Before we talk about the tiny house on wheels (THOW) structural design, let’s define what structure design is. A structural design is a process involving creating a safe and functional design under any load it may have to carry or experience. This applies, be it a tiny house on wheels or not,
Thus, to design and build a tiny house on wheels, one must determine certain factors, such as the stiffness, strength, and stability of a structure. Let us use an example.
Imagine the Eiffel Tower, an iconic structural design. It has a strong construction of steel iron and custom form designed for wind resistance.
In today’s article, we’ll discuss the basics of tiny house on wheels structural design.
People ask a builder about a sound house plan with interior, floor layout, and requirements to comply with a building code. Those trying to make or build a tiny house also look for the following information online:
- Design A Tiny House on Wheels
- How to Build a Tiny House
- Small Tiny House Design
- Functional And Modern Tiny House Design
- The Tiny House Building Materials
Contents
What Is A Tiny House on Wheels Structure Design?
Before buying or designing or thinking about the location where to park a wheeled home to construct, know what its structural design is.
A small house on wheels is almost like a traditional home. It has electrical, stair that doubles as storage underneath, wall, roof, frame, support, and other build elements.
But, these homes are micro scale houses with wheels that replace a typical home’s foundation. Hence, a tiny house design should adapt to different situations and contexts.
That is a tiny home trailer. It can reduce the environmental impact of traditional homes built on a permanent foundation. This involves no earthwork or drilling. It also does not interrupt nature while being self-sufficient. It has the tools that allow mobility while adhering to any requirement or local, state, or building code laws.
A little exception: This wheeled home is like a home. However, it is like a recreational vehicle because it is zoned and lived in like an RV. The sizing must also follow road towing limits. It is why a builder should take every step to build a tiny house.
For example, the maximum size should be 13.5 x 8.5 x 40 feet (height, width, length) – excluding the towing vehicle where to connect it.
Tiny House on Wheels Structural Design: Parts & Materials
A contractor should consider the materials to engineer a wheeled small home. This is in addition to complying with a building permit or license.
A good tiny house plan includes the materials to use the flexible living space efficiently. It is also to avoid mistakes in insulation, storage, toilet, interior walls, and layout in the THOW construction process. Materials of choice can support weight management and mobility and ensure durability.
I’ve discussed the materials for tiny home construction in this article. You’ll also need to learn about these. But in the following section, I’ll briefly touch on them.
- Trailer Base: Many homeowners prefer a steel treated foundation for a high integrity one. That’s why it has to be rigid and square. Its axles must be rated for a higher load versus the total weight of your home.
- Framing: A builder can also design it using 3D software like SketchUp instead of manually drawing. This is another important part of a tiny home on wheels. Some choose steel because it is strong and lightweight and offers transportation integrity. Yet, others choose wood for a more aesthetic, rustic look. It also has good insulation.
- Insulation: Choices include rigid foam boards, cotton or sheep wool, or spray foam.
- Exterior Siding: It’s either steel or aluminum siding. It requires little maintenance but has durability. It may also be wise to choose wood like pine or cedar. However, it is a bit heavier and requires some woodworking and more maintenance. The rest choose fiber cement because it is fire-resistant.
- Roofing: Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a durable, lightweight membrane for many THOWs/RVs. It is energy-efficient and easy to install. On the other hand, there are metals like aluminum and steel. Homeowners choose it for weather resistance and low maintenance.
Tiny House on Wheels Structural Design: Materials of Other Parts
Flooring
The small housing’s flooring materials depend on one’s preference. So during inspection, you should talk about it to your contractor. Some people select laminate or vinyl. It is lightweight, durable, and moisture-resistant.
Then, there is engineered wood. Compared to solid wood, it is lighter. Still, it can provide your home with warmth but without the bulk. Meanwhile, others choose bamboo. It is eco-friendly, strong, and beautiful.
To help you decide on the flooring, think about what to put in your compact home. Will you have a hot water heater, furniture, or bunk bed? Or how about what appliance you want to have onboard? Will there be a fridge?
It is important to ensure that the flooring is also strong enough to support the weight of the content of your mobile home on wheels.
Tip: Think about weight distribution. Washing machines and other heavy furniture and appliances must be on the reinforced sections of the flooring or over axles.
Interior Walls
While less common, drywall is an option. However, many homeowners stay away from it because it could crack during transportation. Plywood is cost-effective and lightweight. On the other hand, shiplap gives a rustic feel.
Windows
It can either be a double-pane or triple-pane glass window for sound insulation and efficiency. On the other hand, others prefer vinyl frames because they do not need much maintenance and are lightweight. The rest consider aluminum’s durability and less weight.
Finishes
Less common, other mobile homes on wheels use recycled or reclaimed materials. Both add character and eco-friendliness. The more typical choice is low volatile organic compound paints and finishes that promote good indoor air quality.
Fasteners and Hardware
Stainless steel fasteners are of high integrity and strong. This is especially for THOWs with high element exposure during frequent travels.
Utilities and Systems
A composting toilet requires no traditional septic system. It is perfect for sustainability, eco-friendliness, and mobility. Homeowners choose propane systems for hot water, heating, and cooking. Finally, they opt for solar panels or energy systems for off-grid tiny house living.
Space-Saving Tips and Ideas
- Use lofted sleeping areas to maximize the floor space.
- Choose convertible furniture with double purposes, such as a sofa bed.
- Ask your builder about built-in areas, such as stairs that function as storage underneath.
- Install shelves and cabinets for floor-to-ceiling storage to maximize the vertical space available.
- Consider a compact kitchen design, a galley layout that has appliances and cabinets on a narrow aisle’s side.
- Use multifunction appliances, like a two-burner stovetop. You can also consider built-in and compact appliances, such as a slim fridge.
- Choose a tankless water heater to save space.
- Think about an open floor plan to maximize partitions and walls.
I’ve covered this in more detail in this article, “Space-Saving Architectural Designs.” Check it out.
Tips & Ideas for Functional And Space-Efficient Staircases
- Storage stairs will have built-in drawers that function as hidden storage. They can also have pull-out cabinets/shelves to store items like books and kitchen supplies.
- Alternating tread or ladder stairs allow for a steep incline but still safe to use. They can reduce the stairs’ footprint.
- Spiral staircases also have small footprints to save much space while allowing easy access to the upper level of the small home.
- Retractable or foldable stairs offer a hideaway design perfect for a living space where you use the loft less often.
- Floating stairs offer a minimalist look while keeping an open space underneath.
These designs are practical, cost-effective, and space-saving. You must consider them when designing a tiny house on wheels. Discover more staircase ideas in this article, “Staircases for Saving Space in Tiny Homes on Wheels.”
Final Thoughts
There you have your guide on Tiny House on Wheels Structural Design for a well-designed and optimized living space. Again, it is essential to plan what materials to use, space-saving options, and efficient staircases. This is for a more sustainable, convenient living in a compact home on wheels.
Need help? Contact Tiny Home Builders California at (213) 320-4079 today!