......big thanx. And the suction cups........genius.
Hi James,your video was really helpful and I have now made covers for all my van windows.The best tip was using smaller pieces of paper to make the template as even a slight wind made it difficult.I found it easier to work from the outside windows for all covers
I just finished reading about the R-values of Reflectix on the Reflectix website. Doubling the Reflectix does not increase the R-value. You need an air space between the layers to add r-value. At least you left the reflective side uncovered. I just watched another video where they covered both sides with fabric completely negating the reflective value of the Reflectix. Nice video. When I made Reflectix covers for my last van, I used the spray adhesive, but used bias tape and a sewing machine and neo strong magnets. Thanks!
I got and learned how to sewing machine during covid, so I would use that to do these things rather than so much spray adhesive, that's for non sewable surfaces. It was awesome to learn about the suction cups that are available, thank you!
bought a washer and dryer, used that corrugated box to over size cut sections, spray adhesive, walmart had black stretchy material on clearance, it all worked great. Needed it for one trip. It was a proof of concept, so there is always room for improvement. black out panels were the 3rd best Idea I had on that trip, 2nd was a fan (it was unusually hot in Florida this past april like 33C, 1st was going on the trip.
The best way to find the middle of a square or rectangular shape is to measure diagonally from corner. I made some covers from silverscreen windscreen covers from the £1 shop. Two of them did the whole van and they lasted for years. Being lazy I used 25mm duct tape where you used nice black ribbon on the edges.
I have been using Reflectix in my house windows for over a decade, in the summertime. Helps just enough to keep the AC bills manageable. I use it in the East windows in the AM, South windows midday and the West windows in the afternoon. That way I still get light thru the windows where the sun is no longer shining on them.
Brilliant, informative and concise video matey 👍 I need to make some for my work van, so I'll give these a go. Also, I had some pre-made ones in the campervan I bought, so in case it helps anyone in the future... My old suction cups were failing, particularly in strong heat, so I bought a set of "Limpets" from Dometic and they were brilliant!
Brilliant video James. Thanks for sharing. You inspired me to carpet my doors and now i've got a feeling i will be doing this as well soon. Great work mate, keep it up. Jon.👍
I am in the process of planning my own window covers for my old Defender. And I need the stealth route which you mentioned at the end of your video. In this case I think the choice of material is important because I don't want the sun facing side to fade. Thanks for all the tips!
I made simething simular for my car and since the trim is metal in the window used rare earth magnets aroubd the edges. Works great for keeping them in place.
Smartly done. My only concern is that your design doesn't really allow them to reverse, but reversing could be very useful to change between when you want to reflect the heat from entering vs. leaving.
The best way I've found to hide condensation and window coverings is to tint your windows. Check local laws on how much is allowed but for me 35% works great without being too noticeable or causing any issues. UV resistant tint costs more but is worth it as it also does quite a lot to keep heat out of your vehicle.
Excellent work! I have an Airstream, so I just cut the reflectix to fit in between the screen (inside) & the window. They’re not as tidy as yours, but they work fine. Thanks for the tips! If I get bored this winter, maybe I’ll trim them out like you did 😊
I noticed that your using the single bubble layer of reflectix? Here in the USA we have the 2 layer bubbles and single if you prefer. As a wallpaper hanger (decorator) you can make a template out of a single larger piece of paper loosely taped on and then make a crease with a credit card and Sharpie (felt marker) it in place. Voila a perfect template. I love the thermal qualities and easy storage, almost as much as I love my diesel heater !!!
If you are in a VERY cold area, say where the temperature hovers around -10C or less, insulating the inner surface of the window actually increases condensation as the glass can get very cold. Insulation on the exterior surface, allows the window surface (inside) to warm above the dew point (hopefully). I found that laminating 4 layers of bubble-wrap works quite well. The drawback, is that it is OUTSIDE and subject to wind and the odd passerby pulling it off!
