Mobile Homes Need Skirting. Here Are Some Skirting Ideas
Skirting enhances the visual appeal of a mobile home. Furthermore, this article will explain the various skirting ideas to help you make a more informed decision. So, it’s helpful to understand first the need for skirting.
Skirting is a barrier against the elements. Moreover, it also prevents various creatures like rodents, insects, and snakes from nesting underneath your home. Likewise, these creatures can cause damage to your insulation, water lines, and electric wires.
So, the question is not whether to use skirting ideas, but which one to choose. Additionally, we’ve listed below a few mobile homes skirting ideas including their pros and cons. Hopefully, they will help you make the right choice:
– Aluminum skirting
This used to be the most popular mobile home skirting option because aluminum is strong, durable, and does not get easily damaged. Although, it is prone to corrosion as is all aluminum. However, unlike other aluminum, aluminum skirting panels are chemically treated to be resistant to the outdoor elements.
Additionally, with aluminum skirting you will not have to worry about rusting, rotting, or termite infestation. The main disadvantage of aluminum skirting is that it is prone to fading, especially the darker colors and treatment failure.
– Vinyl skirting ideas
The advantages are it is inexpensive, weatherproof, and easy to install. But it is not as durable as aluminum and other materials available. Besides, many mobile homeowners who installed vinyl skirting report that they have problems with rodents.
Also, these creatures are chewing their electric wires and making holes in the insulation. Vinyl may be tempting due to its low cost but not for the long term. Lastly, it tends to be one of the most expensive options available.
Read this article: How much does vinyl skirting cost over time?
– Wood, particleboard, and plywood skirting.
Another option to enhance the beauty of your mobile home and cut the costs for heating is wood, particleboard, and plywood skirting. Still, the panels are chemically treated to be made outdoor proof and should not be vulnerable to water. Unfortunately, they do grow mold when exposed to moisture and do eventually rot.
Moreover, many people who live in regions with high moisture levels and frequent precipitation report having problems with moisture and mold. Also, wood, particleboard, and plywood will not stop rodents from chewing their way through.
So, vinyl skirting, plywood, or anything made of wood is a very short-term solution.
– Simulated fake stone/fake brick skirting
For skirting ideas creating an illusion of real stone or brick you can use fake stone/brick. Be mindful it consists of pressure-treated wood framing to attach the fake stone or brick-like panels.
Likewise, Simulated stone/brick skirting looks beautiful, but the wood can become a breeding ground for mold that can spread to the rest of your home.
So, vinyl skirting, plywood, or anything made of wood is a very short-term solution.
– Concrete skirting –
“Best for deterring rodents.” Being the most durable and convenient of all mobile home skirting options. Also, it will keep the rodents and similar creatures away, will not rust, rot, or get affected by mold or termites.
Likewise, concrete skirting is a little bit more expensive but considering that it lasts a lifetime, it can save you a great deal of money in the long term. Besides, you can paint or stain it in any color you like or leave it natural.
Moreover, people like the natural look because it creates the look of a site-built home. The other benefits are added security, comfort, and lower energy bills.
Lastly, If you live in an area with a cold climate, concrete skirting for manufactured homes will help you keep your home much warmer as it will protect the underneath of the floor from the cold air and winds.
Note: Skirting and underpinning are the same.
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