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Understanding RV Skirting
RV Skirting involves enclosing the underside and lower portion of an RV to provide insulation and protection against cold weather. Typically, this consists of panels and or fabric that are attached to the RV’s framework. Winter RV skirting creates a barrier around the bottom of the perimeter of the vehicle, completely closing it from outside and preventing cold air from entering in. The enclosure allows for easy heating and prevents freezing of pipes and tanks as well as preventing anything from breaking or cracking.
When it comes down to choosing materials for RV skirting, there are several options available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials used for RV skirting include:
Vinyl: Vinyl skirting panels are popular due to their ease of installation and amazing durability. Vinyl RV skirts are resistant to moisture, UV rays, and pests. Vinyl may be costlier than other materials but offers amazing protection in return.
Hay bales: Some Skirting is made of Hay bales which is a cost-effective option. What one saves in cost they pay for in safety, however. Hay bales are a huge fire hazard as hay easily catches on fire. Hay may also attract pests and rodents and may also degrade in severe weather.
Insulated Foam board / Plywood: Plywood might not look the greatest but can be effective at enclosing an RV. However, Plywood is very heavy and if one plans to move around all winter this can be very cumbersome. Wood is also privy to getting wet and moisture can break down the integrity of the panels over time letting air in.
RV skirting is very important in cold climates for several reasons. Winter RV skirting helps maintain a stable interior temperature and allows occupants to stay warm while reducing the need for excessive heating. Skirting also prevents the freezing of water pipes and tanks which could lead to costly repair bills. RV skirting for winter also protects the underbelly of the RV from ice, snow, and debris which could destroy important parts of the RV.
The Science behind RV Skirting
Rv skirting plays a critical role in keeping the RV warm during frigid weather by employing the principles of heat loss and insulation. Understanding the science behind this process helps highlight the effectiveness of RV skirting. Heat loss can occur through conduction, convection, and radiation. With RV skirting specifically, conduction is the culprit when it comes to heat loss. An RV without skirting will fall victim to cold air entering the underbelly. This leads to heat from the interior of the RV escaping through the floor. RV skirting acts as a barrier that reduces heat loss through conduction by creating an insulated space. Think of it as a winter coat for an RV. The trapped air between the skirting material and RV is like trapped air between one’s body and coat, preventing cold air from reaching the interior and reducing heat transfer.
When pipes underneath an RV are vulnerable to cold winter air, they are susceptible to freezing and cracking. This leads to major damage and water system failures. Debris and ice can also make their way under the RV in snowy conditions and lead to additional damage. Skirting and RV enclose the vulnerable underside which creates a shield of warmth and protection against cold, ice, and wind. Skirting also has the additional benefit of providing energy efficiency and cost savings. Because an insulated skirted RV leads to less heat loss, the warmth generated in the RV will maintain itself longer. This means the heating system does not need to work as hard to maintain a comfortable interior temperature, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced heating costs. Skirting also helps reduce drafts and air leaks which are very common in non-skirted RVs and cause discomfort. RV Skirting for winter creates a sealed and insulated space, minimizing air infiltration and enhancing energy efficiency.
Types of RV Skirting for Winter
Of all the various types of Winter RV skirting materials including foam board, plywood, and hay bales Vinyl is the best option when it comes to Skirting an RV. EZ Snap’s® “No Drill” RV skirting for winter is easy to install and provides Diamond-Weave technology which protects an RV in up to -40 F climates. Diamond-Weave Vinyl is easier to store than traditional skirting and includes a triple-coated diamond-shaped interlace scrim base which is durable and lightweight.
The effectiveness of EZ Snap speaks for itself with testimonials like these:
“I purchased the EZ Snap RV Skirting with the screw-in installation because it was already too cold for the adhesive version. Installation took some time but was relatively easy with a second person helping.
I am living in my RV year-round in northern Minnesota. Temperatures have dropped under -20 degrees Fahrenheit a few times already this winter. With the skirting and a milk house-style electric heater underneath, nothing has frozen yet.
The skirting also looks nice. I have no complaints so far. It seems to be a quality product.”
– Leanna Gilbert
“We purchased the EZ Snap kit for our Grand Design Momentum. In the past, we have skirted our RV with foam board insulation, and while it worked well, it was ugly. Not the case with our EZ Snap skirting. It’s very nice looking!
Customer service was very friendly and responded quickly. We purchased it late in the year and had to use the screw-in mounts and we’re concerned because of the extended wait time and paid the extra for expedited shipping. Well worth it if you’re in a hurry. It only took about a week for it to arrive.
The installation went fairly well. Our Momentum is 41’ long so it took me a few days to put it up. I took the extra precaution of adding silicone to the screws just to be safe. No leaks through a very cold and wet winter!
