The Reimo High Top Roof is a popular option for converting commercial vans into mobile living spaces. It extends interior headroom, enhances ventilation, and enables standing comfort for daily use. This guide explains what the Reimo high top roof offers, its key features, compatibility with common van models, installation considerations, maintenance needs, and related costs. It provides practical insights to help buyers and builders make informed decisions for American van life projects.
What Is The Reimo High Top Roof
The Reimo High Top Roof is a modular, fiberglass or composite shell designed to be mounted over the existing van roof. It creates a raised interior ceiling, increasing headroom by roughly a foot or more depending on model. Ventilation is typically enhanced through integrated or optional roof vents, and some configurations include a prepped interior for cabinets or a bed platform. The roof is designed to maintain weather resistance while adding interior space for standing, storage, and complex layouts.
Key Features And Benefits
- Increased Headroom: Enables comfortable movement and standing space, expanding living area inside the van.
- Improved Ventilation: Roof vents and dual-skin construction help regulate temperature and humidity.
- Solid Construction: Durable shells resist common road stresses and weather exposure typical of U.S. climates.
- Cabinet and Bed Integration: Designed to accommodate interior builds, with mounting points and interior panels ready for customization.
- Resell Value: A professionally installed high top can boost resale appeal for camper vans and adventure rigs.
Compatibility And Fitment
Compatibility hinges on the van’s body style and roof dimensions. Popular base vehicles include the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, and Volkswagen Transporter. Reimo offers different top heights and rear or side-profile shapes to align with door placements and roof gutters. Before purchase, measure the existing roof cargo rails, mounting points, and clearance to obstacles like antennas or climate control components. Installation often requires professional alignment to avoid misfits, leaks, or garage-door clearance issues in certain garages.
Installation Considerations
Professional installation is strongly recommended due to seal integrity and structural fit. Typical steps include removing interior lining near the roof, preparing a mounting surface, and applying high-strength sealant to prevent leaks. Some variants require partial removal of roof hardware or reinforcement of the van’s roof frame. Insurance and vehicle warranty implications should be reviewed prior to modification. For DIY enthusiasts, ensure access to proper tools, a stable workspace, and adherence to weatherproofing standards to minimize long-term maintenance concerns.
Ventilation, Insulation, And Comfort
Modern Reimo high tops emphasize ventilation through roof vents or integrated fans, with optional rain guards to prevent water ingress. Insulation varies by model and can include insulated inner shells or multi-layer panels to address temperature swings. The combined effect supports more comfortable hot summers and cold winters, reducing the energy burden on heating and cooling systems. A well-planned interior layout, including skylight placement and shading, enhances livability in everyday use and during extended trips.
Weight, Safety, And Warranty
The weight of a high top roof adds to gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR); it is essential to confirm the van’s payload capacity with the new roof installed. Proper mounting distributes weight evenly to avoid structural stress. Warranty coverage generally depends on installation quality and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Some installers offer a limited warranty on the roof shell and seals, while the vehicle manufacturer may constrain warranty for related modifications. Regular inspections help detect seal failures or corrosion early.
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Cost, Availability, And Financing
Prices for Reimo high top roofs vary by model, material, and included features such as roof vents or pre-formed interior panels. In the U.S., total project costs typically range from several thousand dollars for the roof alone to higher amounts once installation, interior finishing, and necessary reinforcements are added. Availability depends on the importer network and current stock. Financing options may be explored through specialty van conversion lenders or automotive upgrade providers that offer installment plans for campers and adventure vans.
Maintenance And Care
Routine maintenance includes inspecting seals after heavy rain, cleaning drainage channels, and checking for any signs of water intrusion around mounting points. The outer shell should be washed with mild cleaners to prevent buildup that could degrade the surface finish. Lubricate any moving components on vents or hinges periodically, and verify that insulation is intact to maintain thermal performance. Address roof penetrations promptly to prevent leaks and rust, and repaint or refinished surfaces as needed to preserve appearance and longevity.
Alternatives And Comparisons
Other high-top options from different manufacturers offer similar benefits with varying installation processes and features. Some vans opt for pop-top or hybrid roof designs that provide flexible sleeping arrangements or fold-down platforms. When comparing options, consider headroom you really need, ventilation strategies, insulation performance, ease of installation, weight impact, and compatibility with your preferred van model. Reading user reviews and consulting professional installers helps in weighing the trade-offs between Reimo and alternative brands.
Practical Considerations For Buyers
- Vehicle Compatibility: Select a base model with adequate payload and compatible roof dimensions.
- Professional Assessment: Have a certified installer assess mounting points and potential need for frame reinforcement.
- Waterproofing: Prioritize robust seals and drainage to prevent leaks in heavy rain.
- Interior Planning: Plan cabling, insulation, and furniture early to maximize usable space.
- Future Upgrades: Consider how the roof will interact with solar, ventilation, or skylight upgrades down the line.