Skirting

[Pat]

My in-law has a 2 yr old MH with viny skirting. Last year and this year a 50 MPH thunderstorm blew out the skirting. I saw a store that sold skirting also sold 32 -24" Windguard rods for $24. Would those help? The panels are about 36" high. Do you have ideas on how to prevent this?

If not, I guess a MH installer could repair it for about the same price as I couldbuy panels and tools.

[Tom]

The typical method of solving the skirting blowouts from wind is to build a frame behind the skirting. I have used metal studs (2x4's) purchased from a wholesale construction firm. Drive long gutter spikes in the bottom frame and bolt upper frame to underside of MH. Side frames are cut slightly longer than 36" and the ends folded over to fit in the upper/lower frame pieces and screwed into these frame pieces. Put up these metal vertical studs about every 16" along the side which is 36" high.

When frame is complete, mount skirting against frame and use sheet metal screws to attach. Lift skirting top band and insert screws under this band to effectively hide the screws. Do the same with the bottom rail by mounting screws low and inside the channel.

You can also use weather treated wood 2x4's, though it is tougher to work with.

[Dan]

What are some ways to skirt where earth to wood (termites) is not allowed?AZ. for instance does not let you skirt to within 6" from ground with wood products.I am planning to use matching hardboard siding. Thanks, Dan

[Tom]

Dan,

Use METAL 2x4's available at construction wholesale firms for the frame and vinyl for the siding.