Mobile home skirting is an essential component for single wide homes, offering both practical benefits and aesthetic appeal. It creates a finished look by enclosing the space between the ground and the bottom of the home. Single wide mobile home skirting options include vinyl, metal, concrete blocks, and faux stone, with costs ranging from $630 to $1,090 for installation.
Proper skirting installation enhances energy efficiency by providing insulation and protecting pipes from freezing. It also deters pests and rodents from entering the crawl space beneath the home. While some homeowners opt for DIY installation, professional services ensure a secure fit and compliance with local regulations.
Choosing the right skirting material depends on factors such as climate, budget, and personal style preferences. Vinyl remains a popular choice due to its affordability and versatility, while concrete blocks offer durability and a more permanent appearance. Faux stone skirting provides an upscale look without the high cost of real stone, making it an attractive option for those seeking to enhance their mobile home’s curb appeal.
Understanding Mobile Home Skirting
Mobile home skirting serves multiple purposes, from enhancing appearance to improving energy efficiency. It comes in various materials, each offering unique benefits for homeowners.
Purpose and Benefits
Skirting protects the underside of a mobile home from pests, weather, and debris. It improves insulation, potentially lowering heating and cooling costs. The added barrier helps maintain consistent temperatures inside the home.
Proper skirting can prevent moisture buildup underneath the structure, reducing the risk of mold and rot. It also conceals the home’s foundation and any unsightly utility connections.
Many homeowners appreciate the enhanced curb appeal skirting provides. It gives the mobile home a more finished, traditional look. Some types of skirting can even create additional storage space beneath the home.
Types of Skirting Materials
Vinyl skirting is popular due to its affordability and easy installation. It resists moisture and comes in various colors to match the home’s exterior.
Metal skirting offers durability and fire resistance. It withstands harsh weather conditions well but may be prone to denting.
Concrete or brick skirting provides a solid, permanent look. These options offer excellent insulation but are more costly and labor-intensive to install.
Wood skirting can be painted to match the home and offers a natural aesthetic. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage.
Foam skirting provides superior insulation but may not be as durable as other options. Simulated rock or cinder block skirting offers a balance of aesthetics and functionality.
Skirting Options and Considerations
Mobile home skirting comes in various materials, each with distinct advantages and drawbacks. The choice depends on factors like budget, climate, and aesthetic preferences.
Vinyl Skirting
Vinyl skirting is a popular, cost-effective option for single-wide homes. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance. Vinyl skirting costs range from $500 to $1,200 for materials and installation.
This type of skirting is available in multiple colors and styles to match different home exteriors. It resists moisture and pests, making it suitable for various climates.
One drawback is its lower durability compared to sturdier materials. Extreme temperature changes can cause warping or cracking over time.
Metal Skirting
Metal skirting offers durability and a sleek appearance. It withstands harsh weather conditions and resists damage from lawn equipment or debris.
Aluminum and galvanized steel are common metal skirting options. These materials provide excellent ventilation, crucial for preventing moisture buildup under the home.
Metal skirting typically costs more than vinyl but less than stone or brick options. It requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
The main disadvantage is potential rust formation in humid climates or areas with high salt content in the air.
Alternative Skirting Materials
Faux stone and simulated rock skirting offer a high-end look without the weight and cost of real stone. These materials provide excellent insulation and durability.
Prices for faux stone skirting range from $800 to $1,400 for double-wide homes. Installation is more complex than vinyl or metal, often requiring professional help.
Concrete skirting provides a solid, permanent solution. It offers superior insulation and protection against pests. However, it’s the most expensive option and difficult to modify once installed.
Wood skirting gives a classic look but needs regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage. It’s a good choice for dry climates and can be painted to match the home’s exterior.
Installation Guide
Installing single wide skirting requires careful preparation and a systematic approach. The process involves measuring, cutting, and securing panels to create a finished look for your mobile home.
Preparation and Tools
Measure the perimeter of your single wide mobile home accurately. Add all sides together to determine the total skirting length needed. For example, a 16′ x 72′ home requires about 200 feet of skirting material.
Essential tools include:
- Measuring tape
- Saw (circular or hand)
- Drill
- Level
- Screwdriver
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Purchase a skirting kit or individual components based on your measurements. Vinyl skirting is popular due to its durability and ease of installation.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Start by installing the top back rail around the home’s perimeter. Ensure it’s level and securely fastened.
