Skin, why do I over think everything.

[kevingb]

The new delimia... which way? I have read all type of posts and possibly know the answer to my madness. I started messing with skins last night. I have some 1/8" birch and some good ole luan.

I placed my ribs 12" centers. I was looking to see how sturdy it was using 1/8". It actually seemed ok but maybe little more flex than I really want. I can go double layer and get what I want. Gluing and water protection will prob remove additional flex. Case solved, right? Nope

I have a couple sheets of luan laying around, yes, box store. I cut one of them to fit and tried it out. It had no flex and was solid. I like the feel but it will take some persuasion. I left it in a bind overnight and getting it to bend but looks like a few more humidity and temperature changes and it might get there.

Wanting to ask the pros... What would you do? Stay with 1/8" and double layer or be patient bend the luan. Lamaination has been an issue with Luan but now I will have to laminate the 1/8". Cost is not really that big of a concern it will end up costing about $100 more.

As always, Thanks for all the advice.

BTW I will be using .040 aluminum

[madjack]

...IMO, with .040 AL, the single 1/8" by itself is sufficient...heck, I laid my .040 AL directly over the spars(8"centers) with no underlayment whatsoever and am completely happy with it...as always with such things, YMMV.......
madjack

[kevingb]

thanks for the input... going to can the luan and stay with 1/8 birch. After my post I went next door and laid my hands on their RV and it had almost twice as much flex.

[aggie79]

Kevin,

I'm no expert but I used a single layer of 1/8". My spars were spaced at 12" o.c. at the tight curves and 16" o.c. everywhere else (except at the vent fan.)



My 200# have been on the roof several times after the aluminum was installed and it is plenty stout.

Take care, Tom

[planovet]

I used .040 aluminum and 1 layer of 1/8" birch. Very sturdy.

[48Rob]

I used 2 layers of 1/8" Birch, laminated together over roof supports spaced at 12 inches.
No interior ceiling paneling (open spars)
I used no aluminum, the Birch is enough.

Rob

[kevingb]

Interesting... Over thinking, over building and over spending.. Is it that obvious I'm an American!

Thanks for all the input