Building a side wall for a utility trailer is a relatively straightforward process, but does involve some basic construction knowledge. First, you must measure the desired height and width for the side wall.
Next, cut sheets of plywood to the measurements you determined. You may also need to cut and attach panels of aluminum or fiberglass, depending on the exact type of material you’re using. Once the wall panels are ready, install angle brackets on the trailer’s frame, ensuring they are secure and level.
Connect the brackets to the panel, using self-tapping screws, and making sure to leave enough extra room for the panels to move slightly and be secure at the same time. Then attach a 1-by-2 timber section along the top of the wall, which will help secure it to the frame and will provide a finished look.
You may need to adjust or add trims or sections depending on the type of material you’re using. Lastly, after the materials are securely in place, use screws, caulk, and sealant to ensure the wall and its perimeter are completely sealed and weatherproof.
How tall should Utility trailer sides be?
The height of utility trailer sides can vary depending on the specific application, but the general rule is that they should be high enough to securely contain the heaviest load that is likely to be carried.
For example, side heights of approximately two feet are common for light-duty trailers that may carry up to 2,000 pounds. On the other hand, heavy-duty trailers intended for carrying up to 3,000 to 6,000 pounds may need side heights of four feet.
Ultimately, a trailer’s sides need to be tailored to its intended purpose and be tall enough to ensure that the load is safely contained.
What kind of plywood is used for utility trailers?
When it comes to selecting plywood for utility trailers, the most common choice is exterior grade plywood, meaning it is not an indoor-only option. Exterior grade plywood is made with waterproof glues and several inner plies with veneers that are resistant to moisture.
It also typically has a higher grade of veneers than interior grade plywood, resulting in a stronger and more durable finish that is less likely to be affected by peeling, cracking, and other long-term issues.
This makes exterior grade plywood a great choice for utility trailers. When selecting exterior grade plywood, it is important to look for higher grades such as AA or BB grade, or even better, Marine grade (which is specifically designed to withstand the harsh elements).
Having a better grade of plywood can make a huge difference in the longevity of your trailer.
What metal is used for trailer frames?
The type of metal used for trailer frames is generally steel, although there are other options such as aluminum, stainless steel and even galvanized steel depending on the application. Steel is a very strong and cost-effective metal for trailer frames, making it the most popular option for a variety of trailers, including car haulers, flatbeds, boat and RV trailers, and utility trailers.
Steel is weldable and can be formed into endless shapes and sizes, making it ideal for trailer frames. Additionally, it is low-maintenance, can last a long time, and is not prone to corrosion if it is properly painted and/or treated when fabricated.
Therefore, steel is the most common metal used for trailer frames.
How thick should Plywood be for trailer sides?
The thickness of plywood used for trailer sides depends on what type of trailer the plywood will be used on and the intended purpose for the trailer. Generally, for most standard utility-type trailers, 3/4-inch thick plywood is the most commonly used.
This provides a strong material that is durable enough to be used in everyday use. For trailers that will be used for hauling heavier cargo, thicker plywood can be used for added support and durability.
Using plywood that is thicker than 3/4-inch will generally add weight to the trailer, however. Therefore, the thickness of plywood should be considered carefully depending on the intended purpose of the trailer and the weight of the cargo being hauled.
What is the wood to use on a trailer sides?
The type of wood you should use for trailers sides depends on the type of trailer and its intended purpose. For covered trailers, pressure-treated plywood is a great option because it is resistant to water damage and insect infestations.
For open trailers, you can use both pressure-treated lumber and plywood. Pressure-treated lumber offers durability, but if you plan to paint or repaint the trailer, you may want to use plywood. Plywood holds paint better, is thinner and lighter than lumber, and doesn’t require annual maintenance like pressure-treated lumber.
Whatever type of wood you choose, make sure to select wood that is strong enough to hold up during transport and comes from a reputable source.
What are trailer sides made of?
Trailer sides are typically made of a hard-wearing material such as steel or aluminium. Steel is the most popular choice in trailers due to its strength and affordability. The sides of a trailer can be made from either steel or aluminium.
Steel is typically stronger, cheaper and will last longer than aluminium. Steel is also more resistant to rust and corrosion, which are common problems in trailers. Aluminium is a lighter material and can be helpful if you are looking to keep the weight of the trailer down.
It is important to also consider the thickness of the material when selecting the sides of your trailer. The thicker the material, the stronger and more durable the trailer will be.
How thick is plywood on a camper trailer?
The thickness of plywood on a camper trailer will vary depending on the manufacturer and trailer type. Most commonly, 3/8” to ¾” thick plywood is used as an interior wall, while 1/2” to 1¼” plywood is typically used for the floor.
On larger units, 1¼” to 2” thick plywood is typically used for the walls and roof for enhanced strength, durability and insulation benefits. Generally, thicker plywood is considered more desirable and has fewer issues with moisture and rot.
When looking at the plywood used on a camper trailer, be sure to check the plywood grade to ensure strength and longevity.
What is marine grade plywood?
Marine grade plywood is a specially designed panel material manufactured with waterproof glue and studded with carbon-hardened chemical particles. It is an extra-tough wood product that is designed specifically for use in marine applications, such as boat building, shipbuilding, and fishing vessels.
Compared to other types of plywood, marine grade plywood is thicker and has a higher grade bond line and phenolic resin coating, making it more resistant to rotting, moisture, and other harsh weather conditions.
It is also made with tighter and higher-quality specifications, making it more durable and reliable than other types of plywood. Marine grade plywood is thus preferred over other types of plywood because it offers superior strength, greater reaction against the elements, and more reliable performance.
Ultimately, marine grade plywood is an ideal material and choice for most marine applications.
