RUSTIC AND WONKY BUT FEELS LIKE HOME - A UNIQUE VAN BUILD - VANLIFE
Вставка
- Опубліковано 27 бер 2024
- A van build series, thanks for watching our van life vlog everyone:)
Go to nordvpn.com/theexpawers to get the 2-year plan with an extra 4 months included, It's risk-free with Nord's 30 day money back guarantee!
In today's video we finally get those overhead cupboards in and our bed is complete:) We are so close to finishing this van build now and getting back to van life, we absolutely cant wait.. But we are slightly worried that it could fall apart tbh, only time will tell and we will fix what we need to once we hit the road for a proper test run.. Stick around because the travel vlogs are almost here and they will be better than ever:)
Thank you for watching, hope you enjoyed the video. please LIKE, COMMENT, and don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our channel; / @theexpawers
Join our Patreon for lots of bonus content and more; / theexpawers
FOLLOW US for daily updates and more;
Instagram: / the.expawers
Facebook: / expawers
TikTok: / the.expawers
Twitter: / theexpawers
CHECK OUT our WEBSITE:
theexpawers.com/
SUPPORT the CHANNEL (send us a treat)
www.paypal.me/exPAWers
CHECK OUT OUR NEW MERCHANDISE; the-expawers.creator-spring.c...
Email me if you want a STICKER PACK; sarah@theexpawers.com
Visit our Amazon Shop to find our what camera equipment we use and our must have van life gear;
www.amazon.co.uk/shop/theexpa...
Get the power you need with AMAZING ECOFLOW Products here; uk.ecoflow.com/pages/portable...
Like the music we use? Use our link and get a 30 day free trial to Epidemic Sound; www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
SUBSCRIBE! if you're interested in what it's like to be LIVING IN A VAN, how to TRAVEL THE WORLD ON A BUDGET, easy and healthy VAN LIFE MEALS and the BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN EUROPE and soon AROUND THE WORLD.
THANKYOU;
We would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to all of our Subscribers and everyone who watches our videos and for all of the lovely comments, it really does mean a lot to us.
CONTACT US;
hello@theexpawers.com
WANT TO WORK WITH US?
brands@theexpawers.com
#vanlife #vanlifeeurope #fulltimevanlife
ALMOST THERE NOW :) Thanks for watching our van life vlog everyone:)
Go to nordvpn.com/theexpawers to get the 2-year plan with an extra 4 months included, It's risk-free with Nord's 30 day money back guarantee!
16:20 How old are the dogs? As I found out with my recently departed beloved dog, there comes a time when those sorts of leaps (and even steps) get all but impossible, unfortunately...
1st time I've actually enjoyed your van build video. Good Stuff! 👍🖖✊️
@@jimbob-robobthey are 10.. So getting on abit, we may have to assist them up and down, if we feel like it’s too much for them we will make a baby gate to keep them up/down.. Their wellbeing is top priority 😊
I would go for awning style windows, just because they allow you to keep them open even in rain. And as big as possible! Will be fabulous lying in bed looking at the view.
Ok.. Thanks for the advice Joanne❤.. We’re swaying towards this now.. Have a great weekend. Happy Easter! 🐣
Snap exactly what I was going to write. 👍
Won't be long now ❤
Awning window! That fills the cavity cuz from outside will look like work van. And you already know it rains! Plus with vent on air will scoop up and draw out hot air. They say people look like their dogs, so…🤣😂
I love watching you build the van. I think you are both more talented than you even realize.
awwwww, Thankyou so much.. Very kind ☺️☺️xx
@@theexPAWers@ 17:28 rant knock him out Sarah !! he lost the plot long ago. Just biff his ffffkg lights out 😭
👍🏻 imho tinted awning panoramic window would be best. Ventilation is definitely a thing, especially sketchy weather, you’ll want fresh air. My bus is big. I have tinted windows, which are the great for view with privacy during the day. I have both fixed & awning (emergency exit swing out) windows. The awning windows I like to open on beautiful days in beautiful locations.
