Skinning a Teardrop: Comparing Alternatives

[burlesot]

I did not see a topic on this, if there is I sincerely apologize.

Here's my question: What are your thoughts about skinning a teardrop?

Aluminum is beautiful. Does it reflect heat, thus making the inside cooler? Does it stand up well to time? What sort of upkeep is required over the lifespan of a trailer?

Stained wood with polyurethane/fiberglass is also beautiful if you like the 'wood' look. The same questions apply to this finish as those above.

Painted/polyurethane wood is the third alternative I am considering. How does it do with the above questions?

Lastly, as a first time builder, is there one that is 'easiest?' Most forgiving?

My inclination is to go with a wood exterior that is then painted, or some combination of aluminum skin on the roof and painted sides. However, having a long time to 'stew' on my build, I'm seeking advice from the board.

Thanks,
Todd

[48Rob]

Hi Todd,

Good questions.

Easy and short lived tend to go together...

Building a trailer out of wood, be it "pretty" wood or just utility wood and then painting it is the easiest.
Varnish, another form of paint is a little harder, but still pretty easy.
Both will weather fast, and need pretty regular checking and refinishing to prevent water intrusion through cracks, splits, or damage to the protective layer.
The paint is the most forgiving, if you make a mistake, scuff it up and put on another layer.

Aluminum is a little harder to install, but done correctly, will protect the underlying wood (which does not need to be painted) for 75+ years, assuming that every year or two you check to be sure the seals under the trim on the edges, joints and protrusions is in good shape.

If you take the time to study and learn where trailers leak, and why, you can make an educated decision for your build that will work well with your choice of materials, experience, and budget.
Where you will store the finished trailer will weigh heavily on that decision.
24/7 outdoors calls for much better protection than 24/7 indoor storage except for camping trips.

Rob

[burlesot]

Well said Rob.

To be honest, I'm leaning toward aluminum. Especially after reading your post. It scares the Bejesus out of me to think about cutting it, but with all of the excellent advice here on the board, I should be able to study and plan out how to do so. Looks like I will plan on using my router to cut both the wood and the aluminum. I've seen some interesting colored aluminum as well. I'm not sure if it is powder coat painted or some other application technique, but I sincerely appreciate your insight!

I forgot to add that my trailer will be stored outside ( I plan to make a custom cover for it, but it will nonetheless be outside all year.) Another reason to consider the aluminum, no?

Thanks,
Todd

[48Rob]

I forgot to add that my trailer will be stored outside ( I plan to make a custom cover for it, but it will nonetheless be outside all year.) Another reason to consider the aluminum, no?

Todd,

Yes, a very good reason.

You can certainly use just paint and get away with it, but again, a good understanding of how wood delaminates, rots, and finishes fail is critical to your success.
Common knowledge says build it, then paint it, and you're good...
But you aren't.
Wood exposed 24/7 needs equal protection on both sides, and all edges.
Painting just the part you see isn't enough.
Capillary action, flexible joint caulking, UV protection, expansion and contraction of the different materials, road hazard protection, salt and chemical protection, and the list goes on.

Some here are expert with epoxy; it may be an alternative for you.

Using aluminum or some other impervious material is a much easier way to protect your investment than paint.
You need only worry then, about maintaining a few easy to access seals.
Anodized aluminum comes in many colors too.

Anything is easy once you know how.
Cutting and installing the aluminum will be one of the easier tasks of building your trailer.
Plenty of people here to help you step by step!

Rob

[oth47]

Skinning a teardrop..for shame!! What'd a poor little teardrop do to you? My teardrop is painted and I can see defects in the paint where at some point water will start affecting the wood.At some point the hatch on mine will have to be rebuilt,it has some water damage on the lower edges.Aluminum or fiberglass seems like the best options,I've never worked with either.But if you don't get the joints sealed water will find a way in.Water's sneaky that way..