Welcome to the ultimate RV windshield guide. If it has to do with an RV windshield replacement, we are about to discuss it. First, let’s start with the most obvious topic. The windshield itself.
If you own a Class A, Class B, or Class C motorhome, your RV windshield is a key component of your safety. Your RV windshield takes the brunt of the wind, rocks, trash, and anything else that might fall off a truck and hit it. Keeping your RV windshield in tip-top condition should be your number one priority. Here’s why:
Imagine you get a few rock chips in your RV windshield. No biggie, right? Wrong! Believe it or not, those simple chips can affect the strength of your piece of glass. Once a chip starts, it will spread into a deep crack. That crack will penetrate the entire windshield.
Tip #1 Always have your glass chips repaired.
For as little as $30 your chip, star, or indent can be repaired. Many times the glass technician will come to you, saving you the effort of finding their shop. After a repair, you may still see some of the damage. Don’t worry. Your ultimate goal was to seal the crack and keep it from spreading. As long as that’s done, it was worth the money. Acting early will help you save your glass. But let’s say that you can’t avoid it and it’s time to consider a replacement of your RV windshield, because no amount of glue will fix it now.
What should you expect?
Tip #2 Check what your “full coverage” insurance covers.
Windshields for RVs are specialty items, and sometimes your insurance won’t cover the cost. Each state, and insurance program, is different, so be sure to check ahead of time, and prepare. If you have to have an RV windshield replacement, it may cost $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the size, shape, and availability. With this in mind, you can understand why RV windshield maintenance makes sense. Some insurance companies will set a cap on what they will spend on replacement glass. Other companies will ask for a higher deductible for windshields. If you have full coverage insurance, take the time to find out what it covers and what it doesn’t.
Tip #3 Avoid RV windshield replacement with simple protection.
Diamond-Fusion Surface Shield is a professionally-applied glass protector. If rocks hit your windshield, they should bounce off without damage. This product is gaining popularity, and the treatment may even be covered by some insurance companies. RV America Insurance endorses the Diamond-Fusion product and helps its clients acquire it.
Tip #4 If buying a used RV, watch for windshield damage.
As we now know, a couple of rock chips could spell significant damage down the road. Don’t buy an RV with any type of RV Windshield damage. Insist on a repair, before buying any RV.
Tip #5 While RV windows can often be replaced by an owner, RV windshield replacement is a different story.
Do not attempt to replace your own windshield. Always use a professional RV service dealer, and read online reviews first! RV windshield replacement is not a simple process. For your safety, always use a glass professional.
Tip #6 According to RVGeeks.com, you can clean your windshield using steel wool.
This simple kitchen tool can remove bug guts in a snap.
Moving on from windshields, it’s time to talk about windshield covers. These fall into three categories: curtains, shades, and blinds. Let’s start with the outdoor variety.
Tip #7 RV windshield covers are sold for each type of rig, and there are a variety of styles and sellers.
Most agree that using an outside cover for your RV windshield, and your side windows, will lower the temperature in your RV. RV windshield covers use either snaps, magnets, or tie downs to attach to your coach. Here are a few of the most popular windshield-cover companies.
Magne Shade
Shade Master
Sun Guard
Windshield covers come in two basic styles: total blackout and indoor view. Total blackout keeps your coach cool by totally keeping any light from penetrating your windshield. The downside of this choice is that you essentially lose the purpose of the windows, because you can no longer look out. Indoor view is like one-way glass. You can see out, but people can’t see in. That is, until the evening, when people can clearly see into your coach, and your privacy is compromised. If you travel more than you park, you may not like outside windshield covers. They take time to mount on your unit, and if it rains, the covers will be wet when it’s time to move on.
Tip #8 Suction cups can hold a cover.
Another option is the indoor windshield cover. These are lightweight and easy to apply with suction cups on the inside of the glass. RV Quick Shades are easy to use, cut-to-order, inside covers that provide cooling shade. They reduce UV rays, plus heat and light damage to your unit. This is an affordable choice for RVers on a budget. Remember, these covers are see-through at night. If you use RV Quick Shades during the day, you may need to consider curtains at night.
Tip #9 Custom or DIY windshield curtains are an option.
Windshield curtains have been around as long as people have been camping. You can buy custom-fit curtains, or get creative and make your own. Curtains allow you to hide the inside of your coach from the outside world. They also make a coach feel homey! However, the curtains are not the best choice for cutting heat transfer. Even if your curtains are lined or reflective, you will still have a warm coach.
Tip #10 MCD Shades are the new best thing.
If you’re looking for the best blinds, most RVers agree it’s MCD Shades. MCD Shades are a roller blind system created for motorhomes and are designed to withstand movement, heat, and time. MCD Shades are now standard in many higher end motorhomes, but can be retrofitted to just about any coach. Ask your RV dealer, or Google MCD installers in your area. MCD provides the best of both worlds. They provide black out at night, and they give you the ability to put your shades up or down with ease.
In this post we have looked at the top 10 tips for protecting your RV windshield and your RV interior. This “ultimate” guide will help you preserve your investment. Find the tip that makes the most sense for your situation, and run with it. Better yet, share your thoughts in the comment section below. Choose your favorite tip and share it, like it, or tweet it! We love hearing from you, so tell us how you protect your RV windshield.
Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to comment below!
