Table of Contents
Mobile home skirting does more than improve appearance—it protects your home's underside from weather, pests, and debris while helping regulate temperature. Choosing the right material depends on your budget, climate concerns, and aesthetic preferences.
Why Skirting Matters
Quality skirting provides essential protection:
- Weather protection: Keeps rain, wind, and debris from under your home
- Pest prevention: Blocks animals from nesting in the crawl space
- Energy efficiency: Reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer
- Plumbing protection: Helps prevent frozen pipes (less concern in Florida, but still relevant)
- Appearance: Gives your home a finished, grounded look
- Home value: Quality skirting improves resale value
Vinyl Skirting
The most popular choice for Florida mobile homes.
Pros:
- Affordable ($8-15 per linear foot installed)
- Easy to install and repair
- Won't rust or rot
- Available in various colors and textures
- Lightweight, won't damage easily from minor impacts
Cons:
- Can fade in intense sun over time
- Not as durable as metal or concrete
- Can crack if hit hard
- May warp in extreme heat
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners, DIY installations, homes in protected locations.
Metal Skirting (Aluminum or Steel)
Durable option with a clean, finished appearance.
Pros:
- Very durable and long-lasting
- Won't fade, warp, or crack
- Excellent pest resistance
- Fire resistant
- Clean, modern appearance
Cons:
- Higher cost ($12-20 per linear foot installed)
- Can dent from impacts
- Steel can rust if coating is damaged (use aluminum in humid areas)
- Harder to repair than vinyl
Best for: Long-term residents, high-wind areas, those wanting low maintenance.
Concrete Block or CMU
Permanent, masonry-look skirting.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Fire and pest proof
- Permanent, won't blow off in storms
- Can be painted or stuccoed
- Best for hurricane zones
Cons:
- Highest cost ($15-25 per linear foot installed)
- Requires footings in some soils
- Difficult to access crawl space afterward
- Not suitable for all installation situations
Best for: Permanent installations, hurricane-prone areas, homes with no plans to move.
Faux Stone or Brick Panels
Aesthetic upgrade that mimics masonry.
Pros:
- Attractive, upscale appearance
- Lighter and easier to install than real stone
- Good durability
- Many style options
Cons:
- Higher cost ($15-25 per linear foot)
- Quality varies significantly by manufacturer
- Some products fade or look artificial
Best for: Homeowners wanting curb appeal upgrade, homes in upscale parks.
Lattice Skirting
Budget option with airflow.
Pros:
- Very affordable ($3-8 per linear foot)
- Excellent ventilation
- Easy DIY installation
Cons:
- Minimal weather protection
- Does not block pests
- Can look dated
Best for: Very tight budgets, temporary solutions, areas requiring maximum ventilation.
Important Installation Considerations
Ventilation: All skirting needs proper vents to prevent moisture buildup. Florida code typically requires 1 square foot of ventilation per 150 square feet of crawl space.
Access Doors: Install access doors for maintenance, plumbing repairs, and inspections. At least two access points are recommended.
Ground Contact: Skirting should extend to ground level but not be buried. A small gap (1-2 inches) with a ground seal prevents moisture wicking.
Attachment: Proper attachment to the home and ground is critical in Florida's wind zones. Follow manufacturer specifications for fastening.
Skirting and Home Leveling
If your home needs leveling, address that before installing new skirting. Re-leveling may require skirting removal, and installing skirting on an unlevel home can cause fitment issues.
Cost Summary
For a typical single-wide mobile home (approximately 100 linear feet of perimeter):
- Vinyl: $800-$1,500
- Metal: $1,200-$2,000
- Concrete block: $1,500-$2,500
- Faux stone: $1,500-$2,500
For a double-wide (approximately 150 linear feet):
- Vinyl: $1,200-$2,250
- Metal: $1,800-$3,000
- Concrete block: $2,250-$3,750
- Faux stone: $2,250-$3,750
Choosing the Right Option
Consider these factors:
- Budget: Vinyl is most affordable, concrete most expensive
- Wind zone: Higher wind areas benefit from metal or concrete
- Appearance: Faux stone offers the most upscale look
- Longevity: Metal and concrete last longest
- Maintenance: Vinyl and metal require least maintenance
Pro Specialty Services installs all types of mobile home skirting throughout Lake County. We can help you choose the right option for your home, budget, and situation.
Caleb Hutchinson
Owner, Pro Specialty Services
"The right skirting choice really depends on your situation. Vinyl works great for most homeowners and budgets. But if you're in a high-wind area or planning to stay long-term, investing in metal or concrete pays off. The key is proper installation—even the best material fails if not installed correctly."
