Installing Rear Windows in Cargo Trailer Barn Doors: Structural Concerns and Solutions

[outintheforest]

I wasn't expecting awesome with my Cargo Mate, and I guess that's a good thing.

Question for those of you who have installed rear windows in one: My rear barn doors are all wood, mostly 1x3 and 1x4, except for the outer skin. Literally 1x3 and a sheet of expanded polystyrene.

I'm thinking of adding an escape window but I'm concerned about the weight. I don't really want to build an entirely new door, but I'm not sure if there's enough structure in the existing door to hold the weight of a window of a trailer.

 

[Camping Cur]

I wanted a window on each side of the back doors and looked over the doors carefully. The biggest ones that would fit my doors without messing with the handle were 12X18. If I need to, I could push out the screen and reach down to open the doors. They give a little light and some air and don't affect the strength of the doors. They are made of thin plywood (inside) and thin aluminum (outside). So far they are working well. They weigh little and are safety glass. Amazon sells them for sheds, playhouses and...chicken coops! They match all my other windows (2 on each side).

 

[DrewsBrews]

Yeah I think I've heard those called "utility windows". Meant for unconditioned spaces as they are only single glazed (vs double, triple, etc) and don't provide much insulation besides wind blocking. Though I'm sure they are much lighter (and cheaper) than ones with 2x+ the amount of glass meant for home use. Most basic RV windows are single glazed anyway.