Hello. I am not a skilled builder, but I learned some techniques with my first building project -- a tiny house that we call Mobile Performance Dwellings b/c three wall panels come down and form stage platforms.

The problem? The walls are very heavy and hard to bring down (you always need two people, which is an issue at times). I would like to make the panels lighter and I would love to get some advice on how to do this (note: a box and tackle system did not work).

Each wall/stage panel is approximately 7'x7'. Built with a wooden frame (2x4's) and joists running 1' on the inside. The interior is covered with 3/4" birchwood. The exterior is covered with 3/4" OSB and a thin layer of galvanized steel.

My thought is to: Take off the OSB (super heavy) and replace with a very thin, lightweight wood. Then reattach the galvanized steel.

Does anyone see a serious issue with this? I imagine I can waterproof the thin wood and caulk really well before and after reattaching the steel.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!
Many thanks, S.

general practice appears to be (I am not a licensed contractor) allowing a home to breathe OUT humidity, and block OUT water. the old-time way was tarpaper. the new preference is Tyvek housewrap (correctly installed with the printing OUT.)

the order is framing/insulation, sheathing board (which provides lateral stability and reinforcement for the framing as well as impact protection,) housewrap, then whatever siding.

steel siding is going to negate any efforts to have a "breatheable" house, however. could lead to a more clammy interior and possible mold issues. you need to vent more aggressively.

all of this is tested in camping trailers and mobile homes, which are basically built as you describe. industry information from those segments should answer your questions. I can tell you if the vents are not open in a camping trailer, you're awash in humidity, to the point where you might not be able to strike a match to light the gas lights.

Have you considered making the walls out of aluminum grate flooring?

http://www.slipnot.com/images/...lank/unpunched/2.jpg

http://www.steelgratingsupplie...es/floorgrating1.jpg

http://www.gratingpacific.com/...um-grating-table.jpg

Libby1010....
Go to the website below and signup, it's free and post your question. There's a guy there that goes by the name Wood Wizard, he builds movable stages for major plays.
http://www.handymanclub.com/