How to Skirt a Travel Trailer for a Seamless Look

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How to Skirt a Travel Trailer

A travel trailer skirt is a great way to add some extra insulation and protection to your trailer, and it can also help to improve your fuel efficiency. Skirting a travel trailer is a relatively simple project that you can do yourself in a few hours. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to skirt a travel trailer, and we’ll also provide some tips and tricks to help you get the job done right.

What is a Travel Trailer Skirt?

A travel trailer skirt is a long, rectangular piece of fabric that is attached to the bottom of your trailer. Skirts are typically made from a durable material such as vinyl or canvas, and they come in a variety of colors and styles. Skirts can help to insulate your trailer, which can save you money on your heating and cooling bills. They can also help to protect your trailer from the elements, such as wind, rain, and snow. And finally, skirts can help to improve your trailer’s fuel efficiency by reducing drag.

How to Skirt a Travel Trailer

Skirting a travel trailer is a relatively simple project that you can do yourself in a few hours. Here are the steps involved:

1. Measure your trailer. You’ll need to know the length, width, and height of your trailer in order to order the correct size of skirt.
2. Cut the skirt. Once you’ve ordered the skirt, you’ll need to cut it to size. Be sure to leave enough fabric for overlap at the seams.
3. Attach the skirt to the trailer. You can attach the skirt to the trailer using a variety of methods, such as Velcro, snaps, or screws.

Tips for Skirting a Travel Trailer

Here are a few tips to help you get the job done right:

  • Use a durable material for your skirt. Vinyl and canvas are both good options.
  • Make sure the skirt is long enough to cover the entire bottom of your trailer.
  • Overlap the seams of the skirt by at least 6 inches.
  • Use a weatherproof sealant to protect the seams of the skirt.
  • Secure the skirt to the trailer using a method that is strong and durable.

Skirts are a great way to add some extra insulation and protection to your travel trailer. They can also help to improve your fuel efficiency and keep your trailer looking its best. If you’re looking for a way to improve your travel trailer, a skirt is a great option.

Step Materials Instructions
1. Measure the length and width of your travel trailer. – Fabric
– Staple gun
– Tape measure
– Scissors		 Use a tape measure to measure the length and width of your travel trailer. Be sure to add a few inches to each measurement for overlap.
2. Cut the fabric to size. – 1 piece of fabric that is the length of your travel trailer plus 6 inches
– 2 pieces of fabric that are the width of your travel trailer plus 6 inches		 Cut two pieces of fabric that are the width of your travel trailer plus 6 inches. Then, cut one piece of fabric that is the length of your travel trailer plus 6 inches.
3. Sew the fabric together. – Sewing machine
– Thread		 Sew the two pieces of fabric that are the width of your travel trailer together, right sides together. Leave a 1-inch seam allowance.
4. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise. – Iron Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together. Press the fold with an iron.
5. Sew the fabric together. – Sewing machine
– Thread		 Sew the fabric together, using a 1-inch seam allowance. Leave a 6-inch opening at the bottom of the skirt for the hitch.
6. Turn the skirt right side out. – Iron Turn the skirt right side out. Press the seams with an iron.
7. Hem the bottom of the skirt. – Sewing machine
– Thread		 Hem the bottom of the skirt with a 1-inch hem.
8. Attach the skirt to the travel trailer. – Staple gun Staple the skirt to the travel trailer, starting at the top and working your way down.
9. Enjoy your new skirted travel trailer!

Materials and tools you will need

To skirt a travel trailer, you will need the following materials and tools:

  • Skirting material: The skirting material you choose will depend on your budget and personal preference. Some popular options include vinyl, aluminum, and wood.
  • Vinyl skirting: Vinyl skirting is a cost-effective option that is easy to install. It is available in a variety of colors and styles to match your trailer.
  • Aluminum skirting: Aluminum skirting is a durable option that is resistant to rust and corrosion. It is also available in a variety of colors and styles.
  • Wood skirting: Wood skirting is a traditional option that adds a touch of elegance to your trailer. It is more expensive than vinyl or aluminum skirting, but it is also more durable.
  • Skirting nails or screws: You will need nails or screws to attach the skirting material to the trailer.
  • Skirting tape: Skirting tape is a waterproof adhesive that can be used to seal the seams between the skirting panels.
  • Utility knife: A utility knife is used to cut the skirting material to size.
  • Tape measure: A tape measure is used to measure the length and width of the trailer.
  • Level: A level is used to ensure that the skirting is installed level.
  • Safety glasses: Safety glasses are worn to protect your eyes from flying debris.

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Prepare the trailer

1. Remove the old skirting material, if necessary. If your trailer already has skirting material installed, you will need to remove it before you can install new skirting. To do this, use a utility knife to cut the skirting material around the perimeter of the trailer. Then, carefully pry the skirting material away from the trailer using a pry bar or flathead screwdriver.
2. Clean the trailer. Once the old skirting material has been removed, you will need to clean the trailer to remove any dirt, grease, or debris. This will help the new skirting material to adhere properly.
3. Prime the trailer. If your trailer is made of metal, you will need to prime it before you can install the skirting material. This will help to prevent the skirting material from rusting.
4. Mark the locations of the skirting panels. Once the trailer has been prepared, you will need to mark the locations of the skirting panels. To do this, measure the length and width of the trailer and divide it into equal sections. Then, mark the locations of the skirting panels on the trailer with a pencil or chalk.

