Tiny House Trailer Things to Consider
Width
We generally produce two common widths, 2.4m and 2.95m. Both these widths gives 75mm per side for cladding, downpipes, gutters, window and door handles, flashings etc when building to the two width situations of 2.55m and 3.1m. We can build to any width up to 3.1m.
Length
Our standard length increments is 600mm to maximise building materials but can build to any length.
Height
We generally have two height options measured from the ground to the top of the steel deck. Other trailers have fixed heights stated on their info pages.
Low rider at 600mm
Elevated at 650mm
Low rider is good if you want maximum total height, for example a house with loft(s). Elevated means the mudguards do not protrude through the deck meaning full insulation between all joists improving R value and making the job easier.
Brake controller
Most trailers come with hard wired brakes setup without the handpiece as standard. Wireless brakes are an extra option. See video:
Lifting Jacks
If a door sits over a lifting jack point it may mean the door can’t be opened. Two options.
Jack can be used to lift and level trailer then block placed at this point
We can move these locations on your request.
Joists
Ensure floor penetrations like shower wastes do not hit steel joists or bearers. We can adjust joists on request to suit wall and other supports.
Water tanks
If purchasing water tanks we usually confirm location under the deck.
Tie Down
Wind are blow over a tiny house and water can float it. Ensure you have sufficient down options. We sell optional tie down eyes to anchor to.
Road or Site
Does your trailer need to be road legal? If you build is going to be over 3.5T there may not be a need for a road legal trailer if its going to travel on the road via truck.
Weight
Keeping weight down is very tough, especially on your first build. Every decision think weight first, make a weight budget spreadsheet, weigh everything into the build and option to remove items for transport. The Smart Trailer is strong an light compared to other tiny house trailers on the market so you are getting off on the right foot.
Openings
Let us know if you have any door openings larger than 2m wide as we may need to add extra bracing to accommodate this.
Accessories
Do you have all required accessories? Most of these can be brought at a later date and installed by yourself. Brakes require electrical experience or auto electrician.
Subfloor
We have developed over the years a lightweight thermal subfloor that is a better r value than standard practice which in our eye is very important. We can build or supply materials for you or copy our approach here. We used untreated plywood as standard to reduce chemicals with a max recommend outdoor exposer time of 3 months. It is highly recommended to enclose structure as quickly as possible if working outside. We recommend to cover floor from weather using a trap in a tent form so timber can breathe. We can’t guarantee minor and rare delamination, as this is out of our hands. Consider sealing wet areas like bathroom and kitchens.
Steel framing
We can supply steel framing ready to stand. We supply frame joining fixings but ensure the structure is fixed and braced appropriately (see image). Refer to the building code and NASH. Managing thermal bridging is also very important to get to right as you only have one chance, see blog here for some guidance.
Transport
We can organise transport or you pickup. If picking up and the deck or load is wider than 2.55m see this post on rules for moving.
