Wood Frame vs Aluminum Frame For Travel Trailers: What’s The Difference?

wood frame vs aluminum frame travel trailers
wood frame vs aluminum frame travel trailers

People often enjoy going out on camping trips with their family and friends. However, the more people you want to take with you, the heavier your luggage can be.

Depending on how long the user wants to stay on their trip, sometimes their storage is not enough.

Considering this, enthusiasts might want to take larger vehicles with them. These are mostly recreational vehicles or motorhomes which have been equipped with numerous other features as well.

Considering this, the user can have a fun time without worrying much. Though, some important things need to be considered when selecting a vehicle for yourself. The frame for your RV or trailer is one of these.

Usually, you have to select between a wood frame or aluminum frame for your travel trailer. If you are confused between these two then going through this article should help you in selecting one.

Wood Frame vs Aluminum Frame For Travel Trailers

Wood Frame

The first thing that you should keep in mind is that the mainframe for almost every travel trailer is made completely out of steel. This usually consists of the two beams that will be of the same size as your trailer.

The second frame or also known as the cage is then built on these beams of steel. People can use wood for this, aluminum, or even a combination of both. While usually hearing that the frame of your vehicle will be made out of wood might scare you.

Though, you should note that these are extremely durable and the user will not even be able to tell the difference between these two materials. Another great thing about using a wooden frame is that these are extremely cheap when compared to the second option.

Even in case of breaks or damages, the user can usually fix it on their own. Small wooden repairs can be done on your own without any heavy equipment.

But one thing that you need to look out for is water leaks. Wood can easily rot when it comes in contact with water. It will then get completely damaged and the user will have to get their entire frame replaced.

But many companies provide sealants and finishing that will keep your entire vehicle waterproof. Considering this, the user might never get a leak on their vehicle if they keep it maintained.

Aluminum Frame

Now getting to aluminum, this is considered to be one of the lightest metals in the world. When compared to iron, the material can be three times lighter than it. Considering this, the frame for your vehicle should be several times lighter than it would be with a wooden frame.

Additionally, the material is extremely durable and corrosion-resistant. Though, considering this, if a lot of weight is put onto the frame of your vehicle. Then the aluminum frame will eventually start to bend.

This can sometimes change the shape of your frame which can cause some issues. On the other hand, a wooden frame can revert to its original location. Even in case of breaks, the user has to call in specialists who will weld the material for you.

Aluminum is also quite expensive when compared to a wooden frame. Though, you should note that wooden frames are usually stapled together.

These staples will eventually start to catch on rust and will break for the user. While aluminum frames cannot get rusted which is why the user does not have to worry about this.

Even in case of leaks, the water will not be able to damage your frame. Though, this can still damage the interior of your vehicle. This is why you must keep it secure from any water accidentally entering your travel trailer.

Talking about this, by going through the article provided above. The user should notice that both materials have their own merits. You can choose either one for your vehicle and you should be good to go.

If you want to prevent the frame of your vehicle from getting damaged then you will have to keep it maintained. This is because both materials can get damaged if not looked out for. People who are still confused between the two can even use a combination of both of these materials for the frame of their travel trailers.

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