Btw you are doing a GREAT JOB 👍🏻😁👍🏻 moments of both glory and despair, it’s a process, and you’re getting through quite well. Rock On 🥰
Hi Guys, following you already for years, we love you. We have the same van, (completely self-built, so we love your building and recognise many many many of the set backs, frustrations and trophy’s on the way) Ducato 2018, 6 meters. We have the Fiamma 80S awning. It fits like a dream on the little “nodges”(?!) on the roof. We were scared installing it, but, in the end, DONE in little over an hour. You will need 2 ladders to carry it up, it is heavy. With regards to the window in the sliding door. We have the bigger one. So nice to have that big view to the outside world. We have a very flat built awning style window. Looks beautiful, not bulgy. The brand is Carbest. The window is called RW VAN. If you want, we can send pictures. Sweet greetings, Leon & Esther
What ever widows you go for make sure thay are the tinted privacy glass. Nice looking out of during the day but know one can see in.
Ok.. Ueah we found both types that are well tinted 😊.. thanks for advice ❤
I love your attitude, does it work yes, is it a little wonky who cares! This attitude is how most should approach everything in life!
The van ;ooks great. Love the lighting. In regards to your little shelf that supports the bed and it's bent brackets. If you just cut two 45 degree angles on a piece of plywood, a couple cleats and a bit of glue and you'll have all the support you need...and it doesn't cost a thing. Been working on my own van conversion on a 31 year old Ford Econoline. Cut the roof open and added a fiberglass camper shell to give it full stand up room. Insulation and wiring coming right up. One important take away from your van build videos...Never set a rigid time schedule. Things get done when they get done. It's like eating an elephant...You can do it. One bite at a time.
Make a template with a cutout of each window size. Open the door,hang template, go lay on the bed, and see which one seems best. Can't break in as easily with a narrower window, either. For sure, get tint and still say slider, with a screen. Love you guys. Enjoy your humor and content.
Biggest window you can do - u really won't regret it! A Magnetic curtain then gives easy privacy as you can just put it up on the bottom part of the window and have light & view at the top if you want. The sliding window in our door is a pest and we're always wishing it was an awning. Rain getting in behind the door panel is a major issue, as well as into the door lock mechanism, so it always has to be closed in even minor rain. And your upper cabinets - we wish we had no dividers as much easier to use biggish plastic or bamboo containers to separate or sort everything & the dividers cause fit issues with them. Can't wait to see the windows in. It's all so exciting!😁.
Your van build is looking really good, love the problem solving attitude. We've got a maxi version of your van, so a bit longer, with the big awning window in the slider and its fine. No leaks, fly screen and pull up blackout screen. Its OK. We've also got the full awning as it provides better shade as the sun moves across throughout the day. Smaller awnings give less cover. We often just run out enough to keep the rain out of the van with the door open, and the full length awning keeps the inside of the open door dry wheres a shorter awning won't. You've done a great job, well done. 👋 🇬🇧🇺🇦🇪🇺
Limo tint windows for sun heat and privacy, can still see out easily, ones that open out stops the rain coming in.
Get a 270 degree awning to cover side and rear of the van.
I love how you'veworked to keep it lightweight, basic, yet looking so PRO. I SHOULDN'T say .. I'm surprised how well you've done. 😮 but you've really stepped up and done miracles!.. Fun or not. 😊 So proud of you both. 👏 🏆
Definitely tinted caravan type large window with flyscreen and blinds.👍
Ok.. Thanks for the advice ❤😊
@@theexPAWers Sarah looking hot in tie dyed jeans and her new colour dreads. Well hot in the dogs up on sofa sketch.❤🤪
Sara, I wouldn't put dividers in the upper cabinets. I would decide on what your going to put in and buy soft baskets to put things in so they don't slide around. And it's easier to change thing around if your not happy the way things are set up. The window for your door is a hard one. We have both styles in our caravan. The sliding windows allow more air to travel through, but the awning style allows you to keep windows open when it rains. You should put chairs outside under that window area and see what head clearance you have. Because awning windows may get in the way. You two are doing great and I look forward to you two getting back on the road!
Full size windows look great, loads of light, but when your sleeping your feet will be on the glass, panoramic window gives you the light as well, and your feet while sleeping are on a solid surface.
Good points there, our feet shouldn’t be on the actual window as we’re not that tall😂.. But worth thinking about 😊
@@theexPAWers you may not be tall, but people move in their sleep, just a thought.
Probably nice to have the bedding against a wall/ panelling, too. And for the doggies to lean against.
Panoramic awning windows. I think less likelihood 0f things falling off end of bed (doggies or possessions). You are doing a great job 👏
Windows: Awning style. Go full size!
