I recently installed RV skirting on my camper, and it has made a huge difference in my camping experience. Before installing the skirting, I struggled with keeping my camper warm during cold weather, and I often worried about my water pipes freezing. However, since installing the skirting, I have noticed a significant improvement in the temperature inside my camper, and I no longer have to worry about my pipes freezing.
RV skirting is a type of protective barrier that covers the underbelly of your camper. It helps to keep cold air from blowing underneath your rig, which is one of the biggest contributors to cold temperatures inside. Additionally, skirting your RV helps to maintain running water, prevent pipes and valves from cracking, and maintain a warmer environment and floor by preventing cold air from blowing underneath and trapping warming air underneath. If you live full-time in your RV or enjoy taking cold weather RV trips, skirting your RV is a wise precaution.
Key Takeaways:
- RV skirting is crucial for winter protection and ensuring comfort in your motorhome.
- Fabric, vinyl, inflatable, and custom-made skirting options are available for different needs.
- Skirting helps retain heat, prevent freezing, and reduce heating costs.
- The best RV skirting options include EZ Snap, ICON J-Wrap, AirSkirts, RV WindSkirt, Fabricover, RV Skirting Pros, and RVSkirting.com.
- DIY options like vinyl, foam board, straw bales, and snow can be more affordable but may require additional effort and maintenance.
What is RV Skirting and Why Do You Need It?
RV skirting refers to the process of enclosing the undercarriage of a motorhome to protect it from cold temperatures and harsh winds. It acts as a barrier, preventing warm air from escaping and cold air from infiltrating the RV. Skirting not only helps to retain heat but also keeps water tanks and pipes from freezing, ensuring the smooth functioning of your RV even in cold weather. It is especially important for those who live in their RVs full-time or plan to camp during the winter season.
Camping in cold weather can be uncomfortable without proper protection. RV skirting provides insulation and creates a comfortable living environment inside the motorhome. By reducing the need for excessive heating, it also helps to save on energy costs. Skirting is a practical investment that prolongs the lifespan of your RV and ensures you can enjoy winter camping without worrying about the adverse effects of cold weather.
Why is RV Skirting Important for Winter Camping?
1. Retaining Heat: The main purpose of RV skirting is to retain heat inside the motorhome. The skirting creates a sealed space underneath the RV, preventing warm air from escaping and cold air from entering. This insulation helps to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the RV, even in freezing temperatures.
2. Preventing Freezing: RV skirting acts as a protective barrier against freezing temperatures. By enclosing the undercarriage, it helps to prevent water tanks, pipes, and other essential components from freezing. This helps to avoid costly repairs and ensures the smooth functioning of your RV throughout the winter season.
3. Reducing Energy Costs: Skirting minimizes heat loss, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat the RV. This can result in significant savings on heating costs, especially during prolonged winter camping trips. By providing efficient insulation, RV skirting allows you to stay warm and comfortable without relying heavily on heating systems.
In conclusion, RV skirting is an essential component for winter camping. It provides insulation, prevents freezing, and reduces heating costs. By enclosing the undercarriage of your motorhome, skirting helps retain heat, protect vital equipment, and create a comfortable living environment. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or enjoy camping during the winter season, investing in RV skirting is a practical choice that ensures a cozy and enjoyable experience.
Benefits of RV Skirting for Winter Camping |
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Retains heat inside the RV |
Prevents freezing of water tanks and pipes |
Reduces heating costs |
Creates a comfortable living environment |
Prolongs the lifespan of the RV |
Types of RV Skirting
RV skirting comes in various types, each with its own advantages and considerations. Understanding the different options available can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right RV skirting for winter. Here are the types of RV skirting commonly used:
Fabric Skirts
Fabric skirts are made from thick, insulating fabrics that provide excellent protection against the cold. These skirts help retain heat and prevent freezing of essential equipment. They are known for their durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Fabric skirts are available in different lengths and attachment options, making them a versatile choice for RV owners.
Vinyl Skirts
Vinyl skirts are known for their durability and weather resistance. They offer a hard-shell layer of protection and can withstand harsh winds and extreme temperatures. Vinyl skirts are easy to clean and maintain, making them a popular choice for winter RV skirting. They come in various sizes and styles to fit different RV models and provide an efficient barrier against the cold.
Inflatable Skirts
Inflatable skirts consist of inflatable tubes that fill the open space under the motorhome. These skirts create a tight seal and prevent cold winds from passing through. Inflatable skirts are easy to install and provide an effective insulating layer. They are suitable for RV owners who value convenience and portability.
Custom-Made Skirts
Custom-made skirts are tailored to fit your specific RV, providing a tight seal and efficient protection. These skirts are designed to perfectly match the shape and dimensions of your motorhome, ensuring a snug fit and maximum insulation. Custom-made skirts offer superior protection against the cold and are ideal for RV owners looking for a customized solution.
Each type of RV skirting has its own unique benefits and considerations. Consider factors such as durability, insulation, ease of installation, and budget when choosing the right skirting for your RV. Now that you know the types of RV skirting available, you can make an informed decision to keep your motorhome cozy and protected during the winter months.
Type of RV Skirting | Advantages | Considerations |
---|---|---|
Fabric Skirts | Durable and insulating | May require periodic cleaning and maintenance |
Vinyl Skirts | Durable and weather-resistant | May be more expensive than fabric skirts |
Inflatable Skirts | Easy to install and portable | May not offer the same level of insulation as fabric or vinyl skirts |
Custom-Made Skirts | Tailored to fit your specific RV | Can be more expensive than ready-made options |
Best RV Skirts for Winter
When it comes to selecting the best RV skirts for winter, there are several top-rated options available in the market. These skirts are designed to provide excellent protection against the cold and harsh winter elements, ensuring that you can stay cozy and comfortable in your motorhome. Whether you prefer ready-made options or custom-made skirts, there is something for every RV owner.
