Cargo trailer sheet metal thickness

Aluminum exterior sheet metal

This metal comes in different thicknesses and colors. Common thickness used is .024, .030, .040, and occasionally .050. To keep costs as low as possible, many manufacturers use .024 aluminum and offer thicker gauges as an option.

Because .024 is very thin, it is very easy to bend or crease during installation. This is one item where trailer buyers should consider increasing their budget and opt for a thicker gauge.

Important!

If your cargo trailer is 12 inches or more higher than normal, you should consider thicker sheet metal of at least .030 or more.

Wavy outside trailer walls normally occur because the outside sheet metal is too thin.  To avoid this problem, make sure to use at least .030 sheet metal.

In addition, if your trailer is built semi-screwless, it is best to have the screws every four (4) feet vertically on the walls,  where they attach to the inside wall studs.