Cupboards: pretty baskets! (making sure to have a stop on the bottoms)
Love you guys and the channel! When you're finished you'll have time for more videos, yes? 🙏🎉
baskets are good but I would use the soft woven material ones , they are skwishy and very light.
Larger windows, tinted for privacy, awning style.
It's looking so good!
The van is looking great, you should be very proud of yourself. 😊
"It's charging" Love it absolutely love it. thx
You guys are doing great! Your DYI is impressive, even to a tradesmen. I am jealous of your ambition and determination.
Really! Thanks for the positive feedback❤.. Sending love xx
You have done a brilliant job.
I was a little concerned about the bed support so glad you are sorting it.
You should be proud of yourselves.
Ship Windows. The round ones
Haha, yeah we looked at them, they are only small ones though and don’t open, but very cool! 👌
There are some that can open. But the Window with an sliding Window in it, is the better solution. Of course with privacy glas.
We have a full size awning window in the door. It’s great. Just have to remember to close window before opening door! We also have the Fiamma awning which we love!
Speaking from experience a set of Easy Outs is always handy
We fitted tinted glass sliding windows in our last self build van and it didn't take long for the aluminium sliders to start showing signs of corrosion. I had to make curtains, and mosquito netting was difficult to install. The black glass did look good from the outside though. Now we have been forced into buying a factory built campervan (French legislation) with awning style windows I would say there is no comparison. They are even double glazed. You can open them in the rain, pull up the mosquito net, and pull down the concertina blinds. As for security, they will find a way in anyway
Hey Pete😊.. Thanks for getting in touch.. Interesting about the sliding window getting corroded, perhaps we should go for the awning type afterall as seems folk have better things to say about them overall😊.. Hope you guys are doing well, spring in just around the corner and you’ll have the pool open again soon!! Take care xxx
@@theexPAWersthe aluminium framing on my windows is 24 years old with not a hint of corrosion, even on the bit that got bend over 10 years ago. There's lots of different qualities available.
The pool is now open but it's piggin freezin. Should soon warm in the next few weeks though. Call in anytime 😊@@theexPAWers
I would go for a big awning window - double glazed means less condensation, & as someone said you can open them in the rain. Our sliding single glazed windows get really hot in the sun, but the awning style on our old van didn’t so much! Loving the videos!
Really enjoy the channel. You seem like a lovely couple. Just a bit concerning you both like watching Eastenders, but everyone has their faults. 😀. Due to the weather problems, why don't you purchase a large plastic sheet, put the vans side by side, then attach the plastic sheet to each roof so that it spans over the gap between vehicles. It'll keep that area dry for you to work.
Good luck with the rest of your van build.
Gosh, it's looking great!!!! I cannot wait until you get it totally finished and giving us the final tour, great work!!
Love it all!! But the suggestion about the awning style window is really makes sense...all weather, you could cook and leave it open. Happy days guys x
You could do the full size tinted privacy window so you wouldn’t see the top of the bed from the outside. Instead of investing in a Fiamma pull out awning which is both heavy and expensive, you could put on an aluminium awning rail (light as a feather) and then slide on a canopy with extending legs. These wouldn’t take up much room at all in the van.
Windows…
Awning style pros: double glazed, get less condensation, can have them open in the rain, can get bug screen and blind, normally weigh less.
Awning style cons: more likely to get scratched, don’t look as sleek to fit, can be more tricky to clean with more bends in the frame.
Glass style pros: nicer fit, easier to clean, not likely to get scratched.
Glass style cons: heavier, not double glazed so you get more condensation, not normally awning style, but you can find ones that are, so we would recommend if you go with this option, don’t have built in option for bug and blind screen.
Basically the choice depends on what would be best for your situation. Having the bed next to a glass window wouldn’t look silly, but you might want to consider a window cover to stop your bed clothes getting wet from the condensation.
I have three glass windows in my van (other than in the cab). I also have two maxx air fans, so for me the awning style windows don’t matter as I can open the fans in the rain instead. I have also added secondary glazing for my glass windows. For two I have a pull up Perspex sheet and a fly screen. For the sliding door window I have created the same but using magnets set into the frame. So I get the best of all worlds.
Basically, there is always a way round the cons, so go for the ones you like the most and suit your needs 😁
Oh, I have also put anti-break film on mine to help stop break ins, not sure if you can do that with the plastic ones.
Definitely go for windows that are as big as possible. The more light and views the better, particularly on a rainy day 😁
Awning:
You don’t have to go for a big one if you don’t want to. As long as the legs are long enough for the height of the van, you can choose whichever one suits you!
