Page 1 of 1

Adding windows to a screwless exterior

PostPosted: Fri Jul 25, 2014 11:20 am
by CoventryKid
Hi:

I'm looking at ordering an aluminum trailer in the next few weeks with a screwless exterior.

I will want to add some windows eventually, but as has been suggested by others here, my wife and I want to use the trailer for a few camping trips first to see if our planned layout works as we expect. Or in other words if we have the factory install a "kitchen" window then decide later the kitchen should be in a different location, we could then have a window in the wrong location, etc.

My only problem is my dealer is suggesting that adding windows to a trailer with a screwless exeterior after the fact is expensive because the skin would have to be removed, else the installer risks damaging the skin.

Does anyone have any experience with doing this or any advice. Thanks very much!

Re: Adding windows to a screwless exterior

PostPosted: Fri Jul 25, 2014 3:41 pm
by poordad
I used a wire, two pieces of wood and WD40 to separate the skin from the frame pieces that I had to cut in order to remove them, ( not bad but a little caution is advised ). Depending on your dealers prices it can sometimes be a good idea to have the factory do the window on an aluminum, especially if they weld a frame in place as welding aluminum requires specialized tools and knowledge and as said is much harder to do after the skin is bonded on.

Re: Adding windows to a screwless exterior

PostPosted: Fri Jul 25, 2014 3:53 pm
by CoventryKid
Thanks, Poordad!!

I think anything is possible if enough time and care is taken.

For us, the problem is delivery date with factory installed windows - 9+ weeks out (we were originally told 4) but I know things change so I am not upset or blaming anyone. Other issue was only 2 window sizes - 30x30 and 15x30.

I'm thinking now of just a stock trailer and later install the windows when the interior layout is confirmed to be workable.

Many thanks for your advice.

Re: Adding windows to a screwless exterior

PostPosted: Mon Jul 28, 2014 12:12 pm
by cornfused
I added a window to my screw-less built trailer. I don't think it was any worse than the screwed versions. It's not like people with the screwed on sides remove the entire panel to put in a window either.

Re: Adding windows to a screwless exterior

PostPosted: Mon Jul 28, 2014 6:46 pm
by CoventryKid
Thanks for the info.

I've pretty much decided to order the trailer with factory-installed windows. Just one less thing I have to worry about. I'd like to order it with factory-installed insulation too, but I have to do the wiring first.