We all have seen trailer houses or mobile homes where the most defining characteristic about them is their use of cheap skirting, right? Many of these residences use vinyl, metal, or wood skirting; although wood skirting for mobile homes is probably the most prolific.
Why wood is such a common skirting method since we all know that it rots?
Rotting, however, isn’t the only issue. Because of the close proximity to the ground, moisture affects paint and stains. So, why is it widely used as a skirting product?
Image of wood skirting for mobile homes.
Price. Wood is pretty cheap. People are always looking for cheap mobile home skirting. In fact, one of the most common searches in the search engines related to skirting is, “cheap mobile home skirting.”
Is Wood Skirting Really So Cheap?
To define cheap mobile home skirting we must include overall cost and quality. You must consider things like:
How long the skirting will last?
What repairs will you have to make?
How much damage could be done to the home?
Will there be health issues?
Wait? Health issues?
Yes, health issues. Wood skirting absorbs moisture and wicks it upwards into your home. This causes a life bed for mold spores to grow. Mold can cause serious health issues and you may not even realize why you are feeling sick.
Do You Still Believe Wood Skirting Is Great?
The most common statement I hear is, “wood skirting will get us by until we can afford something better.” Really? I have seen many homes with wood skirting that has caused thousands of damage. Can you afford to replace rotten joists, insulation, crossover ducts, and water lines? This can exceed $20,000.
This is why I believe wood skirting for mobile homes is not cheap or wise. That’s why we use concrete. I believe concrete/cement skirting is of greater value, will avoid many of these problems, and can help to prevent mold-related health issues. Here are some other ways Duraskirt™ is the mobile home skirting solution for you.
Has an SDG protection in place of the fabric and has a plastic insert
Duraskirt™ has a waterproof additive to the concrete mixture that should make the product last around 100 years.
Duraskirt™ & SDG™ resist freezing and thawing weather conditions, so it is made for the exterior of your home in all climates
Cutting edge concrete technology allows much higher strengths also extending durable life more than 60+ years beyond the average 40+ years most other concrete is expected to resist surface breakdown. that’s more than 100+ years of expected surface durability. No other skirting product comes close.
Our concrete is fireproof & non-flammable for the purposes of the WUI code. Duraskirt™ has been used under the WUI code in California since the codes adoption.
Our new concrete technology resists chemical intrusion by soil or gardening chemicals, chemical densifiers, entrained air (for freezing and thawing also enhanced with the waterproofing agent), chemical stability that resists warping, and very high 7 1/2-sack cement to yard ratio (most foundations use a 5-sack mix).
Ground burial is not an issue
SDG™ and DS-SHED have varying sizes to fit your project. (All panels are 37″width and made in varying heights at 11″, 15.5″, 18″, 24″, 30″ and 33″)
DURASKIRT™ PRO is made in four heights fitting most home applications. (PRO24 , PRO30 and PRO33 are 37″ widths and PRO37 is 30″ wide)
Our DURASKIRT™ high-strength concrete mixture just got better. The thickness of concrete does not matter if it is treated fully with PENETRON™. Therefore, we have exciting news. DURASKIRT™, DURASHEDSKIRT™ & SDG™ products all are made with PENETRON™ waterproofing additive. Permit me to say, “this is an enormous upgrade.”
The thickness of concrete does not matter if it is treated fully with PENETRON™.
Although, PENETRON™ was developed primarily for commercial applications, we believe it makes our products more desirable. In fact, you will agree DURASKIRT™, DURASHEDSKIRT™ and SDG™ products are greatly improved by its advantages.
Why Buy Concrete Products Like DURASKIRT™, DURASHEDSKIRT™ & SDG™?
DURASKIRT™, DURASHEDSKIRT™ & SDG™ Made With PENETRON™
Because you’re looking to prolong the service life of your building or home. DURASKIRT™, DURASHEDSKIRT™ & SDG treated with PENETRON™ ADMIX-treated concrete eliminates further maintenance and repair costs, saving you money. Moreover, it will outlive untreated concrete by 60 years or more.
So, What Are The PENETRON™ Advantages?