It really good fun car camping in extreme cold. I did minus 12 and my hottie froze! And I had loads of condensation which I don't normally get. So this a good tip NOT to use internal window covers in extreme cold. Thank you ! Wish I known that. Would curtains be better? Or at least not as bad. Not sure how I would attach something outside cept' the main windscreen where you trap it in window?
I made my window covers the same on my NV200 but need to finish them wound the edges. I made mine slightly larger and used neodymium magnets bonded between the layers. I think suction cups will be the way I go for the windscreen and doors though
Awesome vid man ive just ordered some insulation to do exactly this on my ute canopy to keep thieves seeing my battery and fridge setup and keep it cooler and was wondering how i was going to cut them out to fit perfectly and satisfy my ocd = problem solved
They've just arrived and watching tis again before I attempt to make some just waiting on my suction cups now what is the stuff called you used around the edges?
Need to have the reflectex on the inside to keep heat inside in cold months. For this you would need an air space between the foil and window which the suction cups will provide but you’ll need more spacers. The carpet would be more for the look which in your case is mighty fine. Should make them reversible so you can keep the sun out in summer.
Thanks for sharing. How's the navy blue twill tape holding up to the UV rays? Faded much? Consider reflective on one side and black on the other so you can use either side depending on the situation.
I always use a template. I made the the window covers for my honda jazz from old foam sleep mats and friction keeps them in place. But does this foil work better please? I need to make another set as I have changed cars.
I would be careful using spray adhesive to attach fabrics. The sun will remelt the adhesive and then you will find yourself scrubbing glue off your windows. -- happened to all the windows in my car and still scrubbing months later.
It's ok, you can use high temperature contact adhesive (rated to 120°c) which I have here 🙂 Also, white spirit/mineral spirits removes contact adhesive residue nicely 👍
🔥 Check out my full Nissan NV200 Tiny Camper Van Conversion here: ua-cam.com/video/SlK6IwQA9RQ/v-deo.html 🔥
I made these for the windows of my wagon and they work terrifically. I double layered my insulation and used a darker carpet fabric on the inside. Also sewed on a label to each one so that the window they belong to can be easily identified. For the larger window at the back of the car I adhered cardboard cut outs to allow for it to be folded after use and to give it some more stability over the bigger window size. I also didn't need suction cups because the car has gaps between the window and seals where the sunshields can squish in.
Thanks heaps for this video, it's the neatest version of this idea that I've seen executed on YT.
Pictures please!
I'd love to see photos of your shades. I was thinking of squishing them in the frames also
I struggle horribly trying to make window covers so I'm going to follow your expertise 💯👍🙂
Hope my DIY window cover guide helps!
If you used black carpet you could make it reversible, reflective out for the day and in for the night. It would keep more heat in the car at night and make it look black from outside.
Good idea but what to do with the wear and tear reversing the plugs every time?
@@pietrogianwhat about making two sets? One for day, one for night?
There are other ways to attach them. I was also considering Velcro/hook and loop tape attached to the edges. That way you can flip them over. Also, there are snaps you can permanently attach, or spring clips that push the panel down. I'm sure there are clips that you could twist onto the edge or binder clips.
Amazon has screw in suction cups. It would make these completely reversible
@@pietrogian plugs are not necessary, I have made a bunch of window covers that only use friction to stay put.
I like your voice. You’re very easy to listen to.
The paper template idea is genius! I'm going to make some for my Element. Thanks for sharing mate. 🤙🏼
exactly! I was stupidly trying to use one very large paper and trace... and it doesn't work that well. this way is much better!
I couldn't figure out for the life of me how I was getting a piece of paper big enough to trace my windows and this video answered everything
What’s your height for sleeping in the Element? I’m 6’3”. I hear it’s good for tall drivers, just wondered about laying down in the back, with seats no doubt pushed all the way up.
