Re: Trailers & Amenities

[Bill & Dee Fortner <wfortner@peop.tds.net>]

DreamWeaver wrote:
> 
> > What type of insulation is best to use?  What R-value?  Also, should > the ceiling be insulated as well as the walls?
> 
	We used 2 layers of styrofoam.  One layer went between the ribs and the 2nd layer on top of
the first layer covering the ribs.  Yes, insulate ceiling and walls.  The ribs will sweat if
not insulated.

> How about paneling?  Those of you that have done this yourself...is > > there one type that might be easier to work with...say wood, or > > another type of material?  How about color suggestions?
> 
	In my first trailer, we used a plastic/fiberglas type like you see in a lot of restaurant
restrooms.  It is very durable and very easy to clean.  However, during the hot weather, it
gave off an odor that we didn't like.  But, I think that in time, the odor would have gone
away.  We sold the trailer before that happened.
	In my second trailer, we used panelling, an off white color for better visibility and light
reflection.  The panelling has not held up well in my trailer because if there is the
slightest water leak, the panelling will stain.  Looks awful.  A darker color may not show
the water stain.  I saw one trailer done very tastefully in 2" tongue and groove pine
strips.  Then varnished.  I saw another done in a plastic (shiny) sheeting (white in color)
which I liked very much.  Easy to clean, held up to rough treatment and didn't water stain. 
It was probably lighter in weight than panelling or the wood tongue and groove.

> > What options/amenities are your absolute favorites?  What items do you have
> that you feel are worthless and a waste of space? 

	For me, a shower with hot water is a must.  A portable potti can be placed in the shower
and moved if you don't have enough space for a permanent potty.  Then a place to cook and
sit down to eat, a refrigerator, and a sink is absolutely necessary for washing face, hands
and teeth and dishes too if you are so inclined.  I prefer paper plates and plastic eating
utinsils myself, but haven't found any paper/disposable pots that work very well.  <vbg>  A
closet for hanging clothes and some drawers for other clothes.  Plenty of storage, as much
as you can manage (for all those extra blankets, clothes, boots, coats, rain coats, etc.
that you just have to carry for any type of weather).
	A microwave and A/C are very nice to have, but aren't worth much unless you go where you
have electric hookup or carry your own generator.  Lights, lots of lights inside and
outside.  A heater of some kind is a must.  The catalytic ones using propane work great and
take up little space.
	Good luck in your new project.

Dee