Trailer build

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So I just graduated  welding school and came out with a d1.1 in 4g and a 6g on 6 inch schedule 80. I'm applying for a pipe welding company now, but I want to start doing small jobs on the side. Nothing to critical yet. I have a lincwelder 225 in a military trailer now but want to modify it. I'm going to put a ladder rack on top of the trailer and make sides that flip up so I can access the trailer and let the welder get some air. My question is what gauge sheet would you all recommend? Should I build a frame for the sides? I'm also going to put a locking mechanism on the in side as this will also be too keep thieves out. I'm going to put a piece of sheet on the bottom of the ladder rack to act as a roof to keep the elements out as well. Thanks in advanceSent from my SPH-L710T using Tapatalk
Reply:I would definitely build a frame for the sides, so as to give you something to mount the sheet metal to and also be able to stand up to wind loads on it as it is towed. Make the frame stouter than you think you will need, because there may come a time when you need to carry something up there heavier than just a ladder. Make sure to include tie down points on the frame, too. You want that load to stay on there until you are ready to take it off, not have it unload itself on the road somewhere.
Reply:I'd be hesitant to just put the sheet on the underside of the ladder rack. By doing so you will create a lot of little "lakes" and places for leaves and stuff to collect and cause rust and leaks over time. Best bet would be to build a frame for the roof and sheet the top, then make the ladder rack sit above that roof by a couple of inches so it can drain well and leaves and so on clear easily..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:Yeah your right, I was planning on having a slant to one side. Maybe a 3 inch drop to one side.Sent from my SPH-L710T using Tapatalk