Concrete Skirting: Mobile Home Install Guide! [DIY]

Installing concrete skirting for mobile homes is a practical project, enhancing both aesthetics and energy efficiency. Proper foundation preparation, a crucial step, ensures the skirting’s longevity and stability. Consider consulting with local building codes, a set of regulations, before commencing any construction. You'll likely require tools such as a concrete mixer, a device essential for preparing the necessary material for your project. Addressing common pest control issues, a potential problem, during installation helps protect your mobile home investment when undertaking a DIY approach for concrete skirting for mobile homes.

Enhancing Your Mobile Home with Concrete Skirting

Mobile homes offer an affordable housing option, but often lack the visual appeal and robust protection found in traditional stick-built houses. One effective solution to address these shortcomings is the installation of concrete skirting.

Concrete skirting not only elevates the aesthetic of your mobile home but also provides crucial protection for its undercarriage. This introduction will outline the purpose of concrete skirting, its numerous benefits, and its long-term value.

What is Concrete Skirting?

Concrete skirting is a durable barrier installed around the base of a mobile home. It essentially closes the gap between the bottom of the home and the ground.

This barrier is typically constructed from poured concrete, concrete blocks, or pre-cast concrete panels.

Its primary function is to protect the undercarriage from the elements, pests, and physical damage.

The Benefits of Concrete Skirting

Choosing concrete skirting offers a multitude of advantages over other skirting materials.

Enhanced Protection: Concrete provides a robust shield against wind, rain, snow, and even unwanted critters. This protection helps prevent damage to pipes, insulation, and other vital components located beneath the home.

Improved Curb Appeal: Let’s be honest, many mobile homes need help in the looks department. Concrete skirting offers a clean, finished look that can significantly enhance the overall appearance of your property. Design options like coloring and texturing can further customize the look.

Potential Cost Savings: While the initial investment may be higher than some alternatives, the long-term durability of concrete can translate into significant cost savings. It minimizes the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Moreover, undertaking a DIY installation can save on labor costs.

Increased Home Value: Attractive and well-maintained features always add value. Concrete skirting’s curb appeal and protective functionalities can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Long-Term Value and Durability

Compared to vinyl, wood, or metal skirting, concrete offers superior longevity and resistance to damage. It won’t rot, warp, or be easily damaged by impacts.

This durability ensures that your investment continues to provide protection and aesthetic value for years to come.

Concrete also stands up better to extreme weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for regions with harsh climates. It provides consistent, reliable protection year after year.

Concrete skirting offers a compelling solution, but to truly appreciate its value, it's essential to delve into the "what," "why," and "how" behind this essential mobile home component.

Understanding Concrete Skirting: What, Why, and How It Works

At its core, concrete skirting is more than just an aesthetic addition; it's a critical element in safeguarding your mobile home and enhancing its longevity.

Defining Concrete Skirting: More Than Just Decoration

Concrete skirting is a perimeter wall, typically constructed from concrete blocks, poured concrete, or pre-cast panels, that encloses the space between the bottom edge of a mobile home and the ground.

This seemingly simple barrier serves several vital functions:

• Physical Protection: It acts as a shield against the elements, preventing wind, rain, snow, and debris from directly impacting the undercarriage of the home.
• Foundation Support: While not a primary foundation, skirting adds lateral support to the piers or supports holding the mobile home, contributing to overall stability.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: Skirting conceals the often-unsightly undercarriage, creating a more finished and visually appealing appearance.

Concrete Choices: Selecting the Right Mix for Longevity

Not all concrete is created equal. The type of concrete used for skirting must be carefully selected to withstand local climate conditions and soil characteristics.

Consider these factors when choosing your concrete mix:

• Climate: In regions with harsh winters and frequent freeze-thaw cycles, a concrete mix with air entrainment is crucial. Air entrainment creates microscopic air bubbles within the concrete, allowing it to expand and contract without cracking under freezing temperatures.

• Soil Conditions: If the soil around your mobile home is prone to expansion or contraction, a concrete mix with higher flexural strength may be necessary to resist cracking from ground movement. Consulting with a local concrete supplier or structural engineer is advisable in such cases.

• Types of Concrete: For poured concrete skirting, a standard concrete mix with a compressive strength of 3000-4000 psi is generally sufficient. Concrete blocks offer another option, but ensure they meet local building codes and are properly mortared together. Pre-cast concrete panels provide a faster installation method but may require specialized equipment.

