Clerestory roof on a cargo trailer?

[jslabovitz]

(Quick intro: Just arrived here at the forums. Have a factory-built teardrop that's served me well. Considering a bigger move: full-time living in a larger structure, but not a modern RV.)

I've been looking at cargo trailers as a good framework for a livable trailer. I've read through most of the threads in this forum -- lots of good inspiration!

In my research I've come across an old trailer style that really intrigues me, called a "showmans waggon" (British spelling). Descended from gypsy caravans in the 1800s, it reached a peak in the UK between the wars. Here's a couple of good examples:




As you can see there, one of the main features is the raised clerestory roof (also called a "monitor" roof). The purpose is threefold: allow for more headroom without the need for the entire roof being higher; allow light to enter; and allow air to circulate. I think it also improves the general look of the trailer and gives it a more unique look.

I know there are options for cargo trailers to add roof vents, but they just ain't the same.

In a quick conversation with a local trailer dealer (an arm of Interstate Cargo, actually), they thought it might be possible to have a metal shop cut the ribs and add a perpendicular bars, sort of like making a header on a stick-built house. Then, of course, build the clerestory structure on top. However, that wasn't something they could do themselves, or even recommend.

So, my question for those who might know: Would it be structurally possible to modify the ribs of a cargo trailer to add the capability for a clerestory roof?

Thanks for any input you could give me.

[Creamcracker]

That first one above the blue and red looks like it was one used by Chipperfield's Circus. The colors are the same although a little faded by the years. I can't find any pics online at the moment but maybe some of the UK forum members can find a pic.

Philip

[bobhenry]

So, my question for those who might know: Would it be structurally possible to modify the ribs of a cargo trailer to add the capability for a clerestory roof?

Thanks for any input you could give me.

I am in the process of designing Polly the Trolly. It will have a windowed trolly top similar to what you are looking at. My intentions were to "header off" the interupted spars from front to rear with a 2x6 or an engineered wooden I joist. I see no reason why a 1x4 or 1x6 aluminum rectangular stock would not be able to do exactly the same. Let it extend to the bottom of the existing roof spars and weld then let the remainder of the member extrude into the raised top. You are now headered front to rear to carry the roof make sure you catch a vertical member in the front wall and reinforce above the rear doors to carry this new load.

My only concern is possible roof leaks if you have any ideas there let me know

[jslabovitz]

I see no reason why a 1x4 or 1x6 aluminum rectangular stock would not be able to do exactly the same. Let it extend to the bottom of the existing roof spars and weld then let the remainder of the member extrude into the raised top. You are now headered front to rear to carry the roof make sure you catch a vertical member in the front wall and reinforce above the rear doors to carry this new load.

Interesting. I think I understand, but I can't quite visualize this. You don't happen to have any drawings or pictures of your trolley project online, do you?

[bobhenry]

SORRY ! no pics just got the floor down. Stand and look at the side of your trailer then imagine a big wide doorway all you are doing is installind a bearing header for that doorway. You are showing a portion of it up into the short wall above.