How much does an RV windshield replacement cost?
An RV windshield replacement is typically priced by class type. There are roughly 9 different classes of RVs and only class A, B, C, and Crossovers have windshields. Class A motorhomes are the largest type of RV so the average cost to replace the windshield is between $1,000 and $5,000. Class B and C on the other hand have much smaller windshields so the range is typically $500 to $700. The Crossover class will have a medium-sized windshield and cost between $400 and $1,000. These prices generally include the cost of labor and material.
Additional RV Models and Glass Prices
- The Travel Trailer – These are the most popular type of RV sold in the United States and typically don’t have a windshield. However, they generally have small side windows that cost around $250 to replace.
- The 5th wheel / Truck camper – These types of RVs do not have a windshield either. However, the price can range from $250 to as much as $700 for the side and rear glass depending on the type that was ordered when it was built.
- The Teadrop Trailer – These types of trailers may or may not have a small window at the front. Typical cost if there is a front glass is between $300 to $500. The side glass on a Teadrop Trailer is between $250-$400.
- Crossover Class – This class of RV is between a Class A and B so typically has a mid-size windshield in the front. The cost to replace can be $400-$1,000.
- Toy Haulers – These campers don’t typically have windshields or windows.
- Pop-Up Camper – These campers also don’t typically have windshields or windows.
Price List for RV Windshields by Class
The following table is based on actual windshield prices quoted in the industry for RVs made between 2015 and 2021.
- Crossover Class – $400 to $1,000
- Class A Motorhome – $1,000 to $5,000
- Class B & C Motorhomes – $500 to $700
- Teadrop with front glass – $300 to $500
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Is RV glass different from automotive glass?
Yes, automotive glass is different from RV windshields. Automotive windshields are typically made of tempered clear glass that can be cut into very thin layers and bonded together with a plastic interlayer to enhance performance. The thickness of the sheet material for an automotive windshield ranges between .23 inches to .59 inches depending on the vehicle it is being installed in. RV windshields are made of 3/4″ to 1-1/2″ thick glass that is either laminated or tempered and not cut into thin sheets.
Can a chipped RV windshield be repaired?
The windshields are different on an RV, but I’ve repaired many of them over the years so it is possible. However, it is recommended to have a new windshield installed for safety reasons instead of having a damaged one repaired.
An RV windshield is made to withstand high winds encountered on the highway as well as severe weather conditions. They are designed to be stronger than your average car windshield and should be kept in the best possible condition when traveling. This is why it’s very important to look for cracks and chips then have them immediately repaired if you’re not able to schedule a replacement.
Can I prevent windshield damage to my RV?
The cost of these windshields can be very expensive so it would be nice to stop the damage from happening if possible. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do.
- Try to avoid using ammonia-based cleaners on the glass. This type of cleaner can cause the surface to pit over time. For this reason, we suggest using warm water or a mixture of warm water and vinegar for glass cleaning.
- Sometimes a small chip can be difficult to see. Which is why you should keep the wand of a pressure washer at least 12 inches from the glass when washing the RV. Small chips can easily turn into larger cracks when pressurized with cold water.
- Avoid driving too closely behind semi trucks. Keeping your distance from cars, large trucks, and big rigs is the best possible way to avoid getting a rock chip. Small rocks are easily trapped in the tire tread and thrown at high speeds which can easily cause damage to your front windshield.
- A windshield cover can help protect the windshield from the elements during storage. The cover doesn’t always eliminate damage completely, but it definitely helps keep the glass in good condition for a longer period of time.
- ExoShield is another great invention that protects the windshield. I haven’t personally used this product, but it looks very promising. Similar to a screen protector for cell phones, this product is applied to the front windshield to absorb impact from rocks and other small debris. Below is a video showing the ExoShield getting applied. [rank_math_rich_snippet id=”s-84612f7a-727b-49ec-b8a8-67707d2906a2″]
RV windshield replacement process
The process will vary based on the type of RV you have and may require 2 technicians. The average amount of time to complete a replacement can range from 3 to 8 hours. The steps below should help you better understand the installation process and why it can take that long to finish.
- The first step involves removing all of the glass and rubber molding that goes around it.
- The second step is to remove any decals or tape on the door post, header, side windows, etc. If your RV has marker lights near the windshield they will need to be taken out.
- The third step is to clean the new glass, windshield frame, and seal around it. If your RV has a front skirt on it, some technicians may need to remove that as well during this process. This will help them replace and secure the seal correctly.
- The fourth step and most difficult part of installing a new windshield, removing all of the old adhesive (urethane) from around the window. This process involves using a heat gun to soften the adhesive which should enable the technician to slowly peel it off. However, a razorblade might be needed to fully cut off the urethane if it isn’t coming off easily. There are two cut methods used when removing old urethane. The full cut and half cut methods. Both will work fine, but we prefer the full cut method.
- The half cut method doesn’t remove all the old urethan completely before running a new bead and installing the windshield. The technician will typically cut the top of the old urethane off leaving a smooth surface for the new urethane to adhere to.
- The full cut method is my preferred method which removes all the old urethane. This will enable the new bead of urethane to be placed directly on the metal. I also feel the windshield sits better on this type of cut and bead.
- The fifth step involves applying primer to any metal that may have been exposed during the urethane removal. Not priming the metal can cause the exposed metal to rust over time and ultimately cause the new bead of urethane to start flaking.
- The sixth and final step involves applying the new bead of urethane around the frame.
- Finally, the glass tech will attach the glass to the frame using a set of clamps that look like suction cups. This will help simplify the process of lifting and aligning the new windshield correctly in place. This can be done by either one or two technicians.
The cost to replace an RV windshield or other glass might be higher than glass costs for smaller vehicles, but the overall process is typically the same. If you have damage to your RV glass and need a repair or replacement, simply give us a call. Our friendly staff is always ready to answer your questions and help schedule your service.
Additional installation services we provide
- Door Glass
- Back Glass
- Vent Glass
- Semi Truck Windshield Replacements (Not all locations)
- Sunroof Replacements (Not all locations)
- Glass Scratch Removal (Not all locations)
- Mobile Windshield Repairs
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