Under penning?

Question

I wish to replace th vinly underskirting under a double wide mobile home with 30 year metal u panel.What would be the best method for doing this,keeping in mind that it is not a wealthy person doing this .

Answer 1

build a sub wall with 2x2's or get 2x6's and rip them down to 2x2's.  The studs can be 32 inches apart.  Drive wood stakes on the backside into the ground to keep it plumb, and nail the frame to the stakes on the ground, and to the house on the top.  Drive a stake every 4 feet.  Wrap with plastic, and attach your metal panel.

Answer 2

Youre going to need some kind of structure to attach the metal to... that probably means making a framework out of lumber, or metal...neither of which is inexpensive, hehehe.  If you choose lumber, use treated lumber.  If you use anything other than aluminum, be sure to at least prime it to help inhibit rust development.

If your home sits on a concrete slab, then you can use construction adhesive to secure the framework to it.

Mobile homes do flex somewhat seasonally... so I wouldnt secure the framework to the underside of the home, by simply wedging it under there.  I would instead create a ledger board, or L-Brackets, that would permit the home to move a bit, up and down, without affecting the frame supporting your panels.  If you take a good look at your existing vinyl underskirting, you will see that it tucks up behind a piece of trim channel, and there is a slight gap.

Also... cross ventilation is extremely important, to help reduce moisture build up under the home.  Be sure to include appropriate ventilation in your new panels (especially if this is a new home, because if you do not, you will void any warranty).  Ive also noticed that quite often, proper care has not been given to helping prevent moisture build up, in the crawl space.... Dryer vents need to be run OUT from under the home, as does the air conditioner drain line.  These are two big sources of moisture under a home.  You should also have a layer of 6 mil plastic down as a moisture barrier (Even if it is on a concrete slab - you'd be amazed at how much moisture gets wicked up thru concrete).

Ive seen all kinds of product used as skirting, you just need to keep in mind that the home is supported by the frame, on a mobile home, and not around the perimeter.  Any force exerted on the perimeter by support can actually damage the structure, if it lifts it off the designed supports.

Have Fun