RV skirts hug the ground and trailer to block cold air, prevent snow buildup, and keep rodents from settling under the RV. For effective protection, consider rv skirting installation, which is available in a variety of materials.
Vinyl is easy to clean and durable. It’s also less expensive than other options.
How to Measure
Skirting your RV is a good idea if you live in an area that sees frequent freezing temperatures or you’re planning on traveling in cold weather. It helps prevent the pipes under your trailer from freezing, so you can still use running water.
Several different RV skirting systems are available, from custom vinyl setups to ready-made kits. To ensure the panels fit correctly, it’s important to measure your RV beforehand. The height of your door + the width of the architrave x the number of doors will indicate how much space you need to cover.
Some DIYers choose to skirt their RVs using plywood, which can be cut to fit the underside of the trailer. However, this requires a significant investment of time and materials. It also requires a method of securing the panels to the trailer, such as a wood framing system or screws and rivets.
Cutting the Fabric
RV skirting traps the heat that escapes through the floor of your RV, maintaining a pocket of warmth and helping you save on propane costs. It also helps protect plumbing so that lines don’t freeze or burst.
The best RV skirting options are made of insulated foam board that’s lightweight and easy to work with. Companies like The Skirting Co and EZ Snap Skirting offer these options.
Another budget friendly option is to build a DIY RV skirt using vinyl billboard material. This requires a fair amount of labor, but is less expensive than professional installation and doesn’t require drilling or adhesive hooks. Some RVers report that the process takes 8-10 hours to complete, or 1-2 days for a first-time skirter. This type of DIY skirting can be moved with you when you move to a new site.
Adhesive Hooks
RV skirting works by creating an insulated space under your rig, keeping cold air out and trapping warm air in. This can prevent your tanks and exposed pipes from freezing during winter weather, saving you money on utilities.
Using nails or screws to hang decor can hurt your resale value, especially if you later decide to sell your RV. There are products that can help you avoid drilling holes in your RV walls, such as adhesive hooks.
To use these, simply make sure the vinyl sections are tightly butted together and secure them to your RV with HVAC foil tape. Then, use tent stakes to hold them in place or bricks if necessary. For a more durable version, use tarp grommets along the bottom and secure them with sandbags or weights.
Adhesive Studs
The next step in skirting your RV is to determine how you want to secure the panels. If you’re comfortable drilling into your rig, twist lock fasteners are one option.
They provide a reliable, permanent attachment. Consult a hardware store professional to determine the correct screw or rivet size for your application.
They can also be used to create zipper access for stairs, ladders, electrical and plumbing pipes. They can also be used to attach a weight insert pocket to the bottom of each panel for holding down your skirting with bags of sand, bricks or PVC pipe weights. Each panel comes with a bottom “Pocket Hem” and stake loops spaced every 5 feet. Ensure you order enough panels to cover your entire trailer body.
EZ Snap Pins
EZ Snap RV Skirting is an innovative solution that provides a range of benefits. Its straightforward installation process makes it a popular choice among RV enthusiasts, and its durable materials ensure that it can withstand the demands of frequent travel and changing weather conditions.
The 3M fasteners are made of stainless steel and look similar to the snaps used on boat tops. The male base of the snap is snapped onto a mounted Stud and punctured with a plastic shaft that goes through the Shade Mesh or RV Skirting material. The female cap then snaps on and locks to the pin, forming a secure bond.
To ensure a successful installation, make sure the surface where you plan to attach the snaps is clean and free of dirt and dust. Using a cleaning product such as 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and water will help achieve the best results.