PENETRON™ is a crystalline technology that enhances the overall performance and lifespan of concrete. Indeed, its primary intention is to waterproof concrete. Even so, the benefits keep adding up:
Resists high hydrostatic pressure
Provides self-healing capabilities for cracks up to 0.5 mm
Enhances the compressive strength of concrete
Non-toxic and contains no VOCs (NSF 61-certified for potable water applications)
Resists chemical attacks (pH3–11)
Significantly reduces chloride penetration and carbonation
Effectively counters alkali silica reaction (ASR)
Prevents corrosion of reinforcement steel
Not a vapor barrier; allows concrete to breathe
Protects against sulfate attack
Exceeds requirements of ASTM C494-S (Specific Performance Admixtures)
Provides a fully waterproof and permanently dry concrete structure
Preventing Water Permeability
A key characteristic influencing concrete durability is permeability by water, carbon dioxide, chloride, sulfates and other potentially harmful substances. PENETRON™ ADMIX enhances concrete by increasing durability, reducing the ingress of harmful substances, and by improving many aspects of concrete performance by the following benefits:
More Notable Benefits:
Increases durability and lifespan of concrete by 60 years or more (the PENETRON™ ADMIX-treated concrete added up to 60 years or more to the service life of conventional concrete before the onset of corrosion)
Increases durability and lifespan of concrete by 60 years or more
Increases compressive strength by 13%
Concrete self-heals new cracks (PENETRON™ ADMIX is a hydrophilic product that reacts with moisture and concrete minerals to form crystals in cracks and voids. This gives concrete a permanent self-healing capability. Whenever new moisture enters, PENETRON™ ADMIX develops new crystal formations that seal newly formed micro-cracks).
Acid Resistance (When under acid attack, some projects face potential dissolution of the concrete matrix and a subsequent loss of structural integrity. PENETRON™ ADMIX offers protection against chemical attack (pH 3-11) and is the preferred and widely used solution for wastewater treatment plants).
In cold climates, freeze-thaw cycles are a major factor in the deterioration of exposed concrete structures (bridges, roads, etc.). Water inside the concrete expands when it freezes, causing internal pressure; this leads to cracking, and the following thaw allows water to penetrate deeper into the newly formed cracks, then expanding again and causing further damage as the cycle repeats itself. Tests of PENETRON™ ADMIX-treated concrete show a 90% reduction in length changes due to freeze-thaw cycles
Increases compressive strength by 13%
Eliminates the need for any surface-applied protection systems
Corrosion resistant. Corrosion is an electrochemical process that occurs with a difference in electrical potential of steel and the surrounding cement matrix. Chloride-induced corrosion of steel is one of the most important aspects of concrete durability. Concrete dosed with PENETRON™ ADMIX ensures huge reductions in rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT) values (as per ASTM C-1202 and AASHTO T-277 tests) by reducing chloride ion permeability.
Saves money—a lifetime concrete product
“Green” product that contributes points to LEED projects
It provides self-healing of cracks (up to 0.5 mm) over the service life of product.
Improves permeability: While an optimal W/C ratio is crucial in achieving the desired overall concrete performance, permeability is crucial for concrete durability: decreased permeability means increased durability. PENETRON™ ADMIX reduces shrinkage cracking and seals micro-cracks. It provides self-healing of cracks (up to 0.5 mm) over the service life of the structure/product. Finally, our admixture provides a 70% or more permeability reduction as per ACI guidelines for PRAH (permeability-reducing admixtures for hydrostatic conditions).
Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, have come a long way in terms of design, comfort, and functionality. Yet, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is skirting for mobile homes.
Skirting serves both practical and aesthetic purposes, contributing to the stability, appearance, and energy efficiency of these dwellings. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your current skirting or in the process of building a new mobile home, understanding various skirting ideas is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore ten mobile home skirting ideas that can transform the look and performance of your dwelling, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions about your home’s foundation and exterior. Let’s dive in!
1. Inspect and Repair Rim Joist Before installing skirting, it’s essential to inspect and repair the rim joist, especially in older homes. Damaged rim joists can compromise the integrity of the skirting installation.
Inspect Rim Joist: Conduct a thorough inspection of the rim joist around the entire perimeter of the home.
