Posted: 5/4/2021 7:13:01 PM EDT
Is there any significant difference using 2x6's vs 2x8's as decking material on an equipment trailer? I just redecked my 18' 10k trailer with treated 2x6's, as they were around $40 cheaper than the same square footage in 2x8's...but I am curious if I would have been better off with 2x8's. Only reason I am asking at this point, I have another one in 16' that will need new decking as well....so might as well get at least one right.
I know truss span likely makes a difference, but any reason to go with one over the other?
[#1] It won't make any difference honestly the the thickness on each is 1 and 1/2 in I think what matters most is the trusses underneath your trailer and the space between them |
[#2] Effectively....no difference |
[#3] I used 2x10s. And I
used grade 8 bolts and nuts etc. Because its better at not rusting without going stainless and was the same pricer per pound as zinc coated and uncoated bolts. |
[#4] You may have less problems with cupping with smaller boards. |
[#5] |
[#6] Quoted: View Quote In my experience with decks, retaining walls, etc, the wider boards seem to cup faster than the narrower ones. |
[#7] And I used grade 8 bolts and nuts etc View Quote They make special self tapping screws torx head screws, just a matter of drilling the necessary holes....and you really don't need that many due to the trailer design. |
[#8] Update. 2x6's may have a little too much flex. I loaded my tractor, and wasn't too impressed with the amount of "bend" between the trusses. Granted, I never really paid any attention to it before with 2x8's, so I have no way to really accurately compare. The cross braces/trusses now are roughly 24-26" on center, and the real problem would be if you managed to get one of the front tires on just one of the boards (in between the braces). Regardless, I have now run a couple extra braces where the front/rear tires sit (using 2x3" box tubing)...so I would have likely been better off sticking with 2x8's. |
[#9] The 2x6s should stiffen up once they are dried out. The moisture from the pressure treating is contributing to the flexing. |
[#10] Quoted: View Quote It will be interesting to see if it changes much... |
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