If you own a manufactured home and you’re looking to upgrade its overall appearance, then installing skirting is a fantastic way to do so. Skirting can make your home look more polished and add some extra curb appeal, not to mention it also helps to protect the underside of your home from the elements.
Thankfully, installing skirting on a manufactured home is an easy task that can be done by anyone, regardless of their DIY experience. In this article, we’ll show you step-by-step how to install skirting on your manufactured home, from selecting the right materials to the final touches.
By the time you’ve finished reading this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to get started on your own skirting installation project. Don’t worry about having to hire a professional, with the right tools and materials you’ll be able to tackle this project on your own and save yourself some money in the process. So, let’s dive in and get started on installing skirting on your manufactured home today!
What is skirting and why is it important?
Skirting, in the context of a manufactured home, refers to the material used to enclose the underside of the home. This is necessary because the raised foundation of a manufactured home creates a gap between the bottom of the home and the ground, which needs to be covered for several reasons.
Firstly, skirting is important for aesthetics. Without it, the underside of the home can look unfinished and unattractive. Skirting can be made from a variety of materials including vinyl, metal, brick, stone, and wood, and can be chosen to match the exterior of the home, creating a cohesive look.
Secondly, skirting provides protection for the home. It helps to prevent animals from making their homes underneath the house, which can cause problems like damage to ductwork or electrical lines. Skirting also helps to keep out debris and moisture, which can lead to mold or rot in the foundation of the home.
- Prevents animals from living underneath the house
- Keeps out debris and moisture
- Creates a cohesive look
Finally, skirting can also help to insulate the home, reducing energy costs by preventing cold air from entering underneath the home during winter months. This can be especially important for manufactured homes, which may have less insulation than site-built homes due to their construction.
Materials Needed for Skirting Installation
Installing skirting on a manufactured home is essential as it not only enhances the home’s appearance but also prevents air and moisture from getting in. To get started with the skirting installation, you need the following materials:
- Skirting panels – The most crucial material for skirting installation. They come in different materials, such as vinyl, steel, and aluminum. The best material depends on your preferences and budget.
- Track system – It acts as a foundation or base for the skirting panels to rest on. The track system should be straight, level, and free of debris to ensure a smooth installation process.
- Fasteners – They include screws, bolts, and washers that attach the skirting panels to the framing. The fasteners should be durable and rust-resistant to ensure the skirting’s longevity.
- Tools – You will need a drill, saw, measuring tape, and a level to measure, cut, and install the skirting panels accurately.
- Insulation – If you plan on adding insulation to your manufactured home, installing it during the skirting installation is an excellent opportunity. Insulation is vital to regulating the temperature of your home, thus reducing heating and cooling costs.
Skirting Installation Process
Before installing the skirting, you need to measure the perimeter of your home to determine how many skirting panels you need. Once you have all the materials ready, here are the steps to follow:
- Clear debris and level the ground where you plan on installing the track system.
- Attach the track system by drilling and screwing it into the framing. Ensure that the track runs level and straight.
- Measure and cut the skirting panels to the required size using a saw.
- Attach the panels to the track system using the fasteners. You may need to add additional fasteners at the corners and edges for stability.
- If you plan on adding insulation, install it between the skirting panels and framing before attaching the panels to the track system.
- Inspect the skirting installation for any gaps or holes and fill them using foam insulation or caulking.
Conclusion
Installing skirting on your manufactured home is essential and adds an aesthetic value while keeping air and moisture out. Ensure you have all the necessary materials before starting the installation process. With the right tools and steps, you can install skirting panels like a pro.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | Low maintenance, affordable, easy to install, and comes in different colors and styles. | Not durable and can crack under extreme temperatures. |
| Steel | Durable, weather-resistant, and anti-pest properties. | Expensive, and can rust if not galvanized. |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, durable, and rust-resistant. | Costly than vinyl and difficult to install. |
Table 1: Comparison of Different Skirting Panel Materials
Steps to Prepare the Area for Skirting Installation
Before installing skirting on your manufactured home, preparation is key to ensuring the skirting will stay in place and look great for years to come. Here are the steps you need to take to prepare the area for skirting installation:
- Clean the area: Start by removing any vegetation or debris around the perimeter of your home. This will make it easier to install the skirting and prevent weeds from pushing up against it later.
- Level the ground: Use a shovel or rake to level the ground around the foundation of your home. If the ground is not level, the skirting will not look right and may even come loose over time.
- Install a base rail: A base rail is a piece of metal or vinyl that is used to attach the skirting to the home. It also serves as a barrier against pests and prevents water from entering under the home. To install the base rail, measure the length of each wall and cut the base rail to fit. Attach the base rail to the foundation of the home using screws or nails.