Check for Damage: Look for signs of damage such as rot, decay, or structural weakness in the rim joist.
Address Issues: If any damage is detected, take the necessary steps to repair the rim joist before proceeding with the skirting installation.
Ensure Structural Integrity: Repairing the rim joist ensures the structural integrity of the skirting installation and prevents potential issues in the future.
Consider Professional Help: In cases of extensive damage or structural issues, consider hiring a professional to inspect and repair the rim joist.
2. Level the Ground
Ensure that the ground around the perimeter of your home is level. This ensures that the skirting fits evenly and provides a seamless look.
Check for Consistency: Ensure that the ground level is consistent all around the home to achieve uniform skirting installation.
Assess Ground Level: Use a level or measuring tool to determine the evenness of the ground around the home’s perimeter.
Remove Uneven Areas: If any areas are uneven or sloped, consider leveling them by removing excess soil or gravel.
Use Leveling Tools: Employ tools such as shovels or a grading rake to level the ground effectively.
Adjust as Necessary: Make adjustments as needed to create a flat and even surface for the skirting to sit on.
Verify Fit: Before installing the skirting, double-check that the ground is level to ensure a proper fit and a seamless appearance.
3. Consider DURASKIRT™ for Longevity
DURASKIRT™ offers durable and long-lasting skirting options that enhance the appearance of your home while providing protection against pests and weather elements.
Durability and Longevity: DURASKIRT™ stands out for its exceptional durability and long-lasting performance. Crafted from high-quality materials, DURASKIRT™ skirting options are designed to withstand the test of time, offering reliable protection for your home’s foundation.
Enhanced Appearance: Beyond functionality, DURASKIRT™ skirting elevates the aesthetics of your home. With various styles and finishes available, you can choose a skirting option that complements your home’s exterior, enhancing its overall appearance and curb appeal.
Protection Against Pests: One of the key benefits of DURASKIRT™ is its ability to effectively ward off pests and rodents. The solid construction and seamless installation of DURASKIRT™ panels create a barrier that prevents pests from infiltrating the underfloor area of your home, safeguarding against potential damage and infestations.
Weather Resistance: DURASKIRT™ skirting is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations. Its resilient construction ensures that your home remains protected from external elements, maintaining its structural integrity over time.
Low Maintenance: Additionally, DURASKIRT™ requires minimal maintenance, saving you time and effort in upkeep. Unlike traditional skirting materials that may require frequent repairs or replacements, DURASKIRT™ is designed for hassle-free maintenance, allowing you to enjoy peace of mind and long-term satisfaction with your investment.
4. Explore Different Materials
From vinyl to concrete panels, there are various materials available for mobile home skirting. Consider the durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal of each option before making a decision.
Vinyl Skirting: Vinyl skirting is a popular choice for mobile homes due to its affordability and ease of installation. It comes in a range of colors and styles to suit different preferences. However, while vinyl skirting is relatively low-maintenance, it may not offer the same level of longevity as other materials. Vinyl is also very flammable. When the fires went through Hawaii and California, the fire quickly burned through vinyl and wood skirting.
Concrete Panels (e.g., DURASKIRT™): Concrete panels, such as those offered by DURASKIRT™, are renowned for their durability and longevity. These panels provide robust protection for the underfloor area of your mobile home, shielding it from pests, weather elements, and wear and tear. It also does not burn. Additionally, concrete skirting panels offer a sleek and modern aesthetic that can enhance the overall appearance of your home. While initially, they may require a higher investment, their longevity and low maintenance make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Metal Skirting: Metal skirting is another option to consider, offering strength and durability. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and provides reliable protection for your mobile home. Metal skirting is available in various finishes, including painted or textured options, allowing you to customize the look to match your home’s exterior. However, metal skirting may be susceptible to dents and scratches over time.
Wood Skirting: Wood skirting can add a rustic charm to your mobile home, but it may require more maintenance compared to other materials. Properly treated and sealed wood skirting can offer decent durability, but it may be prone to rot, warping, and insect damage if not adequately maintained. Additionally, wood skirting may not provide as much protection against pests and weather elements as other materials. We had one homeowner who was replacing their wood skirting. Their old wood skirting had allowed water to absorb into the wood and then into the house causing about $40,000 worth of damage to their home.