I have watched close to 300 videos trying to figure out how to make a template to create an accurate inset and this is the very first one that I just somehow stumbled upon after I already gave up😅
You have answered my question for my truck!!
I must say, there are a lot of videos out there but hardly any of them explain the process in as detail as you have explained! even a total DYI beginner can follow your instructions and do a great job! thanks a lot for such great videos mate!
Thanks for the kind words, really glad the video is useful!
Holy cow what a well-made video
my problem has always been cutting a perfect template for my windows. You have just solved my problem.......big thanx. And the suction cups........genius.
I have been watching videos on making these for almost a year. This is the best I have seen. Good job! 👍
Totally love the use of small pieces of paper like this. ty for sharing!
Lots of good info with helpful examples. Will try mine again. ❤
Hi James,your video was really helpful and I have now made covers for all my van windows.The best tip was using smaller pieces of paper to make the template as even a slight wind made it difficult.I found it easier to work from the outside windows for all covers
One of the best jobs I have seen.
Love your magnets. Tfs 🤙🏽🌺
Thanks for this video. Was wondering how I was going to accomplish this task and stumbled upon your tutorial. A+ thanks for sharing!
I just finished reading about the R-values of Reflectix on the Reflectix website. Doubling the Reflectix does not increase the R-value. You need an air space between the layers to add r-value. At least you left the reflective side uncovered. I just watched another video where they covered both sides with fabric completely negating the reflective value of the Reflectix. Nice video. When I made Reflectix covers for my last van, I used the spray adhesive, but used bias tape and a sewing machine and neo strong magnets. Thanks!
Even with one, the r value is practically nothing.
I wondered about this. Thanks!
Where on the car window frame do you attach the magnets?
Super ! Best ever DIY video I saw recently
Glad the video was helpful!
I got and learned how to sewing machine during covid, so I would use that to do these things rather than so much spray adhesive, that's for non sewable surfaces.
It was awesome to learn about the suction cups that are available, thank you!
bought a washer and dryer, used that corrugated box to over size cut sections, spray adhesive, walmart had black stretchy material on clearance, it all worked great. Needed it for one trip. It was a proof of concept, so there is always room for improvement. black out panels were the 3rd best Idea I had on that trip, 2nd was a fan (it was unusually hot in Florida this past april like 33C, 1st was going on the trip.
I’ve been looking for fans, what did you go with?
This is a great DIY project. I will be adding a little Velcro on the edge a my shades Stelton stay-in-place.
??
Love this method always wondered how to get the shape
The best way to find the middle of a square or rectangular shape is to measure diagonally from corner. I made some covers from silverscreen windscreen covers from the £1 shop. Two of them did the whole van and they lasted for years. Being lazy I used 25mm duct tape where you used nice black ribbon on the edges.
Thank you for sharing this information about, I did mine this way.
I have been using Reflectix in my house windows for over a decade, in the summertime. Helps just enough to keep the AC bills manageable. I use it in the East windows in the AM, South windows midday and the West windows in the afternoon. That way I still get light thru the windows where the sun is no longer shining on them.
This is awesome, I was planning on making some for my van. This is perfect!
Thanks, good luck with your window covers! I love mine, they're so useful!
That was the best demo I've seen....simple, to the point and excellent. thankyou
Instruction nicely done. Thumbs up!
Very well done both the covers and the video. 👍🏾
thanks for the advice, I am working on my camper
Thanks for ur lovely video I am going to do it for my caravan Windows too.
So very easy to follow so happy thanks
What an awesome job! Thanks for a great how-to video! 👍🏼
It's a proper professional tutorial thanks! The tips given by other viewers to make them reversable with black on one side makes a lot of sense yeah?
I love these window covers. TYSM for sharing. I'll let you know how mine turn out. 😏 😅❤ safe travels! 👍
Brilliant, informative and concise video matey 👍
I need to make some for my work van, so I'll give these a go.
