Creating A Custom Vent Cover For Your Camper

how to make a cover for vent in camper

Making a cover for your camper van's vent is a simple DIY task that can save you money and give you much satisfaction. The right vent cover will protect your vent and vent lid from rain, leaves, pollen, and other airborne debris, and will also minimise the need for cleaning the vent screen. Before you start making your cover, you'll need to take measurements of your existing vent, cut your chosen material to size, and then mount the cover in place.

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Choosing the right material for your vent cover

RV vent covers are essential to protect your RV from water damage, mould, and mildew. Vent covers also prevent pests and debris from entering your RV. When choosing the right material for your vent cover, consider the following:

Climate and Weather Conditions

The climate and weather conditions in your area will play a significant role in determining the best material for your vent cover. If you frequently camp in rainy or snowy conditions, a waterproof and durable material such as polypropylene or metal may be best. If you're in a hot and humid climate, look for materials that promote airflow and prevent heat buildup, such as those with built-in fans or ventilation holes.

Compatibility with your RV's Design

The material and design of your vent cover should complement your RV's interior and exterior design. Vent covers come in various colours and styles, so choose one that matches the aesthetic of your RV. Additionally, consider the size and shape of your existing vent openings. Most RV roof vents are cut to a standard 14" by 14" opening, but it's always a good idea to measure before purchasing a new cover.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

Look for materials that are easy to install and maintain. Some vent covers come with installation hardware and detailed instructions, making the process more accessible. Consider the cleaning and maintenance requirements of the material. For example, plastic or polypropylene vent covers may require less maintenance than wooden ones.

Durability and Longevity

Choose a material that is durable and built to last. Look for features such as UV protection, corrosion resistance, and impact resistance. Vent covers made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or UV-protected polypropylene will likely have a longer lifespan than those made from cheaper materials.

Cost and Budget

Finally, consider your budget when choosing a vent cover material. Different materials will vary in price, and you may need to purchase additional hardware or tools for installation. Compare prices and features to find the best option that fits within your budget.

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Measuring your vent

Step 1: Access the Vent

To measure your camper's vent accurately, you will need to access it directly. This may involve climbing onto the roof of your camper, so ensure you take the necessary safety precautions. Have a helper assist you if needed for safety. Once you're safely on the roof, locate the vent and clear any debris or obstacles that might obstruct your measurements.

Step 2: Identify the Type of Vent

Before taking any measurements, identify the type of vent you have. Vents can be square, rectangular, or circular, and this will impact the measurements you need to take and the type of cover you create. The most common type of RV roof vent is square, with a standard opening size of 14" by 14", but it's important to measure carefully as your camper may have a different size or type of vent.

Step 3: Measure the Vent Opening

Use a tape measure to measure the dimensions of the vent opening. If your vent is square or rectangular, measure the length and width of the opening. Be sure to measure the rough opening in the roof rather than the inside dimensions of the existing vent cover. If your vent is circular, measure the diameter or the distance across the circle. Add between half an inch to one inch to your measurements to ensure your cover is slightly larger than the vent for a snug fit.

Step 4: Record Measurements and Plan

Record the measurements you've taken, clearly labelling them to avoid confusion. Now, you can plan the design of your cover. Consider the type of material you will use (wood, metal, or plastic) and how it will attach to the vent. Your design should be a box-type structure with elevated sides.

Step 5: Consider Height Clearance

When designing your vent cover, remember to consider the height of your camper. Taller vent covers can provide better protection but may add to the overall height of your camper. This could be an issue if your camper needs to pass under low bridges or overpasses. Ensure you allow for adequate height clearance to avoid any mishaps during your travels.

Step 6: Check for Interference

Before finalising your measurements and design, check for any potential interference from other roof-mounted accessories. Ensure there is enough space for your vent cover to fit and operate without obstruction. If necessary, you may need to adjust the design or consult a professional for advice.

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Preparing the cover material

Vent covers can be made from wood, metal, or plastic. Choose a material that complements the interior design of your camper van. You can also paint the cover to match the colour of your van.

Once you have selected your material, take the measurements of your vent and cut the material accordingly. Remember to add an extra half to one inch to the measurements to ensure that the vent is fully covered. You should be creating a box-type structure, with the sides elevated rather than flat.