Faux Stone or Brick Panels: Faux stone or brick panels offer a classic and elegant aesthetic for mobile home skirting. These panels mimic the look of natural stone or brick but are lightweight and easy to install. They provide decent durability and can withstand various weather conditions. However, faux panels may not offer the same level of protection as concrete panels and may require occasional cleaning to maintain their appearance.
When exploring different materials for mobile home skirting, it’s essential to consider factors such as durability, longevity, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. By weighing these factors carefully, you can choose the option that best suits your needs and budget, ensuring a functional and visually appealing skirting solution for your mobile home.
5. DIY vs. Professional Installation
While some homeowners opt for DIY installation, others prefer professional help. Consider your skill level, time, and budget when deciding between DIY and professional installation.
DIY Installation: Opting for a do-it-yourself (DIY) installation of mobile home skirting can be a cost-effective choice for homeowners who are handy and have the necessary tools and skills. DIY installation allows you to save on labor costs and gives you greater control over the project timeline. However, it’s essential to consider your skill level and experience with construction projects before embarking on a DIY skirting installation. While some aspects of skirting installation, such as measuring and cutting panels, may be relatively straightforward, other tasks, such as leveling the ground and ensuring proper ventilation, may require more expertise. Additionally, DIY installation may take longer to complete, especially if you encounter challenges or setbacks along the way.
Professional Installation: Hiring professionals for mobile home skirting installation can offer several advantages, particularly for homeowners who lack the necessary skills, tools, or time to tackle the project themselves. Professional installers have the expertise and experience to ensure that the skirting is installed correctly, efficiently, and according to local building codes and regulations. They can also help you navigate any challenges or complexities that may arise during the installation process, ensuring a seamless and high-quality result. While professional installation may involve additional costs compared to DIY, it can provide peace of mind knowing that the job is being handled by skilled professionals. Additionally, professional installers may offer warranties or guarantees on their work, providing added protection and assurance for homeowners.
When deciding between DIY and professional installation for mobile home skirting, consider factors such as your skill level, available time, budget, and the complexity of the project. While DIY installation can offer cost savings and a sense of accomplishment, professional installation ensures expertise, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. Ultimately, choose the option that best aligns with your preferences, resources, and priorities, ensuring a successful and satisfactory outcome for your mobile home skirting project.
6. Understand Permit Requirements
Familiarize yourself with local building codes and permit requirements for mobile home skirting installation. Compliance with regulations ensures safety and structural integrity. In fact, in the last few years, many municipalities are restricting the types of materials that can be used for mobile home underpinning to protect homeowners. Materials, especially wood, are being prohibited due to the damage they can eventually cause to the home.
In conclusion, mobile home skirting is a vital component of maintaining and enhancing the appearance, stability, and energy efficiency of your home. By exploring different ideas, materials, and installation methods, you can make informed decisions that best suit your needs and preferences. Whether opting for DIY installation or professional help, prioritize quality, durability, and compliance with regulations for successful skirting installation.For more information on mobile home skirting options, contact DURASKIRT™ at (360)419-9909. Our team is dedicated to providing quality products and assistance to help you achieve the perfect skirting solution for your mobile home.
Skirting for Manufactured Homes Made to Look Site-Built
Considering community desires today, manufactured homes must be able to fit into residential neighborhoods. In order to accomplish this, the home essentially needs to look site-built. This is where concrete mobile home skirting is useful.
Most often, site-built homes have a poured-in-place perimeter foundation, stem wall, and footing. Calling this a perimeter foundation for a manufactured home is wrong. Just because it can support the weight of the home on the perimeter does not mean it is a foundation. In some ways, this can be detrimental as it is subject to weather and moisture, not to mention it gets in the way of properly securing the tie-downs. The better system is to support the structure under the home, tucked away from nature’s elements.
Manufactured homes are supported away from the perimeter of the home. This is a great design but leaves a distinctive space beneath the manufactured home. So, how do you take a great design still find a way to skirt match site-built structures? Well, there are a couple of methods to accomplish this.