Good luck!
Wow, thanks for the message, some really great advice here.. Really appreciate you taking the time to write😊.. Happy Easter xx
@@theexPAWers hope you guys have a lovely Easter too 😁
Not that you asked, but maybe use bungee cargo mesh netting as “doors”. They’re lightweight and might work well for those upper cabinets.😊
Go for biggest window possible, great for light and those bad weather days.
How about a bar across (low down-ish) the overheads and then pretty baskets/boxes in there? The bar will stop them falling out and low enough to allow putting them in and out. Pretty plastic magazine holders are lower at the back and higher at the front so can hide taller items (wash up liquid etc)
Awning style, my only concern if it was low down would be the dogs jumping out if they saw another animal. Issue with awning window??? Walking into the blimmin thing 🤕🤕🤕
Awning wise, go for the biggest you can, those Fiamma ones also have sides, so, you can make a much more waterproof extension!
Whatever you two, choose what YOU want obvs 😂😂
Good morning! Great suggestion with the overheads.. We already brought a load of brackets for the doors but maybe we don’t need doors! Hmmm, lots to think about 😊.. have a lovely weekend 🐣
I would use the wood pole and put rubber on both ends of it. That first window size I don’t think it will hurt having the bed even with the window
I would go for sliding windows and full size. It means you could have the window open when you are driving.
a sliding window you can't open in the rain a awning window you can. and a awning window you can open and coffer it to have shade.
Full size window because the bigger window the bigger the view, the more natural light comes in, it will bring more outside in so you feel connected to nature, better security because you can see more and the baby’s can look out the window from their step. Can’t wait to see you all of on your adventures again 😊 well done not long now ❤
awwwww, Thankyou so much, we can’t wait either and great advice on the window Doris ❤☺️xx
lOOKIN SO GOOD, LOTS OF OPEN SPACE AND ITS WINDOW TIME. IN MY CALLEN CAMPER I LIVE IN, I JUST RAISED MY BED TO MATCH THE BOTTOM OIF WINDOWS. ITS GREAT BECAUSE I CAN SEE OUTSIDE WHEN IM LAYING DOWN. MY CAMPER SHELL IS 3O YEARS OLD , I WISH I HAD THOSE NEWER STYLE AWNING WINDOWS. OPENING AT THE BOTTPM IS SO NICE, AND BLOCKS RAIN COMPARED TO SLIDERS, THAT YOU CAN ONLY OPEN 1/2 THE WINDOW. GITTER DONE.. BE BLESSED. 🙏🙏👍👍🙏🙏
YOU BOTH DESERVE AN AWARD FOR TAKING ON SUCH A DIFFICULT TASK. WELL DONE TO YOU AND NICK. I LOVE UR VIDEOS, THEY ARE ALWAYS INTERESTING. ENJOY GETTING THE VAN FINISHED. GREETINGS FROM IRELAND ☘💚☘💚☘💚☘💚☘💚
I have never felt so close yet so far away from friends u guys are absolutely awesome
I quite like this concept (or similar): The Dometic Campervan and Tailgater AIR inflatable awning tent offers an extended space and can very easily be attached to the back of most cars, SUVs and small-mid size vans.
Awning style window-useful when you want a window open and it’s raining as it won’t rain in (unless it’s blowing a gale!)
definitely go for the larger size as it would look better from the outside as it will fill the indentation on the panel. Plus it's more light. We have sliding I find they are better in the wind.
I would go big on the side door window, awning is nice to be able to open in the rain. Lying in bed looking out a big window would be grand. K. ❤. I love the progress on the van. Keep up the good work.
I think the largest awning size because you wont be in bed mode all the time. Sitting working or eating with the largest window would be awesome.
Full size will look great the bed will be level no problem and have a sliding window lots light
I wish we had gone for awning style windows on our van. We can't leave our sliding ones open when it rains. Plus, the breeze through is better with awning style windows.
Had the same problem with a rivnut. I had to drill out the bolt and rivnut, using vice-clamps to stop it spinning. Then new rivnut properly secured fixed the problem.
Awning windows are great as they don't allow rain inside when open.
A narrow panoramic window would be my choice with the mosquito / blind combo already fitted. Otherwise your feet will be constantly hitting the glass, or the dogs could jump out if it was full size.
Also for security a narrow window is harder to access.
