08/08/2026
🚐 Van Life Journal: Window #1
Sometimes the plan changes… and sometimes the window changes with it!
Our original window leaked, and after looking into it, it appeared the problem was with the manufacturing rather than the installation. So, we ordered new windows—larger ones this time—and were really excited about them.
Then came the email we weren’t expecting: the new windows didn’t pass quality control before they shipped, so our payment was refunded.
Back to the drawing board.
We had two options: install flares like we did in our first van, or go with full quarter-panel windows. After weighing the options, we decided to go with the full-panel windows. Not only did we like the look, but they were actually a pretty substantial cost savings. Van Tek Glass has been amazing at answering our questions!
Now came the fun part: cutting a much larger hole in our van! 😳
After a LOT of Internet research, we learned that an air reciprocating saw was the tool of choice for cutting through the sheet metal. We looked locally and online, but with the Florida weather threatening to complicate things, we decided to grab one from Harbor Freight.
And you know what? It worked really well!
One thing we quickly learned: be prepared with plenty of blades and a decent-sized air compressor. Thankfully, our friend had a larger compressor that could keep up with the saw. Our little compressor is great for airing up tires, but a tool that requires 90–120 PSI? Let’s just say it would have been taking a LOT of breaks. 😂
Once the opening was cut and prepped, it was time to put the window in. And this is where we were especially thankful for friends—and their muscles! 💪🏻
That window was HEAVY, and having extra hands outside to help lift and position it was a huge help.
Once we had it seated properly, we used tape to hold everything securely in place while the sealant cured. After several hours, it was time for the moment of truth…
💦 The water test.
And…
NO LEAKS! 🙌🏻
Always a good thing when you’ve just cut a giant hole in the side of your van!
As with just about everything in this build, there is a HUGE learning curve—even when you’ve done something similar before. Everything takes longer than you think it will, there are always unexpected challenges, and sometimes you have to stop and figure out a completely different way to do something.
But one of the biggest blessings of this build is that we aren’t on a timeline. We can learn, problem-solve, make adjustments, and enjoy the process without rushing to get it finished.
So…
Window #1: SUCCESSFULLY INSTALLED! 🎉
Now we wait for the weather to cooperate so we can tackle the window on the other side.
Because, of course…
You gotta love Florida in the summer! 🌴☀️🌧️
