One-Piece Fiberglass Shell

Built to Roam, Built to Last - The Strength of One-Piece Fiberglass Trailers

Here at Bean Trailer, we believe in crafting travel trailers that go the distance. That’s why we use one-piece fiberglass shells in our construction. These innovative shells offer advantages to the adventurous traveler, providing a strong, secure, and low-maintenance home away from home on wheels.

Bean trailers are made out of a single piece of fiberglass to reduce the chance of water leaks or other problems related to a faulty fit. Instead of having multiple pieces of material that need to fit together perfectly, a Bean trailer is one piece of fiberglass, ready to be customized to your liking.

Built for the Journey: Advantages of One-Piece Fiberglass Shells

Molded, durable fiberglass not only ensures a seamless fit, but can be sturdier than other materials, such as wood or stainless steel. Other benefits of a fiberglass shell for your Bean trailer include:

Unmatched Durability: Fiberglass is incredibly strong and resilient, making your Bean Trailer a dependable companion on any terrain. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and minor bumps without succumbing to dents or cracks.
Seamless Seal, Lasting Protection: Unlike traditional trailers with multiple panels, a one-piece fiberglass shell eliminates seams. This minimizes the risk of leaks, a common issue that can lead to water damage and mold growth.
Effortless Maintenance: Fiberglass is a breeze to maintain. A simple wash with mild soap and water keeps your trailer looking shiny and new. Plus, its resistance to rust and corrosion eliminates a whole set of potential headaches.
Lightweight Champion: Compared to traditional materials, fiberglass is surprisingly lightweight and easy to tow. This translates to better fuel efficiency for your tow vehicle, allowing you to explore farther without breaking the bank.
Timeless Beauty: Fiberglass boasts a smooth, sleek finish that looks fantastic year after year. With minimal upkeep, your Bean Trailer will retain its curb appeal for years to come.

From Mold to Masterpiece: The Bean Trailer Fiberglass Shell Creation Process

At Bean Trailers, we take pride in the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every one-piece fiberglass shell. Here's a glimpse into the transformative journey that builds your adventure-ready trailer:

Mold Preparation: Our process starts with meticulous mold prep. Highly skilled technicians ensure the molds are clean, polished, and properly sealed to create a smooth surface for the fiberglass.
Gelcoat Application: A pigmented gelcoat is expertly applied to the mold’s interior. This special resin layer provides a high-gloss finish, protects the underlying fiberglass from UV rays, and determines the exterior color of your Bean Trailer.
Layering Fiberglass: Fiberglass cloth, often referred to as “mat,” is meticulously layered onto the mold. Different weights and weave patterns of fiberglass are strategically used to create a lightweight trailer shell.
Resin Bonding: Epoxy resin, the binding agent, is applied over the fiberglass mat. This step saturates the fiberglass and creates a strong, unified structure. The number of fiberglass layers and resin applications may vary depending on the trailer’s size and design.
Compaction and Curing: The entire mold is meticulously rolled and pressed to eliminate air bubbles and ensure a perfect bond between the fiberglass and resin. This stage is crucial for achieving optimal strength and a flawless finish. Curing time allows the resin to harden completely, transforming the fiberglass layers into a solid shell.
Shell Removal and Trimming: Once fully cured, the mold is carefully separated, revealing the newly formed fiberglass shell. Technicians then meticulously trim any excess material to achieve the precise dimensions.
Finishing Touches: The shell undergoes a rigorous inspection to ensure a flawless surface. Any minor imperfections are addressed before the final finishing touches are applied. This may include additional gelcoat layers for customized designs or accents.

The result? A one-piece fiberglass masterpiece – a strong, secure, and waterproof foundation for your exploration on wheels.

Options and Upgrades

Bean offers options and upgrades for your fiberglass trailer, including a large front box, roof rack, water systems, and more. To see what’s available to outfit your Bean trailer, visit our upgrades page.

Keeping Your Bean Trailer Gleaming: Fiberglass Care Tips

Regular Washes: A good cleaning routine is key to maintaining your fiberglass shell’s luster. Wash your trailer after every trip, especially if you’ve encountered dusty roads or salt spray.
Waxing for Protection: Apply a coat of high-quality UV protectant wax a few times a year. This adds an extra layer of defense against the sun’s rays, preventing fading and minor cracks.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals. These can damage the gelcoat, the shiny outer layer of your fiberglass shell. Stick to gentle soaps and specialized RV cleaning products.
Address Repairs Promptly: While minor scratches are unlikely to affect the structural integrity, it’s best to address them promptly. Use a fiberglass repair kit designed for RV applications to maintain a flawless finish.