What is the Cheapest Way to Skirt a Mobile Home?

Mobile homes are a popular choice for people who are looking for affordable housing. One of the challenges of owning a mobile home is that it often requires skirting to cover the space between the bottom of the home and the ground. This skirting not only enhances the appearance of the home but also provides insulation and protection against pests and rodents. However, many homeowners are concerned about the cost of skirting their mobile homes. In this article, we will explore some of the cheapest ways to skirt a mobile home.

Why is Skirting Important for a Mobile Home?

Before we delve into the various mobile home skirting ideas, it is important to understand why skirting is necessary. The space between the bottom of the mobile home and the ground is called the crawl space. This area provides access to the plumbing and electrical systems of the home, and it also serves as an insulation barrier. However, without proper skirting, the crawl space can be a breeding ground for pests and rodents, which can cause damage to the home’s infrastructure.

Skirting also enhances the appearance of a mobile home. It covers up the unsightly underside of the home and gives it a finished look. Skirting can also improve the energy efficiency of a mobile home by preventing cold air from entering the crawl space during the winter months.

Cheapest Ways to Skirt a Mobile Home

1. Vinyl Skirting

There are many types of skirting available for mobile homes, but vinyl skirting is one of the most popular. The product is easy to install, lightweight, and affordable. Vinyl skirting comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose one that complements the look of your home. It is also durable and low maintenance, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it for a long time.

2. Faux Stone Skirting

Faux stone skirting is an inexpensive alternative to real stone skirting. It is made from a high-density polyurethane material that is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural stone. Faux stone skirting is lightweight and easy to install, and it comes in a variety of styles and colors. It is also highly durable and resistant to weathering, so it will last for many years.

3. Metal Skirting

Metal skirting is another mobile home skirting idea. It is usually made from corrugated steel or aluminum, and it is known for its durability and strength. Metal skirting is also low-maintenance and resistant to pests and rodents. It is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose one that complements the look of your home.

4. Plywood Skirting

Plywood skirting is the most affordable option for mobile home skirting. It is made from sheets of plywood that are cut to fit the space between the bottom of the home and the ground. Plywood skirting can be painted or stained to match the color of the home, and it provides a solid barrier against pests and rodents. However, plywood skirting is not as durable as other options and may need to be replaced more frequently.

Materials to Consider When Choosing Skirting

When choosing a skirting material for your mobile home, there are several factors to consider. These include:

1. Durability

You want to choose a skirting material that is durable and will last for many years. Vinyl, metal, and faux stone skirting are all highly durable and resistant to weathering.

2. Cost

Cost is a major consideration for many mobile homeowners. Plywood skirting is the most affordable option, but it is not as durable as other materials. Vinyl skirting and faux stone skirting are both affordable and durable.

3. Appearance

Skirting is an important part of the overall appearance of your mobile home. You want to choose a skirting material that complements the style and color of your home. Vinyl, faux stone, and metal skirting are all available in a variety of colors and styles to fit your design preferences.

4. Insulation

Skirting also serves as an insulation barrier for your mobile home. You want to choose a skirting material that will provide adequate insulation for your home’s crawl space. Vinyl and faux stone skirting are both good options for insulation, as they can create a tight seal to keep out cold air during the winter months.

5. Installation

The installation process for skirting can vary depending on the material you choose. Plywood skirting is the easiest to install, as it only requires cutting the plywood sheets to fit the space and securing them in place. Vinyl, faux stone, and metal skirting may require additional tools and expertise to install properly.

Tips for Skirting a Mobile Home on a Budget

Skirting a mobile home can be a significant expense for homeowners, but there are ways to save money in the process. Here are some tips for skirting a mobile home on a budget:

1. Shop around for materials

Don’t settle for the first skirting material you find. Shop around to compare prices and find the best deal. You may be able to find discounted or clearance skirting materials that can save you money.

2. DIY installation

If you have some basic handyman skills, consider installing the skirting yourself instead of hiring a professional. This can save you a significant amount of money on installation fees.

3. Use recycled materials

Consider using recycled materials for your skirting. You may be able to find old vinyl or metal siding that can be repurposed as skirting for your mobile home.

4. Opt for simple designs

Complex skirting designs can add to the cost of materials and installation. Consider opting for a simple design that will still provide adequate insulation and protection for your home.

