Custom Screens For Your Camper Van: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to make screens for your camper van

Camper van adventures are a fun way to explore the great outdoors, but bugs and insects can put a damper on your trip. A simple, cost-effective solution is to install screens on your camper van windows and doors. This will allow you to keep your windows open for airflow while keeping the bugs out. You can choose to install screens yourself using a premade mosquito screen, magnets, duct tape, and scissors, or opt for a professional to do it for you.

Characteristics Values
Purpose Keep bugs out, allow airflow and ventilation, provide privacy
Installation Easy, super-fast, and customizable
Materials Replacement screen, small magnets, duct tape, needle and thread, scissors
Cost $35

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Choosing the right screen material

When choosing the right screen material for your camper van, there are several factors to consider, including durability, ease of installation, bug protection, and cost. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you make the right choice:

Durability and Protection:

Look for a screen material that offers a balance between durability and protection against insects. Fibreglass screens are a popular choice for their strength and flexibility. They can withstand regular use and are effective at keeping out even the smallest bugs. If you're willing to invest more, consider the Saint-Gobain ADFORS FCS10149-M Small Insect Screen, which has smaller holes designed to keep out tiny insects like no-see-ums. This option may be pricier, but it will provide better protection and is likely to last longer.

Ease of Installation and Customization:

Choose a screen material that is easy to work with and customizable to fit your van's windows and doors. Some materials, like fibreglass, are flexible and can be cut to the desired size and shape. This makes installation simpler, especially if you're doing it yourself. Look for options that can be trimmed to fit your specific window or door measurements.

Magnetic or Adhesive Attachment:

Decide whether you prefer magnetic or adhesive screens. Magnetic screens use magnets to attach to the metal surfaces of your van, making them easy to put up and take down. They are a good option if you want to avoid causing any damage to your van's paint job. Adhesive screens, on the other hand, use sticky backing or Velcro to attach to your van. They may offer a more secure fit but could be more challenging to remove and might leave residue behind.

Cost Considerations:

The cost of the screen material will depend on the type you choose and the size required for your camper van. If you're on a budget, consider a DIY option, where you can purchase a roll of replacement screen and cut it to size yourself. This will give you more control over the cost, and you can find affordable options at hardware stores or online.

Storage and Portability:

Think about how you will store and transport your screens when they are not in use. Look for materials that are lightweight and flexible, making them easier to fold or roll up and store in a compact space. This is especially important if you plan to move your screens frequently or have limited storage space in your van.

In summary, when choosing the right screen material for your camper van, prioritize durability, bug protection, ease of installation, and cost. Consider your specific needs and preferences to make an informed decision that will enhance your camping experience.

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Measuring the window

To start, you will need to measure the width and height of each window you want to cover. It is important to be as accurate as possible, so use a measuring tape and measure each window twice to ensure accuracy. You will also need to consider the shape of the window when cutting out the screen.

When measuring, it is important to leave some extra fabric or screen around the edges. This will ensure that the screen covers the entire window and provide some flexibility if the window is slightly larger than expected. A good rule of thumb is to leave about two to four inches of extra fabric or screen on all sides. This will ensure that the screen overlaps with the window frame and provide a good surface to attach magnets or Velcro.

If you are using a pre-made mosquito screen, you will need to measure the width and height of the screen and cut it to size. It is better to cut the screen slightly larger than you need, as you can always trim it down later. When cutting, use sharp scissors and a straight edge to ensure a clean cut.

If your camper van has sliding doors, you will need to measure the door opening and decide how you want the screen to fit. You may want to create two overlapping panels that can be easily opened and closed, or you may prefer a single panel that covers the entire door opening. Measure the width and height of the door opening, adding a few inches on each side to ensure full coverage.

Once you have measured your windows and/or doors and determined the amount of extra fabric or screen needed, you can move on to the next step of cutting and assembling your screens.

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Cutting the screen

Once you've measured and marked the screen, use a pair of sharp scissors to cut the screen to the desired size. You can also use a knife or a blade to cut the screen, but be careful not to damage the material. If you're cutting a large piece of screen, it might be helpful to have a friend assist you to hold the screen taut while you cut, ensuring straight and precise cuts.

After cutting the screen to size, you can proceed to attach the magnets or Velcro that will hold the screen in place. For the sliding door, cut the screen to the full width, usually 48 inches, and long enough to cover the door opening with an additional 4-6 inches of extra fabric at the top. This extra fabric will provide enough overlap for the two panels to meet in the centre.

For the front windows, you can trace the window on newspaper to create a pattern or simply eyeball it and cut the screen a couple of inches larger than the window on all sides. This will ensure that the magnets can reach the metal and hold the screen securely in place.

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Attaching the screen

Another option is to use Velcro. Measure the metal frame of the door and decide where you want the centre of the screen to be. Clean the surface and attach a roll of durable Velcro with an adhesive backing along the top of the door frame and down the side. Attach the screen to the trim of the screen door using the Velcro backing.

If you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can sew the screen directly to the window frame, but this will require more tools and skills.

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Installing the screen

Step 1: Measure Your Windows

Before purchasing or cutting your screen material, ensure you measure your windows accurately. Measure the width and height of each window, and add 2-4 inches of extra fabric on all sides. This extra fabric will ensure complete coverage and provide a neat finish.

Step 2: Purchase or Cut the Screen to Size

If you haven't already purchased a pre-made mosquito screen, now is the time to do so. Choose a durable and flexible material, such as fiberglass, with a fine mesh designed to keep out even the smallest insects. Cut the screen to size, allowing for the extra fabric you measured in Step 1.

Step 3: Prepare the Magnets

You will need small magnets to secure your screen in place. Avoid using extremely strong magnets, as they may be difficult to remove and could damage your paintwork. Place the magnets along the top and sides of the screen, ensuring they will reach the metal on your van's window frame.

Step 4: Attach the Magnets

Use duct tape to attach the magnets to the screen. Lay a piece of duct tape sticky-side up, place the magnets along the length of the tape, and then fold the tape over to secure them in place. Continue this process until you have magnets along the top and sides of the screen. Choose a duct tape colour that blends in with your screen material for a more discreet finish.

Step 5: Install the Screen

With your screen ready, it's now time to install it on your camper van window. Hold the screen in place over the window, ensuring it covers the entire window and the magnets are aligned with the metal window frame. Check that the screen is taut and secure, making any necessary adjustments.

Step 6: Trim and Adjust

Once you're happy with the placement, feel free to trim any excess fabric from the bottom of the screen for a neater finish. You can also adjust the placement of the magnets if needed. Putting the magnets on the inside of the window can make it look neater from the outside, but ensure they don't get slammed in the door.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Bug-Free Camper Van

With your screens installed, you can now enjoy fresh air and bug-free comfort in your camper van. Remember that screens won't keep out the rain, and always be mindful of your surroundings and personal safety when leaving windows down.

Frequently asked questions

Camper van screens can help keep out insects and birds, discourage pets from escaping, and provide ventilation and fresh air without drastically altering your view.

Some screens that are suitable for camper vans include the Roadie-Overnight Window Tent, TheFitLife-Magnetic Screen Door, and the Napier-Sportz Cove Tent.

To make a DIY screen for your camper van, you will need a pre-made mosquito screen for porch doors, magnets, duct tape, scissors, and a needle and thread. First, measure your windows and doors and cut out the screen pieces to fit, leaving a couple of extra inches for installation. Then, attach the magnets to the screens using duct tape. Finally, sew the edges of the duct tape to secure it in place.

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