Some FRP questions (joining, securing, glueing, etc)

[qwerty11]

On my 6'8" wide x 10' long x 7' tall camper build I am going to use 4x8 sheets of FRP from Lowes as the covering. I have read many threads on FRP but still could use some help as it relates to my build. I would like to do things as easy/simple as possible.

1. How do you recommend I transition from one sheet to another? I.E. each side will require two sheets that will require some type of covering where they meet.

2. What type of trim should I use to cover the corners of the sides and the roof?

3. How should I seal the FRP where it joins the doors/windows?

4. For a trailer this size, what is the needed backing for the FRP? I.E. 1/4" ply, luan, osb, or none at all?

5. What is the easiest method to secure the FRP to the backing identified in #4?

Thank you for your help!

[qwerty11]

No one who has worked with FRP knows these things?

[bc toys]

I have FRP on the ceiling of my trailer I put the factory trim at the joints and installed silicone in the trim and installed it to the FRP then added silicone on the other side of trim and installed next piece of FRP used short screws that came with the buttons to hold it up try to get it straight as you can mine got off and I wasn't happy I would suggest you build a couple of dead men or find a couple of helpers dont try it by yourself. Use liquid nail where you can. post a pic when you get done.

[bobhenry]

Here is about where I started with the FRP on my build.

http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=50&t=38489&start=45


and these come in real handy too !

[qwerty11]

How thick of ply should I put under the frp? Is 1/4" sufficient?

[Bogo]

What's the thickness of the FRP?
What's the structure of the wall?

[Bogo]

I'm personally looking at FRP skins on SIPs, but I'll be using Filon RV siding instead. The stuff comes in 102" wide sheets 0.055" thick and cut to length. A local RV or truck repair place will likely have it. The nice thing is no seams on a side. It is also available in other thicknesses.

Here is a place that will ship: http://www.factoryrvsurplus.com/product ... ct_id=2122 There are other places that will ship it.

[qwerty11]

What adhesive should I use to glue the FRP to my plywood backing?

[KCStudly]

At work we have always used PL construction adhesive. We usually just use a zig zag pattern or dots like a nailing pattern, but a notched trowel would be good if you have enough working time.

My experience is mostly secondhand, so take that for what it is worth.

[pmowers]

Here is a linky to the instructions on handling FRP including adhesives http://www.panolam.com/frp/FRP/PDF/FRP_Install_2.21.pdf.
I know that Lowes can special order 4x10 or 12' long panels to avoid splicing. I can also tell you that a panel that has been in the sun becomes very flexible, I could bend a 4" radius easily. One possibility is to use the T shaped type edging, stapling the edges closely, filling the area with silicone and then snapping the T portion into the groove, and wiping off the excess adhesive. The adhesive used is going to need to be able to bond, yet flex to allow the panels to float as they will shrink and expand with temperature. I would suggest doing a search on the forums for tips on floating aluminum siding, I think many of the tips may be transferable.

When I used FRP on my trailer, I basically floated the panels on the walls inside my CT. I used silicone adhesive on the FRP trim and also stapled to the walls. I also drilled a series of holes 16" apart, starting 8" from the edges, then installed these two-piece rivets. http://www.menards.com/main/home-decor/mouldings/panel-mouldings/plastic-panel-mouldings/3-4-2-pc-rivet-white/p-1966019-c-8166.htm I just used my standard blades/bits and took it slow.
My walls are 3/8" plywood. So far, the panels seem to have made it through a very hot summer and a cold winter.