Replacing trailer deck...with what?

[97exc]

Have a 5 x 10 utility trailer, existing 2 x 6 wood deck is splitting badly. I think its old pressure-treated lumber, not totally sure. Anyway, I took it all out to paint the trailer and now would be a good time to replace it with new. I live in Colorado, the trailer stays outside most of the time, sometimes tarped. Its used to haul lawn equipment, ATV, snowmobile, etc the majority of the time. I have loaded it down with organic materials and will probably haul some sod and rock at times.

Based on these uses, what do you suggest as far as replacement decking?

 

[George2615]

I just re did my 5 x 8 trailer I use for hauling around a riding mower. (actually 5'4" x 8' deck). It uses 5/8" marine grade plywood for a deck. That's more than enough for hauling small stuff. On mine, two sheets of plywood were cut 32" wide, laid in the frame and bolted with carriage bolts.

 

[Egon]

Treated 2 in. lumber.:thumbsup:

 

[Soundguy]

i'd go back with 2x6 pt, then paint it with black asphalt paint. should last a looong time.

if you moved heavy stuff.. I'd lay a sheet of 3/4" marine plywood in it and screw down after painting both sides and the deck.

really spreads the weight around.

soundguy

 

[lostcause]

i've used 5/8" plywood (was free) on a snowmobile trailer i built where the supports were 2' apart, but eventually it sagged between the supports. guess that's why the ones you buy all seem to use 3/4". i'm going to build a 5~ish x 10' utility trailer soon, and i've been planning on using 5/4 pt decking. it's pretty strong for anything i would be putting on the trailer, though it's probably not any cheaper than actually using 2x6 pt as has been suggested.

 

[Diamondpilot]

I would go back with PT lumber also.

Chris

 

[CubMon]

wood....

 

[Ken45101]

I agree with 2x6 or 2x8 treated lumber.

It may well be that what you had originally was not treated. I know many of the builders skimp and don't use treated lumber.

I've replaced decks on two trailers like yours in the past few years.

 

[bp fick]

Many of the newer utilities are showing up with Trex. The artificial boards would be quite expensive. They don't seem to be any lighter in weight either. Just sayin'.

 

[The Haymaker]

Wouldn't rough cut hemlock be far cheaper, stronger and durable than PT? PT is brittle stuff and cracks, splinters, easily.