Can’t wait for the exploring again. But this van build has been interesting to watch also.
Wow! Suddenly all coming together now! Well done.
Have a look at Em and Lou's awning, cheaper and just as usable. We have a Thule awning on our Ducato, I'm not a fan. It's expensive, it catches the wind, you want little or no wind to feel comfortable overnight leaving it out. The van came with it on, but if I had another van without, I'd go for a cheaper option. It's an expensive bit of kit for the wind to break it.
If you use the natural apertures of the van panels and doors they are usually a standard sizes for replacing if
they do get broken also cheaper off the shelf , awning windows are good but watch out for sliding doors or on one also adjacent trees/posts when manoeuvring etc if
it's left open
Hi, highly recommend the Fiamma awning. We also have the privacy room , we use everyday for the last six years. We are full time in our van .
I think
Happy camper = awning style
Stealth camper = tinted slider
I’ve got a tinted slider but smaller van, I’d have an awning style on your size of van.
It’s coming on guys and really looking brilliant, for the bed support the pole but I’d have it permanent so less faffing about in the evenings.
Atb John 🏴
Great vlog, you've brought the reality of a van build to life. I used to look at some thinking, yip, i could do that. However, after watching your conversion warts and all, i think it's a lot tougher than it looks. I really admire your spirit and am looking forward to the finished van. The weather certainly hasn't helped this week.
Looking great cannot wait to see all 4 of you on the road again you both have done an amazing job you both need a good holiday
Big window gets my vote.
I’ll miss the build when your finished tbh but hey ho back to great adventures 👏
Awww, we never thought anyone would miss these van build videos 😅.. Thanks so much, think the travel videos we have planned are going to be amazing though 😊
@@theexPAWers I’ve loved it. You’re both very entertaining people & make a very good video. 😘
I think put an awning style window in the sliding door due to the fact that they are acrylic and should hold heat in as well as not condensate. As a bonus they come with blinds and fly screens which means no hassle making or buying curtains and fly screens that fit.
Honestly
I love these crazier unexpected changing visits
The high speed parts are hilarious though I feel the stress through the humour
So well done guys. So well done
It is a thing of beauty!!!!
Consider security aswell with a window that opens in a door. Panoramic may be better imo. I'm fixing up a Dodge Grand Caravan for solo travel. In my own small way I feel your pain, except as a 62 yr old Gramma my pain may be worse 😂. Just kidding, I do appreciate the work you guys are doing on this build AND filming and editing videos at the same time! Absolute Legends the pair of you ❤ Cheers from BC, 🇨🇦
as big as you can and also the bed is only up for a few hours at a time. Go for an awning style window. build coming along nicely. well done
We are loving watching the build. Learning so much from you!
I would go for the sliding window and the larger size. Even though an awning window has the advantage when it rains, depending that wind is in the right direction, in order to avoid it breaking, I guess the hinges are the weakest, you have to have it closed when opening or closing the sliding door. With a sliding window you don't have any worries that the window is open. A much safer option.
We've got a awning window on our slidingdoor and have never had it open. The company who placed the window has even put a warning sticker on it. 😊
Having a comfy sitting area and bed makes your van look so cosy.
Possibly awning windows are safer, perhaps sliding windows can be broken into??? You don't need a full length awning, a shorter one will be lighter. Awning wall cupboard doors open up and stay up until you need to close them and you don't bang your head on ones that open out. Just a thought. It's looking GREAT
Thanks.. Yeah we’re thinking about a smaller awning if we can find one that fits the Ducato.. We have no idea how they attach to the van etc xx
@@theexPAWers you're so clever you'll come up with a brilliant solution. You're doing a fantastic job, hope you're proud of yourselves
I agree with the the awning version. I have it and love because it never lets in the rain. I’m told if you forget to close them it’s ok to drive with it open but I don’t trust that so don’t.
I’d go for the big full size window and then make a long roll that could cover the bottom of the window so your feet don’t touch in the night. Then when you’re on the bed in the day time it can be a back support against the other wall for reading.
definitely something to keep feet off the window - with either size window
Definitely go for the big window if you get a one way film can’t see from the outside 👍
You two are so enjoyable to watch and your lovely van is looking wonderful.
I would definantly fit the panoramic window and the glass to bed level is a bonus for a beautiful full window to lovely outside views.
