5 Key Mobile Home Skirting Costs Homeowners Need to Know
Installing mobile home skirting varies in cost due to material choice and labor. Vinyl is affordable, while faux stone is pricier. DIY saves on labor, but pros ensure quality and efficiency. Labor fees depend on region and complexity.
Mobile home skirting is essential for aesthetics, protection, and value. Installation costs vary based on factors like materials and labor. This guide covers skirting costs, materials, and labor.
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Cost Breakdown of Skirting a Mobile Home
Several elements influence the cost of mobile home skirting. Primarily, the choice of material plays a significant role in determining the total expense.
As per CostHelper, vinyl, the most commonly used material due to its affordability, costs about $360-$1,275 for a single-wide and $400-$1,300 for a double-wide mobile home.
The price range depends on the height of the skirting, the size of the mobile home, and the manufacturer. Other factors include the ground conditions and the size of the mobile home.
If the area surrounding your mobile home is uneven, additional work may be needed to install the skirting, increasing the overall cost. Furthermore, larger homes require more skirting material, which will also add to the total price.
Labor costs are another crucial aspect to consider. While some homeowners prefer the DIY approach to save on labor costs, hiring professionals can ensure a more polished and durable result.
Labor charges can vary from region to region and depend on the complexity of the installation process.
the Different Materials Available for Skirting
The choice of skirting material depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and regional climate. Here’s an overview of some common materials used for mobile home skirting:
- Vinyl: As previously mentioned, vinyl is the most affordable and commonly used option due to its cost-effectiveness and easy installation process.
- Metal: Metal skirting, particularly steel or tin, is a bit more expensive than vinyl but offers increased durability. It’s also a good choice if you plan to move your home in the future as it’s easier to remove.
- Foam: Foam skirting is an economical option that provides additional insulation, making it great for cooler climates.
- Cinder Block or Concrete: These materials offer enhanced stability and durability, but they come at a higher price point and require professional installation.
- Faux Stone or Brick: If you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing option, faux stone or brick skirting can mimic the look of these materials without the hefty price tag. However, keep in mind that some manufacturers only honor the warranty if the panels are professionally installed.
Calculation of the Average Cost of Skirting a Mobile Home
Now that we’ve looked at the various factors influencing the cost let’s delve into the average cost of skirting a mobile home. As per Thumbtack, the national average for skirting installation ranges from $300 to $3000, with the most common low price being $300 and the most common high price being $3000.
However, the average cost that homeowners spend on skirting is around $1200.
Please note that these are average prices and the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the factors discussed earlier.
For instance, if you’re using costlier materials like faux stone or brick, the total cost will likely be on the higher end of the spectrum.
DIY Skirting vs Professional Skirting Services
Pros and Cons of DIY Skirting
Opting to install the skirting yourself can be a tempting choice, especially when considering the potential savings on labor costs. However, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons before deciding:
Pros:
- Cost Savings: As mentioned, one of the significant advantages of DIY skirting is the potential savings on labor costs.
- Satisfaction: There’s a certain satisfaction associated with completing a home improvement project on your own.
Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Installing skirting can be a time-consuming process, especially for beginners. Depending on the size of your mobile home and the material used, it could take several days to complete the installation.
- Potential Errors: Without professional expertise, there’s a risk of errors during installation, which could lead to additional costs down the line.
Benefits of Hiring Professional Skirting Services
While DIY skirting has its benefits, hiring professionals for the job comes with its own set of advantages:
- Expertise: Professionals have the necessary expertise and experience to ensure a high-quality installation. They can also advise on the best material for your regional climate and personal needs.
- Time-Efficient: A professional team can complete the job more quickly, saving you time and effort.
- Guaranteed Results: Most professional services offer a guarantee on their work, giving you peace of mind.
Comparison of the Cost and Quality of DIY vs Professional Skirting
While DIY skirting can save on labor costs, it’s worth considering the potential long-term savings of hiring professionals. Incorrectly installed skirting may need more frequent repairs or replacements, leading to additional costs over time.
Furthermore, professional installation tends to look more polished and could potentially increase the value of your mobile home more than a DIY job.
