beazleybub wrote:
Not to sound argumentative but, why then are hundreds of people in the tiny house community using LP SmartSide panels? The panel I chose is structural and suited for 16" on center framing.
Even houses "flex" on a daily basis. With proper installation and sealing, I do not believe it will be an issue. I will be also wrapping my rig with tyvec wrap. This will greatly reduce any chance of future water damage.
Residential houses do not move and tiny houses move very little, very short distances and at slower speeds then the typical RV. Finally, fifth wheels flex a tremendous amount every time they are connected/disconnected as the pin weight transfers between the pin and the landing gear, a substantial distance.
For the panels, use screws or ring shank nails with a nail gun. Using a hammer will be too many hammer blows and loosen other attachment points. The studs are 2x2 at most, more likely to split than a 2x4, both during installation and later road flexing. Pre-drilling the holes would be a good idea and keep them centered on the stud. Most strength would come from installing the 4x8 panels horizontally with staggered joints which puts less stress on any single stud. Or, double stud the joint studs if the panels are installed vertically.
Finally, if the water damage is minimal and localized, you might consider repairs from the inside rather than outside.
