How to Fit Bonded Windows - Self Build Campervan

Fitting New Bonded Windows to our Mercedes Sprinter Campervan Conversion.
Today we are fitting new bonded privacy windows to our self-build campervan.
I purchased the new windows from vanpimps.co.uk and was planning to fit them myself, but as it's such a critical part of the build decided to have them professionally fitted.
So I contacted David from "Glass for Vans" and he agreed to do the Installation for me.
You can contact them via their website:-
glassforvans.c...
You can find a full parts list for our camper van build on this link
New Links will be posted soon, please check back.
Disclosure - As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you purchase using the above affiliate links. Thank you for supporting our channel.
If you liked this video please do share and give me a thumbs up.
Thank you for watching
Greg Virgoe
#gregvirgoe #vanlife #tinyhome

[@GregVirgoe]

You can follow me on Facebook where I post regular updates on the build during the week and sneak peaks to upcoming videos. facebook.com/Greg.Woodshop/posts/897887757028256

[@spudhead1161]

Greg Virgoe have you finished the van? if so i can't seem to find it.

[@Intelligent_Bot]

It is actually not allowed by Mercedes Benz to install a window like you did to your van. It may damage the exterior metalsheet of your van. The version of the van with windows (called "Sprinter Tourer" in my country) has the two layers of metal welded together befor installing the window. Good luck with your van. Hopefully it does not fall apart.

[@Carsnacksmark]

@@Intelligent_Bot you are an idiot! That is A untrue there is no extra metal and B commonplace to do this without issue

[@ignaciogarciadearcos1725]

Hola, es de 6 o 4 cilindros? Gracias...

[@notwhereyouthink]

Greg is literally the go-to-guy for every Sprinter build and has set a standard for us all. Can not thank you enough for the time you have taken to do these vids.

[@GregVirgoe]

Thank you very much. That has made my day. Cheers 🍻😁

[@mrpedromartins1]

Great vid! Quick question Was David from “Glassforvans” using an electric nibbler when he was cutting the window opening for you Mercedes sprinter ? There appeared to be very little metal shavings, he also appeared to do a marvellous instillation.

[@RFDHunter]

Another excellent video Greg! I’ve been trying to find suitable wide enough edge trim for the windows on my Sprinter but it’s nearly impossible to find. Can you tell me where you got yours please. Thanks in advance!

[@GregVirgoe]

Order through David at glass fir vans. Watch my latest window video on the new van and links are in that video.

[@RFDHunter]

@@GregVirgoe Excellent! Just watched the video and got the link. Thanks Greg!

[@harryclark8320]

Hey Greg, how much roughly was the cost for getting the windows installed by Glass for Vans? Cheers

[@GregVirgoe]

It was £180 at that time to have both windows fitted, I also spent £29 on some wider trim as the one supplied by van pimps was not wide enough to go over the two skins of metal. So in total about £410 for materials and labour.

[@More-Space-In-Ear]

Not sure if you've seen Toth's video, you may find something useful... kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaK3oZacpa2rpsk

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes, I think I have watched every van conversion video on youtube while doing my own research. My only concern with his build was the weight of all that solid walnut hardwood. I'm a big fan of his channel and he creates fantastic segmented turninings.

[@Yodaismycopilot]

Is he cutting the metal with a jigsaw or a power metal shears?

[@Maggiemay1942]

Think I'd probably opt for pro to fit window too. Looking forward to next episode.

[@GregVirgoe]

I know I would have got it done and it would have been fine but when you are dealing with water it's got to be spot on. The cost in relation to the overall budget it was a very small price to pay for peace of mind and a warranty :D

[@dreamweaver4886]

Thanks Greg. Short, bite size videos, concise and to the point.😊

[@GregVirgoe]

When I look at my stats the average viewing time across all of my videos is 4:30mins So it's not worth making really long videos because people won't watch them. I always look at the time myself before viewing anything. Anything close to half an hour forget it lol

[@margaretjones3376]

Hi we have a ford transit and fitted an opening window but the opener glass was chipped any ideas or help if the opener glass can be replaced only not the whole window. Many thanks Mags

[@GregVirgoe]

i suggest ringing glass for vans the number was in the video on the side of saves van :|D

[@rosm6621]

What a process. I can see why leaving it to a professional was the decision made. Nice job!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Ros, I'm really pleased I went down this road. It was £180 well spent. Thanks for your support.