EZ Snap RV Skirts
EZ Snap RV skirts are a popular choice among RV enthusiasts for their durability, affordability, and easy installation process. These skirts do not require drilling, making them a convenient option for those who want to avoid any permanent modifications to their motorhome. With EZ Snap RV skirts, you can quickly and easily enhance the insulation of your RV, preventing heat loss and reducing heating costs.
ICON J-Wrap Panel Skirting
If you’re looking for a hard-shell layer of protection, the ICON J-Wrap Panel Skirting is an excellent choice. Made from rugged ABS plastic, these skirting panels offer exceptional durability and are designed to withstand the harshest winter conditions. The J-Wrap design provides a seamless and secure fit around the undercarriage of your RV, ensuring optimal insulation and protection.
AirSkirts
AirSkirts offer a unique and innovative solution for RV skirting. These skirts utilize inflatable cylinders to fill the gaps under your motorhome, effectively sealing off any openings and preventing cold air from seeping in. The toolless installation process makes AirSkirts easy to set up and adjust, allowing for a customized fit. With AirSkirts, you can ensure efficient protection against the winter chill.
RW WindSkirt
For a lightweight and affordable option, consider the RV WindSkirt. This skirting system creates a protective barrier around your motorhome, shielding it from the cold wind. The RV WindSkirt is designed to be easy to install and remove, making it a convenient choice for those who plan to travel frequently or move their RV. Despite its lightweight design, the RV WindSkirt offers reliable winter protection.
Fabricover RV Skirting
If you’re looking for a customizable fit, Fabricover RV Skirting is an ideal option. These skirts offer a wide variety of lengths, heights, and attachment options to ensure a perfect fit for your specific RV. Fabricover skirts are made from thick fabrics that provide effective insulation against the cold. With Fabricover RV Skirting, you can enjoy a snug and well-protected motorhome during the winter months.
RV Skirting Pros and RVSkirting.com
For those who prefer custom-made skirts, RV Skirting Pros and RVSkirting.com offer tailored solutions that ensure the best fit and sealing for your RV. These companies specialize in creating skirting that perfectly matches the dimensions and specifications of your motorhome. With custom-made RV skirts, you can have peace of mind knowing that every inch of your RV is protected from the winter elements.
RV Skirt | Key Features |
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EZ Snap RV Skirts | Durable, affordable, easy installation without drilling |
ICON J-Wrap Panel Skirting | Rugged ABS plastic, hard-shell layer of protection |
AirSkirts | Toolless installation, inflatable cylinders for a tight seal |
RV WindSkirt | Lightweight, affordable, creates a protective barrier |
Fabricover RV Skirting | Customizable fit, thick fabrics for insulation |
RV Skirting Pros and RVSkirting.com | Custom-made, tailored solutions for the perfect fit |
DIY RV Skirting Options
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or enjoy the satisfaction of a do-it-yourself project, there are several DIY RV skirting options to consider. These alternatives can be affordable and effective, providing insulation and protection against the cold weather. Let’s explore some of these homemade skirting solutions:
Vinyl Skirts Made from Tarps or Repurposed Billboards
A popular DIY option is creating your own vinyl skirt using tarps or repurposed billboards. These materials are readily available and can be cut to size to fit your RV. They offer decent insulation and help in blocking cold winds from entering the undercarriage. However, it’s important to ensure a secure attachment to prevent damage from strong winds.
Foam Board Skirting
Another cost-efficient option is using foam boards as skirting. Foam boards provide insulation and are easy to work with. They can be cut to fit the desired size and easily attached to the RV’s undercarriage. This DIY skirting option offers good thermal resistance and is an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.
Straw Bales
Straw bales can also be used as a DIY skirting solution. They provide insulation and help block cold air from entering under the RV. However, it’s important to note that straw bales require regular maintenance to prevent mold or pest infestations. Proper sealing is necessary to ensure efficient protection against the winter weather.
Snow Piling
For a temporary solution, you can pile snow around the base of your RV to provide insulation. Snow acts as a natural insulator, helping to retain heat and keep the undercarriage warm. However, this method requires regular maintenance to ensure the snow doesn’t melt or shift due to weather conditions.
While these DIY skirting options can be more affordable, they may not be as durable as ready-made skirts and might require more labor and upkeep. Consider your specific needs, budget, and installation preferences when choosing the right DIY skirting option for your RV.
DIY Skirting Option | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Vinyl Skirts Made from Tarps or Repurposed Billboards | Cost-effective, decent insulation | Secure attachment required |
Foam Board Skirting | Good thermal resistance, easy to work with | May not be as durable, limited aesthetic options |
Straw Bales | Effective insulation, natural material | Requires regular maintenance, sealing |
Snow Piling | Natural insulator, temporary solution | Requires regular maintenance, weather-dependent |
Overall, I am very happy with my decision to install RV skirting. It has made a noticeable difference in the comfort level of my camper during the winter months. Here are a few key takeaways from my experience:
- RV skirting provides an extra layer of insulation that helps keep the cold air out and the warm air in. This means that I can run my heater less frequently, which saves me money on propane and electricity.
- The installation process was relatively easy, and I was able to do it myself with a little bit of help from a friend. I opted for a custom skirting solution, which allowed me to get a perfect fit for my specific camper model.
- RV skirting is also helpful for protecting the underside of my camper from wind, snow, and debris. This is especially important if you plan to camp in areas with high winds or heavy snowfall.
- It’s worth noting that RV skirting is not a perfect solution. It won’t completely eliminate the need for a heater, and it won’t protect your camper from extreme weather conditions. However, I do believe that it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who plans to use their camper during the winter months.
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