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Getting ready to install skirting around your mobile home? It’s a big job, but one that can really enhance your home’s look and add a layer of protection. However, there are some common mistakes that can turn this project into a headache if you’re not careful. We’ve all been there—excited to get started, maybe rushing through the planning phase, or focusing too much on appearance and not enough on the practical side. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the most common skirting mistakes and how to avoid them, saving you time, money, and future frustration. Let’s dive in so you can get your skirting done right the first time.
1. Choosing the Wrong Skirting Material
Picking the right skirting material is the first and most crucial step. Many homeowners make the mistake of focusing only on cost or looks. While those are important, it’s just as critical to consider the material’s durability, weather resistance, and maintenance needs. Choosing the wrong one can lead to headaches later on.
- Vinyl Skirting: Affordable and easy to install, but it may not hold up well in extreme weather. High winds or freezing temperatures can cause it to crack or warp.
- Metal Underpinning (like aluminum): Sturdy and more durable, but can rust over time, especially in humid areas.
- Concrete or Faux Stone Skirting: Heavy-duty and long-lasting, but it’s more expensive and complicated to install.
Tip: Think about your area’s weather conditions, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and your budget. This way, you can pick a skirting material that lasts and performs well over time.
2. Incorrect Measurements
One of the most common mistakes when installing mobile home skirting is measuring incorrectly. If your panels are too short, too tall, or don’t fit right, you could end up with gaps, poor insulation, and an unprofessional look.
To avoid this, take accurate measurements of your mobile home. Measure the height from the ground to the bottom edge of your home in several spots since the ground may not be perfectly level. Use the tallest measurement to avoid gaps, and remove any extra underpinning that will overlap with the ground. Also, remember to measure around the entire perimeter, including corners, to ensure you have enough material.
Tip: Always measure twice to be sure. It’s better to buy a little extra skirting than to run short. Additional materials can come in handy for future repairs, saving you the hassle of reordering.
3. Skipping Installation Area Prep
Rushing into installation without preparing the area is another common mistake. If the area under your mobile home is uneven or cluttered, it can cause issues like uneven skirting, poor drainage, and even pest problems.
Start by clearing away any debris, rocks, or plants around your home’s perimeter. If the ground is uneven, use a shovel or leveling tool to smooth it out as much as possible. Proper preparation helps your skirting fit snugly and securely.
Tip: Consider laying down a weed barrier or gravel around the base of your home. This can prevent weed growth and create a solid foundation for your skirting.
4. Poor Installation Techniques
Even with the right materials and accurate measurements, using the wrong installation techniques can lead to trouble later on. Here are some common pitfalls:
Failure to Secure Skirting Properly
One of the biggest mistakes is not securing the underpinning panels properly. If skirting panels aren’t attached firmly, they can become loose, shift, or even blow away in strong winds. This not only affects the look of your mobile home but also allows pests and weather elements to get underneath, causing damage. Use the correct screws, nails, or fasteners recommended for your chosen skirting material. If you live in an area with high winds, you may want to consider using Vinyl Skirting Windguard Rods. Make sure each panel is secured at multiple points, especially at the corners and edges.
Not Allowing for Expansion and Contraction
Another mistake is installing the skirting too tightly. Materials like vinyl expand and contract with temperature changes. If installed too tightly, they can buckle, warp, or crack over time. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for spacing and securing the panels, often leaving a small gap between panels to allow for natural movement.
Tip: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper installation.
5. Ignoring Ventilation
Good ventilation is essential for mobile home skirting, but it’s often overlooked. Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup underneath your mobile home, which can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage.
Most underpinning materials include vent panels or you will need to purchase vents. Foundation vents should be spaced evenly around the home. A general rule of thumb is to have at least one square foot of venting for every 150 square feet of skirting. This ensures adequate airflow to keep the space underneath dry.
Tip: Consider using vents that can be opened or closed depending on the season. In warmer months, open the vents to increase airflow. During winter, close them to retain heat while still allowing some air circulation.
6. Forgetting an Access Point or Door
Many homeowners forget to include an access point in their skirting. At some point, you’ll need to get under your home for maintenance or to access utilities. Without an access door, you may have to remove or damage panels, which is both inconvenient and costly.
Plan for an access point when installing your skirting. Many kits come with a pre-made access door, or you can build one yourself. Make sure it’s large enough to fit through comfortably and easy to open and secure.
Tip: Place the access door near essential parts of your mobile home, like plumbing connections or HVAC units, for easy access.
Wrapping Up
Installing skirting around your mobile home can make a huge difference in both appearance and protection. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll save yourself time, money, and frustration down the road. A little extra planning and the right materials go a long way in ensuring a successful underpinning installation that will last for years.
When you’re ready to start your project, make sure you have the best quality materials on hand. That’s where Mobile Home Parts Store comes in. We have everything you need to get your skirting job done right—from vinyl panels and wind guard rods to access doors and vents. Shopping with us is easy, and our team is here to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Plus, having reliable supplies makes it that much easier to avoid the mistakes we’ve talked about.
So, why wait? Head over to the Mobile Home Parts Store today and find all the skirting essentials for your mobile home. With the right materials and a bit of know-how, you’ll have your mobile home looking great in no time!
Tags: mobile home skirting, mobile home underpinning, Skirting, Skirting for mobile home, Skirting Vents
