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If you own a mobile home, there’s one thing you absolutely can’t overlook: skirting. While it may seem like a small detail, it plays a significant role in keeping your home in good condition. Skirting not only gives your home a finished look by hiding structural elements like foundation posts, plumbing, and electrical utilities, but it also makes your mobile home more livable. In fact, in many parts of the country, skirting is even required by law. But why is skirting so important for your mobile home? What benefits does it offer, and is it essential? Let’s explore these questions further to understand the importance and advantages of skirting.
What is Mobile Home Skirting?
Skirting, also known as underpinning, is a material used to enclose the crawl space of a mobile home. It acts as a barrier, extending from the bottom of the house to the ground or foundation. Skirting can be made from various materials, including vinyl, metal, wood, or concrete. But why exactly do you need mobile home skirting?
Why Do You Need Mobile Home Skirting?
Mobile homes need skirting for several reasons:
1. Compliance with Regulations
Many state and local regulations mandate the use of mobile home skirting. For example, in Texas, you must have underpinning to rent or live in a mobile home. However, the regulations can differ based on your location. Some places might require professional installation and permits, while others may allow homeowners to install it themselves using skirting kits. It’s best to contact your local housing authorities for more information.
2. Protection Against Pests
Mobile home skirting acts as a barrier against animals seeking shelter beneath your home. Without it, rodents, insects, and other pests can enter the crawl space and cause serious problems. Here are some of the risks:
- Health Risks: Pests can carry diseases and parasites that pose a threat to both humans and pets. These risks include physical harm from bites or stings, infections from microbes, food contamination, rabies from infected animals, and respiratory issues or allergies caused by droppings and urine.
- Structural Damage: Pests can cause physical damage by gnawing on wood, insulation, and wiring, weakening the structure and leading to costly repairs.
- Energy Efficiency: Damaged insulation and entry points created by pests can result in heat loss, increasing your energy bills, especially in winter.
- Fire Hazards: Critters chewing on wires can create fire risks, putting your home and family in danger.
3. Insulation and Energy Efficiency
The right mobile home skirting can help insulate the underside of your home, retaining warmth during cold winters and reducing heating costs. It acts as a barrier, preventing chilly winds and snow from damaging your plumbing. When water freezes, it expands, which can lead to broken pipes and leaks. Skirting not only protects your plumbing but also helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature by blocking cold winds and preventing heat from escaping. In warmer months, skirting stops hot air from building up under your home, making it easier to keep cool.
4. Curb Appeal
Beyond its functional benefits, skirting can improve your home’s curb appeal and resale value. With various styles and colors available, you can choose skirting that complements your home’s exterior. If you plan to sell your mobile home, new skirting can be a great bargaining chip to increase its value.
Different Types of Skirting
When it comes to mobile home skirting, there are various materials and styles to choose from. Here are some popular options:
Vinyl Skirting
Vinyl skirting is a popular choice for mobile homes because it’s affordable and durable. It’s made from high-quality vinyl that requires minimal maintenance and can endure various weather conditions, such as moisture, pests, and UV rays.
Unlike wood or metal skirting, Deluxe Vinyl Skirting is resistant to rot or rust, making it a reliable and long-lasting solution for your mobile home. It usually comes in panels with vertical lines and is available in a variety of colors and styles to match your home’s exterior, making it an attractive option for many.
Simulated Rock Skirting
Simulated rock skirting is an ideal solution for homeowners who prefer a natural look for their mobile homes without having to spend a fortune on natural stone. These panels are designed to replicate the appearance of natural stone, such as granite and sandstone, and add a rustic charm that vinyl cannot match. With simulated rock skirting, you can achieve the desired natural look for your mobile home at an affordable price and without installation challenges.
Simulated Stone and Brick Skirting
Are you looking for a classic style? Stone and brick skirting could be just what you need! Although similar to rock skirting, this skirting boasts an uncanny resemblance to authentic stonework.
This skirting is made of injection molded copolymer for superior durability. It can withstand winds up to 150 mph and extreme temperature changes thanks to its robust construction. While it might cost a bit more than vinyl or fake rock skirting, the charm and durability it adds to your home could make it worth the investment.
Mobile Home Skirting is a Must
Mobile home skirting is not just about enhancing your property’s appearance; it’s a crucial component for its overall health and functionality. From complying with regulations to protecting against pests and improving energy efficiency, skirting offers numerous benefits. Whether you want to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature or boost your home’s curb appeal, investing in quality skirting is essential.
At Mobile Home Parts Store, we understand the significance of skirting for your home. We offer a wide range of durable solutions to meet your needs, including vinyl, simulated rock, and simulated stone and brick skirting. To determine how much skirting you’ll need, simply measure the perimeter of your home and order that length in your choice of style. Don’t forget to pick up skirting accessories like access doors and vents to complete your project.
If you need any help, give us a call, and we’ll ensure you get the right pieces for your mobile home skirting.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on October 7th, 2024 to include more details on regulatory requirements, energy efficiency, and the latest skirting options, like simulated rock and brick. We’ve also expanded guidance on installation and pest protection to better support mobile homeowners.
Tags: Mobile Home Parts Store, mobile home skirting, Skirting, Skirting for mobile home
