Mobile homes have become increasingly popular over the years due to their affordability, flexibility, and ease of transportation. However, one of the major concerns associated with mobile homes is their skirting. Skirting, also known as underpinning, is a material installed around the perimeter of a mobile home to cover the open space between the ground and the bottom of the home. It is essential to protect the home’s underbelly from pests, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Traditional skirting materials such as vinyl, metal, and brick are expensive and require professional installation. This article explores alternative mobile home skirting ideas options that are affordable, easy to install, and durable.
Option 1: Faux Stone Skirting
Faux stone skirting is an alternative to traditional skirting made from natural stones or bricks. It is a lightweight and durable option that mimics the look of real stone or brick. Faux stone skirting is made from high-density polyurethane foam, which is molded and painted to look like natural stone or brick. The material is easy to install and does not require any special tools or skills. The panels are interlocked and secured to the ground with screws or adhesive. Faux stone skirting is resistant to moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures. It is also easy to clean and maintain.
Option 2: Concrete Skirting
Concrete skirting is another alternative to traditional skirting. It is a durable and long-lasting option that requires minimal maintenance. Concrete skirting is made from precast concrete panels that are reinforced with steel. The panels are installed around the perimeter of the mobile home and secured to the ground with concrete anchors. Concrete skirting is resistant to moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures. It is also fire-resistant and provides added protection against fires. Concrete skirting can be painted or textured to mimic the look of natural stones or bricks.
Option 3: Wood Lattice Skirting
Alternatives mobile home skirtingWood lattice skirting is a cost-effective and easy-to-install option that adds a decorative touch to the mobile home. It is made from wooden slats that are interwoven to create a lattice pattern. The slats are secured to the ground with wooden stakes or metal brackets. Wood lattice skirting allows for air circulation and ventilation, which helps prevent moisture buildup and pest infestations. It is also easy to replace damaged slats or sections. Wood lattice skirting can be painted or stained to match the mobile home’s exterior.
Option 4: Gabion Wall Skirting
Gabion wall skirting is a unique and modern option that adds an industrial look to the mobile home. It is made from wire mesh baskets that are filled with rocks or stones. The baskets are stacked to create a wall around the perimeter of the mobile home. Gabion wall skirting is durable and resistant to moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures. It is also easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. Gabion wall skirting can be painted or left natural to blend with the environment.
Option 5: Straw Bale Skirting
Straw bale skirting is an eco-friendly and sustainable option that provides excellent insulation and soundproofing. It is made from tightly-packed straw bales that are stacked around the perimeter of the mobile home. The bales are secured to the ground with wooden stakes or metal brackets. Straw bale skirting is resistant to moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures. It also helps regulate the temperature inside the mobile home, reducing energy costs. Straw bale skirting can be covered with plaster or stucco to match the mobile home’s exterior.
What are alternatives for underpinning?
There are several alternatives to traditional underpinning that can be used to cover the open space between the ground and the bottom of a mobile home. Here are some examples:
- SkirtGuard – SkirtGuard is a flexible polymer product that is designed to protect the underside of mobile homes. The system provides excellent drainage and is easy to install.
- Decorative Gravel – Decorative gravel is an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional underpinning. It is easy to install and provides excellent drainage.
- EverRock Skirting – EverRock Skirting is a durable and lightweight alternative to traditional underpinning. It is made from high-density foam and is available in a variety of colors and textures.
- Plantings – Plantings such as shrubs, bushes, and flowers can be used to cover the open space under a mobile home. This is a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional underpinning.
- Concrete Blocks – Concrete blocks can be used to create a solid foundation around the perimeter of a mobile home. This is a durable and long lasting alternative to traditional underpinning.
- Fencing – Fencing can be used to create a barrier around the perimeter of a mobile home. This is an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional underpinning.
- Metal Panels – Metal panels can be used to cover the open space under a mobile home. This is a durable and low-maintenance alternative to traditional underpinning.
Overall, there are many alternatives to traditional underpinning that can provide both practical and aesthetic benefits. Mobile homeowners should explore their options and choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.
Six Cheap DIY Mobile Home Skirting Alternatives
Mobile home skirting is a necessary component of any mobile home. It protects the underside of the home from the elements, pests, and debris while also giving the home a finished look. However, traditional skirting options can be expensive, especially when installation costs are factored in. Luckily, there are several cheap DIY mobile home skirting alternatives that homeowners can use to save money while still protecting their homes. Here are six of them:
Cinder Blocks
Cinder blocks are a cheap and easy-to-install option formobile home skirting ideas. They can be stacked and held in place with construction adhesive. You can choose to paint the blocks to match the color of your mobile home or leave them bare for a rustic look.
Pallets
Wooden pallets can be repurposed into mobile home skirting. Simply stand the pallets upright and secure them in place with stakes. This option is not only cheap but also environmentally friendly.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a durable and low-maintenance option for mobile home skirting. It can be cut to size and attached to the underside of the home with screws or adhesive. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles to match your home’s exterior.
Straw Bales
Straw bales are a sustainable and eco-friendly option for mobile home skirting. They can be stacked and held in place with stakes. This option also provides insulation for the home, which can help reduce energy costs.
Gabion Wall
A gabion wall is a modern and unique option for mobile home skirting. It is made by filling wire mesh baskets with stones and stacking them around the perimeter of the home. This option provides excellent drainage and is easy to install.
Lattice
Lattice is a classic option for mobile home skirting. It is made from wood or vinyl and can be cut to size and attached to the underside of the home with screws or adhesive. You can choose from a variety of styles to match your home’s exterior.
Wrapping up
Alternative mobile home skirting options provide affordable, easy-to-install, and durable solutions for protecting the underbelly of a mobile home. From the modern and unique gabion wall skirting to eco-friendly and sustainable straw bale skirting, there are various options available to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the look of natural stone, brick, or wood lattice, or you are more interested in practicality and sustainability, there is an alternative mobile home skirting ideas option that can meet your needs. By exploring these alternatives, mobile homeowners can protect their homes while also enhancing their appearance and value.