One of the upgrades that most transforms how spacious and comfortable a motorhome feels is a large panoramic rooflight in the ceiling (the best-known type is the "Heki", named after a well-known brand). It brings in natural light and ventilation galore, completely changing what living inside feels like. Here we cover its advantages, maintenance, and what to bear in mind.
The advantages
- Natural light: it lights the interior beautifully, making the camper much more pleasant and bright.
- Ventilation: a large rooflight ventilates enormously well, which is key for tackling condensation (see condensation) and heat (it creates a draught with the windows; see heatwave).
- A sense of spaciousness and connection with the outdoors; watching the stars or the rain from bed is a real plus (see stargazing).
- Usually includes a built-in flyscreen and blackout blind.
What to bear in mind
- Insulation: the glass/plastic insulates less than the roof; in extreme cold it can be a point of heat loss and condensation (use the thermal blind).
- Weatherproofing: being a large opening in the roof, its sealing is critical; poor sealing is a common route for leaks (see leaks).
- Installation: cutting an opening in the roof is a serious conversion; best left to a professional, and it may require type approval (see approving conversions).
- Hail: it's a spot sensitive to impacts (see storms and hail).
Maintenance
- Check the seal periodically and reseal at the first sign of wear (see seals and gaskets).
- Clean the glass/plastic with mild products that won't scratch it.
- Look after the gaskets, flyscreen and blind (lubricate and condition them).
- Close it while driving and in strong wind or rain.
In summary
A panoramic rooflight brings in a huge amount of light and ventilation, transforming your camper's comfort, in exchange for looking after its insulation and, above all, its seal to prevent leaks. The step to take today: if you want more light and ventilation, a large rooflight is a very rewarding upgrade; have it fitted by a professional (type approval included) and check its seal periodically, as that's its critical point.