[@aldinoarendse3421]

Thanks for a great series. You one of those rare gentleman, all colleges should be employing you. Great, helpfull nstructions!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Aldino, that's very kind of you to say so. Really appreciate the praise. Sadly, teachers are not paid what they really deserve here in England.

[@alanscott5942]

Hi Greg, with these particular windows can you fit them further back or are they panel 'specific'? Also are there any structural issues in fitting more than 2? Many thanks in advance. Alan Scott

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Alan, if you go on van pimps website they do a full set for all the side panels and the rear doors. No structural issues as it’s no different to a minibus if you do them all 😀

[@howardsidlow1678]

Hi, interesting videos, lots of practical information for someone like me converting a Sprinter - thanks ! - do you know if the gas (propane) regulator can be housed outside the gas locker or does it have to be inside ? - thanks again.

[@GregVirgoe]

It is not wise to have this outside your locker because of the potential for leaks. I would strongly advise you install inside the locker as it has high-pressure hoses connected to it. Watch my gas regulations and gas bottle install videos :D

[@mikkip201]

Man hearing Greg say 'Van Pimps' has me chuckling everytime

[@ChristopherRedman-u8n]

Thanks Greg for such well explained comprehensive videos. Ive just bought the same van as yours and will be following all of your tips as I go though the process.

[@axelplanckaert3726]

Hello, on others videos I see professionals that put the U rubber on the 2 edges and this allow a gap between the metal and the glass, but they put a big quantity of mastic to compensate the gap. Which method is better ?

[@GregVirgoe]

100% put the trim on first, apply a very tall bead of sealant then fit the window. The trim that was supplied by van pimps was not big enough to go over both skins so I had to order the right stuff and fit after which wasn’t easy to do.

[@axelplanckaert3726]

@@GregVirgoe Thanks for your quick answer, so if I understood correctly I have to put the trim on both skins before to place the glass ? Cause on your video I thought you cover only the internal edge

[@GregVirgoe]

@@axelplanckaert3726 the trim needs to go over both cut edges. That’s why I had to order a wider trim. You need to do this first as the glass will rest against this when fitted it keeps it the right distance off the van. Which is why you need a deep bead of mastic standing off the van. A 1” continuous mountain ridge of sealant.

[@lillianregan9426]

Hi Greg, I'm interested in the windows you purchased. it doesn't look like they open for ventilation. Plus there is no link above as to what you chose.

[@thehomme]

So all that keeps the glass in place is glue? And it’s watertight? Doesn’t water drip down the van and get inside the windows? Surely the glue bond degrades over time? I’m amazed it’s not more complex than this.

[@simearsov]

did he use a can opener to cut the windows, lol

[@GregVirgoe]

Very similar technology yes, it was an electric sheers cut very clean and no swarf to clean up afterwards. 😊

[@BrewmackerHomeBrew]

Beautiful to watch a man of craft work! You convinced me to hire someone :)

[@GregVirgoe]

I have seen a few DIY windows that have since leaked and need to be done again. The one thing that David had was a special mastic gun with a double peaked nozzle, that ensured really good contact all around the window and gave us a great deal of peace of mind, plus there work is guaranteed so it's a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things

[@kdkd693]

Good job on the windows , I would have got him in too for that small amount of money. No stress

[@GregVirgoe]

Ken Dibble thanks for the backup. It's not always about DIY but what's best for the project. Some people may not have the skills and this is an affordable option I think. For me if I ever sell the van, I have an invoice to say they were professionally fitted and that speaks volumes to a potential buyer.

[@philm1981]

Doesn't the trim need to go on before the window is fitted?

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes it should do

[@ssmith250763]

Sorry Greg. Wasn’t sure how to contact you. Meant to take a photo with the t shirt. My daughter assures me “it’ll only take half an hour” I have just bonded some windows on my daughters boxer (“we”are converting it) you and gadget are my go to guys, so some advice please. Is sikaflexing the gap around the outside edge a good or bad idea?