On average, professional skirting services can range from $300 to $3000, depending on the size of your home and the materials used.
On the other hand, if you choose the DIY route, you’ll primarily be paying for the materials, which can cost around $360-$1,275 for vinyl on a single-wide mobile home, with prices varying for other materials and larger homes.
Skirting Materials and Options
Vinyl Skirting
Vinyl skirting is the most common choice among homeowners due to its affordability. Vinyl is a cheap yet decent option that does not compromise performance.
It’s fast and easy to replace, making it a great choice for homeowners who value cost-effectiveness and convenience. For a standard 16 x 80-foot skirting package, vinyl costs around $900.
Metal Skirting
Metal skirting, typically composed of steel or tin, is a more robust alternative to vinyl. Although it’s slightly pricier, its durability and ease of removal make it a smart choice, especially for mobile homes that might be relocated in the future.
Mason’s Brick Skirting
For homeowners looking for a more traditional look, Mason’s brick skirting provides an aesthetic upgrade.
While this option might be more expensive and require professional installation, it offers enhanced stability, durability, and a classic appeal that can boost your mobile home’s curb appeal.
K-Rok Stone Skirting
If you’re after a natural stone look, K-Rok skirting panels are an excellent choice. These panels offer the appearance of traditional stone skirting without the hefty price tag.
However, like Mason’s brick skirting, K-Rok stone skirting may require professional installation.
Insulation Options for Skirting
In addition to adding aesthetic appeal and protecting your home from pests and debris, skirting can also serve as an extra layer of insulation.
This feature is particularly beneficial in extreme weather conditions, helping to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Materials like foam offer additional insulation, making them a worthwhile consideration if you live in a colder climate.
Estimating Skirting Costs
When estimating the cost of skirting, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
- Material Costs: As we’ve discussed, the type of material used is a significant factor in determining the overall cost. Vinyl is the least expensive option, while options like faux stone or brick tend to be pricier.
- Labor Charges: If you’re hiring a professional service, labor charges can significantly influence the total cost. These rates can vary based on regional labor costs and the complexity of the installation process.
- Home Size and Ground Conditions: The size of your mobile home and the condition of the ground surrounding it can also affect the cost. Larger homes require more material, and uneven ground conditions might necessitate additional work before the skirting can be installed.
Regional Variations in Labor Costs
Regional variations can significantly affect labor costs. For example, labor rates in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living might be higher than in rural areas or regions with a lower cost of living.
It’s always a good idea to get several quotes from different contractors in your area to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
Cost Breakdown of Skirting Panels and Installation Fees
As previously mentioned, the cost of skirting panels largely depends on the material being used. Vinyl panels are the cheapest, costing around $360-$1,275 for a single-wide mobile home.
On the other hand, faux stone panels cost around $28 per panel (48 inches in length), excluding labor costs, making them a more expensive option.
The installation costs will depend on whether you opt to install the skirting yourself or hire professionals. DIY installation only requires the cost of materials, while professional installation includes labor charges that can range from $300 to $3000.
How much does it cost to put skirting around a trailer?
The cost of installing skirting around a trailer is largely similar to that of a mobile home. It primarily depends on the material used, the size of the trailer, and whether you opt for DIY or professional installation.
On average, homeowners spend around $1200 on skirting for their trailers, but costs can range from $300 to $3000.
How long does it take to install mobile home skirting?
The time it takes to install mobile home skirting depends on several factors such as the size of the mobile home, the type of skirting material, ground conditions, and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professionals.
For a standard-sized mobile home, professional services typically complete the installation in a day. However, if you’re opting for DIY, it could take several days, especially if you’re new to the process.
How much skirting is needed for a 14×70 mobile home?
The amount of skirting needed for a 14×70 mobile home is calculated by measuring the linear feet around the perimeter of the home and multiplying it by the average height of the mobile home from the ground.
As a rough estimate, a 14×70 mobile home might require around 250 linear feet of skirting. However, it’s always advisable to measure your specific home accurately to ensure you purchase the right amount of material.
What is the cheapest skirting for a mobile home?