Six Cheap DIY Mobile Home Skirting Alternatives 

Mobile home skirting is an important part of maintaining the appearance and structural integrity of your home. It provides a barrier between the underside of your home and the elements, helping to protect it from moisture, wind, and pests. Skirting also improves the appearance of your home by hiding the crawl space and giving it a finished look. 

However, traditional skirting materials like vinyl, metal, and faux stone can be expensive, and hiring a professional to install them can add to the cost. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, here are six cheap DIY mobile home skirting alternatives:

1. Cinder Blocks

Cinder blocks are a simple and affordable way to create a skirting barrier around your mobile home. Simply stack the blocks on top of each other to the desired height, and secure them in place with mortar or construction adhesive. You can paint or decorate the blocks to match the style of your home.

The cost of cinder blocks can vary depending on the size and quality, but they typically cost around $1 to $3 per block.

2. Landscape Timbers

Landscape timbers are another affordable option for mobile home skirting. These wooden planks can be cut to size and secured in place with rebar or stakes. Your home’s style can be matched by staining or painting them.

The cost of landscape timbers can vary depending on the size and quality, but they typically cost around $2 to $5 per linear foot.

3. Pallets

Wooden pallets can be repurposed as mobile home skirting. Simply stack them on top of each other and secure them in place with screws or brackets. You can leave the pallets natural or paint them to match the style of your home.

Pallets can often be found for free or for a low cost at local businesses that receive shipments.

4. Straw Bales

Straw bales can be an affordable and eco-friendly option for mobile home skirting. They provide insulation and can be easily stacked to create a barrier around your home. You can cover the straw bales with stucco, plaster, or a waterproof sealant to protect them from the elements.

The cost of straw bales can vary depending on your location and the quality of the straw, but they typically cost around $5 to $10 per bale.

5. Bamboo Fencing

Bamboo fencing can be a stylish and affordable option for mobile home skirting. These panels can be easily cut to size and secured in place with zip ties or brackets. The style of your home can be matched by staining or painting them.

The cost of bamboo fencing can vary depending on the quality and size, but they typically cost around $20 to $50 per panel.

6. Corrugated Metal

Corrugated metal can be an affordable and durable option for mobile home skirting. These panels can be cut to size and secured in place with screws or brackets. They can be painted to match the style of your home or left as-is for a modern, industrial look.

The cost of corrugated metal can vary depending on the quality and size, but they typically cost around $10 to $20 per linear foot.

How much does it cost to put skirting around a mobile home?

The cost of putting skirting around a mobile home can vary depending on several factors such as the material used, the size of the home, and the cost of installation. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs of different skirting materials:

1. Plywood: The cost of plywood skirting typically ranges from $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the quality of the wood. For a 16′ x 80′ mobile home, the cost of plywood skirting would be around $1,280 to $3,840.
2. Vinyl: The cost of vinyl skirting ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot, depending on the quality of the vinyl and the design. For a 16′ x 80′ mobile home, the cost of vinyl skirting would be around $3,840 to $10,240.
3. Faux stone: The cost of faux stone skirting ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot, depending on the quality and design of the material. For a 16′ x 80′ mobile home, the cost of faux stone skirting would be around $12,800 to $25,600.
4. Metal: The cost of metal skirting ranges from $8 to $12 per linear foot, depending on the gauge and quality of the metal. For a 16′ x 80′ mobile home, the cost of metal skirting would be around $3,840 to $5,760.

It’s important to note that these prices are just estimates and may vary depending on the location and the specific products and installation methods used. Additionally, the cost of installation can vary depending on whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional. DIY installation can save you money on labor costs, but it may require additional tools and expertise. Hiring a professional can ensure a proper installation but can add to the overall cost.

Overall, the cost of skirting a mobile home can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the material and the size of the home. It’s important to do your research and choose a skirting material that fits your budget and your home’s needs.

Conclusion 

Skirting a mobile home is an important part of maintaining the integrity and appearance of your home. While it can be a significant expense, there are affordable options available that can still provide adequate insulation and protection. Vinyl, faux stone, metal, and plywood are all good mobile home skirting ideas, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a skirting material, consider factors such as durability, cost, maintenance, appearance, insulation, and installation. By shopping around for materials, DIY installation, using recycled materials, and opting for simple designs, you can save money on the skirting process and still achieve a finished look for your mobile home.