[@GregVirgoe]

ssmith250763 I have contact details on my about page here or you can pm me on other social media. Re sikaflex windows I would not advise you to do that. The bonding sealant is all you need to provide a waterproof seal and water that goes into the small channel that is left will simply drain away around the window. Please do send me a photo if you can 🤩👍🏼

[@Ortoped007]

Dear Greg, Wondering about the size of the trim. Is the inside gap 9mm or the outer dimension?

[@artificial4612]

Do you know where to buy online or what type of primer you are using for the window and van? I can't seem to find the right one here in Norway 😔 Only thing I need to start my rear window installation on my Ford transit custom

[@johnwinn4549]

hi greg just saw your recommendations on vanlife and got this far so far. i love your unselfish excellent approach brilliant stuff. look forward to the rest

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello John, hope you continue to find these videos useful to you. Many thanks

[@stevemcquillan2667]

Hi Greg can you give a rough estimate how much this conversation will cost thank you like your vids

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Steve, the windows cost me £99 each supplied and the fitting was £180 so just under £380 and money well spent. Thanks for watching. 👍🏼

[@277kne]

Greg I'm re watching in 2022 here in New England USA. You have been building your van with materials and methods that I haven't seen any use before. The gasket around the metal is a good idea. Also will keep any debris out.

[@GregVirgoe]

It gives a really neat finish to that raw metal edge. Thanks for following us 👍🏼😃

[@bigwheelsturning]

I now see that you did install windows in the van. How you going to insulate them for winter camping?

[@GregVirgoe]

I won't be insulating the Windows, I'm installing a duel fuel Truma combi boiler in the van running off LPG and electric so it will be warm as toast in there all year round. I'm fitting the largest auto gas cylinder that Gaslow produce so I can simply fill up both when I fill up with diesel. Having said all of that we won't be doing much winter camping as my misses does not like the cold, we plan to travel to much warmer climates in Europe.

[@blurayffan66]

Is that adhesive strong really enough to keep the large pane of glass in place once the vehicle is driving at speed? I'm asking this as once I had a broken metal sunroof which I temporarily duck taped on while waiting for a spare part to arive. I really had it taped on securely and I drove onto the motorway and as soon as I hit about 50mph the whole sunroof popped out and flew back down the motorway! Thank goodness no one was behind me! The sunroof itself weighed a ton and I distinctly remember thinking there must have been tremendous pressure inside the car to make it pop off. Obviously the glass on the van is sealed to the outside with a strong adhesive...but is that alone enough?

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes it’s special window adhesive. Most modern cars the windscreens are bonded in with mastic. The key is to make sure it’s extremely clean and primer applied, that ensures a really good bond.

[@blurayffan66]

@@GregVirgoe Thanks for the info Greg- particularly timely and I am fitting a new shower drain and that reminds me I need to get a new tube of good old Plumber's Gold sealant!

[@richyrock69]

COYI !

[@ColinR52]

@@richyrock69 Come On You Irons...... Had to Google that! I thought it was some special mastic bond that I'd missed?!?

[@GuitarJonas]

Gday Greg, what primer and adhesive did you use? Sorry, I couldn't find it in your parts list. Cheers jonas :)

[@GregVirgoe]

It was supplied by vanpimps they sell a window fitting kit.

[@marknottingham1593]

Hi Greg, I hope all is well. I would be grateful for thoughts on condensation when using bonded windows, as they are not double glazed. Have you had much of an issue, and what do you do to prevent it? Many thanks Mark

[@GregVirgoe]

The way to combat this is to keep the van well heated and ventilated. In very cold wet weather we do get a small amount but it’s not too bad. At least with the maxxfans we can have them open all the time.

[@joelin2892]

did you consider putting in a window that opens in some way (slide/lift, etc)? would that have helped with increased ventilation during the summer? curious on the reason you opt against it. thanks.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Joe Lin, yes we did consider it but after seeing other vans being broken into via such opening windows I thought it to be a security risk. I have got two 14" ventilation fans on the roof one either end that are reversible so it can be like a wind tunnel in the van. I don't think I will have any issues for not having a small opening in a window. Thanks

[@pipbaxter5286]

Do thieves break the glass or jimmy the locks..are there no better locking latches?

