Chris Throgmartin

RV Solar Screens

( Some of these photos are clickable for a larger image view )

I highly recommend using only Textilene fabric for RV Solar Panels. I use 90 % UV fabric. The cheaper fabric shown in the photo below has a loose weave and the fabric will not hold up well to the outdoor environment.
Cheap Fabric

These bottom corner adjusting panels are unique in that they allow you to pull the panel from the window and re-stretch as the fabric sags. This is a popular option for most RV customers and is unique as most others use a four snap corner system. I cut each piece out of a high quality rubber mop board that I buy at Lowes. Simply measure the distance across the corners to get the desired length. I cut them to the same width of the Velcro and then sew the outside edges and a cross through the center to attach the velcro to the rubber. You can also use a heavy plastic if you so desire. But it needs to be able to stand up to the elements.	You sew the hook portion of the velcro to the inside of the bottom corners of the fabric. I use 2 inch industrial strength velcro. Do NOT use any glue backed type velcro on your panels. The glue will heat up and seep through the fabric.

I re-enforce the top corners with heavy vinyl before installing the snaps. This helps prevent pull thru. Notice all 4 corners are slightly rounded. I use all Stainless snaps and use only black snap buttons on the outside. The stainless buttons look tacky if used. Always apply a small bit of silicone sealant to the screws before attaching them to a boat or RV. This prevents lamination of the fiberglass down the road from water infiltration.	I use a 1 inch double folded acrylic binding in black to match the panels. I install it using a binder / folder.
	Arizona Sun Supply Company
I double stitch the ends on the binding. I prefer the double stitch to give it more strength. Its also been a big selling point to customers as other people use a single stitch.	This is my supplier. If you google this name you will get their web site link. I only buy my material through them as they have free shipping and do sell wholesale. Their shipping is fast as well. I have found other suppliers will try and sell a different brand of fabric calling it Textilene. Arizona Sun Supply sells true Textilene only. When ordering, be sure and buy the 60 inch rolls. This will cover any RV window ( including windshields ).

Finished Project of a 5th wheel I completed this year. To remove the sags, simply lift the bottom corners and re-stretch and attach again. You will never get all of the sags out, but the majority can be removed.	A good view of solar panels on a motorcoach. Notice the windshield wiper covers. These are also popular and I sometimes include these for free on a big job as a thank you to the customer and to get the job. I typically just use scraps to make these.
	Solar screen fabric in a plain weave using .025” diameter vinyl-coated 1000 denier polyester core yarn in the warp and fill. Solar screen Benefits Textilene® 90 blocks up to 90% of the sun's rays Designed to reduce heat transfer through windows Reduces the glare and harmful rays from the sun Reduce energy costs Provide protection for your indoor furnishing Flame resistant and fade resistant Excellent for daytime privacy without blocking the view Suggested Applications Window Screens, Patio Roll-ups, Blinds, Room Dividers, Awnings and RV Windows
Do not forget the other covers on RV's. These mirror covers are also very popular as are tow bar covers, etc. Be sure and use a flannel backed vinyl for the mirrors so the surface doesn't get scratched from friction and movement in the wind. These mirrors cost $ 1,000 a piece so use soft inner linings on your vinyl.	Use the above information as advertising and selling points.
CAUTION
NEVER install these solar panels on the inside of double pane window. They will trap heat, increase the temperature of the gas inside the dual panes of glass and blow the seals. If your customer insists on these panels being installed BEHIND dual pane windows, turn the job down.	Also remind your customer who may want an interior application that these panels are much less effective when installed indoors ( installed behind glass. They will block the sun but the heat will still enter the home or RV.
One Last Word
Remind your customer that these panels provide excellent privacy during the daytime. You can barely see from the outside during daylight hours through these panels, yet you can see perfectly to the outside. BUT, during the nighttime hours, the reverse is true so they should pull the shades or drapes during the evening. :)