Choosing the Right Skirting for Your Home
Before you can install skirting on your manufactured home, you need to choose the right type of skirting. There are many different materials to choose from, including vinyl, concrete, and wood. Consider the style of your home and your budget when selecting the material for your skirting. Some materials, such as concrete, may require more maintenance than others, so keep this in mind when making your choice.
Measuring for Skirting
Once you have chosen the material for your skirting, you need to measure the perimeter of your home to determine how much skirting you will need. Measure each wall separately and make note of any doors, windows, or other obstacles that may affect your measurements. Be sure to add a few extra inches to your measurements to account for any irregularities in the ground or foundation.
| Wall | Length (ft) | Height (ft) | Total Square Feet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front | 40 | 4 | 160 |
| Back | 40 | 4 | 160 |
| Left | 30 | 4 | 120 |
| Right | 30 | 4 | 120 |
| Total Square Feet: | 560 | ||
Based on the measurements above, this home would require approximately 560 square feet of skirting material.
Measuring and cutting the skirting materials
One of the most critical steps in skirting a manufactured home is measuring and cutting the skirting materials. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
- Start by measuring the distance around the perimeter of the home, taking into account any additions or outbuildings that need skirting as well.
- Using those measurements, purchase enough skirting materials to go around the entire home and make sure to account for any additional materials needed for steps or other features.
- When it comes to cutting the materials, it’s essential to get accurate measurements. Cut the materials to size by measuring twice and cutting once, making sure to use a sharp saw or other cutting tool to ensure clean cuts.
Another crucial aspect to keep in mind is understanding the best way to cut specific materials commonly used for skirting. Vinyl skirting, for example, is best cut with tin snips, while a circular saw is ideal for cutting fiber cement skirting.
It’s essential to wear protective gear when cutting the skirting materials, such as gloves and safety glasses, to prevent injury from flying debris. Finally, it’s best to avoid cutting the materials when it’s excessively hot or in extreme weather conditions, as this can impact the quality of the cuts and make the process more challenging.
Pro Tips:
| Pro Tip #1 | Measure twice, cut once! |
|---|---|
| Pro Tip #2 | Cut the materials to size using a sharp saw or other cutting tool to ensure clean cuts. |
| Pro Tip #3 | Wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses to prevent injury from flying debris when cutting the skirting materials. |
| Pro Tip #4 | Avoid cutting the materials when it’s excessively hot or in extreme weather conditions to prevent a decline in quality. |
By taking the time to get accurate measurements and using the right cutting tools, you’ll be able to ensure that your skirting materials are cut precisely to fit your manufactured home. Following these tips will make the installation process go smoother and deliver a professional and clean end result.
Installing the Bottom Track for the Skirting
Installing skirting on a manufactured home helps keep the interior warmer, reduces drafts, and can add to the home’s curb appeal. But, before installing the skirting panels, you need to install a bottom track that will hold them securely in place.
- Start by measuring the perimeter of the home to determine how much track you’ll need. Make sure to account for any obstructions like vents or pipes that will require special cuts in the track.
- Prepare the ground where the track will be installed. Make sure the area is level and free from any debris that could interfere with the installation or the skirting panels.
- Lay the track out on the ground where it will be installed. Use a hammer or mallet to tap the track into place, gently bending it as needed to follow the contours of the ground.
When installing the bottom track, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The track should be installed flush with the surface of the ground and level around the entire perimeter.
- If the track needs to be cut to fit around obstructions, use tin snips or a metal saw to make the required cuts.
- Overlap the ends of the track where they meet at the corners of the home to ensure a secure fit.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for installing the bottom track:
| Materials Needed | Tools Needed |
|---|---|
| Bottom track | Hammer or mallet |
| Epoxy glue or screws with anchors | Tin snips or metal saw |
| Measuring tape | Level |
| Chalk or spray paint |
Step 1: Measure the perimeter of the home. Using chalk or spray paint, mark the location of the track on the ground.
Step 2: Lay out the track along the perimeter of the home. Use a measuring tape and level to ensure it’s installed flush with the ground and level around the entire perimeter.
Step 3: If the track needs to be cut to fit around obstructions, use tin snips or a metal saw to make the required cuts.
Step 4: Overlap the ends of the track where they meet at the corners of the home to ensure a secure fit. Use epoxy glue or screws with anchors to secure the overlapped ends in place.
Once the bottom track is installed, the skirting panels can be attached to it with clips or screws, making it a relatively easy DIY project. With skirting in place, your manufactured home will have increased energy efficiency and a more finished appearance.
Attaching the skirting panels to the track
Once the track is installed securely around the perimeter of the manufactured home, it’s time to attach the skirting panels to the track. This can be a bit tricky if you haven’t done it before, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, you’ll be able to get the job done correctly.