Also, I had some pre-made ones in the campervan I bought, so in case it helps anyone in the future... My old suction cups were failing, particularly in strong heat, so I bought a set of "Limpets" from Dometic and they were brilliant!
Glad you liked the video and thanks for the extra info! 😄
Gdje si to kupio?
Brilliant video James. Thanks for sharing. You inspired me to carpet my doors and now i've got a feeling i will be doing this as well soon. Great work mate, keep it up.
Jon.👍
Easy to follow - great video - thanks for the tips! :)
Very good 👍
Thank you! I love this info-centric video style! Am subscribed, you're a great teacher, fun and to the point. I finally feel like I can do this!!
Thanks! Looks great! Safe and wonderful travels!
Thank you so much for making this video, it was really helpful. I'm excited to make my own with some tweaks. Cheers!
So tremendously appreciative for this video. Most EXCELLENT! Just what I want and need for my micro camper. Many thanks.
Nice. This was useful. I find curtains a bit cumbersome in a small van. I like this idea a lot
I am in the process of planning my own window covers for my old Defender. And I need the stealth route which you mentioned at the end of your video. In this case I think the choice of material is important because I don't want the sun facing side to fade.
Thanks for all the tips!
Looks good. Good job
Those look nice.
Very helpful thanks alot
Awesome tutorial, I'd been thinking of making some for my car build,... then you're video popped up on my feed! What luck, great work!
Thanks, glad the video was helpful :)
Great tutorial- thank you 😊
I made simething simular for my car and since the trim is metal in the window used rare earth magnets aroubd the edges. Works great for keeping them in place.
Greetings from India. Great Idea , Thank you
Great video, they look really well made.
Great vid! Thx so much. I will do this for my sailboat windows. ❤
That wouldn’t be easy for me, I want to buy some. Well done, they do look great!
Nice method, thank you.
Thanks! A good idea👍
Good tips thanks for the video
Smartly done. My only concern is that your design doesn't really allow them to reverse, but reversing could be very useful to change between when you want to reflect the heat from entering vs. leaving.
You might be able to reverse them by popping out the suction cups and pressing them in from the other side
There are suction cups that screw in. Would work great and make them reversible.
Excellent video thank you, I'm looking to do this for my car then eventually my campervan when I get it :)
Thank you, really useful
The best way I've found to hide condensation and window coverings is to tint your windows. Check local laws on how much is allowed but for me 35% works great without being too noticeable or causing any issues. UV resistant tint costs more but is worth it as it also does quite a lot to keep heat out of your vehicle.
Thank you so much
You are so much help
Excellent work! I have an Airstream, so I just cut the reflectix to fit in between the screen (inside) & the window. They’re not as tidy as yours, but they work fine. Thanks for the tips! If I get bored this winter, maybe I’ll trim them out like you did 😊
Awesome, enjoy your window covers!
I am a new follower of your channel Greetings from Türkiye 😊
AWESOME!!! Thank you!
Another top addition 👍
Good work.
Thanks!
Great video! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Very clever.
Good job man,good job! Liked and subscribed…..!
Amazing..thanks
I noticed that your using the single bubble layer of reflectix? Here in the USA we have the 2 layer bubbles and single if you prefer. As a wallpaper hanger (decorator) you can make a template out of a single larger piece of paper loosely taped on and then make a crease with a credit card and Sharpie (felt marker) it in place. Voila a perfect template. I love the thermal qualities and easy storage, almost as much as I love my diesel heater !!!
If you are in a VERY cold area, say where the temperature hovers around -10C or less, insulating the inner surface of the window actually increases condensation as the glass can get very cold. Insulation on the exterior surface, allows the window surface (inside) to warm above the dew point (hopefully). I found that laminating 4 layers of bubble-wrap works quite well. The drawback, is that it is OUTSIDE and subject to wind and the odd passerby pulling it off!
Bastards!
Or stay at home and put the fire on...
@@pooroldfredBart Simpson.
