A quality RV Skirting from RVSkirting.com

RV Skirting & The Benefits of Trailer Skirts

RV skirting or camper skirting is gaining popularity. It may seem like a new idea, but skirting trailers has been a smart way to enhance RVs for many years. Think about trailers in mobile home parks and your mind says, “Oh, yeah, I remember that!” So, the idea of blocking cold air and wind from underneath trailers has been around for a while. Now it is trending in the RV industry as more and more people want to extend their camping season or simply be more comfortable and energy efficient.

What Is RV Skirting?

Traditionally, trailer skirting is a canvas wrap that covers the gap between the RV and the ground. If you have that mobile home park vision still in your head you may think aluminum or vinyl, maybe even a lattice skirting that kept out sneaky neighbor cats or nocturnal rodents.

Stationary trailers, although officially “mobile” utilize much more structured skirting materials due to the fact that they stay put. However, with RVs mobility is key as campers travel as weekend warriors, cross country trekkers, or full-time RVers. Skirting that is flexible, convenient to apply and remove yet rugged enough to combat the elements is important.

There are many types, sizes and qualities of RV skirting. Taking into consideration your needs and budget will help you determine which skirting is best for you.

Benefits of Skirting for RVs

RV skirting helps prevent wear from wind and the weather. Heavy skirting can add stability to the base of your RV. Skirting allows you to safely store items under your RV while you camp. Some campgrounds require RV skirting for long-term campers. Skirting provides a neat, clean look and hides the “untidy” look of storage space under your camper.

Skirting also protects your RV from hot summer heat, cold winter air and, since it is installed around the outside, it protects tires from UV damage. Finally, skirting also helps keep the undercarriage of your RV free of dirt and grime. A fact you’ll appreciate come spring cleaning time!

RV Trailer Skirts for RV Winterizing

RV skirting is a popular way to winterize RVs. There are many options for skirting to winterize, especially if this is the only time you plan to skirt your RV. You can check into plywood and foam insulation board as these can be much more cost effective and mobility isn’t necessary.

insulation for RV
Adding insulation to your RV can help with climate control.

Avoid cheap DIY suggestions of using hay bales to winterize and insulate your RV. A cheap alternative can save dollars up front, but when rodents find a cozy spot to nest for the winter, you won’t be so happy you saved a few bucks. Not to mention the fire hazard of all that combustible material. Again, sometimes it’s great to find cheap or free alternatives, but all those dollars you saved will go up in smoke in an RV fire.

Winterizing your RV is one of the keys to keeping it in good condition over the years. Treat your RV like you would your home – it is your home-away-from-home for many months out of the year! Read more tips on RV winterizing here.

Types of Camper Skirting

Custom-Fit Skirting

Advantages

  • Offers the best fit as it is tailored specifically for your RV model.
  • Maximizes insulation and protection due to the precise fit.
  • Often made from durable materials designed for long-term use.

Considerations

  • Can be more expensive due to the customization.
  • May require professional installation or precise measurements.

Vinyl Skirting

Advantages

  • A popular choice due to its affordability and ease of installation.
  • Flexible and easy to store when not in use.
  • Offers a decent level of insulation and protection.

Considerations

  • May not fit as snugly as custom-fit options, potentially reducing effectiveness.
  • Durability varies with material thickness and quality.

Foam Board Insulation

Advantages

  • Provides excellent insulation, making it ideal for very cold climates.
  • Relatively inexpensive and can be a DIY project.
  • Can be cut and shaped for a closer fit around various RV models.

Considerations

  • Requires more effort to install and remove.
  • Less aesthetically pleasing compared to other options.
  • Storage can be cumbersome due to the rigid nature of the material.

Snap-On Skirting

Advantages

  • Easy to install and remove due to the snap-on system.
  • Provides a snug fit, improving insulation and protection.
  • Can be custom-made for a variety of RV types.

Considerations

  • Typically more expensive than vinyl due to the custom fit and snap system.
  • Snaps or fasteners may require initial professional installation on the RV.

Magnetic Skirting

Advantages

  • Very easy to install and remove, using magnets to attach to the RV.
  • Good for temporary or seasonal use.
  • Flexible material allows for easy storage.

Considerations

  • May not provide as tight a fit as custom options, affecting insulation.
  • Effectiveness can be dependent on the RV’s ability to hold magnets.

Air Skirting

Advantages

  • Innovative design inflates to provide insulation and protection.
  • Easy to install and remove, with no need for precise measurements.
  • Can be adjusted for a custom fit around obstacles.

Considerations

  • Requires an air pump for installation.
  • Potentially more vulnerable to punctures than solid materials.

Suction Cup Skirting

Advantages

  • Highly flexible and easy to install, using suction cups to attach to the RV without the need for drilling or permanent fixtures.
  • Can be easily adjusted or removed as needed, offering great convenience for travelers.
  • Suitable for a wide range of RV models, thanks to its adaptability.

Considerations

  • The effectiveness of the suction cups can vary with weather conditions and surface cleanliness, potentially requiring frequent adjustments.
  • May offer less insulation compared to more permanent or custom-fitted options.
  • Durability and longevity may be less than other types, depending on material quality and maintenance.

Tips for RV Trailer Skirting

There are some things to keep in mind with trailer skirting that may seem obvious but are worth stating. Don’t move your RV with the skirting on. It may seem like a hassle to remove the skirting if you need to move your RV, but don’t risk damaging the skirting. It will render it less effective (not to mention how it will look) and will be costly to repair or replace. It’s worth the extra time to remove it first.

Remember that air can sneak in under the gaps so be sure to anchor the skirt to the ground. Several different methods are available including straps, chains, D-rings, PVC pipe and loops. Investigate the different options and weigh the pros and cons based on your needs.

Insulated skirting will offer more protection, but can be bulkier to work with. Some owners add insulation themselves with foam board, though this can also be time-consuming to set up and take down. It’s an ideal option for adding more protection during winter storage when your RV will be stationary for several months. There are many skirting choices and the options continue to grow as RV trailer skirting gains in popularity.

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Find Your Next RV – Contact RV Wholesale Superstore

The professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help you find the perfect RV for you and your family. Visit us in-person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, OH or call us at (419) 786-1126

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