The Functional Benefits: Beyond Aesthetics

The benefits of concrete skirting extend far beyond mere aesthetics. It plays a crucial role in:

• Insulation: By creating a barrier against the wind, skirting helps to maintain a more consistent temperature beneath the home. This reduces heat loss in the winter and keeps the undercarriage cooler in the summer, leading to energy savings.

• Vermin Control: A properly installed skirting system acts as a physical barrier against rodents, insects, and other pests that might otherwise seek shelter under the mobile home.

• Moisture Management: Skirting helps to reduce moisture accumulation under the home by preventing rain and snow from directly entering the undercarriage. This is important for preventing mold growth and protecting the home's structural components.

• Extending the Life of Your Mobile Home: Overall, by addressing and controlling those issues that can erode your mobile home foundation, concrete skirting is essential in extending the lifespan of a mobile home and protecting your investment.

Planning Your Concrete Skirting Project: A Comprehensive Guide

Before you even think about mixing concrete, meticulous planning is paramount. A well-thought-out plan will save you time, money, and frustration, ensuring a successful and aesthetically pleasing concrete skirting installation. This section provides a comprehensive guide, covering everything from accurate measurements to navigating building codes.

Mobile Home Compatibility and Measurement

Accurate Measurement Techniques

The foundation of any successful skirting project lies in precise measurements. You need to determine the total linear footage required and the height of the skirting.

Start by measuring the perimeter of your mobile home. Account for any protrusions, such as steps or utility access points.

To determine the height, measure the distance from the bottom edge of the siding to the ground at several points around the perimeter. Use the largest measurement to ensure complete coverage, even if the ground is uneven.

Considerations for Different Models and Site Layouts

Different mobile home models have varying ground clearances and architectural features. Single-wide homes typically require simpler, straight-line skirting. Double-wide homes might require more complex planning, especially if there's a center seam or a different foundation setup.

Site layouts also play a crucial role. Sloping ground will necessitate careful leveling and potentially stepped skirting. Obstacles like trees, utility boxes, or existing landscaping need to be factored into your design and measurements.

DIY Suitability Assessment

Installing concrete skirting is a labor-intensive project. Before committing to a DIY approach, honestly assess your capabilities.

Skills, Time Commitment, and Physical Ability

Do you have experience with concrete work? Are you comfortable using power tools? Are you physically able to lift heavy materials and work outdoors for extended periods?

Consider the time commitment involved. The project could span several days or even weeks, depending on the size of your mobile home and your pace.

If you're unsure about your skills or physical capabilities, it's wise to consult with or hire a professional.

When to Hire a Professional

Certain situations strongly suggest professional installation. These include:

• Complex site conditions (severe slopes, unstable soil).
• Lack of experience with concrete work.
• Time constraints.
• Uncertainty about building codes or permit requirements.

Hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly, safely, and in compliance with all regulations.

Tools and Materials Checklist

Having the right tools and materials readily available is essential for efficiency and safety.

Essential Tools (Including Safety Gear)

• Measuring tape
• Level
• Shovels and rakes
• Wheelbarrow or concrete mixer
• Concrete trowels and floats
• Circular saw (for cutting formwork)
• Drill with concrete mixing attachment
• Hammer and nails or screws
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• Respirator (for mixing dry concrete)
• Knee pads

Materials Beyond Concrete

• Concrete mix (or cement, sand, and gravel for mixing your own)
• Rebar (for reinforcement)
• Formwork (lumber or metal forms)
• Form release agent
• Fasteners (nails, screws, or stakes)
• Gravel base material
• Water
• Concrete sealant

Consider purchasing extra materials to account for waste or errors.

Building Codes and Permits: Navigating the Regulations

The Importance of Permits

Installing concrete skirting often requires a building permit. Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines, project delays, or even legal action.

Permits ensure that your installation meets local safety and construction standards.

Researching Local Building Codes

Contact your local building department or municipality to inquire about specific requirements for concrete skirting.

Ask about:

• Setback requirements
• Foundation specifications
• Drainage regulations
• Required inspections

Potential Penalties for Non-Compliance

Ignoring building codes can lead to:

• Stop-work orders
• Fines
• Mandatory corrections or removal of the skirting

Always prioritize compliance to avoid costly and time-consuming problems.

Design and Aesthetics: Enhancing Curb Appeal

Concrete skirting doesn't have to be plain and utilitarian. With a little creativity, you can enhance your mobile home's curb appeal.

Coloring Options, Texturing Techniques, and Decorative Elements

• Coloring: Integral concrete color additives can be mixed into the concrete before pouring. Alternatively, you can stain the concrete after it has cured.
• Texturing: Use stamps, stencils, or hand tools to create various textures on the concrete surface. Consider techniques like broom finishing, exposed aggregate, or stamped patterns.
• Decorative Elements: Incorporate decorative blocks, stones, or brick veneer into the skirting design. You can also add planters or other landscaping features.

