Front window on a teardrop?

[amydub]

I'm building a foamie teardrop and would really like to add a fixed window to the front "wall" to let in more light. I'm thinking a 12" x 32(ish)" window (seems to be a somewhat standard size for cargo trailer applications) would work without interfering too much with the curve of the front.
1. Am I underestimating the difficulty of incorporating a 12" flat surface into a large curve? 2. Do front windows need to meet different specs that windows used on the sides? 3. How likely is it to catch a rock and get broken?

 

[GTS225-TNT]

I'd be more concerned with water intrusion at speed, more than a rock hitting it. Seems to me the tow vehicle is going to be more of a target for rocks, rather than the front of the trailer behind it. Water, on the other hand......

Roger

 

[Pmullen503]

Depending on the radius of your curve, you might be underestimating the work or at least what it will look like. Just make sure it sheds water.

 

[Tony Latham]

When I wrote my book, I considered adding a moon window to the project, but they are notorious for leaking, and I didn't want the greenhouse effect. I sure didn't want builders to use my book and find that I had given them a problem.

Keep in mind, there's a reason that diamond plate is frequently added to the front of a teardrop. Rocks thrown by oncoming traffic will be traveling at over a hundred miles an hour when you add in your speed.

Good luck with your project.

Tony

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

IMO, skylights and windows are prime candidates for leaks. I bought a Timberleaf Pika, and the skylight was the first thing I omitted from the build list.

 

[amydub]

I'd be more concerned with water intrusion at speed, more than a rock hitting it. Seems to me the tow vehicle is going to be more of a target for rocks, rather than the front of the trailer behind it. Water, on the other hand......

Roger

Ah yes, water. It’s always water, isn’t it? Thanks for the reminder

 

[Pmullen503]

The longevity of a camper usually comes down to how well it handles water. Construction details are important to prevent the pooling of water, allowing things to stay wet and eventually rot.