Rain Shields

On the odd occasion we are stuck inside the van, due to its small size, the sliding door and windows are usually open. This is also very important if cooking, to allow steam out. The only problem with this is that the rain comes in. The sun shade will stop this, but I know that it won't always be put up, unless we are staying put for a while. Again something quick & simple was required.
With the left over material from the sun shade, two smaller shades were run up, with awning piping sewn on one edge, and open seams for fiberglass poles on the other 3 sides.

To support the fiberglass poles I used Tiger seal to attach a length of U channel aluminium to the roof. The channel needed a slight bend at each end to fit the curve of the roof. Then I glued in some round aluminium into the channel - which was left straight so that the poles can be inserted easily.
The aluminium can be bought at Wickes - I had to bring the poles along to make sure they fitted since sizes can vary quite a bit.

Poles inserted, with awning piping inserted into C channel

 Rain shield outside cooker window

Rain shield over sliding door

 In theory, if rain collects, the weight will cause the shield to drop, and the excess will drip off. Though if it's raining that heavily the door will be shut anyway.