The stem-wall foundation. The first method is pouring a stem-wall foundation, although entirely unnecessary, around the perimeter. This methodology is costly in requiring a manufactured home to be lifted over and set inside the wall. Although, sometimes the wall can be poured under the home after the setup. Obviously, many contractors loathe doing this for customers.
Concrete mobile home skirting kits. Installing concrete mobile home skirting kits can give an appearance similar to a poured stem-wall foundation. However, Concrete mobile home skirting installation can be done without removing the manufactured home, thus making it much simpler.
DURASKIRT™ Mobile Home Skirting Kits
Consequently, the most popular method is using concrete skirting for manufactured homes like DURASKIRT™. The system consisting of concrete boards or panels set up around the perimeter is a genus. This system serves the following purposes:
Guarding the underfloor with concrete.
Site-built look.
Meets FHA & VA loan requirements.
A long-lasting skirting solution.
Best for matching residential neighborhoods.
Two more reasons for choosing DURASKIRT™ concrete skirting for manufactured homes are simple installation and great customer support.
How Do You Skirt A Manufactured Home on A Sloped Lot?
If you have a sloped lot for your mobile home, you may know that mobile home skirting installation on sloped lots can be a challenge. For almost 25 years, we have been skirting manufactured homes across the United States. Sometimes, though, it can be a thought-provoking experience.
Being the manufacturer of DURASKIRT™, we are sometimes asked, “How high do your mobile home skirting panels reach?” Our answer is always, “as high as you need.” The reason we say that is because we have ways to accomplish almost any height.
Use DURASKIRT™ For Breaking Through the Ground
There has always been a demand for mobile home skirting to look like an extension of the home. This, however, is a problem for wood skirting as wood shouldn’t be in contact with the soil. This is not a problem for DURASKIRT™, since it is made for ground burial. A hybrid solution can also solve the issue of a sloped lot.
By using both DURASKIRT™ and wood, you can achieve the site-built appearance for manufactured homes that are on sloped lots. Just imagine, no more rotting skirting and tremendous rodent prevention. We recommend at least a 6” distance between wood and the dirt. So, plan your siding step-downs accordingly.
How to Frame Step-Downs on Sloped Lots
Using standard framing materials and siding to match, extend siding to form step-downs that conform to the slope. Remember to add paper under the siding to prevent moisture from entering the crawlspace. After the framing is installed under the homes’ exterior rim-joist brace, it back to the I-beams. See Photo.
Things to Keep in Mind
Framing lines up with house above.
Siding matches brand and style.
Showing the siding and framing stepping down. Ready to install DURASKIRT™ concrete panels below.
Lap siding reveals are same as home.
Framing is braced adequately to support back-filling DURASKIRT™.
Wood is no closer than 6” away from soil.
Use hot-dipped galvanized nails into siding.
Once all the framing is braced, papered and sided, it’s time for the mobile home skirting installation by adding DURASKIRT™. We recommend digging DURASKIRT™ into the soil a minimum of 6” and back-filling with a coarse rock. This helps to prevent rodents from digging under the mobile home skirting.
Finally, your home will look like a site-built home. Your friends and neighbors will be surprised to know it is in fact a manufactured home. Furthermore, if you haven’t begun your search for new mobile homes, you may want to read our article “Finding The Best Mobile Home Brands.“
Controlling any projects costs are important. For this reason, we feel the best skirting product for controlling manufactured home skirting prices is DURASKIRT™. Especially when you consider all the costs involved topped with future savings. Not to mention, DURASKIRT™ concrete panel skirting have been in production since August of 2000. Go to DURASKIRT™ Cost!
Lean Production
Most noteworthy is the manufacturing processes have changed by introducing lean manufacturing techniques. These advancements ensure the panels are stronger and more durable. Additionally, these revisions help in streamlining manufacturing. With a leaner manufacturing process and control system the benefits are both better production and lower costs. Hence, DURASKIRT™ is more readily available and consistent.
A Skirting to Invest In
Trying to find manufactured home skirting prices? Are you considering all your costs? Look into the cost of DURASKIRT™.
