Mobile Home Skirting

To calculate the appropriate amount of mobile home skirting material to buy, you will need accurate measurements of your home. This information can be found in the paperwork from your purchase. However, it is also vital to account for any added structures, like a patio or storage space.

When calculating the skirting requirements without documentation from the builder, measure the length of each side of the house and any added structure. Add those distances together to determine the overall length of skirting needed. Also, carefully measure the distance from the ground to the base of the house in several locations around the perimeter to ensure the skirting panels you purchase are large enough to cover the entire opening under the house.

Ventilation under your mobile is essential for the longevity of the materials used to build your home. Without ample ventilation, the building materials are much more likely to become damaged by moisture, mold, and mildew. Installing one square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of living space in the home is recommended. Vents must also be installed within three feet of each corner to ensure proper airflow under your home. At least one access door is critical to ensure you can service plumbing and other components under your mobile home without damaging the skirting or removing panels.

In addition to the visual appeal you desire, be sure to check the requirements for your community, your home loan, or local recommendations due to the client or any adverse weather in the region. Finally, consider your installation budget and the cost of regular maintenance for the materials you are considering.

There are several materials used for mobile home skirting. Vinyl products are the most cost-effective but are not the most durable, so there could be maintenance costs in coming years. Hardie Board skirting is a lightweight concrete material with added durability, longevity, insulation, and a slightly higher installation cost. Metal or steel skirting products were popular in the past but have all but been replaced by Hardie Board materials. There are also vinyl or poly panels made to look like rock or stone that can be used for skirting. They are thicker and more durable than plain vinyl sheeting but cost more than basic skirting. Finally, natural stone or brick can be used to skirt your mobile home. This material provides a beautiful finish but is the most costly selection.

Mobile home skirting adds to the visual appeal and finished look of your home and provides protection for the foundation, plumbing, and A/C ducts. Finally, it keeps unwanted bugs and small animals away from the underside of your home.