Table of Contents
BlackSeries Brand Guide: How to DIY RV Skirting for Your Travel Trailer (Winter & Summer Solutions)
Executive Summary
If you own a travel trailer, 5th wheel, or Class A/B/C motorhome in the United States and plan to camp during winter months or park long-term, installing RV skirting can dramatically reduce cold air infiltration, lower heating costs, and protect your water lines from freezing. This comprehensive guide from BlackSeries walks you through material selection, installation steps, common mistakes to avoid, and applicable scenarios to help you master DIY RV skirting.
Introduction
Across American RV parks and campgrounds, skirting has evolved from a niche winterization technique to a mainstream solution for full-time RVers, snowbirds, and extended-stay campers. As more Americans embrace the RV lifestyle year-round—whether escaping harsh winters in warmer climates or braving cold-weather camping—the need for effective thermal protection has never been greater.
BlackSeries, known for rugged off-road trailers and innovative RV solutions, recognizes that proper skirting can mean the difference between a comfortable winter stay and frozen pipes. This guide covers everything from terminology and material choices to step-by-step installation instructions, cost comparisons, and real-world case studies from American RVers.
Understanding RV Skirting: Terms & Definitions
What is RV Skirting? RV skirting refers to a protective barrier installed around the base of your RV, from the bottom edge of the vehicle to the ground. This enclosure blocks wind, cold air, and debris from entering the space beneath your RV, creating an insulated buffer zone.
Key Distinctions:
- Skirting vs. Underbelly Insulation: Underbelly insulation is permanently installed by manufacturers inside the RV’s floor structure, while skirting is an external, often removable addition.
- Skirting vs. Winterizing: Winterizing involves draining water systems and adding antifreeze; skirting provides ongoing thermal protection during occupied winter camping.
Common Terminology:
- Slide-outs: Expandable room sections that require special skirting considerations
- Skirting Kit: Pre-manufactured packages with materials and hardware
- Thermal Wrap: Insulated fabric designed for temperature control
- DIY vs. Custom: Self-installed solutions versus professionally fitted systems
In the American market, you’ll encounter several skirting types: pre-fabricated kits with snap systems, rigid foam board installations, vinyl fabric solutions, and even inflatable duct systems for specialized applications.
The American RV Market: Why Skirting Matters
The U.S. RV industry has witnessed explosive growth in winter camping participation. Snowbirds traveling from cold northern states to Arizona, Texas, and Florida increasingly seek year-round comfort. Meanwhile, full-time RVers—estimated at over one million Americans—need reliable four-season solutions.
Benefits of Winter Skirting:
- Heat Loss Reduction: Proper skirting can reduce heating costs by up to 45% by preventing cold air circulation beneath your RV
- Freeze Protection: Maintains above-freezing temperatures around water tanks, pipes, and holding tanks
- Comfort Enhancement: Eliminates cold floor syndrome and reduces propane consumption
- Extended Season: Enables camping in temperatures well below freezing
Cost Analysis:
- DIY Approaches: Materials typically range from $100-500 depending on RV size and material choice
- Professional Installation: Custom-fitted solutions can cost $1,000-5,000, including labor and premium materials
Important Legal Considerations: Some RV parks and campgrounds have specific regulations regarding skirting appearance and materials. Homemade solutions using tarps or unapproved materials may be restricted in upscale resorts, while most budget-friendly parks welcome any winterization efforts. Always check campground rules before installation.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Materials Checklist
- Skirting material (vinyl fabric, foam board, or pre-cut kit)
- Fastening system (snap buttons, adhesive strips, or bungee cords)
- Measuring tape and marker
- Heavy-duty scissors or utility knife
- Industrial-strength tape or adhesive
- Ground stakes or weights
- Weather stripping for gaps
Installation Process
Step 1: Measure Your RV Measure the perimeter of your RV from ground to the bottom edge of the sidewall. Include extra length for slide-outs and overlap at corners. Most travel trailers require 50-100 linear feet of material.
Step 2: Material Selection & Cutting Choose appropriate material for your climate and budget (see comparison below). Cut panels to measured dimensions, leaving 2-3 inches extra for adjustments.
Step 3: Prepare Attachment Points Clean the RV’s lower sidewall thoroughly. Install snap buttons, adhesive strips, or attachment brackets every 12-18 inches along the perimeter. BlackSeries recommends marine-grade snap systems for durability.
Step 4: Install Skirting Panels Starting at one corner, attach the upper edge of your skirting material to the RV sidewall. Work around the perimeter, ensuring material remains taut but not overstretched. Secure the bottom edge to the ground using stakes, weights, or burial in soil/snow.
Step 5: Address Special Areas
- Slide-outs: Create removable sections or flexible material that accommodates movement
- Utility connections: Cut access panels for water, sewer, and electrical connections
- Ventilation: Leave small gaps or install vents to prevent moisture accumulation and allow propane fumes to escape
- Maintenance access: Plan for access to dump valves, winterization ports, and storage compartments
Step 6: Seal and Inspect Use weather stripping or foam tape to seal gaps at corners and connections. Walk the perimeter checking for air leaks or loose sections.
