Mobile home skirting is the vertical barrier installed around the base of a manufactured home, covering the open space between the bottom of the home and the ground. Beyond improving the home’s appearance by concealing the undercarriage, skirting acts as a protective shield. It helps maintain a consistent temperature beneath the home, contributing to energy efficiency and preventing pipes from freezing. Furthermore, it deters pests, such as rodents and insects, and protects the home’s underbelly from moisture and wind damage.
Assessing Damage and Choosing Replacement Materials
The first step in any repair is a thorough inspection of the existing skirting to categorize the damage. Walk the perimeter of the home, looking for cracks, holes, warped or detached panels, or missing sections. Small, isolated punctures or hairline cracks may be candidates for patching, while severely warped, detached, or large sections of damage typically require full panel replacement.
Choosing the correct replacement material is necessary before beginning the repair work. The most common skirting materials are corrugated vinyl, metal (aluminum or steel), and wood or vinyl lattice. Ideally, the replacement material should match the existing type to ensure a seamless repair and consistent performance. If the existing material is frequently failing, consider upgrading to a more durable option like thicker vinyl or metal, ensuring compatibility with the existing track system.
When purchasing replacement panels, account for the varying height between the bottom of the home and the ground, as the terrain is rarely perfectly level. Measure the height at several points along the damaged section to determine the maximum panel height needed. Remember that vinyl skirting requires space for thermal expansion and contraction. Selecting a material that is readily available and easy to cut, such as vinyl, simplifies the repair process.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Skirting Repair
Repairing damaged skirting, particularly the common vinyl type, begins with gathering the necessary tools. These typically include a tape measure, a utility knife or tin snips, a drill with fasteners, and safety gear like gloves and glasses. The process focuses on replacing the damaged panel while utilizing the existing top and bottom tracks that hold the skirting in place.
To remove a damaged vinyl panel, first disengage it from the tracks. Slide the panel upward until the bottom edge clears the ground channel, allowing you to pull the panel out from the bottom. If the panel is secured with screws or other fasteners into the top rail, these must be removed before the panel can be slid out.
Once the old panel is removed, measure its dimensions or the distance between the top and bottom tracks. When cutting the new panel, use a utility knife or tin snips to ensure a clean, straight edge for proper fit and appearance. Cut the panel to the correct height, allowing a small gap to accommodate ground variations and material expansion.
Installation involves inserting the top edge of the new panel into the upper track first, then aligning the bottom edge with the ground channel. Push the panel down firmly until it locks into the bottom track, securing it in place. If the panel is a tight fit, gently flex it to slide it into the channels, ensuring it is plumb and aligned with adjacent panels.
For minor damage, such as small holes or cracks, a full panel replacement is often unnecessary. Small punctures in vinyl or metal can be repaired using specialized skirting repair patches or heavy-duty vinyl patch tape. After applying the patch, seal the edges with an exterior-grade caulk for protection against moisture. This patching method is a quick fix for damage smaller than a golf ball.
Tips for Long-Term Skirting Maintenance
Preventative maintenance ensures the longevity of your skirting repair and the overall health of the mobile home’s undercarriage. Focus on managing water runoff and ensuring proper drainage around the foundation. The ground should be graded to slope slightly away from the mobile home. This directs rainwater away from the skirting and prevents pooling that causes moisture damage and erosion.
Regularly inspect the skirting for gaps or holes, especially around utility penetrations and vents, as these are common entry points for pests. Sealing these openings immediately with durable sealants or installing mesh covers over vents prevents animals from nesting beneath the home, where they can damage insulation and wiring.
Periodic inspection of the entire perimeter is necessary, particularly after severe weather events. Look for loose fasteners, panels that have popped out of the track, or small cracks that can quickly worsen if left unaddressed. Cleaning the skirting regularly with mild soap and water removes dirt and debris, preventing the buildup of mold or mildew that degrades the material.