How to Ventilate a Cargo Trailer

Air circulation becomes stagnant in cargo trailers because they are typically enclosed. This may lead to mildew and foul aromas. One way to combat this is by adding a vent to the cargo trailer. Vents can added to either the back rear wall or the roof. When the vent is open, air flows into the trailer allowing stagnant air to flow out of the enclosed space, thus preventing unwanted odors or mold from developing inside the trailer.

Things You'll Need

  • Power saw
  • Tape measure
  • Marker
  • Power drill
  • Silicone caulk and caulk gun
  • Vent with bracket kit
  • Take the measurements of the vent and vent bracket. Mark out a location along the back wall or on the roof. If using the wall, keep the vent in the top 1/3 of the trailer wall. Place the vent bracket at the measurements and mark the bracket screw holes on the wall or roof.

  • Cut the vent hole at the measurements and drill the bracket screw holes around the vent hole. Begin the cut by drilling a small hole into the layers of the cargo trailer wall. Use the drilled hole as an entry point for the saw blade. Some trailers consist of a metal shell with the interior lined with plywood. Whatever is the case, you will have to give thought to potentially cutting through two layers. The first is the inner, plywood wall. The second is the metal shell. Each cut will require a different form of blade.

  • Insert the vent into the cut hole. Be sure to push the vent so it is through both walls on the cargo trailer. Go inside the trailer to check the vent has gone through completely.

  • Push the bracket over the vent and against the wall or roof. Align the screw-holes to the drilled holes. Screw the bracket into the trailer wall or roof.

  • Apply a coat of silicone caulk around the vent on the inside and outside of the trailer. Close the vent and open it to test the attachments.