Less Weight

Azdel Onboard composite is about half the weight of plywood with the same dimensions

Why Does Weight Matter?

More than ever before, and at a younger age, people are getting into RVing and the lifestyle that goes with it. RV owners want mobility, flexibility, and towability. Not everyone owns, or wants to own, a heavy duty pickup truck capable of towing a large unit. With significant weight reduction, RV’s can be towed by smaller vehicles with less towing capacity, making it easier for many to take that step into RV ownership. A lighter load, even with a motorhome, is easier on your vehicle, better for fuel efficiency and, in turn, easier on your wallet – even for those with larger trucks. And consider this: the more weight your unit consumes of your towing capacity, regardless of the vehicle you’re driving, the less weight you have available for cargo.

Every component of your RV’s construction that is wood instead of Azdel is nearly twice as heavy as it could be. Some of that weight difference gets hidden when combined with other components, as in the case of RV sidewalls. The exterior fiberglass (FRP), the foam core, and the glue that bonds it together are all parts of a laminated wall that will be there regardless which substrate is used. But excess weight in an RV should be due to extras that you pay for, or things you bring, not the basic wall construction.

Sidewall Weight Comparison – Travel Trailers

The matrix below compares the weights of sidewall construction types for an average travel trailer. It also reveals the weight savings that can be had by using Azdel instead of wood. The sample images below the matrix are of cutouts from real travel trailer sidewalls. These all use 2.7mm layers for the exterior side behind the FRP, which is typical of most travel trailers. Some brands use 3.6mm, but we have not included such weights or images here.

Weight comparison matrix - TT

28′ Travel Trailer

This comparison assumes the following:

  • All weights are in pounds (lbs.)
  • Indicated layer thicknesses are in millimeters (mm)
  • Other wall layers – FRP; foam core; décor – are identical
  • Travel Trailer walls use seven 4×7′ sheets; 392 sq ft
  • The appropriate weight of adhesive is included
  • Lauan is dry*

*Dry lauan still contains 10-12% water content.
This can fluctuate, leading to inconsistencies in the wood.

A) Generic Sample
B) 2.7L | 1.5"F | 2.7L

1.61 lb / sq ft

C) 2.7X | 1.5"F | 2.7L

1.46 lbs / sq ft

D) 2.7X | 1.5"F | 2.7X

1.29 lbs / sq ft

Sidewall Weight Comparison – Fifth Wheels

The matrix below compares the weights of sidewall construction types for a large fifth wheel. It also reveals the weight savings that can be had by using Azdel instead of wood. The sample images below the matrix are of cutouts from real fifth wheel sidewalls. Walls of fifth wheels often include thicker layers, particularly on the exterior side. Shown below is a double layer of 2.7mm lauan and its common upgrade, a 4.7mm layer of Azdel composite.

Weight comparison matrix - 5th

40′ Fifth Wheel

This comparison assumes the following:

  • All weights are in pounds (lbs.)
  • Indicated layer thicknesses are in millimeters (mm)
  • Other wall layers – FRP; foam core; décor – are identical
  • Fifth Wheel walls use ten 4×9′ sheets; 720 sq ft
  • The appropriate weight of adhesive is included
  • Lauan is dry*

*Dry lauan still contains 10-12% water content.

E) 2x2.7L | 1.5"F | 2.7L

2.00 lbs / sq ft

F) 4.7Z | 1.5"F | 2.7L

1.60 lbs / sq ft

G) 4.7Z | 1.5"F | 4.7Z

1.58 lbs / sq ft

H) 4.7Z | 1.5"F | 2.7X

1.43 lbs / sq ft