[@francisboundy5170]

Hi Greg - great looking windows! What are you planning to use for blinds/curtains? I'm keen to fit similar windows in my project but have yet to see blinds to fit these bonded windows.

[@GregVirgoe]

Francis I have fitted curtains from Van X they are stretchy fabric with curves rails to fit the window reveal. I have shot some video and will put up soon. Here is the link for you van-x.co.uk/curtains.html?___store=smarttheme_en

[@gavingrantham136]

Greg, the window job turned out pretty neat, just one question did you not consider having sliding windows or was this your choice from the start. It does look pretty easy when you have someone who knows or does it for a living install it.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Gavin, the only reason I didn’t go for sliding windows was for security. I was concerned they would be a weak point. Thanks for asking.

[@bmurphy8501]

Hi Greg, about to put windows in my Sprinter and I've got a question - Do you like the 2 windows up front and none in the rear? Do you think it would be much easier driving/parking with a passenger side window in the rear aswell? thanks.

[@GregVirgoe]

Th only reason I have not gone for the windows in the rear at this stage is that I have the garage in the back and if I'm carrying a bike I do not want prying eyes looking in plus its an easy smash and grab. If I was building this purely as a camper van I would have put the rear windows in for sure :D

[@MrJohnmccrory]

great vids mate , I am over in perth in Oz and considering converting a sprinter . Your set up is exactly how I want my one to carry a dirt bike in the back. Ill be keeping an eye on your build best of luck

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks john, a dirt bike will be a bit taller than my Bonneville. You might have to sacrifice head room over the bed. It has been done. Google "Race Van" for more ideas. Cheers

[@no1brightonian425]

I have a motorhome already but i quite fancy the idea of building one from scratch like you are doing for my next one, not sure I have the skills or the confidence to do it though! Found your 3 videos so far very interesting, look forward to the next one

[@GregVirgoe]

No1Brightonian, thank you for the nice comment. I am doing loads of research on the power and gas appliances. These are new to me. Thankfully the cabinet build will be the easier part to do. Just praying for nice weather so I can cut holes in the roof.

[@truusjenskens8485]

All the other guys who fit windows put that activator on both sides, also on the van....and they do it wide to be sure that the glue hits it...

[@GregVirgoe]

Truus Jenskens, David did paint a line on both the glass and the van. He only needed one line because he knew exactly where the mastic would be. It’s his job and he knew his stuff. 😃

[@gegwen7440]

The fitted glass, is it a standard size available across Europe as I wonder what would happed should it get broken ?

[@GregVirgoe]

Ge Gwen yes the size of sprinters are the same. Maybe different manufacturer so might be different shade of tint?

[@briggsy3155]

Nice workmanship in all your videos mate thanks for the uploads

[@GregVirgoe]

Thanks for great feedback 👍🏼😃

[@SHARPEYSWORKSHOP]

Ahhh thats cheating Greg lol still i would have got someone in I think.he made it look really easy in the end

[@GregVirgoe]

He's been doing it for years and I would still be scratching my head when he finished. Rest of the build will be all me, promise. Well maybe with the help of some friends ;) lol

[@rolandsteiger6276]

Greg Virg

[@dakdjonsey2398]

Wise men know their limitations??? hahaha

[@AlanMorris-u4f]

Very good thanks 😊

[@GregVirgoe]

Have you seen my latest window video in the Fiat Ducato.

[@Multiscan0001]

Well that was a surprise. It looked much easier than I thought. Nice finish anyway. Great work.

