Sustainability & Trailer Flooring
Introduction
When the semi-trailer was pioneered in the early 20th century, trailer manufacturing evolved into a comprehensive system, distinct and autonomous from the truck industry. It occupies an indispensable position within North Americas transport and delivery network(s). The primary categories of commercial trailers include dry vans, reefer vans, flatbeds, dumps, liquid tanks, heavy low-beds, and specialized types with dry vans realizing about 65% of the annual total production.
In North America, the trailer flooring industry is entering a dynamic period. Originating with basic lumber and steel floors, the industry has grown to include a diverse array of materials such as laminated wood, aluminum, fiberglass-reinforced wood and plastics. These varied flooring types are all present in the marketplace, each competing for dominance. With climate trends indicating that carbon emissions should be dramatically lowered, many flooring manufacturers are beginning to make false claims of sustainability. So, what is the most sustainable trailer flooring product? There are many factors to consider when answering this question. Well start with carbon dioxide emissions.
CO2 Emissions
Many trailer flooring manufacturers claim that their products are environmentally friendly because they dont utilize trees and therefore forests are preserved. However, using green products like plastic and steel will not sufficiently offset carbon emissions. There are many ways carbon emissions can be measured. The most common method of measurement is the life cycle analysis (LCA) which is recognized by ISO (International Organization for Standardization).
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By
Micah Sutfin,
01/03/25
Trailer deck boards are an essential component of any trailer because they provide the foundation for hauling heavy loads, equipment, and materials. However, these deck boards are often subjected to harsh conditions, including exposure to the elements, heavy wear and tear, and the weight of the transported goods. Without proper care and maintenance, its sadly all too common for trailer deck boards to deteriorate well before their time.
How to Make Your Trailer Deck Boards Stand the Test of Time
Our experts here at Trailerdecking.com have put together this helpful guide to help you significantly extend the lifespan of your trailer deck boards.
Invest in High-Quality Wood
The first step in ensuring the longevity of your trailer deck boards is choosing the right materials. TrailerDecking.com offers a range of top-quality wood species, including Apitong (Keruing) and Brazilian Apitong (Angelim Pedra), which are renowned for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. Investing in high-quality wood from the start can save you time and money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
When compared to softwoods, such as Pine or Douglas Fir, naturally durable hardwoods will far outlast softwoods by at least a factor of two. And when compared to plywood, which is typically used on low-cost utility trailers, Keruing or Angelim Pedra will last roughly five to ten times as long!
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By
Steve Getsiv,
08/21/24
The Ultimate Guide to Trailer Flooring
Whether you're moving materials for a weekend project or preparing for a long journey, choosing the right trailer flooring is crucial.
It goes beyond aesthetics; it's about durability, maintenance, and functionality. With choices ranging from rubber and vinyl to wood, making an informed decision can be challenging.
If you're someone who values hands-on work or long drives, this article should help you select the best flooring for your trailer's needs.
https://www.trailerdecking.com/apitong-oil
Choosing the Right Trailer Flooring
Choosing the right flooring for your trailer is crucial. It directly impacts how the trailer can be used, as well as its durability and safety. You need a floor that can handle heavy loads, withstand the movement of equipment, and various weather conditions.
It should also be easy to maintain. Moreover, it's important to ensure good traction in order to prevent slipping.
Factors to Consider in Selecting Trailer Flooring
When choosing the right flooring for your enclosed trailer or cargo trailer, several factors come into play.
Durability
High-quality trailer flooring needs to withstand heavy loads, frequent traffic, and harsh conditions. Whether you're hauling machinery or livestock, your trailer flooring must be up to the task.
Ease of Maintenance
Depending on the type of cargo, your trailer flooring might require regular cleaning. Therefore, a material that is easy to clean and maintain would be a practical choice.
Resistance to Elements
For snowmobile trailer flooring or any trailer exposed to harsh weather conditions, it's imperative to choose flooring that can resist moisture, temperature fluctuations, and UV rays.
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By
Steve Getsiv,
11/03/23
You've decided to replace the flooring on your trailer. Maybe it rotted out from the pile of leaves you left on it all Winter long? Maybe you have some holes and you're afraid someone is going to fall through the deck? Here are some options for you to consider when choosing trailer flooring. Listed from worst to best - we recommend any of the last 3 choices which are all fantastic options for long lasting trailer flooring.
1. Exterior Grade Plywood
Maybe your trailer started out with a plywood floor? It would seem to be a good choice just to put the same stuff back on it, right? No. Plywood is really not a good choice unless you only intend to keep the trailer for a few more seasons. About the only time plywood makes for good trailer flooring is when you're installing it in an enclosed trailer.
If you have plywood on a flatbed or utility trailer that sits out in the weather, you're basically going to have to replace it every few years. There are better choices. Read on.
2. Pressure Treated Lumber
Sure, you can go to your local lumber yard and pick up some pressure treated lumber to replace the rotted out trailer flooring. Almost all pressure treated today is treated AQCI which is less toxic version of the old CCA treatment. AQCI is also corrosive to most metal including the standard trailer flooring screws that are available from most retail trailer repair stores. You have to use galvanized or stainless steel screws which are both difficult to find and very expensive.
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By
Steve Getsiv,
08/15/23
Dedicated to combatting fires nationwide for the past four decades, Jaime Pickering and his wife, Rebecca, took the fight to the next level in 2015 when they launched Pickering Pyro Protection in Aumsville, Oregon. Starting as a The National Wildfire Suppression Association (NWSA) Certified Training facility with one truck, the organization has since grown to a focal regional training center that has since grown to include 12 vehicles and the training of thousands of firefighters annually.
Weve spent most of our lives committed to saving people, landmarks and the environment, said Pickering. We do what we can, when we can. In addition to the instructional courses, we all also lend our equipment and services to fire-fighting organizations across the country. As a result, we are constantly on call and always there to support our fellow brothers whenever were needed.
In recent months, this meant upgrading their services with the repair of the wood decking on a used, 25 ft. flatbed trailer that Pickering purchased in 2020 from a local associate. Nearly 30 years old, the trailers decking was warped and cracked, making it extremely difficult to haul our 17,000 lbs. bulldozer, bobcats and other equipment at least once a month to various sites located throughout the region and surrounding states, said Pickering.
After a Google search and several conversations with TrailerDecking.com in Forest Grove, Pickering drove more than 100 miles to purchase the companys Apitong 2x8 Full Sawn Rough Heavy Duty Deck Boards and ExoShield Apitong Oil.
We literally rolled into the parking lot and TrailerDecking.com not only brought out the material, but helped us fit the decking into the flatbed, explained Pickering. So, we knew exactly what we needed before we left their facility.
We are always willing to take the added step for customers, said Stephen Purdy, TrailerDecking.coms sales manager. But...
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By
Stephen Purdy,
04/24/23