Cut skirting panels to fit, allowing for overlaps at joints. Begin installation at a corner, working your way around the home.
Secure each panel to the top rail and ground track. Use manufacturer-recommended fasteners.
For corners, make a 1-inch vertical slit from the top of the rail to allow for proper fitting.
Install ventilation panels as needed to prevent moisture buildup.
Finish by adding trim pieces for a polished look. Double-check all connections and ensure panels are firmly in place.
Cost and Budgeting
Skirting costs vary widely depending on materials and installation methods. Homeowners should carefully evaluate options to find the right balance of affordability and quality for their needs.
Evaluating Skirting Prices
Vinyl skirting is typically the most cost-effective option, ranging from $630 to $1,090 for a single-wide mobile home. Higher-end materials like faux stone can cost up to $7,000 for materials alone. Brick or concrete block skirting, while durable, may exceed $2,000 for a standard 16×80-foot home.
Factors affecting price include:
- Home size (single-wide vs. double-wide)
- Material quality
- Climate considerations
- Design complexity
Budgeting for Installation
Installation costs can significantly impact the total budget. Professional installation rates vary from $30 to $60 per hour or $240 to $480 per day. DIY installation can save money but requires time and skill.
Key budgeting considerations:
- Labor costs
- Tools and equipment
- Prep work (framing, ground leveling)
- Permits and inspections
It’s wise to get multiple quotes from reputable contractors. Factor in long-term durability when comparing options. Cheaper materials may need more frequent replacement, increasing costs over time.
Maintaining Your Skirting
Proper maintenance of your single wide skirting ensures its longevity and effectiveness. Regular care prevents moisture buildup and enhances the durability of your home’s foundation.
Routine Maintenance Tips
Inspect your skirting regularly for signs of damage or wear. Clean the exterior surface with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris. Use a soft brush to avoid scratching the material. Check ventilation openings and clear any obstructions to maintain proper airflow.
Trim vegetation around the skirting to prevent moisture retention. Apply a protective coating to wood or metal skirting every few years to guard against weathering. Tighten any loose fasteners and replace damaged ones promptly.
For vinyl skirting, use a vinyl cleaner to maintain its appearance and protect against UV damage. Ensure proper drainage around the skirting to prevent water accumulation.
Dealing with Damage and Repairs
Address small cracks or holes immediately to prevent further damage. Use a sealant compatible with your skirting material for minor repairs. For larger damages, consider replacing individual panels rather than the entire skirting.
Repair loose or fallen skirting promptly to maintain its protective function. Use adhesive and screws to reattach panels securely. For dents in metal skirting, gently tap them out from behind using a rubber mallet.
Replace rotted wood sections in timber skirting. Sand and repaint repaired areas to match the existing finish. For severe damage, consult a professional to assess the need for full replacement.
Keep spare skirting materials on hand for quick repairs. This ensures consistent appearance and saves time during maintenance.
Enhancing Mobile Home Aesthetics
Skirting plays a crucial role in elevating the appearance of single-wide mobile homes. It offers opportunities for creative expression while serving practical purposes.
Creative Skirting Ideas
Faux stone skirting provides an upscale look without the high cost of real stone. It mimics the texture and appearance of natural stone, adding a touch of elegance to mobile homes. Vinyl skirting comes in various colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to match their home’s exterior or create contrast.
Wooden lattice skirting offers a classic, rustic charm. It can be painted or stained to complement the home’s color scheme. For a modern twist, consider using corrugated metal panels. These create a sleek, industrial look and are highly durable.
Brick veneer skirting gives the illusion of a solid foundation, enhancing curb appeal. It’s available in different colors and styles to suit various architectural preferences.
Combining Function and Style
Skirting doesn’t just improve aesthetics; it also serves practical purposes. Ventilated skirting panels allow proper airflow beneath the home, preventing moisture buildup. These panels come in attractive designs that don’t compromise on style.
Insulated skirting helps regulate temperature, keeping the home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Many insulated options feature appealing textures and colors. Some skirting materials, like vinyl, are easy to clean and maintain, preserving their appearance over time.
Removable skirting panels offer convenience for accessing utilities or storage areas. These can be designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of the skirting, maintaining a cohesive look.