[@GregVirgoe]

Well it was easy for me 😂 Thank you

[@AlanMorris-u4f]

Very good thanks

[@GregVirgoe]

Cheers 👋

[@rogert7068]

Hi Gregg, I’ve been following your fab videos and have got to the tightness testing for the gas. I’ve got the manometer, bellows and tube and I’ve found the testing point on the regulator but I can’t attach the rubber hose to it. I’ve searched the internet and asked the LPG shop but no one can tell me where to get the nipples from (no jokes please, it’s just what they’re called). Do you have any suggestions? Thanks, Roger

[@ronvink4708]

Dear Greg, downloaded your much appreciated parts list but the item I was most interested in was the double swivel seat base has a wrong link to it. Do you have another one that is correct? or maybe a firm who produces them ? Again much appreciated! Greeting, Ron, The Netherlands

[@SooperSkoots]

Hi Greg you have helped me so so much during my build so firstly allow me to say thank you, what I need to ask you as I have the same van also fully converted too i have used the lightweight furniture board with all the usual extras ect, anyway I have noticed you have a tow bar come step is your van the correct weight ?, I'm worried that mine maybe over weight has yours been weighed many thanks Mark ...

[@kungfuwitheryk6780]

Hi Greg. You have really great channel, a lots of knowledge and nice to watch. Do you have any video what insurance you choose for your vehicle? Did you need to re-register it for camper van or you can use it however you want?

[@footsteps247]

I really like your videos. You take a very in depth look at how to do it. We are looking to buy a sprinter ourselves. Our mechanic says sprinters get stolen a lot,can I ask what your security measures are?

[@trophyfishin]

Hey Greg great van build I am looking forward to it.what year is your van? I really want the Mercedes van but I am worried about the high cost of repairs. I'm sure you researched the history of the service schedule.

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello trophyfishin, my van is a 2009 and I took a lot of time to find a van with relatively low mileage. These are one of the most popular vans and the source for parts or garages should be very good.

[@lass-inangeles7564]

The cost of repairs are indeed high from what I have heard on KZbin. A lot of parts are not easily available either, and special mechanics in short supply. Why not use the Ford Transit?

[@timothy790110]

Stupid question, how does he get the tape out without compromising the seal?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Tim, What tape are you referring to? Can you give me a timestamp in the video where you see him apply the tape? Cheers

[@justincloutier355]

Hello, I am also interested to know the answer to this question. I think the tape Timothy is referring to is the blue tape to stop the window from dropping while the adhesive cures. The time this appears in the video is around 3:08 How does he remove the tape from behind the adhesive?

[@neilpigott4398]

Justin the tape is sitting on the external surface of the window. It does look like goes behind though.

[@peterherrington3300]

@@neilpigott4398 ha ha ha ha

[@GGTravel2020]

Parabéns vou seguir também estou a construir uma van Força, vem conhecer o nosso canal

[@UhYeahWhateverDude]

Looks like maybe that guy has done this a couple times before :p

[@GregVirgoe]

Yeah it showed when he was doing the mastic bead. Thanks for watching. 👍🏼

[@KSardor1]

great series! can't wait to see the final version of your project. one question remains in my head: in the intro you were planing on having 3 windows, how come you built only 1 ?

[@GregVirgoe]

+Sardar Kamolov if you watch the video closely you will see david first cut a hole in the side door. Then I shoot him trimming the hole in the drivers side panel. Both sides of the van are done just behind the cab. Cheers

[@alanscott5942]

Appreciate the prompt reply Greg many thanks.

[@GregVirgoe]

No problem anytime.

[@paulfillion6529]

I lived in Canada near Montreal. Does anyone know who is doing this kind of nice job near montreal Thanks

[@xxwookey]

As you can see, fitting windows is really very straightforward so long as you cut the hole the right size, which is easier when fitting van-specific windows like this. I did my own on the current van (generic window with rubber Z-seal rather than glued) in 2003 and they've been beautifully watertight for 15 years now, despite being flat windows in a curved sheet.

[@mrdave4735]

hi Greg, just wondering how the bonded windows are for condensation. Im getting ready to make the decision to use bonded or seitz, the latter is by far the cheapest, thanx. Mr Dave

[@Pelt101]

Morning Greg… just starting another watch through of the Full Build series “belts n braces”. With you touring abroad, did you ever consider using a LH drive van for the conversion? Another research question. Cheers.

[@GregVirgoe]

I’ve driven LH drive vehicles abroad and it makes driving far more difficult because the gear stick is in your wrong hand and not only do you have to concentrate on the road you also have to think more about just driving the vehicle. Where my right hand drive van the driving comes naturally.

