Camper van skylights and rooflights transform dark vehicle interiors into bright, airy living spaces with natural light and improved ventilation. These roof-mounted windows come in standard aperture sizes of 280x280mm and 400x400mm, with leading brands including MPK, Dometic Seitz Mini Heki, Fiamma and Remis offering various features like built-in blinds, flyscreens and opening mechanisms. Most campervan skylights include blackout blinds and insect mesh as standard, while some models feature permanent ventilation systems that provide airflow even when closed.
Installation involves cutting a precise hole in your van roof and building up the mounting thickness to accommodate roof depths between 25-85mm, as most commercial van roofs measure just 1-2mm thick. Professional skylight fitting costs £200-400, though many van converters complete DIY installation using jigsaws, sealants and proper weatherproofing techniques. The modular design of brands like MPK means individual domes, blinds and flyscreens can be upgraded without replacing the complete unit, making long-term maintenance cost-effective.
Van conversion skylights require careful sealing around corrugated roof profiles to prevent water ingress, with quality sealants like Sikaflex and mastic tape forming weatherproof barriers. Double-skin polycarbonate domes resist impact damage from hail while providing insulation benefits, and telescopic opening arms allow multi-position ventilation control. The primary consideration is matching your chosen skylight to existing apertures or planning roof structural modifications, as brands vary in mounting systems despite similar cut-out dimensions.
REMItop vario II is the multifunctional roof light from REMIS - for al
The Dometic Fantastic vent is a lightweight, compact, durable vent fan
Dometic FanTastic Vent 7350 is a Roof vent with white dome incl. remot
The MaxxFan Deluxe Campervan Caravan Motorhome Roof Vent is a unique v
Complete wind up euro vent roof light assembly with removable fly scre
Frequently Asked Questions
What size skylight do I need for my camper van conversion?The most popular sizes are 280x280mm and 400x400mm apertures. For replacement skylights, measure the existing roof (aperature) opening - not the dome or frame. New installations typically use 400x400mm for maximum light in larger vans, while 280x280mm suits compact areas like washrooms. Larger 700x500mm skylights like the Dometic Midi Heki provide premium lighting but require extensive roof preparation.Are MPK, Dometic and Fiamma camper van skylights interchangeable?Skylights with identical aperture dimensions are generally compatible, but mounting systems differ between brands. MPK's modular design allows dome and blind swapping within their range. Dometic Mini Heki units have specific frame profiles that may not align with other brands. Fiamma skylights have different catch mechanisms. Always verify existing frame design and roof preparation before assuming direct replacement compatibility.What roof thickness do I need for camper van skylight installation?Most van skylights require 25-85mm roof thickness for proper clamping between inner and outer frames. Commercial van roofs are typically 1-2mm single skin, so you must build up the aperture area using timber battens. Use 25-50mm thick wooden frames around the opening to create the mounting surface. Some skylights like the MaxxAir SkyMaxx accommodate 23-60mm thickness with adjustable frames.How do I seal a skylight on a ribbed van roof?Corrugated van roofs need channels filled to create flat sealing surfaces. Cut strips of rigid material like PVC window board or perspex to fill valleys between ridges. Bond these level with ridge peaks using polyurethane sealant like Hodgson seamseal CV sealant. Apply mastic sealing tape around the skylight perimeter and additional sealant beads around all frame edges. This prevents water ingress through uneven roof profiles.Should I install a camper van skylight myself or hire a professional?DIY skylight installation is achievable with basic tools including jigsaw with metal blade, drill and quality sealants. Mark apertures carefully, drill corner pilot holes and cut slowly to prevent roof damage. Professional installation obviously has a cost but usually includes warranty coverage. Consider professional fitting if you're uncomfortable cutting your van roof, dealing with corrugated surfaces, or need structural modifications for larger skylights.Do camper van skylights leak over time?Quality skylights rarely leak when properly installed with appropriate sealants and maintained regularly. Common leak points include inadequate sealing around ribbed roof profiles or deteriorated mastic tape after 3-5 years. Check sealant condition annually and reapply around frame edges if cracking appears. Brands like MPK and Dometic include comprehensive gasket systems that maintain weatherproofing when correctly fitted with products like Sikaflex EBT sealant.What's the difference between clear and tinted skylight domes?Clear domes like those on Dometic Mini Heki units maximise natural light transmission but can create glare and heat gain in bright conditions. Tinted or smoked domes diffuse light more evenly while maintaining privacy and reducing internal temperature. Double-skin designs provide insulation benefits and allow permanent ventilation through the cavity. Choose clear for maximum brightness or tinted for comfort and temperature control in hot climates.Which camper van skylight brands offer the best spare parts availability?MPK provides excellent UK parts availability through dealers like us (Leisureshopdirect), with individual domes, handles, flyscreens and blind cassettes readily stocked. Dometic Seitz parts are widely available but can be more expensive than MPK alternatives. Fiamma components are also available through us. MPK's modular system means you can upgrade individual components without replacing entire units, making long-term maintenance more cost-effective than other brands.
© Leisureshopdirect Ltd - 2004 . All rights reserved.
