How to build RV skirting?
By
Elaine Knight
In this blog post, we will answer the question: “How to build RV skirting?” We will discuss the steps to successfully build RV skirting in detail. We will also talk about the various types of RV skirting along with their advantages and disadvantages. At the end of this post, you will get to know how to build RV skirting within a day.
How to build RV skirting?
To build RV skirting, you need to follow the steps described below.
- Measure the skirting area
- Choose the material
- Install the snaps
- Cut and install PVC pipes
Measure the skirting area
- First, you will need to get some tape and start measuring the skirting area. The RV skirting area is huge and it is around the entire vehicle. You will need another person to help with the measuring process.
- You will need a long measuring tape to get the right measurements. Be sure to go around the RV and measure all the spots.
- RV skirting is important if you are camping under extreme climatic conditions. For those who love camping in winter, it is always important to have RV skirting to keep you and your RV warm at all times.
Choose the material
- The measurement process will not take too long, but the most important thing is to choose the right material that you desire. There are various types of RV skirting material that is used.
- Choosing the RV skirting material also depends on your camping preference. You can also choose the skirting material based on your preference. The most common RV skirting material is Vinyl. There is also foam board RV skirting, plywood, straw bales, tarps, and more.
- Ensure to select the right material that will also match your RV. This is important since it is not easy to keep changing the skirting material often.
Install the snaps
- In the next step, you will need to install the snaps. These snaps are usually used for vinyl tarps. You will need to install the snaps around the RV according to the determined height. Be sure to keep them eight to 10 inches apart.
- In places where you need extra holding, you can place the snaps close. Wrap the tarp around well, especially in areas where you need to make turns.
- You can also use tape to secure areas where you feel that water might leak through the tarp. RV skirting is used only when you are camping and you can fold the steps up and install the snaps just to get the measurements right.
- Once you have the snaps installed, you can fold down the steps. You might use a press and snap tool to get the snaps in place.
Install the vinyl
- Next, you will need to install the vinyl onto the RV. You will need to glue some pieces of vinyl together, especially for the front. You can double the width to attach the vinyl to the front.
- Install the vinyl carefully and be sure not to leave long gaps in between for cold air to pass through. You will need help from another person to get the vinyl installed.
Cut and install PVC pipes
- You will need enough PVC pipes to secure the end of the RV. Cut the PVC pipes accordingly to match the length of the RV. You will need to cut several pieces to adjust the pipes to the tarp.
- Cap one end of the PVC pipe and fill the pipe with sand. Once you fill the pipe with sand, make sure to cap the other end. Use a funnel to fill the sand to make the process easier.
- The PVC pipes need to be fitted to the bottom of the vinyl to pull the vinyl down. For the weight of the pipes, the vinyl should drop to the ground. Use clamps to secure the pipes into the mud or you can let the pipes simply hang below.
- You can also place stones on the PVC pipe below. You will be able to add the PVC pipes only after the vinyl skirting is installed in the RV. Use a thick thread and needle to secure the pipes to the skirting.
Those were a few simple steps to build an RV skirting with vinyl. There are several RV skirting options but vinyl is the most common material that is used for RV skirting. Be sure to have all the required tools handy and do not leave gaps between the skirting. This process should take you less than a day to complete.
Types of RV skirting
Vinyl might be the most common type of RV skirting that is used, but there are other options to choose from. Here are some of the other RV skirting options to consider when camping in winter.
Foam board skirting
- Using foam boards for RV skirting is yet another common technique, but you will need enough space to store the foam boards. Insulated foam boards provide the right protection and it also gives your RV a classy look.
- The biggest advantage of foam boards is that they are lightweight and easy to work with. On the other hand, they are also not too expensive. You can simply use any rigid foam board as your RV skirting. However, you will need enough tape and a little plywood to secure the skirting.
Straw bale skirting
- Straw bale skirting has been widely used in the past and it is a cost-effective option. Straw is cheaper than foam boards and vinyl. However, it is not easy to carry straws in your RV all the time. If you happen to stumble upon a farm, you can always request some straw and pay a few dollars.
- Be sure to carry some garbage bags to wrap the straw and keep the insects out. You can also use a tarp to wrap the straw. Note, this might be a cheap option, but it is highly flammable so be sure not to light a match or start a fire near the straw.
Snow skirting
- Not many people are aware of this option but snow skirting has worked for decades and some people use this to their advantage.
- If you find enough show during your winter camping, you can use it as a DIY skirting solution for your RV. All you need to do is pile up the snow around the RV and you are all set.
- You can also use some rigid foam board under the snow if necessary. RV snow skirting is easy and it is free.
Those were some of the best skirting options for RVs. Building an RV skirting is easy and it can be done within a day. You will need some help to get the skirting up and you will need to plan your trip. If you are camping in remote areas with harsh climatic conditions, it is close to impossible to hire an expert for the skirting. Hence, it is always good to know these methods.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have answered the question: “How to build RV skirting?” We have discussed the steps to successfully build RV skirting in detail. We have also talked about the various types of RV skirting along with their advantages and disadvantages. Have you done your RV skirting before? Leave us a comment and let us know.
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