Let’s Dive into Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in
The Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in promises to be a simple yet effective solution for bringing natural light into your recreational vehicle. Manufactured by Icon, this skylight aims to refresh the look and feel of your RV’s interior with its various tint options and standard size. After years of cramped RV living, I was eager to swap out the dingy, yellowed skylight in our rig and inject some much-needed brightness into our home on wheels.
For years, my trusty old RV felt more like a cave than a comfortable living space, primarily due to the lack of natural light. The existing skylight was an ancient, cracked thing that barely let any sunshine in, casting a gloomy pall over the interior. I wanted a skylight that was durable, easy to install, and offered a noticeable improvement in light transmission, so I started researching replacements.
Upon unboxing the Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in, I was immediately struck by its seemingly robust construction. The polycarbonate material felt significantly sturdier than the flimsy acrylic of my old skylight. The smoke tint appeared to be a good balance, offering light filtration without completely blocking out the sun.
I considered a couple of other options, including a Ventline dome skylight and a generic replacement from a big box store. I ultimately chose the Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in due to the Icon brand’s reputation for quality RV components and the specific dimensions matching my existing skylight opening, simplifying the installation process. The polycarbonate material was a major selling point, promising better impact resistance than the more brittle acrylic options.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The skylight seemed well-made, but the true test would be in the installation and how well it held up to the rigors of RV travel. I was excited to finally have a brighter RV, but also slightly apprehensive about the potential for leaks or other issues.
Real-World Testing: Putting Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in in my RV’s living area during a week-long camping trip to the Colorado Rockies. The installation process itself was straightforward, though I highly recommend using Icon’s Skylight Sealant as suggested. The smoke tint immediately made a difference, filtering the harsh sunlight without dimming the interior too much.
The skylight performed admirably during the trip, which included a couple of intense afternoon thunderstorms. The robust polycarbonate construction held up well against hail and heavy rain. No leaks were detected, which was a huge relief.
The ease of use was a non-issue; it’s a skylight, after all! Once installed, there’s nothing to adjust or configure. The improved lighting was immediately noticeable, and the smoke tint provided a comfortable level of brightness without being blinding. The only surprise was how much quieter the RV interior became during rainstorms compared to the old skylight, which amplified the sound of raindrops.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months and several thousand miles of travel, the Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in is still performing flawlessly. There are no signs of cracking, yellowing, or other degradation. The sealant is still holding strong, preventing any leaks.
The skylight has proven to be remarkably durable. It has withstood extreme temperatures, from the scorching heat of the Arizona desert to sub-freezing conditions in Montana. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wash with mild soap and water keeps it looking like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with subpar RV skylights that cracked and leaked within a year, the Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in is a significant upgrade. It outperforms my expectations in terms of durability, light transmission, and overall build quality. The difference in the interior ambiance is night and day.
Breaking Down the Features of Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in
Specifications
- Dome Dimension: 14″ x 22″ x 4″: This is the interior measurement of the dome, fitting standard RV skylight openings. This dimension directly impacts the amount of light that enters the RV and the perceived spaciousness.
- Outer Dimension: 18″ x 26″: These are the overall dimensions of the skylight, including the flange that sits on the RV roof. These dimensions are important for ensuring a proper seal and preventing leaks.
- Skylight Color: Smoke: The smoke tint provides a balance between light transmission and glare reduction. This color choice impacts the interior ambiance and the level of UV protection.
- Material: Durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate: Polycarbonate offers superior impact resistance compared to acrylic, reducing the risk of cracking or shattering. This material choice contributes to the longevity and durability of the skylight.
- Compatibility: Fits all standard 14 x 22 skylight openings: The standardized sizing ensures easy replacement of existing skylights. This feature simplifies the installation process and broadens the skylight’s applicability.
Performance & Functionality
The Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in excels at its primary function: letting in natural light while providing a durable and weather-resistant barrier. The smoke tint strikes a good balance between brightness and glare reduction. I would say that it easily meets the expectations of most RV owners looking to upgrade their skylights.
The primary strength is the durable polycarbonate construction, which provides peace of mind during travel. The smoke tint could be improved with a slight enhancement to UV protection. It would be great to see independent lab testing that would quantify the UV blockage.
Design & Ergonomics
The skylight’s design is simple and functional, prioritizing durability and ease of installation. The polycarbonate material feels substantial and well-made. There is no real “ergonomics” to consider, but the low-profile dome design minimizes wind resistance while driving.
The skylight is very user-friendly. The installation process is straightforward for anyone with basic RV maintenance skills. There’s no learning curve involved in using the skylight itself; once installed, it simply performs its function.
Durability & Maintenance
The Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in appears to be built to last for many years. The polycarbonate material is highly resistant to cracking and fading. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is all that’s required to maintain its appearance and performance.
Repairing the skylight would likely involve replacing the entire unit, as individual components are not readily available. However, given its durable construction, the need for repairs should be minimal. Proper sealing during installation is crucial to prevent leaks and extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Icon recommends using their Skylight Sealant for installation, which I highly recommend. Customization options are limited to choosing between clear, smoke, dark smoke, and translucent white tints.
It is compatible with standard 14″ x 22″ skylight garnish rings (the interior trim piece), allowing for some aesthetic customization. Aftermarket vent covers can also be used to provide additional shading or ventilation.
Pros and Cons of Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in
Pros
- Durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate construction.
- Smoke tint provides a good balance between light transmission and glare reduction.
- Fits standard 14″ x 22″ skylight openings for easy replacement.
- Noticeable improvement in interior brightness and ambiance.
- Relatively easy to install.
Cons
- Sealant not included, requiring a separate purchase (though recommended by Icon).
- Limited customization options beyond tint selection.
Who Should Buy Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in?
Perfect for RV owners looking to replace cracked, yellowed, or otherwise damaged skylights. Also, great for those wanting to brighten up their RV interior with natural light. This is ideal for anyone who wants a durable and reliable skylight without breaking the bank.
Anyone looking for advanced features like integrated ventilation or adjustable shading should skip this product. Also, this might not be the right choice for those who require a completely clear skylight for maximum light transmission.
Must-have accessories include Icon’s Skylight Sealant for proper installation and a compatible 14″ x 22″ skylight garnish ring for a finished interior look.
Conclusion on Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in
The Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in is a solid and reliable replacement skylight that delivers on its promises. The durable polycarbonate construction and effective smoke tint provide a noticeable improvement in interior brightness and overall comfort. At $122.99, the price is justified by the quality and long-term value.
I would definitely recommend this skylight to any RV owner looking for a simple and effective upgrade. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your RV living experience. Don’t let a dingy skylight ruin your next adventure – brighten up your RV with the Icon RV Skylight Sl1422 – 14in x 22in x 4in!