We ve been looking for a new trailer and have a question regarding the relative merits of aluminum siding versus fiberglass.
Fiberglass or aluminum siding trailer.
Fiberglass sides are smoothe whereas aluminum will have ridges for each piece of siding.
Many rv owners prefer aluminum siding material because it s affordable and provides effective insulation.
The weight difference between aluminum sided and fiberglass sided trailers is minimal.
Fiberglass siding is also very durable and less prone to denting and peeling.
One important decision is whether you will choose a trailer with aluminum or fiberglass siding.
Smooth aluminum siding is attached to your rv with metal fasteners or rivets corrugated panels on the other hand connect to your exterior in interlocking sections.
Aluminum is easier to repair but harder to maintain.
This means that you can pull an aluminum travel trailer with a vehicle that has a lower carrying capacity.
If cost isn t a huge factor in choosing your rv fiberglass is the hands down winner.
Aluminum has a number of advantages over fiberglass.
Fiberglass are easy to maintain but require more effort to repair.
Plus repairing specific areas on your rv is often easier with this type of siding as you can remove and restore just the damaged sections.
Not only is its sleek appearance aesthetically pleasing but it s also much easier to clean and maintain than aluminum.
Fiberglass is a relatively newer technology and is currently a popular rv siding choice for a variety of reasons.
Some people also believe aluminum is not as aerodynamic as fiberglass and fiberglass sided campers will get better gas mileage.
Its cleanliness and resale value makes up for the initial price and the gas mileage savings don t hurt either when you are searching in the travel trailer market.
In general fiberglass siding is a better choice for long term convenience and practicality.
It appears from the salesmen we ve talked to that aluminum has the advantages of overall trailer weight the ability to repair easily and cost.
Aluminum is also lightweight and allows you to pull your rv or trailer with lower capacity vehicles.
Painted aluminum siding normally holds up better than the laminate coatings on fiberglass.
Fiberglass sided campers are generally glued to aluminum framing and solid foam insulation.
It is a more affordable material to use in the manufacturing process which is primarily why it is so popular in the marketplace.
Aluminum siding is available in both smooth and corrugated styles.
Aluminum is an incredibly common material for travel trailer siding to be made of and it s very effective.
But aluminum has its virtues too.
Pros and cons of fiberglass.
Aluminum siding is generally less costly than fiberglass and has better breathability which reduces condensation and the chance of mildew and mold growth on the trailer s interior.