Plywood side thickness?

[petertl]

I am starting a 4' x 10' modernaire. I need to save time and weight. I would love to do a sandwich wall but want to get the thing built.
If using a quality grade ply, will 1/2" be good? 5/8"? 3/4"? It will be used as a utility trailer hauling tools more than camping.
Thanks,
Peter

[grant whipp]

Hi, Peter!

I would suggest a "sandwich" of 5/8" plywood core that is "cookie-cut" to save a lot of weight, then a 1/8" inside paneling, followed by a 1/4" outside sheathing. I know you said you won't be sleeping in it, but just in case, it wouldn't hurt to put some 1/2" bead-board insulation in the voids of the plywood. It's not that much extra work, and you get a nice solid light-weight wall ... ...!

Good luck, and as always ...

CHEERS!

[petertl]

Yes, Ideally I would love to do sandwich walls. I am trying to get the build done in a few days, total. (weekender) I would love to use 1/2" plywood for the sides if someone else has had success with that.
Thanks,
Peter

[bobhenry]

I used 7/16 fiberglass faced zip panel ( fancy osb) on the 4x7. Floor and body cut and built with spars installed in in about 6 hours.

( It's the little stuff that takes forever )


Here is a link to the build if you are interested.........

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

[jonw]

I used 5/8 marine plywood for my sides and it was plenty stiff. As I was building it I was wondering if I could have gotten by with 1/2in. but then I'd have to build out door and window frames to accommodate standard molding and window thicknesses. It's all about tradeoffs...