The door should be a slide window and i would make it a tad shorter than the bed and make sure the windows has screens and then an awning window on the other one
Thanks for the advice Diane 😊❤❤
Just watched! I was saying I must have missed them showing the bed made up and like magic it happened and I was reassured I hadn’t missed it, having watched every video. We have a Ducato, I would have a large awning window with a blackout blind and have a small awning on the outside, we have a full size one and it is heavy and you don’t actually need all that length. Nearly there 🤞👏🏼
Curtain wires and funky fabric for upper cupboards ❤
That’s a great idea actually! You’re talking about instead of doors right??
@@theexPAWers AS long as things don't FLY out.
If you use the full loops and not hooks, they'll stay put! It's light weight and can look amazing with the right fabric. X
And yeah, instead of heavy doors. X
With the way you've fabricated the cupboards, all you'd need is some stackable baskets or boxes. It worked for my friends van for many years, and she'd just update the fabric when bored! X
It’s looking good guys. Well done. Looking forward to you both getting out on the road 😍And not forgetting your lovely doggies ❤
Whoop whoop....nearly done. Well done you two.❤
Love it! Have really enjoyed watching this build and figured you'd work it all out in the end, very unique and looking good 🙌
Whatever windows you decide on make sure they are secure.You don't want break ins whilst you're out on your trips (although I'm sure Dizzy would see them off).
I have my side window by the bed the same height as my bed. Though only because when I built my bed I forgot to subtract the height of the mattress!
But then my companion cat loves it as he can lie on the bed and look out easierly.
I have a half sliding window covered with a security grill and mossie net. (Cat proof) The windows are tinted. I have good insulation covers for the inside of the window as well as curtains. You do feel the cold through the windows so with your dogs I'd suggest having the bottom up from your mattress. A sliding window with security grill means I can leave the window open when away from the van.
I have an awning window which is great in the rain. I would put an awning window in the door, panoramic, so above the bed for privacy. I love what you guys have done so far, its amazing!
Tinted panaramic window 👍looking fab with the lovely colours on the bed, can't wait to see it finished 😊
You two don't give yourselves enough credit!! Amazed at your abilities ... thanks for sharing! Love to the whole crew. (dogs especially)😉🐕🐕
loved the guitar during the intro. really feeling for you both - your're such troupers. I've been impressed with Sarah's skills with electrics and plumbing sort of stuff since I watched you re-arrange a diesel heater and various other things from looking online
To say you two didn't know one end of a screwdriver from the other I think you've done a cracking job so far. Obviously there's some bits that I wouldn't have done but personal taste is just that, personal. Can't wait to see the finished van
Weather! My build time was greatly increased due to wind and rain! I envy all those van build vids where people had a garage to build in. I feel your pain!
Bigger the window the better . its all about the view we've had awning windows no issues and nice to open them up .....
The biggest window that will fit! Awning style , you’ll love it !! 🌞
Considering you have both never done this before your doing amazing!!
We are doing a few jobs on our camper and feel we could never do what you guys have done. Regarding the window the awning style seem alot more stronger than they were in caravans. They are very secure, half way i would say. As you said you dont want it as low as your bed.👋
Go the large windows! I have sliding great for the dogs when driving to have open with screen for good breeze.😁
Awning window and the bigger the better. Great video xx
I have same size Ducato and the Fiamma F80 I think, it’s great and I have had it on my previous van with no issues, you can just have it out a foot or
So when
Raining but still want the door open
Awning style as large as possible.
Looks amazing not long and you can be off on your Travels 😊 Have a lovely Easter weekend 🥰
The framing looks great and you have done an amazing job. No straight lines in a Van or a Boat. Loving it
Big window for more light & view! Also, two windows in the back. More light, viewing,and symmetrical. Would look better.
We had a large awning style window on our sliding door and before long the struts started sticking and bits fell out. I think because of having to sort of slam the sliding door awning style windows, particularly large ones, don’t do well. Agreeing with Nick here, but also based on experience. Much as a sliding window is a problem if it is raining I still think it’s the best option for the sliding door. And you will be able to open the one at the rear, plus you have the skylight overhead which can be left open in light rain.
Biggest advantage of a sliding window is it can be open when driving
Those foldout brackets for the shelf look good, but flip them so the short side flips up, it's about the length of the shelf.
I would go for the bigger window and caravan opening out! Been watching vanology conversions and he fits a slim window, that looks good, also are you putting an overflow on kitchen sink? All looking fab! Can’t wait to see it all finished…❤️