[@Pelt101]

Totally agree mate, thought that when driving LH in France last year. RH it is then 👍

[@GregVirgoe]

@@Pelt101 it’s one less thing to think about so you can just concentrate on the road ahead 👍🏼

[@kevwaldron9770]

Hi Greg. I have watched your build progress and think your channel is going to be very very helpful when I venture into my next build ( hopefully a lwb sprinter or xlwb) I would just like to ask what made you choose a sprinter to convert ? Cheers Kev

[@rastanperro6975]

Nice videos. Do you have condensation on the windows in your campervan?

[@Am-hf3yr]

Did the edging trim you fitted go over both skins of the van once the window was fitted or just the inner one?

[@GregVirgoe]

It went over both skins and it really should be fitted before the window is fitted as it holds the glass off the side of the van and creates the right gap for the mastic. If you don’t fit it first and push the glass to much you may not get it on afterwards. I had to order a wider trim than cane with the kit from Vanpimps

[@Am-hf3yr]

Ah okay I see the windows i ordered are from van pimps too im fitting them on my vivaro it might be worth me ordering some thicker trim just incase

[@GregVirgoe]

@@Am-hf3yr the trim that came from van pimps did not fit. I got the wider trim from glass for vans.

[@violettagerard9090]

Hello Greg, your videos are amazing thanks for sharing ! ! I would like to know do you have or do you know the best tutorial for cutting and installing an opening porthole window in our van ? V :)

[@lanaya001]

Hi Greg, I've been looking for hopper-style windows for flares. They seem to be called Tip-In Windows too, like the ones in some buses. Nobody seems to have done such installation. If you know those type of windows opening to the inside, either glass or double-pane vinyl, we'd love to know. Thanks! Love your videos!

[@GregVirgoe]

Luis. ANAYA www.vanwindowsconversions.co.uk/product/camera-van-window/

[@boarhog1979]

This installer is a obvious professional with the correct equipment and tools

[@paulbagley17]

Hi, what's the best book to buy for all the info on Van conversions, thanks

[@samshucksmith8789]

What rust proofing product did you use for the cut edges? Thanks

[@beauemmerson51]

Roughly how much ply to convert van

[@GregVirgoe]

beau emmerson this is what I used in our van. 3 sheets 12mm for floor 4 sheets 9mm for walls 7 sheets 15mm high gloss laminate for furniture 1 sheet 12mm for kitchen carcasses & drawers. 2 sheets 12mm for our bed boards. Marine plywood is better at resisting moisture.

[@frankfisher99]

How do you get the blue tape out?

[@GregVirgoe]

Frank Fisher, the blue tape is only stuck on the outside of the glass so it easily peels off after the mastic had set

[@frankfisher99]

@@GregVirgoe Ah thanks, I thought it went inside the glass too

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

He's done it before, hasn't he? Good move getting a pro in for that. I would do the same. How much did it cost?

[@GregVirgoe]

The windows were £99 each and the fitting was £180

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

@@GregVirgoe That seems a pretty good price.

[@GregVirgoe]

Too young to be old we were really happy with professional job.

[@QuattlebaumCody]

Do you know which type of saw / blade he is using?

[@oysterhoys]

Thanx again Greg ! Myself I would hire someone else also, but seeing your DIY skill level in all your video's, I'm surprised you didn't do this job yourself also.

[@GregVirgoe]

It was worth it for the guarantee and peace of mind. Have seen many disaster videos 😳

[@lass-inangeles7564]

What a great demo! He made it look so easy. I'm surprised you did not do this yourself, Greg? You have done much harder installs to date. The cutout was already outlined, so not hard to cut from inside using the ribs as a guide. I wonder why you chose windows that did not open? That would have helped ventilation.

[@GregVirgoe]

He did make it look easy, but when you are doing them all day every day you get very good at it. One thing he did which I never see any DIY installer do is his mastic gun laid down a 1" tall bead with twin peaks that ensured contact with the windows and no leaks. The reason I didn't go for opening windows was security reasons. You are right, they would have been good for ventilation 👍🏼

[@stevemcquillan2667]

Hi again sir sorry I should of said What s your budget for the whole project

[@GregVirgoe]

Sorry Steve, thought you meant just this element. The van was £7k and I’m looking to spend £8k on the fit out. Not a budget build this will have a professional look and lots of tech. Cheers

[@CanadianTexaninLiguria]

In the land of Donald T, anything under $125,000 is considered budget. Lithium batteries and large solar array will set you back $15,000.

