Nowadays, frameless RV windows are almost a buzzword in the RV community, but what’s the big deal? Are they better than the framed windows the industry has used for years?
This article will look at the pros and cons of frameless RV windows to get to the bottom of all the hype. Let’s get into it.
What Are Frameless RV Windows?
Frameless RV windows are a type of window often seen on newer RVs. They’re heavily tinted and flush with the body of the RV. The frameless windows have a sleek and seamless aesthetic that doesn’t age with UV rays or wear and tear. They may look nice, but are they practical or worth it?
Benefits of Frameless RV Windows
There are many benefits of frameless windows other than aesthetics. Let’s take a closer look at the pros of these seamless, tinted windows.
Sleek Look
One of the top benefits of frameless RV windows is their sleek look. They blend seamlessly with the exterior. You’ll typically see them on newer RVs. They look nice and seem to portray a more luxury aesthetic.
Ability to Have Open Windows During Rain
One major benefit to frameless RV windows is the ability to have them open all the time, even while it rains. They open outward, so part of the window pane acts as a shield for the RV and the screen. Rain rolls right off the open portion of the window so you can have fresh air even on a dreary day.
Heavy Tint
These windows usually have heavy tinting. It looks great and affords you more privacy. You won’t have to worry about neighbors peering in. The dark tint on frameless RV windows also helps keep your RV cool by blocking hot and harmful UV rays.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have frameless RV windows, your current windows might not be tinted. If you want to block out the sun and keep your RV cool read more about Can You Tint Your RV Windows? (And How to Do It!)
Protected Seals
With seamless windows, the seals are hidden behind the glass that sits on the outside of the RV. This design keeps the rubber behind a UV blocking glass that will help it last a lot longer.
Disadvantages to Frameless RV Windows
Frameless RV windows aren’t all sunshine and rainbows. Here are some disadvantages to this sleek RV window style, as witnessed personally and from reports from RV owners.
Decreased Air Circulation
Due to the way these types of RV windows open, customers tend to notice a decrease in cross-breeze ventilation. The windows don’t extend all the way, and only a small portion of the window opens.
This can cause problems with ventilation, but as many RVers point out, simply turning on your roof vent fan will help with the airflow.
Tint Hard to See Through
Having heavily tinted windows is a major benefit when you don’t want people looking in your RV at a busy campground. But what about when you boondock at a beautiful site and want to take in the views?
You can still see out, but they’ll be a little darker than usual. As with most tinted windows, it’s easier to see out than in, but some customers don’t love the darker-than-normal tint.
More Expensive
Frameless RV windows can cost more than their framed counterparts. However, they’re starting to come standard on many newer RV models. So unless you want to upgrade from framed windows, the cost isn’t a huge issue.
About Framed RV Windows
Framed RV windows are the basic RV windows on pretty much every older RV. They will have a black seal around them.
They may be solid, or they can have a sliding portion that opens all the way. Unlike frameless windows, it’s not a good idea to leave a framed window open when it rains.
Benefits to framed RV windows include the ability to open them wider, getting a better cross breeze, and lower cost compared to frameless ones. They can also be more sturdy.
However, the seal around framed windows can become brittle and fade from the sun. This may cause water to seep in and make it look older.
Pro Tip: If you’re RVing in the cold, you’ll need well insulated windows to keep you warm. Here’s How To Insulate Your RV Windows.
Are Frameless RV Windows Really Better?
When you ask which window style is better on any forum, you’ll get a mix of answers. Some people love them, and some people love to hate them.
Frameless RV windows are sleek and modern. You may love the look of newer RVs with seamless, dark windows with curved edges.
The tint provides privacy and UV protection, which is always a huge plus. If you look into them, the privacy and aesthetics might be right up your alley.
How to Choose the Best Windows for Your RV
The best windows for your RV will keep you warm or cool, dry, and happy. When determining the best windows for you, think about your RVing style.
Will you travel somewhere where it rains a lot? Frameless windows work great for fresh air in the rain.
Or, will you go somewhere with an abundance of the hot sun? Framed ones provide better airflow. However, frameless windows have a heavy tint that’s ideal for keeping heat and UV rays out on sunny days.
Research the pros and cons while weighing your favorite RV style to determine whether or not frameless RV windows are right for you.
Do you want frameless windows for your RV? Drop a comment below!
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Steve Felt
Thursday 10th of November 2022
I wish I never got frameless windows. They stick out and when rocks fly by they smash the window to bits and its not easy getting them replaced by RV dealers. Luckily I found a glass shop to replace the windows that have burst on me. Also if the wind blows and you have the big fire escape windows open they will blow up and out too. I want to replace mine with sliding windows but the dealer told me it would cost thousands to replace. So now I have weather strips on the windows edges to ensure they don’t get broken by another rock. Never again will I get these windows.
Raymond
Thursday 10th of November 2022
I like the frameless windows on our 5th wheel except for one thing to look out for when traveling. Because the edge of the glass towards the front of the RV is exposed there is a chance that a rock can fly up and from a passing vehicle and hit that edge shattering the glass. That's what happened to one of our windows when someone was passing us along the highway. Of course this happened in a no passing zone where there is lots of rocks.
Mortons on the Move
Saturday 19th of November 2022
That's a good point! Sorry to hear your window was shattered.
William
Thursday 21st of October 2021
My framed rear window has leaked from day one. Either a poor Lippert part or bad install by TLRV on my Rovelite 14FD camper.