Although they’re primarily sold for manufactured home skirting kits the concrete panels are also bought for other purposes. Today DURASKIRT™ kits are shipping to home sites throughout the United States. Moreover, the costs of these kits are very competitively priced when considering the overall costs over time. Of course, DURASKIRT™ is an investment.
Even more, two unique aspects to this system is the engineering and Hidden-Vent System. Primarily, the engineering helps homeowners get better financing rates. While the Hidden-Vent System, allows unrestricted air-flow under the home. This eliminates dead air, that normally would coagulate under the home.
Moreover, coagulating air can have a high moisture content. Truly, damp air can be detrimental to your mobile home. Moreover, damp crawlspaces push water into the insulation which in turn has adverse effects on R-Values. Finally, decreased R-values can cause heating and cooling costs to go on the rise.
Other Hidden Cost Considerations for Manufacture Home Skirting Prices
Furthermore, skirting can cause short- and long-term hidden costs. For instance, plywood or vinyl skirting can deteriorate rather quickly. Consequently, left unchecked can cause severe and costly damages to your home. More so, rodent infestation.
The results could be replacing insulation, water lines, polluted vapor barriers, and of course skirting replacement. Therefore, we recommend to choosing a skirting wisely.
Choose Your Skirting Wisely
For more information on DURASKIRT™ Pricing and the product please visit DURASKIRT.com.
Have you been contemplating buying a trailer skirting kit lately? Are you having trouble deciding which one to choose from? We will attempt to make it a bit easier for you by giving you five tips to look for before purchasing your mobile home skirting kit, whether it’s a 16×80 kit, 28′ x 60, or some other size.
Warranty: Good skirting kits always come with a warranty. Typically, a one-year unconditional warranty is best so you can get it.
DURASKIRT™ Kits
Having a warranty can give you peace of mind if you ever need to replace a portion of the skirting if needed because of damage.
Quality of Material: The best trailer skirting kits are made of long-lasting material. Wood and vinyl just don’t last as long as concrete. Concrete skirting kits are what we consider to be the best.
Ease of Installing: Read through the skirting products literature which includes product manuals, photos, installation videos, and online help. Indeed, the best trailer skirting kits have phone help from qualified staff members.
DIY Skirting Help: Most people exploring DIY mobile home skirting are not professionals. Although they are smart enough to find great products and do the work, some products require specialized equipment and tools which you are unlikely to have and can get very expensive. So, make sure the product claims DIY skirting.
A Good Track Record: Finally, be certain the skirting material and the company you’re purchasing from have a good track record. The material should boast of longevity with more than a decade of use behind it, and it should do a good job of keeping critters out from under your home. The best trailer skirting kit companies often have a good following on social media, too.
Skirting Kits Recap
Doing a little research before you purchase can save you money and headaches. It can also keep you from having to redo your work only a few years later. We want you to have peace of mind when buying your trailer skirting kit. Your choice is going to last you a long time (if you choose the right material) We want you to feel right with your choice. So, if you have any questions, please contact us, and we’ll work to answer your questions, explain the process, and help you make the best choice.
What do we recommend?
My best advice is to buy a DURASKIRT™ concrete skirting kit because I know you will love the way it performs. Call 360-333-5498 today and order yours.
Okay, Let’s Set The Distance for The Front Edge of High-Wind Tie-Downs
CLICK TO ENLARGE
High-Wind or Hurricane Tie-Downs can pose a problem with skirting your manufactured home. That’s due to the extra strapping that is fastened to the front of your homes’ rim-joist or floor framing. Since, pictures are worth a thousand words we have a drawing and photos in order to aide you in understanding what you need to do. Furthermore, for those that prefer we explain step by step please follow these directions.
Chose a skirting material but in this case we will be explaining the use of DURASKIRT™.
After the home setup and before adding High-Wind Tie-Downs install 2″ x 2″ drip metal around the bottom of your home. (Photos shown below).
Now install the High-Wind Tie-Downs, also shown in the photos, although carefully considering the tie-down materials must be set at least 2 1/2″ behind belly-band trim or backside of drip cap metal (photos below).
If using drip metal the L-shaped bracket securing the tie-down to exterior rim-joist (framing) will need to be bolted through drip metal into floor framing. This is shown in detail drawing.