[@GregVirgoe]

Is that USD? That seems like a lot of money? Solar panels are approx £1 GBP per Watt these days. Lithium is still expensive so I will go AGM for this build.

[@marcotavoso8991]

hi Greg way ru went for single glazed window instead of proper caravans one that come with mosquito nets black out curtains and mainly NO condensation ???

[@GregVirgoe]

Marco Tavoso, because they look like a 70’s caravan 😊 I have digital controlled central heating and ventilation. There will be no condensation in my motorhome 👍🏼

[@milcotto4153]

It would have been nice if you could open them.

[@GregVirgoe]

You can get opening windows I didn't want them for security reasons :D

[@chrisc5418]

He made that look so easy ,but a job i would attempt.

[@lorryg4607]

Finding such project is like a needle in the haystack. I'm looking to accommodate a mini garage - just like yours - underneath the bed for the very same reason: to store my motorcycle. Any idea at this point how much room you'll end up with between the mattress and the ceiling? Keep up he great work and thanks for sharing it!

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi, the max space above the bed will be approx 700mm (28") This will require removal of bike mirrors on my triumph. Other models like dirt bikes or adventure bikes will be too big for this arrangement. Luckily my Bonneville has low stance.

[@lorryg4607]

Thank for the quick and helpful reply. I do plan on storing an adventure bike in there, hence I'll need to find a van with extra high roof. I believe the Ford Transit has a higher roof option than the Sprinter's highest roof.

[@GregVirgoe]

I've seen another company use a ratchet strap to compress the front forks prior to loading, but I would question the long-term effect of that on the springs?

[@lorryg4607]

You'd eventually end up with blown fork seals.

[@GregVirgoe]

Do a google image search for RACE VAN and you'll get some cool ideas pop up. Cheers

[@Unojoservir]

Do you know what brand mirror mastic he used? I cant find one in black so im not sure im getting the high quality he may be using. Thanks!

[@GregVirgoe]

Unojoservir, you can get window fitting kits from van pimps website.

[@garydurandt4260]

Always a pleasure watching a professional at work

[@jackwild9459]

Just about to do mine on my own shitting it lol

[@GregVirgoe]

It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind

[@jackwild9459]

We’re are you based I’m up Leeds way

[@GregVirgoe]

@@jackwild9459 we live in our van full time so travel around a lot at the moment we are at vanlife festival in Stratford on Avon.

[@jackwild9459]

@@GregVirgoe same I’m at van life festival we’re up at top corner we’re abouts are you

[@GregVirgoe]

@@jackwild9459 in camp creator area 11 with all the KZbinrs

[@superhoop9919]

Great job 👍 never seen a battery powered adhesive gun so good. That’s on the list.

[@trevorjudd6793]

Hi Greg, Love all your videos....very informative. Not too happy with this company though. I contacted them with details for my Vivaro window requirements and was informed that they don’t cover my area (Dorset). Their on-line website days that they cover the whole of the UK! They offered to supply the window I required, so I asked for a quote and never heard back from them. I have now ordered my windows from Van Demon. Fantastic service the windows arrived next day. I am getting a local firm to install them for £100. Cheers!

[@GregVirgoe]

Trevor Judd, if it's out if their area it would have cost you more than what you ended up paying in any case so you got a good deal in the end.

[@trevorjudd6793]

Greg Virgoe 👍. Thanks for the reply Greg.🍺

[@garyhenshaw9482]

Attention attention. I fitted my own windows in my sprinter 64 plate . Great job . I thought but . My bonding agent squeezed too far inside van .big mistake rubber seal wont slot into place . Gutted to be honest . Tried picking it out but it’s like cryptonite ☹️ any advice welcome

[@GregVirgoe]

Gary henshaw, depending how much and how far round the window it is you could cut the back of the trim a little in the affected areas. I had to do that in one spot on the side.

