Hello,
I am planning my next conversion and wanted to ask for input from those who have "BTDT..." For interior walls, what material works better -- aluminum or fiberglass panels (like "Kemlite"?).
I want something that is immune to rot in my nice new aluminum trailer, and lighter than plywood.
Aluminum
- Pros: Can be installed at the factory with R-5 insulation (less work for me), slightly lighter at ~16 lbs/panel
- Cons: Only comes in white, small dents show very easily, I'm worried about the thermal bridge from alum skin to metal stud to alum interior wall leading to condensation and other issues.
FRP
- Pros: Comes in variety of shades and textures, I can install higher quality poly-iso insulation and seal around the edges (R-6).
- Cons: Slightly heavier (~20 lbs/panel), potential issues above 130 degrees (can see a trailer interior getting above that if stored in direct sun), I will have to do the install myself.
- Unsure: R-Value is about 0.255 for a 0.09" panel... Likely better than aluminum but pretty negligible. May stop the thermal bridge effect.
Cost is slightly higher for aluminum but not a show stopper, especially considering the labor saved by having the factory do it.
Does anyone have any experience working with these for interior walls? Thanks!