If you are using wood, you will need to cut and assemble the pieces to form the box structure. For plastic and metal, you can bend and mould the material to create the required shape. Make sure to wear the appropriate safety gear when cutting and shaping your material, including gloves and eye protection.

Drill small holes in the cover, which will be used to fasten the cover to the vent with screws. You can also use an adhesive or sealant suitable for the material and your van.

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Installing the cover

Step 1: Measure the Vent

Start by measuring the width and height of your existing vent using a tape measure. It's important to add an extra half to one inch to the measurements to ensure that the vent cover will fit properly and provide full coverage. This extra allowance will ensure that your cover is not too tight and can be adjusted as needed.

Step 2: Choose the Right Material

Vent covers can be made from various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. Consider the interior design of your camper when selecting the material. You want the cover to complement the overall aesthetic of your camper. Cut the chosen material according to the measurements you took in Step 1, creating a box-type structure with slightly elevated sides, rather than flat ones.

Step 3: Prepare the Vent for Installation

Before installing the cover, ensure that the area around the vent is clean and free of any debris or residue. If necessary, use a mild cleaning solution to wipe down the surface. It is crucial to have a clean surface for the cover to adhere properly.

Step 4: Drill and Fasten the Cover

Now, it's time to attach the cover to the vent. Use a drill to make small holes in the cover, positioning them carefully along the edges. You will then insert screws into these holes to fasten the cover securely in place. Drive the screws deep into the vent frame to ensure a strong hold. You can choose to fasten both sides of the cover or leave one side removable by simply screwing it when necessary, such as during the winter months when you want to maximise warmth.

Step 5: Test the Vent and Cover

Once the cover is installed, test the functionality of the vent. Operate the vent to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly without obstruction from the cover. It is important to verify that the vent lid can move freely beneath the cover, especially if you plan to keep the vent open during inclement weather.

Step 6: Adjust as Needed

Depending on your specific needs and the weather conditions you typically encounter, you may want to make adjustments to the cover. For example, if you anticipate heavy rainfall, you can drill additional holes in the cover to allow for better airflow and prevent moisture buildup. Alternatively, you may want to add a layer of waterproof sealant around the edges of the cover to enhance its protective capabilities.

Remember to consult the owner's manual or seek advice from a professional if you encounter any issues or have questions about a specific step in the installation process.

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Maintenance and cleaning

Maintaining proper airflow in your camper is critical for your comfort. Roof vents and fans let warm air out, while floor and ceiling vents circulate warm and cool air from your heating and air conditioning systems.

To maintain your camper's vent covers, you should inspect them annually. Standard vent lids are susceptible to UV damage over time and allow water and dust inside, so they should be replaced if necessary. You can also install vent covers over existing vent lids to ventilate your camper's roof in any weather and improve airflow.

When cleaning your vent covers, it is important to use zero-residue, non-petroleum cleaning products. Silicone caulk is best for the sides of the unit, and only self-levelling or non-sag lap sealants should be used on the roof if necessary. The gasket, which is press-fit to the vent assembly's metal flange or curb, should also be inspected and cleaned.

Additionally, you should regularly clean the vent screens inside your camper. Remove the screens from the vents in the bathroom and kitchen areas and check for dust, dirt, or grease. If necessary, put the screens in a sink of soapy water and let them soak.

Finally, it is important to inspect your camper's roof for any signs of water damage. Carefully inspect every seam and opening on the roof, paying close attention to the caulking around vent openings. Reapply caulk and create a tight seal if there are any cracks or gaps.

Frequently asked questions

An RV roof vent cover protects the vent and vent lid from rain, leaves, pollen, and other airborne debris, and minimises the need to clean the vent screen. It also keeps water out of your RV if you accidentally leave the lid open during a storm and allows you to keep air flowing in and out when you encounter bad weather.

Vent covers can be made of wood, metal or plastic. Most often, vent cover materials should complement the interior design of the RV.

The installation process will depend on the vent cover make and model. For example, to install a MaxxAir vent cover, you will need a drill, a Philips head screwdriver, a ratchet or wrench, and the appropriate drill bit and socket sizes. First, centre the new vent cover over the roof vent and mark the location of the slots in the cover’s mounting flange. Next, remove the cover and set up the brackets so that they line up with the marked locations. Drill the screw holes, secure the brackets, and place the vent cover on the upward-facing carriage bolts. Finally, operate the vent to make sure the lid clears the vent cover, and secure the vent cover.

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