[@garyhenshaw9482]

Thanks greg . Yes did think of trimming rubber seal at points . Also seen a J shape trim on eBay maybe order that & try it . Thanks again

[@barrydyson8573]

H Greg its gonna look nice mate

[@GregVirgoe]

barry dyson thank you. I'm hoping to give it a very professional finish inside.

[@naylor342]

+1 sub great work pal.

[@GregVirgoe]

James Naylz thank you 😊

[@blackrockbrewing5141]

I definitely prefer these with no windows, even when converted to a camper van.

[@GregVirgoe]

BlackRockBrewing you need to be able to see outdoors when you’re cooped up indoors.

[@timknox7943]

Excellent work Sir 👍👍👍

[@joshsize2]

does anyone know what tool he uses to cut open the van ?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hello Joshua, it is an electric metal shear, very similar to a nibbler only it doesn't produce all those crescent-shaped fillings just a really clean cut. rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?ff3=4&toolid=11800&pub=5575265109&campid=5338027957&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_from%3DR40%26_sacat%3D0%26_nkw%3Delectric%2Bmetal%2Bshear%26rt%3Dnc%26_dmd%3D2

[@joshsize2]

Greg Virgoe thanks pal ! Love the videos! I have watched alot of these van conversions and you are by far the easiest and best to watch! Cheers

[@jonhjfofs5959]

Great videos ! where did you buy the roof mounted extractor fans from ?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi Jon, I brought them via eBay from America. Was expensive but I wanted the fantastic fans.

[@Maggiemay1942]

Agreed - would you be happy to share cost of window and installation?

[@GregVirgoe]

Windows were just under £100 each and fitting was £180 for both. The trim was £18 for 8m, 4m per window. All in under £400 and I am really pleased with the quality and finish.

[@Maggiemay1942]

Seems pretty reasonable - will tuck that away for my own conversion. Thanks.

[@GregVirgoe]

Garambaly Omatic exactly what I thought. Glass for vans do supply and fit may be worth a shout when you're at that point. 👍🏼

[@stevemcquillan2667]

Are you on Instagram thank you enjoy your day looki g forward to watching your build

[@GregVirgoe]

Yes Steve, although I'm new to Instagram and am not using it to its full potential. Do you use it much? Have you got any tips you can share?

[@timothy790110]

Hmm, any reason you didnt go with double glazing a la seitz?

[@GregVirgoe]

Seitz are plastic caravan Windows and would not have suited the look we wanted. The Windows we went for are tempered privacy glass and designed to fit the recess of the van perfectly. Furthermore I didn't want opening windows as these are a security risk. Gone for roof ventilation instead to hopefully reduce possible break ins.

[@ignaciogarciadearcos1725]

Hola, es de 6 o 4 cilindros?

[@TheAudiostud]

Hi Greg, How are you getting on with the Van Build Buddy ?

[@GregVirgoe]

Hi, been spending a lot of time sourcing the right equipment to go in the van so I can finalise all the electric water and gas requirements. All these services need to be installed and hidden as I do not want anything on show in the finished van. Have two week off work soon to hit it harder and get stuff done.

[@TheAudiostud]

Thanks Greg

[@Skupik1]

Would You consider upgrading into double glazed, insulated windows instead? Wasn’t it too hot/cold with plain regular glass?

[@GregVirgoe]

Paweł Skupiński no I know that thermally the double glazed ones are better but the bonded windows just look cool 😎 we have internal reflective blinds to cut out the solar gain through the windows.

[@mickyb1985]

Love the videos Greg. Was it cheaper buying from van pimps and getting glass for vans to fit ? Rather than buying and fitting from glass for vans ?

[@GregVirgoe]

To be honest I brought the Windows first with the intention of fitting myself then thought better get a professional to do it so I found glass for vans. In hindsight I could have got glass for vans to supply and fit the Windows. The cost would be the same I guess.

[@francisboundy5170]

Having had Dave fit mine I can confirm that the cost for him to supply and fit is much the same.

[@GregVirgoe]

That's good to know Francis, thanks for the reply.

[@rogermoore3599]

where you bought the trim from ...

[@GregVirgoe]

The wider trim I got through "Glass for Vans" call their free phone number on the van in the video.