Steel vs Aluminum: Trailer Build Beatdown
When choosing a new trailer, whether open or enclosed, one of the first questions that comes to mind is steel vs aluminum. Among the long list of new trailer questions, trailer build material often leaves people wanting more information. In the debate between steel vs aluminum trailers, we’ve got the expertise you need.
Aluminum Trailer
Aluminum trailers are known for their light weight and durability. They’re made through a combination of metals forged together, with aluminum being the most significant. The result is an aluminum alloy that makes “aluminum” trailers. Though we have a few brands of aluminum trailers in stock, Aluma trailers are our most popular brand.
Pros of Aluminum Trailers
Flexibility
Aluminum is more flexible compared to steel. This is beneficial because if your trailer is bent or dented, it’s easy to bend the aluminum back into place.
Rust Resistance
In the steel vs aluminum conversation, it’s important to note that aluminum is beneficial because it doesn’t rust. Your aluminum trailer will resist rust and corrosion much easier than a steel trailer. This helps them last longer, meaning you get more use for your money.
Light Weight
Aluminum trailers are much lighter than steel trailers. This is one of the aspects that often convinces people to choose an aluminum trailer over steel. A lighter weight means more flexibility with the tow vehicle you choose. It also helps improve the fuel efficiency of your truck when it comes to towing a trailer.
If your tow vehicle can handle more weight, aluminum trailers are often still a good choice. The trailer is lighter, so you can tow cargo that weighs more.
Cons of Aluminum Trailers
Acid Refresh
Every few years your aluminum trailer may need to be doused in acid to renew the exterior and clean the surface of the trailer. This acid wash will remove any buildup on your trailer over the years and help it look shiny and new again. Because they’re so easy to keep looking fresh they also have a higher resale value than steel trailers.
Steel Protection
Though aluminum trailers naturally resist rust, there are ways to protect steel from rusting as well. Steel trailer manufacturers will normally coat their trailers in a protective layer or a layer of zinc to help prevent it from rusting. A nice coat of paint also helps prevent steel trailers from rusting.
Steel Trailer
Steel vs aluminum trailers became a debate when aluminum trailers were introduced to the market in the 1970s. Before then, all trailers were made of steel.
Pros of Steel Trailers
Lower Cost
When shopping for steel vs aluminum trailers, you’ll find that steel trailers come with a cheaper price tag. This is a significant benefit if you’re shopping for a new trailer on a budget. Future maintenance excluded; a steel trailer has a lower initial cost.
Trailer Strength
Steel trailers are stronger than aluminum, as in they’re less likely to be bent or dented. This is especially important if you plan to tow your trailer over rough terrain. They’re also resistant to being bent in inclement weather, which could mean anything from strong winds to hail.
Cons of Steel Trailers
Higher Maintenance
A steel trailer will need more upkeep compared to aluminum. While an acid wash keeps aluminum trailers looking fresh every few years, steel trailers need more maintenance. You’ll likely find yourself repainting or adding a new layer of rust proofing more often than you’d acid wash an aluminum trailer.
If you’re still not sure whether you need an aluminum trailer or a steel trailer, ask us! Our M&G Trailers representatives are experts when it comes to trailers. We’re always happy to talk through the steel vs aluminum trailer debate. Just looking for overall trailer advice? Tell us what you’re looking for, tell us about your tow vehicle, and let us know what you want your trailer to do for you. We’ll use this information to recommend the perfect trailer for you. Then, we’ll help you find it! Stop by our Minnesota trailer dealership to get started.
Check out our full trailer inventory online today! We have tons of trailers from top brands like Aluma, Big Tex, H&H, Iron Bull, Midsota, Sure-Trac and more. Contact us online or stop by our Minnesota trailer dealership when you’re ready to make a purchase.