Customizing to Complement Style and Landscaping

Choose colors and textures that complement your mobile home's siding and roof. Consider the style of your landscaping and select a skirting design that blends seamlessly with the surroundings.

Site Preparation: Laying the Groundwork for Success

Proper site preparation is crucial for a stable and durable concrete skirting installation.

Clearing, Leveling, and Creating a Stable Base

• Remove all vegetation, debris, and topsoil from the area where the skirting will be installed.
• Level the ground to create a consistent base. Use a level and fill low spots with compacted soil or gravel.
• Create a stable base by compacting the soil with a hand tamper or plate compactor. Consider adding a layer of gravel for improved drainage.

Addressing Drainage Issues

Poor drainage can lead to water damage and instability.

• Ensure that the ground slopes away from your mobile home to direct water away from the foundation.
• Install drainage pipes or French drains if necessary to prevent water from pooling around the skirting.
• Consider applying a waterproof membrane to the back of the skirting to further protect it from moisture.

By thoroughly planning your concrete skirting project, you'll set yourself up for a successful and long-lasting installation. The next step involves understanding the installation process itself.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide: From Forms to Finish

With meticulous planning complete, it's time to translate those preparations into tangible results. This section serves as your detailed roadmap through the concrete skirting installation process, breaking down each step into manageable instructions.

Step 1: Setting Up the Forms

Building the Forms

The forms are the molds that will shape your concrete skirting. Accuracy is paramount here, as any imperfections will be reflected in the final product. Typically, forms are constructed from plywood or dimensional lumber (2x4s or 2x6s are common).

Cut the lumber to the height you determined during your measurements, ensuring that all pieces are uniform. Assemble the forms, creating rectangular sections that will run along the perimeter of your mobile home.

Use screws, not nails, for assembly, as they provide a stronger and more secure hold. Ensure that the inside surfaces of the forms are smooth to prevent the concrete from sticking.

Positioning and Alignment

Carefully position the forms along the prepared ground, ensuring they are flush with the ground and parallel to the mobile home's foundation. Use stakes driven into the ground to hold the forms in place.

Employ a level to verify that the forms are perfectly horizontal. Even slight deviations can result in uneven skirting, so take your time and make precise adjustments.

Check the alignment of the forms with a string line or laser level to ensure they are straight and consistent along the entire perimeter.

Reinforcing the Forms

The weight of wet concrete can exert significant pressure on the forms, potentially causing them to bow or collapse. To prevent this, reinforcement is crucial.

Attach bracing to the outside of the forms, using stakes and additional lumber. The spacing of the bracing will depend on the height of the forms and the anticipated pressure.

For taller forms, consider using metal straps or tie rods to further reinforce the structure.

Step 2: Mixing and Pouring the Concrete

Achieving the Correct Concrete Mix

The strength and durability of your concrete skirting depend heavily on the proper mix ratio. A standard concrete mix for skirting typically consists of:

• 1 part cement
• 2 parts sand
• 3 parts gravel
• Sufficient water to achieve a workable consistency.

Premixed concrete is a reliable alternative, particularly for smaller projects.

When mixing concrete, whether manually or with a mixer, gradually add water until the mixture reaches a thick, but pourable consistency, similar to thick oatmeal. Avoid adding too much water, as this will weaken the concrete.

Pouring Techniques

Before pouring, lightly dampen the inside of the forms to prevent the concrete from drying out too quickly.

Pour the concrete into the forms in even layers, using a shovel or bucket. As you pour, use a trowel or rod to consolidate the concrete, eliminating air pockets and ensuring it fills all corners of the forms.

Pay particular attention to corners and areas around obstructions, as these are prone to air pockets.

Embedding Rebar

For added strength and resistance to cracking, embed rebar within the concrete. Cut the rebar to the appropriate length and position it within the forms before pouring the concrete.

Ensure that the rebar is fully encased in concrete, with at least 2 inches of cover on all sides. This protects the rebar from corrosion and maximizes its effectiveness.

Step 3: Curing the Concrete

Why Curing Matters

Curing is the process of maintaining adequate moisture and temperature in the concrete to allow it to hydrate properly and achieve its full strength. Proper curing is critical for preventing cracking and ensuring long-term durability.

Curing Methods

Several curing methods can be employed:

• Water Curing: Regularly spray the concrete with water to keep it moist. This is one of the most effective methods.
• Plastic Sheeting: Cover the concrete with plastic sheeting to prevent moisture from evaporating.
• Curing Compounds: Apply a commercially available curing compound to seal the surface and retain moisture.

