How to install a roof vent on a motorhome and camper van?

Installing a roof vent on a motorhome, caravan, or converted van is an essential step to improve the brightness and ventilation of your mobile living space. Whether you choose a classic 40x40 roof vent, a panoramic model, or a roof vent with a 12V fan, the installation remains accessible to everyone with a bit of method and the right tools.

This advanced guide will walk you through step by step to successfully complete your installation.

Why install a roof vent?

Installing a roof vent (also called Vasistas or sometimes Skydome) on a motorhome or converted van offers many advantages.

First of all, it provides valuable natural light inside the vehicle, making the living space more pleasant on a daily basis.

It also improves ventilation, which limits condensation and bad odors, especially during cooking or cold nights. So with a good roof vent and good ventilation, no more humidity problems.

Some models of Skylight are equipped with a 12V fan, ensuring optimal airflow even when the vehicle is stationary. It is also recommended to choose Skylight with permanent ventilation that allows continuous airflow, an essential prerequisite for certification, for example.

In conclusion, adding a roof vent enhances your vehicle while significantly improving onboard living comfort!

The different types of Skylight for motorhomes and vans

Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose the best roof vent for your vehicle, whether it's a motorhome or a converted van:

Type of roof vent	Main advantages	Examples of recommended products
40x40 roof vent	Standard, easy to install, compatible everywhere. Price from €119. Can include permanent ventilation of 100 cm² as well as an LED frame. Includes mosquito net and blackout blind	40x40 Style Roof Vent, VanVent 400x400 Roof Vent
Panoramic roof vent 50x70	Large opening, clear view, maximum brightness. Specially designed for L2H2 and larger converted vans. Price from €269 for the version without permanent ventilation. 150 cm² for the version with permanent ventilation. Includes mosquito net and blackout blind	Panorama LED Roof Vent 70x50
Roof vent with 12V fan	Active ventilation, ideal for kitchen and showers. Multiple ventilation speeds. Includes mosquito net. From €149	40x40 Fan Roof Vent

What equipment to use to install a roof vent on a converted van?

If you are installing the roof vent yourself, here is a list of the necessary equipment:

• Roof vent suitable for your vehicle (see selection above)
• Drill and drill bits to make the first hole before cutting the sheet metal
• A jigsaw to cut the contours in the sheet metal
  
• Sealing mastic (type Sikaflex 552AT)
• Masking tape and file
• Screws provided with the roof vent
• Measuring tape, pencil, ruler to mark the template before cutting the sheet metal
• Anti-rust paint for the cut edges

Installation steps for a 40x40 roof vent (to be validated)

1. Choose the location

• Prefer a flat and clear area of the roof.
• Check for absence of cables, reinforcements, or existing equipment.

2. Mark and cut

• Precisely mark the opening to the size of the roof vent (e.g., 40x40 cm).
• Drill the corners then cut with a jigsaw.
• File and protect the edges with anti-rust paint.

3. Prepare the sealing

• Apply a bead of mastic around the opening.
• Place the roof vent and screw it in without overtightening to avoid deforming the frame.
• On a curved roof, compensate with mastic to ensure sealing.

4. Interior finishes

• Install the provided interior frame.
• Check the proper functioning of the opening and the mosquito net/blackout blind.

5. Sealing test!

• Important: Always generously water the roof vent to check for leaks.

Tips to optimize ventilation (12V fan)

To optimize ventilation inside your motorhome or converted van, it is recommended to combine a classic roof vent with a model equipped with a 12V fan.

This setup is particularly effective for extracting hot air or cooking odors. Installing two Skylight, one at the front and the other at the rear of the vehicle, also creates a very efficient cross airflow, thus improving air circulation throughout the cabin.

Models equipped with a 12V fan are highly recommended for hot regions or for vans with enhanced insulation, as they ensure optimal ventilation even when the vehicle is stationary.

Recommended selection of Skylight

• 40x40 Style Roof Vent: the universal standard, easy to install, ideal for most vans and motorhomes.
  
  
• Panorama LED Roof Vent 70x50: for a panoramic view and maximum brightness, perfect for large spaces.
  
  
• 40x40 Fan Roof Vent: integrates a 12V fan, perfect for the kitchen or bathroom.
  
  
• VanVent 400x400 Roof Vent: robustness and simplicity, excellent value for money.
  
  

Find these models on Vanlife Store (category Skylight) and discover other promotional accessories for outfitting your van or motorhome.

In conclusion

To summarize, installing a roof vent on your motorhome, van, or caravan is an accessible project that significantly improves onboard comfort.

If you cannot install a 50x70 (which is a real asset daily in your converted vehicle), prefer a 40x40 roof vent for its versatility, or opt for a model with a 12V fan for active ventilation.

Follow carefully the cutting, sealing, and fastening steps to ensure a durable and leak-free installation.

To go further, discover our complete guide on van outfitting and our other articles: Outfitting a van in France: Our advice to outfit your van

For any questions or personalized advice, contact our Vanlife Store conversion expert team!