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This post is part of a series documenting our homebuilt teardrop trailer, covering the exterior wood skin and waterproofing sealant. Please scroll to the bottom of this post for links to previous articles.
The discussion about how to finish the outside of the trailer was a thing” for a while… basically, what it came down to was this: Wood = Less money up front, but more maintenance long term. Aluminum = More money now, but next to no maintenance for years and years.
We decided to make the investment now and make it easier down the road.
I was shocked at how quickly this part all happened; it was basically one weekend.
We bought 1/8″ marine plywood, to help with the long term-ness of the skin. (Again, more money up front, but less in the long run. The 4'x8′ sheets were about $40 each; non-marine of similar material would be closer to $10. Your prices may vary)
The exterior skinning was pretty straightforward; flat is easy.
Skinning around the curve of the front presented a different set of challenges, but it was nothing that some straps and heavy duty glue couldn't help!
Once it was set for a bit, Jamie trimmed off the excess, and voila! The shape was done.
Teardrop Trailer Sealant
A few coats of spar varnish for added protection against the elements, and then its ready for final aluminum skin!
Next post: Hatch Construction
Previous posts: Planning & Framing | Walls & Interior Skin | Galley Counter & Flooring | Insulation | Interior Ceiling & Fan
