Should I trim the skins?

[emilyweav]

In another thread, I addressed the issue of not having the original subfloor to make a template for the new one. The front and back pieces were so rotted that we couldn't get any of the exterior shape from them. This weekend, I decided to reattach the C channel to the shell so there would be some stability when we go to put the shell back on and we have another point of reference for trying to create the new subfloor. The C channel is all the way at the bottom of the skins for the whole thing except for the very front and the very back. The subfloor I am putting in is composite, so there is no danger of rot anymore. Is there any reason I shouldn't trim the skins where it hangs below the channel? My thought process is if it's all even with the C channel we can set it down completely and move/manipulate the shell and C channel to make sure everything's straight and sitting correctly without danger of crinkling the skins. Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks! (I also posted this in floor and frame but I think that was the wrong spot)

[kidjedi]

I understand what you are saying in regard to wanting to be able to set it down level on the ground, but I think there's an advantage to having the skin come down below the deck. For one, you cover the seem between deck and c channel, and for another, your "drip wall" (the exterior skin) goes beyond the deck so water does not penetrate there.


You might consider instead fastening cross braces at the bottom (fastened to the c channel, but still allowing for exterior skin overhang). This will allow you to create pieces of the exact same length so your (currently) flexible shell isn't leading you astray regarding the shape of the subfloor.