Vinyl is generally the cheapest skirting material for a mobile home. It’s cost-effective and easy to install, making it a popular choice among homeowners. For a standard 16 x 80-foot skirting package, the cost of vinyl skirting can be around $900.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the costs of mobile home skirting. Whether you choose a DIY approach or hire professionals, understanding these costs and factors will help you make informed decisions about upgrading your mobile home.
Keep in mind that although the initial costs may appear substantial, skirting is a long-term investment in the appearance and functionality of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does mobile home skirting cost on average?
Average mobile home skirting costs range from $500 to $4,000 for materials and labor, depending on the perimeter and material. Basic vinyl panels for a single-wide home start around $500 to $1,200, whereas insulated or faux-stone panels on a double-wide reach $2,500 to $4,500. Professional labor usually adds $30 to $60 per hour or roughly $500 to $1,500 total. Ground prep and ground-channel stakes can add an extra $100 to $200.
What is mobile home skirting?
Perimeter mobile home skirting is a protective barrier installed around the base of a manufactured home to enclose the open crawl space. Skirting panels keep rodents and pests out, safeguard plumbing pipes from freezing winds, and improve overall energy efficiency. Common materials include vinyl, corrugated metal, treated plywood, and insulated panels. Adding this barrier also conceals structural piers, tie-down anchors, and utility hookups beneath the home.
What does venting mobile home skirting do to prevent foundation damage?
Venting mobile home skirting circulates outdoor air beneath the floor to prevent moisture accumulation, wood rot, and harmful mold growth. Most building codes require one square foot of vent area for every 150 to 250 square feet of crawl space floor area. Without cross-ventilation, evaporating ground moisture condenses onto floor joists and subflooring, rotting timber and warping subfloors over time. Installing automatic temperature vents can protect pipes from freezing in winter while exhausting humid air throughout summer.
How do I measure a mobile home to calculate skirting costs?
Measuring a mobile home for skirting requires calculating the total perimeter linear footage and the average ground-to-frame height around the structure. Use a 100-foot tape measure to sum the length and width of all exterior walls. Next, measure the height from the soil to the bottom edge of the home frame at each corner and at the middle of every wall, then calculate the average height. Multiply the total perimeter by the average height to get total square footage, then add 10% for cutting waste.
How long does mobile home skirting installation take for DIY homeowners?
Skirting installation on a mobile home usually takes a DIY homeowner between one and three full days to complete. A single-wide trailer with simple snap-together vinyl skirting often requires 8 to 12 hours of working time. Double-wide homes or rigid materials like metal, cement board, or faux stone demand extra framing and typically require 16 to 24 hours across a weekend. Ground leveling, digging a shallow trench, and installing top J-channels occupy most of the initial labor before panels are attached.
Vinyl vs metal mobile home skirting which is better for durability?
Metal mobile home skirting is significantly more durable than vinyl skirting against weed trimmers, hail, burrowing rodents, and high-wind weather conditions. While vinyl costs less and will not rust or dent, standard vinyl panels become brittle in freezing temperatures and crack easily if struck by yard equipment. Heavy-gauge galvanized steel or corrugated metal panels resist puncture damage and last 20 to 30 years compared to vinyl’s 10 to 15 years. Metal requires a slightly higher upfront material investment but cuts long-term replacement expenses.
Why is my mobile home skirting bowing or blowing out?
Mobile home skirting panels bow or blow out primarily because frost heave shifted the ground, expansion space was omitted, or wind entered unsealed seams. Soil expands when freezing, forcing bottom tracks upward if panels lack vertical expansion clearance inside top trim channels. Strong gusts can also slip through loose joints and pop panels off their tracks. Anchoring bottom rails with 12-inch steel spikes and allowing panels room to expand prevents recurrent warping.
Is mobile home skirting legally required by local building codes?
Building codes, mobile home park regulations, and federal HUD guidelines almost universally require continuous skirting around manufactured homes before granting occupancy. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development mandates weather-resistant skirting to protect plumbing, ductwork, and structural footings. Additionally, mortgage lenders backing FHA, VA, and conventional loans will not approve financing on homes without complete skirting. Check with your municipal building department to verify local requirements for access doors, ventilation ratios, and ground contact clearance.