Now that you followed these steps begin using the DURASKIRT™ manual for a successful installation.
Perhaps you have seen a neighbor, family member or friend buy vent plugs to plug their home’s vents. Most of the time the excuse, “it will save me the heating bill.” Right? So, it made good sense but still, “why mobile home skirting should be vented.”
Here are a few justifications for good underfloor ventilation:
Vents prevent the buildup of moisture. Everyone knows moisture causes mold and mildew and is harmful to your health.
Saves energy. Venting the crawlspace keeps insulation dry. Moist insulation transfers both heat and cold more easily. Obviously, this can cause higher energy bills. Hence, vents make good sense.
Ventilation clears gases rising from the soil. Gases such as radon and methane coming up from the soils can cause serious health consequences. Building codes require 6 mil poly to stop moisture and ventilation to keep gasses clear.
Venting a crawlspace rids odors. Soil odors can be strong, so venting can help by exchanging air. The best venting is “The Hidden Vent System” because of the continuous venting with no dead air between vents.
As you can see, whether continuously or by mechanical means venting your crawlspace is a must. Not only does it protect your investment, but it is investing into yours and your family’s health. So, do not cover your vents.
Long-Term Effects from Un-ventilated Crawlspace
Moreover, there are long-term consequences of covering vents. We have seen homes destroyed in some cases due to their covering for long periods of time. Additionally, people forget they covered their vents, leaving them in several seasons. Obviously, this can be bad.
With DURASKIRT™ and the “Hidden Vent System” there is no need to ask why mobile home skirting should be vented. Our information is backed by many years of experience and good reasons.
Periodically Inspect Your Vents
Finally, keep your underfloor venting free flowing and clear. We recommend inspecting your venting annually and cleaning it if necessary. Generally, a leaf blower can clear grass, leaves and spider webs.
We hope this information has helped you, and we look forward to serving you. For more information, please call DURASKIRT, LLC 360-333-5498 or email us at richardimus@duraskirt.com.
If you have determined it’s time to replace skirting on your mobile home, then it’s time to explore your options. So, what do you use for mobile home skirting? There are many materials you can choose for skirting your home. For this article, we chose DURASKIRT™ brand mobile home skirting for obvious reasons.
To replace skirting on a mobile home, begin by planning materials, sketching drawings, and adding dimensions so you can make a material list.
Order new skirting materials, preferably DURASKIRT™, making sure you have a place cleared for their arrival. (Getting prepared for DURASKIRT™).
Assuming this project is replacing old materials, you can start by taking down existing skirting.
Removal, Inspection & Restoring for Preparing to Replace Skirting on A Mobile Home
Termite damage in mobile homes caused by wood skirting attracts termites.
After removing aged skirting, you need to inspect the home’s rim-joist for rot, replacing the rotten or termite-eaten members if necessary.
Next begin to inspect the under-crawlspace blocking, tie-downs, belly wrap, piping, and vapor barrier for water or rodent damage. Moreover, this step is very important to replace skirting on a mobile home.
Also, looking underneath the vapor barrier, begin inspecting the soils for settling filling and compacting low areas. Obviously, installing a new skirting is easier on level earth.
Replace Skirting on A Mobile Home – Installing “ON Gravel or Dirt”
Start with leveling the grade around the home with a shovel, making sure to the soils are firm. If uncertain about soils ability to support skirting, I recommend using a compactor.
Now that the soils are level where you’re going to be installing new skirting, it’s time to proceed.
Begin by placing panels at corners of the home using the larger brackets and venting for the long sides and the short brackets on the ends.
It’s important to keep panels plumb as you go, and adding the venting before proceeding to the next skirting panel.
When all panels are set, it’s time to for caulking and concealing the joints.
It’s best to caulk from the bottom of the panels upward, scraping the excess with a used caulking tube. After scraping, use the joint concealing powder over the fresh caulking.
Alternatively, Installing New Skirting “On Top of Concrete”
The only difference in installing DURASKIRT™ panels on concrete is that you will need to cut them to height first.
When you replace skirting on a mobile home, start measuring the panels, making sure to leave a 1” gap between the top of the panel and the rim-joist.
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