reinforced walls

[erikcampbell]

What's the deal with this?
Is this so you can screw things into the wall? What would I want or need to screw into the wall? How important is considering this option?

[padlin]

Yes, they obviously make for a stronger screw connection. Without backing the walls are very thin plywood. I got them on walls where I might want towel bars, coat hooks, small shelves, etc. In practice I've only attached Umbra hooks to 2 of the walls which ETI will do for you if you provide them, and ETI does not require the reinforcement. People are also finding the 3M command hooks satisfactory.
It was another of those better to get and not need then not get and wish I had items. Like prewire for stereo.

[cpaharley2008]

Eric,
As a homeowner if you have ever tried to hang a heavy mirror where there was no stud in the wall, this option eliminates that issue. If you know where you want to mount things and plan then you have no problem. Just allows more flexibility but does add weight.

[Jim Bennett]

It was not an option when I bought to add wall reinforcing, but I have had no issue at all with mounting things. I have a couple magazine racks on the walls, and was able to use the existing framing. 4 years later, plus travelling with books in them, they are still hanging in good. I doubt I would get it as an option if buying again, but can't really say for sure until I would be in that situation.

[KarenH]

I think the biggest concern and the need for reinforcement is for mounting a television. Umbra hooks and magazine racks...not so much.

[Klem]

On our 2014 19' the reinforcement is behind the top 2/3 of the paneling and ETI said that's how they do it.

I planned things mounted lower and had to use aluminum staps to to span the paneling. The paneling is softwood plywood with oak printed paper about 1/8+ ".

[rbryan4]

Originally Posted by KarenH

I think the biggest concern and the need for reinforcement is for mounting a television. Umbra hooks and magazine racks...not so much.

I agree. We had probably 3 dozen couples tour our 19 during the Bluebonnet Rally, and we had a list of installed options taped to the outside of the trailer by the door. Many folks wanted to know about the reinforced walls, which ones, and why. My stock answer is to not bother with reinforcing a wall unless you intend to hang something heavy from it -- like a TV mount. it adds alot of weight to the trailer, not to mention the expense. We only reinforced two walls, and for a specific reason.