- Start by measuring the length of the first panel you’ll be attaching. You’ll want to make sure it’s a perfect fit before you start drilling any holes.
- Next, hold the panel up to the track and make sure it lines up correctly. You don’t want any gaps or uneven areas.
- Once you’re satisfied with the fit, it’s time to drill some holes. The skirting panel should come with pre-drilled holes, but you’ll need to match up the holes with the track and then drill them in.
It’s important to use the correct size drill bit when drilling the holes. If the holes are too big, the screws or bolts will be loose and won’t hold the panel in place. If they’re too small, you risk cracking the panel. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before drilling any holes.
Once the holes are drilled, it’s time to attach the panel to the track. This is typically done with screws or bolts, depending on the type of track you’re using. Again, make sure to read the instructions carefully so you know which type of fastener to use and where to put it.
Repeat this process for each skirting panel until all of them are securely attached to the track. If you run into any issues or have questions, don’t be afraid to reach out to the manufacturer or a professional installer for help.
| Tools you’ll need: | Supplies you’ll need: |
|---|---|
| Drill | Skirting panels |
| Drill bit | Screws or bolts |
| Screwdriver or wrench | Track |
Remember, attaching skirting panels to the track is part of a larger project. Make sure you have a solid plan in place before you begin, and take your time to do it right. With a little bit of patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a beautifully skirting manufactured home in no time!
Tips for ensuring a tight and secure fit for the skirting panels
Installing skirting panels on a manufactured home can be a time-consuming process, but it’s worth it to improve the curb appeal and overall appearance of your home. Here are some tips to ensure a tight and secure fit for your skirting panels:
- Measure twice, cut once – Before you begin installation, make sure you measure all the panels and corners multiple times to ensure accurate cuts.
- Purchase quality materials – Investing in high-quality skirting panels and installation materials will ensure that your skirting remains tight and secure for years to come.
- Choose the right installation method – Skirting panels can be installed using a variety of methods, including screws, adhesive, and clips. Choose the method that works best for your specific skirting panels and installation surface.
If you’re having issues with gaps between skirting panels or uneven installation, consider these additional tips:
First, check to see if your panels are warped or damaged. A damaged panel will not fit tightly against the installation surface. Replace any damaged panels before continuing with installation.
Second, use a level to ensure your panels are installed evenly. This will help prevent gaps between panels and ensure a tight fit.
Third, consider using caulk or foam insulation to fill any gaps between the installation surface and skirting panels. This will not only improve the fit and appearance of your skirting, but it will also help with energy efficiency.
Conclusion
By following these tips and taking the time to properly install your skirting panels, you can ensure a tight and secure fit that will improve the overall look and value of your manufactured home.
How to Deal with Uneven Terrain During Skirting Installation
One challenge that often arises during skirting installation on a manufactured home is dealing with uneven terrain. This can be especially frustrating for DIYers who are trying to install skirting themselves. However, with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to overcome this obstacle and achieve a professional-looking finish.
- Use a level: The first step in dealing with uneven terrain is identifying where the unevenness lies. This can be done with a level, which will allow you to see where the highest and lowest points are. Install the skirting according to the level line, not to the ground level.
- Shim as needed: Once you’ve identified the high and low points of the terrain, use shims to level the skirting. A shim is a thin piece of material, like a plastic or wooden wedge that is used to level uneven surfaces. You can either use pre-cut shims or cut your own from scrap wood. It’s best to start from the highest point of the area and work downwards using the shims to level the skirting as you go.
- Fill gaps: Another issue that may arise when installing skirting on uneven terrain is gaps between the skirting and the ground. These gaps can allow pests, debris, and moisture to enter under the home. Fill these gaps with foam caulking or spray foam insulation to provide a barrier between the ground and the home.
If the terrain is too uneven to level with shims alone, you may need to consider using a retaining wall or major landscaping, but that is beyond the scope of this article.
Remember, it’s essential to make sure skirting is properly secured during installation. Use screws or anchors for fastening panels to the home and perimeter framing or channels. If the skirting isn’t properly secured, it can be a hazard, and it’ll flap and crack with the slightest wind movement. Uneven terrain can come with unpredictable movements and larger loads on one side of the home.
| Tools Needed | Materials Needed |
|---|---|
| Level | Shims |
| Drill | Tape measure |
| Driver bits | Skirting panels |
| Setscrew bits | Caulk or spray foam insulation |
By using these simple techniques, you can overcome the challenge of uneven terrain during skirting installation. Don’t forget to stay safe and secure during the installation process.
How to Incorporate Access Points for Utilities
One of the most important parts of installing skirting on a manufactured home is ensuring that there are access points for utilities. These access points are crucial to ensure that maintenance and repairs can be performed without needing to remove the entire skirting.
