Forum Discussion

Calicajun's avatar
Calicajun
Explorer
Aug 03, 2015

Roof Construcktion Types

Hi All,
Right now we have 31" TT with a non walk aluminum roof. We find to be at least inconvenient for cleaning and worry about the construction of the roof for longevity. We are looking into getting a 5th wheel (which is why posting here) and wonder about the different types of roof constructions on the market.
All aluminum framing is our preferred construction. Pretty sure we don't want any 5th wheel with a non walk on roof. So it's down to all aluminum frame with aluminum roof or aluminum frame, walls and floor, with a wood roof.

Is there really any real life advantages/disadvantages to a wood roof over an aluminum roof?
The one 5th we found that fits our, the wife's, requirements has a wood roof. So what are the opinions on aluminum over wood roofs?

Thanks,
Craig

4 Replies

  • Calicajun's avatar
    Calicajun
    Explorer
    Aug 04, 2015
    "Really makes little difference except in weight, cost, and reduced chances of rot if a leak occurs."

    Thanks, that pretty much what I has asking.

    Thanks for all the other responses also, just wasn't sure about wood truss made roofs. I do realize RV don't have wooden roof exteriors, I was talking about the construction of the roof. Frame, cross members, truss, installation, wiring, ducting and the rest of the stuff involved in roof construction.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Aug 04, 2015
    Our 5vr is aluminum framed with wood roof trusses and plywood

    I'm big guy......up on roof a lot cleaning slide roofs, washing roof, recaulking, cleaning A/C. Never have worried about it nor have I ever felt it was an issue.

    Using the OEM Ladder....each/every time up/down I expect it to collapse or rip loose :B
  • Peg_Leg's avatar
    Peg_Leg
    Explorer
    Aug 04, 2015
    I had the non walk on roof on our old TT for 18 yrs. Loved it for longevity and durability. Had to use squares of plywood to leap frog around when needing to work on anything. You could go several years between caulking and I only s****ed everything down to metal twice. A easy wash with TSP and it sparkled like new.

    My 5er has a rubber over wood roof. It works but won't last like the alum.

    What this thing doesn't like s c r a p e d?
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Aug 04, 2015
    Never seen a wood roof on any RV. Except maybe a few home built ones. Most current RVs have either TPO or EPDM roofs. For the discussion, just say rubber. Roof construction is generally interior ceiling material fastened to roof trusses, insulation, followed by wood substrate, usually OSB or plywood, with rubber glued on top. Most roofs will support 250 to 300 pounds, so generally safe to walk on. Roof trusses can be either wood or aluminum, with most higher end units opting for aluminum. Really makes little difference except in weight, cost, and reduced chances of rot if a leak occurs.
    So, what is your real question?

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