Thickness of Metal for a Smoker

[smokin jason]

Hello Everyone,

I recently bought a new smoker that is pretty much the design i wanted for not that expensive.  I bought it knowing i was going to have to make some modifications.  Well it turns out the metal used on this thing is only about 16 gauge.  Not sure what kind of metal it is.  My idea is to add a layer of steel all the way around.  I have a friend that welds and is willing to help me out on this.  My question to everyone is what gauge steel should I be shooting for?  How thick does a smoker need to be in order to retain heat well?

I was also thinking of taking that heat reflecting sheet you find under the hood of most cars and adding a layer to the smoker before adding the extra steel all the way around.  I have been told it simply reflects the head back toward the source and can withstand up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit.  If i use this can i go with a thinner metal to add?  Thermo-Tec 13575 12" X 24" Adhesive Backed Heat Barrier by Thermo-TecMight

Please let me know what you think.  I rely on the advise you all give me.  Thanks for all the help.  Below is a picture of what i bought. 

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• smokin jason
• Mar 27, 2014

 

[kc5tpy]

Hello Jason.  I like the idea.  Rock wool might be a cheaper option for insulation.  Once insulated you could use anything as the outter skin.  Chose a thickness which is easy to work with and weld.  Maybe 12-14 gauge?  Just my 2 cents worth.  Keep us posted.  Good luck.

Danny

 

[smokin jason]

Thanks Danny,

I looked into the rock wool insulation and its looking like the Thermo-Tec Heat Barrier is going to be cheaper.  Thanks for the suggestion though i will be sure to keep everyone posted. 

 

[kc5tpy]

Hello Jason.  Well I AM surprised.  We like cheaper!  Keep us posted.  Good luck.

Danny