What is an RV Skirt?
An RV skirt is a piece of fabric or material that hangs down from the bottom of an RV. But what is it, and why do you need it? The skirting materials serve two primary purposes: they aid in RV cleanliness and protect your RV from the elements.
If you’re planning on camping in wet or dusty conditions, skirts provide some insulation against cold air under the RV and can help reduce moisture and wind noise when driving.
Skirts and RV covers can be an essential part of protecting your investment and extending the life of your RV, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. If you take your RV out in inclement weather or off-road, a skirt can help prevent damage to the underbelly of the rig.
Why Should You Use a Skirting System for Your RV?
If you’ve ever seen an RV parked and wondered what that long panel of fabric hanging down is, you were looking at an RV skirt. An RV skirt is a removable panel hanging down from the RV’s bottom and covers the area between the wheels. Skirting is great for cooling your RV in hot weather by providing shade for the vehicle’s underside.
Whereas RV fender skirts are essential for a few reasons; first, they help keep your RV clean by preventing potential damage from dirt and debris being kicked up by the tires. Second, they can help improve your RV’s fuel efficiency by reducing drag and fender skirts can help reduce wind noise when driving.
Does Skirting Work?
By skirting your RV, you are essentially creating a barrier between the bottom of the RV and the ground. RV skirting helps insulate and prevent heat from escaping, which can help make your RV more comfortable in cold weather.
In addition, RV skirting is one of the best ways to protect the underbelly from damage that may occur due to rust and corrosion.
Do I Need RV Skirting for Winter?
Like most RV owners, you probably don’t give much thought to your rig’s underbelly. Skirting your RV for the winter is well worth considering an investment to protect the underbelly of your RV. There are several things about RV skirts that you need to know and also how they can help keep your rig warm during the winter season.
Manufacturers typically make skirts from insulating materials like wool or fleece, which helps trap heat and prevent cold drafts. RV skirts are particularly helpful in winter when temperatures can drop dramatically at night. By keeping your rig well-insulated, an RV skirt can help you stay warm and comfortable even when the mercury dips below freezing.
Do Skirts Help In The Summer?
An RV Skirt also provides an extra layer of insulation, which can help keep your RV warm and cool in the summer. The breathable mesh-like or nylon material helps to keep the area underneath your RV cooler in warm weather.
RV skirts can be especially helpful in the summer months when temperatures can get hot enough to make it challenging to keep your RV cool inside. The skirt helps block out the sun’s heat and provides some insulation against the hot ground.
Best RV Skirting Solutions
Many types of RV skirting options are available, from simple vinyl panels to more elaborate systems with insulation and vapor barriers. The RV skirting you choose will depend on your climate and how often you use your RV.
In cold climates, insulating your RV is essential for keeping the heat in and preventing damage to your RV plumbing system. There are a variety of insulated skirting panels available, as well as electric heating mats that you can install under the skirt.
A heavy-duty vinyl skirt with an attached screen can help reduce the debris in areas where windblown dust or sand is a problem. An RV windskirt is more suitable under these types of conditions.
Type Materials Used to Skirt Your RV
There are a few different RV skirting material types that you can choose from available on the market.
Vinyl is popular because it is easy to install and insulates well. Foam board is another option that is also easy to install and provides sound insulation.
For trailers or campers, you may want to consider using plywood skirting. This type of skirting is easy to install and provides good protection against the elements. Some skirts are equipped with zippers or Velcro closures to make it easy to access the underbelly of the RV.
Using Fabric RV Skirting?
The most common RV skirting material is PVC-coated polyester fabric. Choosing a material that will withstand the elements and not crack or tear in cold weather is vital. Some people prefer fabric skirting because it’s easier to install and remove, but it doesn’t provide as much insulation as vinyl.
Using RV Skirting Made From Wood
When choosing a material for skirting your RV, there are a few things to consider. Wood is popular because it is durable and easy to work with when it comes to installation. However, wood can rot if wet, so it is crucial to choose a type of wood that is resistant to moisture.
Cedar is an excellent option, as it is naturally weather-resistant. You will also want to ensure you use wood treated with a sealant before installation.
Installing a wood skirt around your RV is relatively simple, and you will need to measure the circumference of your RV and cut the boards to size.
What is Foam Board RV Skirting?
Foam board RV skirting is a lightweight option that is quick to install, and it is also easy to shape and cut with a utility knife. Foam board can be stained or painted, but it is not as durable as wood. However, as you may be aware, skirting can cost and put a dent in your wallet; opting for this less expensive option than wood can be more viable and will last many years if properly installed.
Another material commonly used for RV skirts is styrofoam or foam board material. They are easy to install, and you can cut the foam to fit your RV size. You can also paint or stain the skirts to match the RV’s exterior. Perhaps the best RV skirting for winter, these skirts enable warmth in the winter and cooling in the summer. It also helps to protect the RV from moisture and pests.
Plastic RV Skirting Material?