It really good fun car camping in extreme cold. I did minus 12 and my hottie froze! And I had loads of condensation which I don't normally get. So this a good tip NOT to use internal window covers in extreme cold. Thank you ! Wish I known that. Would curtains be better? Or at least not as bad. Not sure how I would attach something outside cept' the main windscreen where you trap it in window?
Have you tried magnets?
I made my window covers the same on my NV200 but need to finish them wound the edges. I made mine slightly larger and used neodymium magnets bonded between the layers. I think suction cups will be the way I go for the windscreen and doors though
Magnets is a great idea? Have you carpeted your van and do they stick to the metal through the carpet?
Yeah they are only 8mm ones from amazon and I doubled them up. They stick through the carpeted apertures no problem
good vid, best I have seen, be making these type, have a fiat doblo
It will be helpful Thank you👍
Handy thanks for this
Glad it is useful :)
Love this !!!!!
Thanks! :)
Thanks so much. You outdid yourself making these. I will try this if the cheap items I bought from Amazon doesnt do the job.
Hi, its a great job and great idea for making my own covers, but how much lower degree could it get on sunny day? Thank you.
well done. thanks
Thanks! :)
Well done on a professional job and excellent instructions. Just thought you were a tad wasteful with the materials but I'm OCD about that.😜
😂I was thinking the same
I thought thay too. But then I am a sewer/dressmaker. 😂
Perfekt 👌
I am going to do this for the odd shaped skylight in my shower.
GREAT IDEA! How many spray glue cans do you need for everything?
thanks
nice, thank you! question, if you double up on the insulation do you just spray them together with the adhesive?
Messy is an understatement
Awesome vid man ive just ordered some insulation to do exactly this on my ute canopy to keep thieves seeing my battery and fridge setup and keep it cooler and was wondering how i was going to cut them out to fit perfectly and satisfy my ocd = problem solved
They've just arrived and watching tis again before I attempt to make some just waiting on my suction cups now what is the stuff called you used around the edges?
It's called edge bonding or bias binding
Need to have the reflectex on the inside to keep heat inside in cold months. For this you would need an air space between the foil and window which the suction cups will provide but you’ll need more spacers. The carpet would be more for the look which in your case is mighty fine. Should make them reversible so you can keep the sun out in summer.
Thanks for sharing. How's the navy blue twill tape holding up to the UV rays? Faded much? Consider reflective on one side and black on the other so you can use either side depending on the situation.
The twill tape has been fine, not really faded much though I suppose that depends on the quality. That's a good idea for stealth
nice.
Thank you for the tutorial
Thanks for watching 😊
Great tips! What kind of carpet is that? I’m having a hard time finding stuff that isn’t the scratchy stuff for boats
Thanks, it's 4 way stretch automotive carpet: amzn.to/3ncNHEP (affiliate link)
I always use a template. I made the the window covers for my honda jazz from old foam sleep mats and friction keeps them in place. But does this foil work better please? I need to make another set as I have changed cars.
I would be careful using spray adhesive to attach fabrics. The sun will remelt the adhesive and then you will find yourself scrubbing glue off your windows. -- happened to all the windows in my car and still scrubbing months later.
It's ok, you can use high temperature contact adhesive (rated to 120°c) which I have here 🙂 Also, white spirit/mineral spirits removes contact adhesive residue nicely 👍
I was wondering about the outside where ppl can see it.i want to make mine look like my suv has just black car tint.very cool video thanks.🤗😇👍🙏
Just spray paint the reflectix side black, or use black carpet so it's reversible. One side silver, the other side black.
Exactly what they said!
Hey there! I’m curious if you’ve tested the suction cups in extreme cold weather and if they work on cold or frozen glass.
Hi, I haven't I'm afriad - I live in quite a mild climate
Ah yes, we need advice on cold climate. We in North East of England here.
Looks for cheap foam backed drapes at a thrift store. That could be a bonus of insulation attached.