Curing Time

The recommended curing time depends on the concrete mix, ambient temperature, and humidity. Generally, a minimum of 3-7 days is recommended, with longer curing times resulting in stronger concrete.

During the curing period, protect the concrete from direct sunlight, wind, and extreme temperatures, as these can cause it to dry out too quickly.

Step 4: Finishing Touches and Sealing

Removing the Forms

Once the concrete has cured, carefully remove the forms. Loosen the screws and gently pry the forms away from the concrete. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the skirting.

Patching Imperfections

Inspect the concrete for any imperfections, such as air pockets, cracks, or uneven surfaces. Use a concrete patching compound to fill these imperfections and create a smooth, uniform surface.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the patching compound, ensuring it is properly mixed and applied.

Applying Sealant

Once the patching compound has cured, apply a concrete sealant to protect the skirting from moisture, stains, and weathering. The sealant will help to prolong the life of your skirting and maintain its aesthetic appeal.

Apply the sealant according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring complete and even coverage. Consider applying multiple coats for added protection.

Post-Installation Care and Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment

With your concrete skirting installed and looking its best, the work isn't quite over. Like any part of your home, your concrete skirting requires ongoing care to maintain its appearance, structural integrity, and protective capabilities. This section provides essential guidelines for cleaning, inspection, and preventative maintenance, ensuring your investment remains sound for years to come.

Regular Cleaning: Preventing Stains and Growth

Concrete, while durable, is porous and susceptible to staining from dirt, debris, and organic matter. Algae and mildew can also thrive in damp, shaded areas, detracting from the skirting's appearance and potentially compromising its surface.

Routine Washing

Regular cleaning is the first line of defense. Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse away loose dirt and debris at least a few times a year.

For more stubborn stains or algae growth, a mild detergent solution and a scrub brush may be necessary. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the concrete's surface and sealant.

Pressure Washing Considerations

While pressure washing can be effective for removing tough stains, it should be approached with caution. Use a low-pressure setting and a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damaging the concrete.

Always test the pressure washer on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't etch or remove the sealant.

Identifying and Addressing Potential Issues

Even with regular cleaning, concrete skirting can develop problems over time. Early detection and prompt repair are crucial to preventing minor issues from escalating into more significant and costly repairs.

Crack Monitoring and Repair

Cracks are perhaps the most common issue with concrete skirting. Hairline cracks are often unavoidable due to normal settling and expansion/contraction. However, wider or deeper cracks can indicate more serious problems, such as soil shifting or foundation issues.

Monitor cracks regularly. Fill any cracks wider than 1/8 inch with a concrete crack filler or patching compound specifically designed for exterior use. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully for application.

Settling and Shifting

Settling can cause unevenness or gaps between the skirting and the ground or the mobile home. This can compromise the skirting's ability to insulate and protect the undercarriage.

Address settling by adding soil beneath the affected areas and, if necessary, re-leveling sections of the skirting. For severe settling, consult a professional foundation specialist.

Spalling and Surface Damage

Spalling refers to the chipping or flaking of the concrete surface. This can be caused by freeze-thaw cycles, exposure to de-icing salts, or physical impact.

Repair spalling by removing the loose concrete and patching the area with a concrete repair mortar. Ensure the patch is properly bonded to the existing concrete and sealed to prevent further damage.

Periodic Resealing: Maintaining Protection

Sealing is an essential step in protecting concrete from moisture penetration, stains, and chemical damage. The sealant creates a barrier that prevents water from seeping into the concrete's pores, reducing the risk of cracking, spalling, and efflorescence (a white, powdery deposit).

Choosing the Right Sealant

Select a concrete sealant specifically designed for exterior use and suitable for your climate. Options include penetrating sealants, which soak into the concrete and create a water-repellent barrier, and topical sealants, which form a protective film on the surface.

Application Frequency

The frequency of resealing depends on the type of sealant used and the environmental conditions. Generally, resealing is recommended every one to three years.

Inspect the sealant regularly for signs of wear or degradation. If water no longer beads up on the surface, it's time to reapply the sealant.

Proper Application

Before applying sealant, thoroughly clean the concrete surface and allow it to dry completely. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully for application, ensuring even coverage and proper penetration.

By following these post-installation care and maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your concrete skirting remains a durable, attractive, and protective feature of your mobile home for many years to come. Regular attention and proactive maintenance are key to preserving your investment and enjoying the long-term benefits of concrete skirting.