Plastic RV skirting is typically made from PVC or polyethylene and is available in various colors. RV skirting can improve an RV’s overall appearance and protect it from the elements.
Plastic skirting for RVs is similar to foam board in that it is lightweight and easy to cut. However, it does not have the same water-resistant properties, and plastic skirting is better suited for dry climates or seasonal use when exposed to the elements.
Why Would You Use Vinyl RV Skirtings?
Vinyl RV skirting is a popular choice; more durable, easy to clean, and provides better insulation, but it can be more challenging to install. Vinyl RV skirting comes in many different colors and designs, so you can find one that matches your RV perfectly, giving your RV a lot neater appearance, one of a quality RV.
Can You Make Your Own RV Skirting?
There are some DIY RV skirting options; one option is making a custom skirt using outdoor fabric. Outdoor fabric is durable, can withstand the elements, and is easy to clean. Another option is to use canvas, a heavy-duty fabric that will last longer and keep your RV clean.
To make an RV skirt, you will need to measure the circumference of your RV. Then, cut the fabric into two pieces equal in length and sew them together, leaving a seam allowance. Hem the bottom and top of the skirt, and then attach it to your RV. Lastly, you may very well have some skirting ideas of your own to bring to the table.
How to Install the RV Skirting
You can install or attach skirting to an RV in a couple of different ways. The most common method is to use a fastener or adhesive. The bottom of the skirting is usually attached to the RV itself, but some types of skirting may have a channel system that allows for easier installation.
Some custom RV skirting solutions that require specific materials. If you’re looking for a DIY option, there are a few different ways to do it. Skirting may be made of fabric, vinyl, or another material. Some people use EZ Snap fasteners, while others opt for a more traditional method like sewing or stapling.
There are RV skirting pros and cons to both DIY skirting and professional installation. DIY skirting is usually less expensive but requires your time and effort to perform the tedious task of a professional.
Can I Install RV Skirting Myself?
Installing skirting is a simple process and can be done by anyone, but it’s essential to ensure that the skirting is adequately secured, so it doesn’t blow away in strong winds. Many RVs have pre-made screw holes or holes for attaching the skirt, so all you need to do is thread it through and secure the skirting.
When it comes to RV skirting, typically, it attaches to the RV with velcro strips or magnets and can be removed and reattached as needed. Some skirts come with zippered access panels that allow you to access the storage area underneath, eliminating the need to remove the entire RV skirt.
If you’re considering adding an RV skirt to your motorhome or camper, ensure the dimensions are correct so that you get the skirting you need and it fits well. And since they can be a bit tricky to install, it’s a good idea to watch a few YouTube videos or read online tutorials before getting started.
Tips for maintaining an RV Skirt
1. Inspect the skirt regularly to ensure it is free of rips, holes, or other damage.
2. If you notice any damage, use a patch kit or repair it by replacing the RV skirting panels to prevent further deterioration.
3. Keep the skirt clean by routinely washing it or wiping it with a damp cloth and letting it air dry completely.
4. If your RV is stored outdoors, cover the skirt with a tarp or other waterproof material to protect it from the elements
5. Store the skirt in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it to prevent mildew and rot.
6. Check the condition of the skirt before each trip and replace it if necessary.
Skirting is easy to set up and take down and can be stored in a small space when not in use. You can use RV skirting material for 5th wheel travel trailers and floor covering for a tent or RV, providing extra insulation and protection from heat and preventing freezing. You can also use skirting material to create privacy on a campsite or around a pool.
EZ Snap RV Skirting Accessory
There are several recommended RV skirting accessories that can make your life easier. The first is the skirt itself, there are many different types and styles of RV skirts available, so it is vital to choose RV skirting products that will work well for your particular RV.
The second accessory is the EZ Snap RV Skirting. Manufacturers designed the product to help you quickly and easily install your skirt without having to use any tools. Removing it is also straightforward so you can take it with you on your RV trips.
Choosing the Right RV Skirt Kit
The RV skirt materials you use should include everything you need to know to enable you to install your skirt, including the EZ Snap Skirting. Finally, the RV skirt kit should include all the necessary hardware and instructions for a successful installation. Below are a couple of things you should consider when choosing an RV skirt.
The climate you’ll be in:
You won’t need as much insulation if you use your skirt mostly in warm weather. However, if you’re using your RV in extreme weather or at higher altitudes, you’ll want to ensure it’s well insulated.
The size of your RV:
Know your way around your RV, and make sure you get a skirt that’s big enough to cover the entire area under your RV.
You can find skirting kits at most RV stores or online. They usually come with everything you need to get started.
Key Take-aways to Skirt Your RV
RV skirts are an essential item for every RV, especially for the winter RV traveler and those who plan to live in their RV full-time. Skirting for your RV is a simple and inexpensive accessory that helps keep warm air in during the winter and cooler air in during the summer.
By blocking drafts and sealing in heat, an RV skirt can save you significant money on your energy bills and make your RV more comfortable to live in all year.