- Identify location: The first step is to identify the location of your utilities. This may include electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, HVAC ducting, and gas lines. Once you have identified the location, you can plan where to incorporate access points.
- Create openings: Using a saw or a drill, create openings in the skirting to provide access to the utilities. Make sure the openings are large enough to fit your hand so you can perform necessary maintenance and repairs. You may also want to consider creating multiple access points for each utility to make it easier to access from different angles.
- Install access panels: To make the access points more convenient, install access panels. Access panels can be purchased in a range of sizes and materials to match your skirting. Make sure to choose panels that fit securely but are easy to remove when needed. If the access point is used frequently, consider installing a hinged panel to make it easier to access the area.
By incorporating access points into your skirting installation, you can ensure that your utilities remain accessible at all times. This can help prevent unnecessary damage to your home and save you time and money on repairs.
Additional Tips
If you are unsure about where to install access points or how many to include, consult with a professional. A professional contractor can help you plan the installation and ensure that you have adequate access to your utilities. It’s also important to remember to seal all access points properly to prevent pests and water from entering your home.
Table: Access Panel Sizes
| Panel Size | Opening Size |
|---|---|
| 16” x 16” | 14” x 14” |
| 18” x 18” | 16” x 16” |
| 24” x 24” | 22” x 22” |
Access panels come in a variety of sizes, but the most common sizes are 16” x 16”, 18” x 18”, and 24” x 24”. Choose the appropriate panel size based on the size of the opening you create.
Maintenance and Repair Tips for Skirting on Manufactured Homes
Proper maintenance and repair of skirting on manufactured homes is critical to ensure the longevity and functionality of the home. Skirting helps to prevent critters and pests from getting underneath the home, it also protects plumbing and electrical lines from damage, and it helps to improve the appearance of the home.
- Regular Cleaning: Dirt, debris, and moisture can accumulate under the skirting, which can damage the foundation of the home, lead to pest infestations and even create fire hazards. It is essential to clean the skirting on a regular basis to keep it in good condition. Use a garden hose, pressure washer or a scrub brush depending on the type of skirting material to clean it.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect the skirting for signs of damage such as cracks, holes, or warping. Look for gaps or spaces that might allow pests or water to get through and repair them immediately. Early repairs can prevent more severe damages down the road.
- Replace damaged skirting: If the skirting on your manufactured home is damaged, replace it immediately. Waiting for too long can lead to further damage to other parts of your home. When replacing the skirting, make sure to buy from reputable dealers that sell high-quality skirting material that will last long.
It is wise to have a professional inspect your skirting or replace it if needed. This will ensure that everything is repaired correctly, and no further damage occurs.
Below is a table of common skirting materials for manufactured homes and tips for their maintenance:
| Material | Maintenance Tips |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | Wash periodically with a mild detergent and water. Check for signs of damage or warping. |
| Aluminum | Check for holes or cracks in the panels and seal them to keep pests out. Clean with mild detergent and water or pressure washing. |
| Concrete Block | Repair any cracks or chips using concrete patching material. Seal any gaps or spaces carefully and avoid contact with excess moisture. |
Follow these maintenance and repair tips to keep your manufactured home skirting in pristine condition. Remember, preventive maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs down the line.
FAQs: How to Install Skirting on a Manufactured Home
Q: What materials do I need to install skirting on my manufactured home?
A: To install skirting, you will need skirting panels, measuring tape, drill, screws, and a saw to cut the panels.
Q: How do I measure for skirting panels?
A: To measure for skirting panels, measure the length and height of each area around the perimeter of your manufactured home.
Q: How do I cut skirting panels to fit?
A: Use a saw to cut skirting panels to the measured length and height.
Q: How do I attach the skirting panels to my manufactured home?
A: Use a drill and screws to attach the skirting panels to the bottom of the home.
Q: What if my manufactured home is not level?
A: If your manufactured home is not level, cut the panels to the height of the lowest point and use gravel or concrete blocks to level the panels.
Q: How do I address gaps between skirting panels?
A: Use skirting trim or a silicone sealant to fill gaps between skirting panels and the home.
Q: Can I install skirting on my own or should I hire a professional?
A: Skirting installation can be done on your own or by hiring a professional. It depends on your level of experience with DIY projects.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Joining Us!
Congratulations on completing the FAQ guide on how to install skirting on a manufactured home. Now that you have answers to your questions, please feel free to use these steps to successfully install skirting on your manufactured home. Remember, it’s essential to measure, cut, and attach the skirting panels correctly to ensure an optimal outcome. Thanks for joining us, and we can’t wait to see you again for more DIY tips and tricks!