Forum Discussion

theoldwizard1's avatar
theoldwizard1
Explorer II
Jun 11, 2017

Why aren't travel trailers made this way ?

People have complained about the build quality of TT for years. The biggest disaster is a water leak. These typically occur at the roof seam or around a window. Once the water get inside the wall it migrate down to the floor and in a couple of years the floor is rotten and you have a VERY EXPENSIVE repair on your hands !

Now look at the picture of the cargo trailer.



Notice the nice, smooth transition from the roof to the side wall. Sure there is a seam on the vertical surface, but water would run right over that.

How about the horizontal roof top ? How is it seamed to that edge piece ?



That is a continuous 1 piece aluminum extrusion. The joint at the roof (top right) is part of a half lap joint. The roof metal would be formed just the opposite so the 2 would hook together. This is very common joint in HVAC duct work. If pressed together it is a very long lasting LEAK PROOF joint !

Notice the little protrusion on the lower left side ? This "kick out" rain water so it does not run/drip down the side !

WHY CAN'T THEY MAKE TT LIKE THIS !
  • There are a few brands that are built using superior materials and better manufacturing techniques. You just have to do your research to find them and be willing to make some compromises on floor plans, styles, and other things if you want one.
  • gbopp wrote:
    As long as we keep buying inferior products, they will continue to manufacture inferior products. :(


    ScottG wrote:
    Because most people aren't willing to pay for it.


    I certainly would !
  • fj12ryder wrote:
    What does it weigh, and how much does it cost?

    It can't weigh much it is aluminum.

    The RETAIL cost for 28' per side is $122.

    It does require an aluminum sheet metal roof, but NO coating/rubber roof !
  • As long as we keep buying inferior products, they will continue to manufacture inferior products. :(

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,108 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 01, 2025