Seasonal Considerations
Winter Focus: Maximize insulation with thicker materials or double-layer systems. Ensure complete ground seal to trap heat.
Summer Applications: Lighter-weight skirting blocks dust, prevents pest entry, and can actually reduce cooling costs by shading the underbelly from hot ground temperatures. Consider breathable materials with better airflow.
BlackSeries Pro Tips:
- Avoid completely sealing the skirted area—maintain ventilation to prevent propane accumulation
- In extreme cold, add a small space heater or heat tape inside the skirted area
- Check skirting after storms for wind damage or snow accumulation
Material Comparison & Best Options
| Solution | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-fabricated Snap Kits | Quick installation, professional appearance, reusable for years | Higher upfront cost ($300-600) | Long-term campers prioritizing aesthetics |
| Rigid Foam Board (1-2″ thick) | Excellent insulation (R-5 to R-10), budget-friendly ($150-300) | Difficult to store, cumbersome to transport, may violate campground rules | Winter-only, stationary setups with storage space |
| Vinyl Fabric/Heavy Canvas | Lightweight, easy storage, moderate cost ($200-400) | Requires careful sealing, lower R-value than foam | Semi-nomadic RVers, multi-season use |
| Insulated Tarp Material | Most affordable ($100-200), readily available | Less durable, requires frequent replacement | Budget-conscious or first-time DIYers |
Top 5 Recommended Materials:
- Marine-grade vinyl (BlackSeries preferred): Waterproof, UV-resistant, 3-5 year lifespan
- EPS foam board: Best R-value per dollar, widely available at hardware stores
- Reflectix insulation: Lightweight, reflects heat, good for moderate climates
- Heavy-duty canvas: Breathable option for summer use, good durability
- Commercial skirting kits: Plug-and-play solutions with complete hardware
BlackSeries offers custom-fit solutions for popular travel trailer brands including Forest River, Keystone, Grand Design, and Jayco models ranging from 20-40 feet.
Real-World Case Studies
Illinois Winter Installation: An American RV blogger documented their DIY skirting project using vinyl fabric during a harsh Midwest winter. Working as a couple over three days, they completed the installation for approximately $616 in materials. Their setup successfully protected water lines during temperatures dropping to -10°F, while comparable professional installation quotes exceeded $2,500.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: According to field testing, properly installed skirting reduced propane heating consumption by 40-45% over a four-month winter season. For a typical RVer using 40-60 gallons monthly at $3.50/gallon, this translates to savings of $200-300 monthly, meaning DIY materials pay for themselves within 2-3 months.
Multi-Season Success: A Florida-based BlackSeries customer installed removable skirting panels that serve dual purposes: winter insulation during occasional cold snaps and summer pest/dust barriers during the humid season. The quick-release snap system allows removal in under an hour when moving between sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I’m in the warm southern U.S.—do I still need skirting? A: Even in typically warm states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida, occasional freezes occur. Skirting provides insurance against unexpected cold snaps. Summer skirting also blocks insects, snakes, and dust.
Q: How difficult is DIY installation? How many people do I need? A: Most installations require 2-3 people working 1-3 days, depending on RV size and material choice. Snap-kit systems can be completed in 4-6 hours with two people.
Q: What insulation R-value should I choose? A: For moderate climates (lows around 20-32°F), R-3 to R-5 suffices. Severe climates (below 0°F) benefit from R-7 to R-10 materials or double-layer systems.
Q: Will campgrounds allow my DIY skirting? A: Most campgrounds permit skirting, but some upscale resorts restrict homemade appearances. Vinyl fabric or commercial kits rarely face objections, while foam board or tarps may be prohibited in premium parks.
Q: How quickly can I remove skirting if I need to move? A: Snap-kit systems remove in 30-60 minutes. Foam board installations may require several hours for careful disassembly and storage.
Q: Does summer skirting make sense? A: Absolutely. Summer skirting blocks radiant heat from hot ground, reduces dust infiltration, prevents pest entry, and can modestly reduce air conditioning loads.
Q: Any budget shortcuts? A: Using HVAC foil tape instead of snap buttons works short-term but requires replacement. Repurposing heavy-duty moving blankets offers insulation at low cost. However, purpose-built materials last 5-10 times longer, making them more economical long-term.
Conclusion
DIY RV skirting represents one of the highest-return investments for American RVers pursuing year-round adventure. Whether you’re a snowbird seeking Florida warmth or a hardy soul camping through Colorado winters, proper skirting enhances comfort, protects your investment, and dramatically reduces operating costs. BlackSeries recommends starting with a quality material suited to your primary use case, investing time in proper installation, and maintaining your skirting seasonally for years of reliable performance.
