Skirting a trailer for winter is a crucial step in protecting your mobile home from freezing temperatures, reducing energy costs, and preventing damage caused by wind, snow, and ice. Effective skirting creates a barrier against the elements, trapping warm air under the trailer and preventing cold air from circulating beneath, ultimately leading to a more comfortable and energy-efficient winter season.
Why Skirting is Essential for Winter Trailer Protection
Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of harsh winter weather. The exposed underbelly of a trailer allows cold air to circulate freely, causing pipes to freeze, floors to become frigid, and heating systems to work overtime. Skirting acts as an insulative barrier, preventing these problems and offering numerous benefits:
- Prevents Frozen Pipes: By keeping the underbelly warmer, skirting significantly reduces the risk of pipes freezing and bursting, a costly and inconvenient problem.
- Reduces Energy Costs: A properly skirted trailer retains heat more effectively, reducing the demand on your furnace or heating system, leading to lower energy bills. Studies have shown energy savings of up to 25%.
- Protects Against Wind and Snow: Skirting blocks strong winds and prevents snow from accumulating under the trailer, which can further exacerbate freezing issues.
- Deters Pests: Skirting can help keep rodents and other pests from entering the underbelly of the trailer, preventing damage to wiring, insulation, and other components.
- Improves Comfort: By reducing drafts and maintaining a more consistent temperature, skirting creates a more comfortable living environment inside the trailer.
- Increases Resale Value: A well-maintained and skirted trailer is more appealing to potential buyers, increasing its resale value.
Choosing the Right Skirting Material
Selecting the right skirting material is crucial for achieving effective winter protection. Consider factors such as cost, durability, aesthetics, ease of installation, and insulation value. Here are some popular options:
Traditional Options
- Wood: A common and relatively inexpensive option, wood skirting can be painted or stained to match the trailer. However, wood is susceptible to rot and insect damage and requires regular maintenance. Pressure-treated lumber is recommended for increased durability.
- Metal: Metal skirting, such as corrugated steel or aluminum, is durable and weather-resistant. It is also relatively easy to install. However, metal can be prone to denting and rusting, and it may not provide as much insulation as other materials.
- Concrete Blocks: Concrete blocks are a durable and stable option, providing excellent protection against wind and snow. However, they can be difficult to install and may not be aesthetically pleasing to some.
Modern Options
- Vinyl: Vinyl skirting is a popular choice due to its durability, low maintenance, and attractive appearance. It is resistant to rot, insects, and weather damage. Vinyl skirting is also relatively easy to install and comes in a variety of colors and styles.
- Insulated Panels: Insulated skirting panels offer superior insulation value, helping to further reduce energy costs. These panels typically consist of a rigid foam core sandwiched between two layers of durable material, such as vinyl or metal.
- Foam Board Insulation: This is usually used with another material to create a full skirting system and provides an excellent insulating effect.
Installation Best Practices for Optimal Winter Protection
Proper installation is essential for ensuring that your skirting effectively protects your trailer from the elements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing skirting:
- Prepare the Ground: Level the ground around the perimeter of the trailer. Remove any vegetation, debris, or rocks. This will provide a solid and even base for the skirting.
- Install a Ground Barrier: A ground barrier, such as polyethylene sheeting or landscape fabric, will help prevent moisture from rising up and causing problems under the trailer. Overlap the seams and secure the barrier with stakes or weights.
- Build a Frame (Optional): For some skirting materials, such as wood or concrete blocks, it may be necessary to build a frame to support the skirting. The frame should be made of pressure-treated lumber and securely attached to the trailer’s frame.
- Install the Skirting Material: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the specific skirting material you have chosen. Ensure that the skirting is properly aligned and securely fastened to the trailer’s frame or the support frame.
- Seal Any Gaps: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal any gaps between the skirting and the trailer, as well as between individual skirting panels. This will help prevent drafts and keep out pests.
- Ventilation: It’s vital to include ventilation in the skirting. You want to maintain air flow beneath the trailer to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. Vents should be placed strategically around the perimeter of the skirting.
Maintaining Your Skirting for Longevity
Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring that your skirting continues to provide effective protection for years to come. Inspect the skirting regularly for any damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose panels. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration. Clean the skirting periodically to remove dirt, debris, and algae.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: How much does it cost to skirt a trailer for winter?
The cost of skirting a trailer for winter varies depending on the material used, the size of the trailer, and whether you hire a professional installer. DIY projects using basic materials like wood can cost as little as a few hundred dollars, while professional installation with high-quality materials like insulated panels can cost several thousand dollars. It’s important to get quotes from multiple installers and compare prices before making a decision.
FAQ 2: Can I use hay bales for skirting?
While hay bales can provide some insulation, they are not a recommended skirting solution. Hay bales attract rodents, are susceptible to rot, and can be a fire hazard. They are also not very aesthetically pleasing. There are much better and more durable options available.
FAQ 3: How often should I inspect my skirting?
You should inspect your skirting at least twice a year, once in the fall before the onset of winter and once in the spring after the snow has melted. This will allow you to identify and address any damage before it becomes a major problem.
FAQ 4: Is it necessary to insulate the skirting?
Insulating the skirting can significantly improve its effectiveness, especially in colder climates. Insulated skirting panels or the addition of foam board insulation behind other materials can provide superior protection against freezing temperatures.
FAQ 5: How do I prevent moisture buildup under the trailer?
Adequate ventilation is essential for preventing moisture buildup under the trailer. Install vents in the skirting to allow air to circulate freely. You should also ensure that the ground under the trailer is properly graded to drain water away from the foundation. The ground barrier discussed above is also an important component.
FAQ 6: Can I install skirting myself, or should I hire a professional?
Whether you can install skirting yourself depends on your DIY skills and the type of skirting you choose. Simpler materials like vinyl skirting can be relatively easy to install, while more complex materials like concrete blocks or insulated panels may require professional installation.
FAQ 7: What are the benefits of insulated skirting panels?
Insulated skirting panels offer superior insulation value, reducing energy costs and preventing frozen pipes. They are also durable, weather-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing.
FAQ 8: How do I deal with pests under the trailer?
Seal any gaps in the skirting to prevent pests from entering the underbelly of the trailer. You can also use pest control products, such as traps or bait, to eliminate existing infestations.
FAQ 9: What type of ventilation is recommended?
For most climates, cross ventilation is sufficient, involving vents placed on opposite sides of the trailer. These vents can then be closed in extreme cold. The total vent area should be proportional to the square footage under the trailer, consult local building codes or with professionals in your region for specific recommendations.
FAQ 10: How do I know if my pipes are freezing?
Signs of freezing pipes include reduced water pressure, strange noises coming from the pipes, and visible frost on the pipes. If you suspect that your pipes are freezing, take immediate action to thaw them out.
FAQ 11: What do I do if my pipes freeze despite skirting?
Turn off the water supply to the frozen pipes. Use a hair dryer or heat lamp to gently thaw the pipes. Never use an open flame, as this can damage the pipes and create a fire hazard. Once the pipes are thawed, check for leaks.
FAQ 12: Are there any special considerations for skirting in snowy climates?
In snowy climates, it is important to choose a skirting material that is strong and durable enough to withstand the weight of accumulated snow. You may also need to shovel snow away from the skirting periodically to prevent it from becoming overwhelmed. Consider increasing the height of the skirting in areas prone to heavy snowfall.