The skirting worked very well, and we only had to go back and Snap it again during a nasty windstorm once. The winds were in excess of 60 mph. We never had any issues with it prior to that. It held up great even up to 45 mph wind.
I would highly recommend the EZ Snap skirting if you’re going to be wintering in your rig.”
– Patrick & Sarah
How to Install RV Skirting
Installing RV skirting has traditionally been considered difficult, often requiring professional assistance to ensure a custom fit. However, advancements in technology, such as EZ Snap’s custom install system have made the process much simpler. With a few basic tools like a tape measure, sharp scissors, a marking pencil, and a power drill or isopropyl alcohol, you can install RV skirting with ease. Here are the step-by-step installation instructions:
- Determine the Size: Measure the perimeter of the area you want to cover using a tape measure. Be sure to include an additional 2 to 5 feet for overlap where the skirting intersects. Measure to the highest point where coverage is needed for the height of the skirt. Once you have these measurements, you can easily select the appropriate kit online. Note: EZ Snap’s custom install system allows for flexibility and customization, accommodating different RV sizes and shapes.
- Mark and Mount Studs: Next, simply mark each area on the RV with a pencil mark where a stud is to be installed. Once complete, install the studs using the EZ Snap adhesives and let them sit for 1-2 hours. The EZ Snap adhesives are made with 3M material making them extremely strong. After allowing the studs to set, snap the EZ Snap pins onto each stud to set them in place.
- Roll out Trim & Position Skirt: Skirting can be installed as one continual piece or in smaller sections. Once the Skirting is rolled out, it can be measured and cut down to size. Next, easily puncture the EZ Snap pins through the fabric to connect and install the skirt. Trim away excess material.
- Lock in and complete: Locking the fabric into place is as easy as installing the EZ Snap caps on top of the skirt. Once complete, confirm there are no heat exhausts or venting being covered. An additional EZ Snap pipe-clamp system can be used to form a frame under the base of the RV Skirting. This allows for a great seal along the bottom of the skirting and protects it from the wind.
DIY installation of RV skirting is more cost-effective than professional installation. It allows for customization and can be a rewarding instruction. Although DIY installation requires careful attention to detail, EZ Snap makes it easy with a process that can be done at home with minimal tools. Although Professional installation is efficient, it is often costly and sometimes these technicians won’t be able to install your RV skirt before the winter months due to increased demand. While other types of bolted-in RV skirts may require professional intervention, using EZ Snap allows one the experience of easily skirting their RV with just a little effort.
Several maintenance tips allow for RV skirts to stay in prime condition. Regularly inspecting the skirt for any signs of damage, wear, and sagging is the first step. If any issues arise it is easy to repair them once they are determined. Keeping the RV skirt clean is very important to maintain its quality and should be done with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the material. Lastly, check for any sealing issues such as gaps or openings. Using additional materials to fix these gaps will ensure the Skirt stays perfect all season long.
Potential Problems and Solutions with RV Skirting
One common issue that may arise with RV skirting is the potential for mold growth. Mold can thrive in moist environments, and if moisture becomes trapped between the skirting and the RV, it can lead to mold development. To prevent mold growth, it is essential to choose a skirting material that is resistant to moisture and has anti-mold properties. EZ Snap comes equipped with the maximum amount of U.V. rays and fade inhibitors and mold and mildew inhibitors. This ensures the RV skirt stays in peak condition, and with the help of an electric heater under the RV mold and mildew are a thing of the past. Wind damage may also be a concern to RV skirting integrity, but with the use of the additional RV pipe clamps EZ Snap’s system ensures a professional and finished look that is less susceptible to wind damage and is more stable.
RV skirting is not just about insulation, it’s about unlocking a world of warmth, comfort, and peace of mind on your cold-weather adventures. From preventing frozen pipes to slashing energy costs, RV skirting is your secret weapon for conquering winter travel. Vinyl RV skirting,, like EZ Snap’s Diamond-Weave material is easy to install and maintain throughout the winter months.
Embrace the exhilaration of winter exploration by embracing RV skirting! Visit EZ Snap’s website directly for information on pricing, product size, installation videos, reviews, and more at: https://ezsnapdirect.com/products/rv-skirting/ Don’t let the chill dampen your spirits – gear up with RV skirting and embark on unforgettable cold weather escapades today!
References
“How Does RV Skirting Work?” (n.d.). EZ Snap Direct. Retrieved from https://ezsnapdirect.com/how-does-rv-skirting-work/
“How to Winterize Your RV” (n.d.). How to Winterize Your RV. Retrieved from https://howtowinterizeyourrv.com/
“Conduction” (n.d.). UCAR Center for Science Education. Retrieved from https://scied.ucar.edu/learning-zone/earth-system/conduction
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