Aluminum trailer floor replacement.

I have a 5×10 aluminum trailer. The wood is really starting to fall apart and I figure I should test it down and start fresh. But I’ve read that your not supposed to use pressure treated on an aluminum trailer. Is this true? And if so what the best option?
It’s sheets of plywood not boards
Thank you

I would think you would use marine grade plywood just like you would use in an aluminum boat. Just my guess.

Jason Baisley wrote:

I have a 5×10 aluminum trailer. The wood is really starting to fall apart and I figure I should test it down and start fresh. But I’ve read that your not supposed to use pressure treated on an aluminum trailer. Is this true? And if so what the best option?
It’s sheets of plywood not boards
Thank you

Good question, I’ll be following, have a 5×8 trailer floor I’ll need to replace next year. I’d assume marine grade is a good option.

Marine grade and a good oil paint or sealer after you fit it and before tou fasten it down. I replaced my deck on my snowmobile trailer 9 years ago and it still looks great.

Many trailer manufacturers are using Advantech subfloor. It has a thick waxy layer on the faces to protect it. Then on the inside where it will get damaged or worn away put whatever flooring or coating you desire.

I used treated on mine 4-5 years ago and have no problems. I don’t think the stuff they treat with is nothing like the old stuff was.

I would get window tape and cover all the aluminum with that. Then use treated. The tape will create a barrier between the aluminum and the treated wood. That’s what I did and haven’t had any issues

David Blais wrote:

I would get window tape and cover all the aluminum with that. Then use treated. The tape will create a barrier between the aluminum and the treated wood. That’s what I did and haven’t had any issues

This, or any kind of tape really (like a layer of Gorilla tape).

Also, make sure to use an appropriate fastener that won’t react with aluminum

(Something coated, like galvanized screws)

David Blais wrote:

I would get window tape and cover all the aluminum with that. Then use treated. The tape will create a barrier between the aluminum and the treated wood. That’s what I did and haven’t had any issues

B-man wrote:

<div class=”d4p-bbt-quote-title”>David Blais wrote:</div>
I would get window tape and cover all the aluminum with that. Then use treated. The tape will create a barrier between the aluminum and the treated wood. That’s what I did and haven’t had any issues

This, or any kind of tape really (like a layer of Gorilla tape).

Also, make sure to use an appropriate fastener that won’t react with aluminum

(Something coated, like galvanized screws)

I never thought of the tape idea. Good to know for future needs. Thanks guys.

I wouldnt shy away from the correct thickness treated plywood.
Seems like composite decking would work but not sure? Maybe cost prohibitive?
I always thought about trying that if I had a chance.

I did the tape trick with an aluminum boat I put together a few years ago. All surfaces of the wood that were in contact with the boat directly got a layer of a thick polyurethane tape, similar to gorilla tape but better, prior to wrapping in carpet.

Make sure the fasteners are ones that don’t react with ACQ treated lumber. Usually stainless steel or deck fasteners.