Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

I have seen both steel and wood framed trailers that were then clad with aluminum. What works best for strength,sound deadening and ease of construction for a new builder? Also what alloy of aluminum and heat treet is best?
Duane

DAP wrote:I have seen both steel and wood framed trailers that were then clad with aluminum. What works best for strength,sound deadening and ease of construction for a new builder? Also what alloy of aluminum and heat treet is best?
Duane

Each has it's value. The best is what is best for you and your skill set or comfort level.

Enjoy the planning. I am sure as soon as the guys get back from playing on this holiday they can better answer you question about Aluminum.

DAP wrote:I have seen both steel and wood framed trailers that were then clad with aluminum. What works best for strength,sound deadening and ease of construction for a new builder? Also what alloy of aluminum and heat treet is best?
Duane

IMHO wood is best for ease of construction. Mistakes in wood are sometimes correctable. Metal may be lighter and stronger, # for #, but only if your an experienced welder. Wouldn't know about the aluminum skin as I''m going with a wood exterior as well. There's ton's of info in the Members/Traditional/Non-Traditional categories concerning what skin to use. Check out sdtripper2's Index up top too. Lots of great stuff.

CK

CaptainKram wrote: Mistakes in wood are sometimes correctable.

Mistakes in metal are easily corrected, just weld it back together and try again
I prefer metal framing because that is what I am more comfortable working with, others prefer wood. Just a matter of preference

Dear Duane,

Send a PM to triker45 aka Jerry. He is a very experienced millwright who builds motorcycle trikes and also his own home with lovely wife Donna. They live up in O'Brien, OR. He will probably be able to give you more than just opinions since he works in both mediums and is has traveled with his teardrop extensively, including soon after very serious foot surgery with pins and other things popping out of his body. Since you too have had soom recent surgery some of Jerry's tips may be very much on point with regards to making a teardrop while dealing with temporary disabilities. I know that when I began my project I asked many people with disabilities on this board fort advice about lifting and wielding heavy sheets of plywood around. If I had even the slightest knowledge about working with steel or aluminum it would possibly haver been an easier option. Jerry will have the best answers, he is a great guy.