RV skirting prevents cold air from blowing under the RV, helping it maintain a consistent temperature and protecting its plumbing. There are many different methods of rv skirting installation available ranging in price and ease of setup.
Plywood is a good choice that insulates well but requires substantial time to cut and install. Wood frame skirts can take 1-3 days to build.
Material
When selecting the material for your RV skirting, make sure it’s durable and can stand up to harsh winter environments. It should also be light enough to be easily stowed and transported each time you break camp.
Plywood is a common DIY RV skirting material because it insulates well and is relatively affordable. However, it can be difficult to cut and install and may not be allowed by some campgrounds. In addition, if the ground shifts under your rig, the plywood may no longer fit.
Another option is a corrugated plastic sheet, which provides good insulation and can be installed by yourself. However, it may not be as sturdy as other RV skirting materials. Some people choose to pile snow around their rig, but this doesn’t provide much insulation and can be expensive to maintain. It’s also not practical for long-term use. Fortunately, there are plenty of other options for RV skirting that will provide the protection you need without breaking your budget.
Fasteners
RV skirting needs to be fastened securely in order to resist movement due to wind. If the panels flap in the wind, they can damage your RV and may even cause the plumbing under your trailer to freeze. For this reason, it’s important to choose the right type of fasteners for your installation.
Idaho Canvas offers a variety of RV skirting options that include twist lock fasteners. These fasteners are used to connect the panels to your RV, camper or travel trailer. These fasteners are corrosion resistant and have a long life. They are also easy to use.
Another option for DIY RV skirting is foam insulation board. This is available at most home improvement stores. You will need to build a framework of 2x4s and screw the foam boards to one another around your RV. Then, you can use HVAC tape to cover the seams and seal the skirt to your RV. This method can be time consuming.
Installation
RV skirting acts as an insulator that prevents cold air from getting under the RV, protecting tanks and exposed water lines from freezing. It also traps the heat that escapes from under the RV, making the rig feel warmer and helping to reduce energy costs.
Skirting is a great option for anyone who wants to spend more time in the winter camping season and doesn’t want to deal with frozen pipes or cold floors. However, it’s important to remember that the insulation only works if the skirting is anchored and weighed down.
Some companies offer a custom vinyl skirting that they will come to you and install on-site. Other companies sell their product as a DIY kit that includes everything you need, including the EZ snap fasteners and Keder cord for installation. These kits include instructions and a list of recommended drill sizes for each model of RV. Depending on the RV skirting you choose, it will either require drilling or have channels built into it where the twist lock fasteners slide directly into.
Maintenance
RV skirting helps keep cold air from entering the underside of your rig, helping it maintain a stable temperature. This is especially helpful in winter when frigid temperatures can cause pipes and tanks to freeze, leading to costly damage. Skirting also protects your rig from rodents, and keeps wind, dirt, debris, and moisture at bay.
There are several different types of RV skirting to choose from, including vinyl covers that snap on, foam boards that owners customize, and inflatable tubes that fit around the rig. Vinyl skirting is easy to install and provides insulation, while foam board insulation can be difficult to cut to size, expensive to store for reuse, and may not be allowed at all campgrounds.
For those who are planning to move their RV often, consider the resale value of your skirting as well. Skirting that can’t be removed and stowed is less appealing to prospective buyers, as is an RV that has several hundred holes drilled in it.