Forum Discussion

kamperdog's avatar
kamperdog
Explorer
Jul 15, 2013

Crazy idea here - re-surfacing EXTERIOR with wood?

I've seen this before on other trailers, some of the "teardrop" forums I frequent show some BEAUTIFUL wood trailers that seem to do fine with a wood exterior. It would take some work of course, but if your in a situation where you are going to have to redo the exterior of your trailer - like the delamination issue I'm facing - it becomes an option. So of course I have questions. What kind of exterior wood is best? Also I imagine it would NOT be good to try and just put the wood over existing fiberglass, so what would be the best procedure for removing it from the existing paneling? Or just take the paneling off as well? Then of course there will be the decision whether to paint or or clearcoat the wood.

I'm anxious to hear your thoughts!
  • PapPappy's avatar
    PapPappy
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2013
    Well, it would probably be best to use a wood like cedar or redwood (not very plentiful in your area), since it would have natural benefits that other soft-woods wouldn't have. Hardwood would probably add to much weight to the trailer, unless you were going with a veneer or very thin planking.

    It would be a shame to do all the work, to get the beauty of wood, and then paint it. (just my opinion)......so I'd go with either a stain or clear-coat.

    My guess (haven't done this before), would be that you would be stripping the sides off the RV. This has a benefit, in that you can use them as templates, if you are going with a veneer panel to replace it.

    Question: Have you considered taking the TT to a body shop, and asking them what they think about repairs to the fiberglass? You may find that you can get away with a good sanding, then a painting, with a clear-coat.
    May not be as "jazzy" as a wooden TT, but could probably be a whole lot easier, and cheaper (just how much to you really want to invest in this old TT???)

    Just my $0.02:)

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