skirting

[Fern Broyles]

we have made a skirting out of plywood and now would like to attach something to it to make it look like brick or rock. Is that a good idea? will insects get to the wood? What type of skirting would be good in the southern states, with the severe cold and heat?

[Gary]

Skirting is not cheap. Its a major expense even without a plywood backing. Since you are planning to spend some money I do hope you you have studied all the problems surrounding skirting. Like condensation, ventilation, and of course insulation. Most of the products on the market were meant to be installed w/o a plywood backing so if you buy a skirt from a mobile home parts store make sure you tell them about the plywood. They may not work. However you can find a lumber store in your area that sells an exterior siding with the stone or brick look or something else that you can just nail into the plywood. Then use some 1x4 to trim with. Youll need to allow for vents and and access door. Might consider putting a vapor barrier over the plywood first and a 1"-2" foam insulation. When installing the vapor barrier fold it under the plywood and up the back about 1"-2'' and stable it then attach the foam insulation to the back. Installing the vapor barrier this way will help protect the wood from rot and insects. Hope this helps.