Step 2: Install the skirting

1. Install the bottom skirting panel. The bottom skirting panel is the first panel that you will install. To install it, start at the front of the trailer and measure the distance from the ground to the bottom of the trailer. Then, cut a piece of skirting material to this length.
2. Attach the bottom skirting panel to the trailer. To attach the bottom skirting panel to the trailer, use a nail gun or screws to attach it to the bottom of the trailer. Make sure that the nails or screws are long enough to go through the skirting material and into the trailer.
3. Install the remaining skirting panels. Once the bottom skirting panel has been installed, you can install the remaining skirting panels. To do this, measure the distance between the bottom skirting panel and the top of the trailer. Then, cut a piece of skirting material to this length.
4. Attach the remaining skirting panels to the trailer. To attach the remaining skirting panels to the trailer, use a nail gun or screws to attach them to the sides of the trailer. Make sure that the nails or screws are long enough to go through the skirting material and into the trailer.

Step 3: Seal the skirting

Once the skirting has been installed, you will need to seal it to prevent water from seeping in. To do this, apply a sealant around the seams between the skirting panels. You can use a sealant that is specifically designed for use on trailers, or you can use a sealant that is made for use on exterior applications.

Skirting a travel trailer is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can add a stylish and protective addition to your trailer.

How to Skirt a Travel Trailer?

Skirting a travel trailer is a great way to improve its appearance, protect it from the elements, and add some extra storage space. It’s a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials.

Tools and Materials

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver
  • Wood screws
  • Galvanized sheet metal
  • Roofing felt
  • Tarps or weatherproof fabric
  • Duct tape
  • Spray paint

Steps

1. Measure the trailer. You’ll need to know the length, width, and height of your trailer in order to determine how much material you need.
2. Draw a plan. Sketch out a plan of how you want your skirt to look. This will help you visualize the project and make sure you have enough material.
3. Cut the wood. Use a saw to cut the wood to the appropriate lengths.
4. Assemble the frame. Use screws to attach the wood pieces together to form a frame.
5. Attach the sheet metal. Cut the sheet metal to the appropriate size and attach it to the frame using screws.
6. Cover the sheet metal with roofing felt. This will help to protect the metal from the elements.
7. Add the tarps or weatherproof fabric. This will provide additional protection and add some extra storage space.
8. Duct tape the seams. This will help to seal the seams and keep out the water.
9. Spray paint the skirt. This is optional, but it can help to protect the skirt from the elements and make it look more attractive.

Tips and Tricks

  • Make sure the frame is level before attaching the sheet metal. This will help to prevent the skirt from sagging.
  • Use galvanized sheet metal for the skirt. This will help to protect it from the elements.
  • Use roofing felt to cover the sheet metal. This will help to protect the metal from the elements and make it more weatherproof.
  • Add tarps or weatherproof fabric to the inside of the skirt. This will provide additional storage space and help to protect the trailer from the elements.
  • Duct tape the seams of the skirt. This will help to seal the seams and keep out the water.
  • Spray paint the skirt to protect it from the elements and make it look more attractive.

Troubleshooting

  • If the skirt is sagging, you may need to add more support to the frame.
  • If the sheet metal is rusting, you may need to repaint it or apply a rust-resistant coating.
  • If the tarps or weatherproof fabric are tearing, you may need to replace them.
  • If the duct tape is coming off, you may need to apply a new coat of adhesive.
  • If the skirt is not looking the way you want it to, you may need to make some adjustments to the plan.

Skirting a travel trailer is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. It’s a great way to improve the appearance of your trailer, protect it from the elements, and add some extra storage space.

How to Skirt a Travel Trailer

Q: What is a travel trailer skirt?

A: A travel trailer skirt is a piece of fabric that hangs from the bottom of a travel trailer to help reduce wind drag and improve fuel efficiency. It can also help to keep the interior of the trailer cooler in warm weather and warmer in cold weather.

Q: What are the benefits of skirting a travel trailer?

A: There are several benefits to skirting a travel trailer, including:

  • Reduced wind drag: A travel trailer skirt can help to reduce wind drag by up to 10%, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency.
  • Improved fuel efficiency: A travel trailer skirt can help to improve fuel efficiency by reducing wind drag. This can save you money on fuel costs over time.
  • Cooler interior in warm weather: A travel trailer skirt can help to keep the interior of the trailer cooler in warm weather by blocking the sun’s rays. This can make it more comfortable to stay in the trailer during hot weather.
  • Warmer interior in cold weather: A travel trailer skirt can help to keep the interior of the trailer warmer in cold weather by trapping heat inside. This can make it more comfortable to stay in the trailer during cold weather.

Q: What materials are used to make travel trailer skirts?

A: Travel trailer skirts are typically made from a variety of materials, including:

  • Vinyl: Vinyl is a popular material for travel trailer skirts because it is durable and easy to clean.
  • Canvas: Canvas is another popular material for travel trailer skirts because it is breathable and can help to keep the interior of the trailer cooler in warm weather.
  • Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a synthetic material that is often used for travel trailer skirts because it is durable and water-resistant.

Q: How do you install a travel trailer skirt?

Installing a travel trailer skirt is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The following steps provide a general overview of how to install a travel trailer skirt:

1. Measure the length and width of your travel trailer. You will need to know these measurements to order the correct size of skirt.
2. Cut the skirt to size. Once you have the correct size of skirt, you will need to cut it to size.
3. Attach the skirt to the travel trailer. You will need to use a sealant or adhesive to attach the skirt to the travel trailer.
4. Secure the skirt in place. Once the skirt is attached to the travel trailer, you will need to secure it in place with screws or bolts.

Q: What are some common problems with travel trailer skirts?

There are a few common problems that can occur with travel trailer skirts, including:

  • The skirt can come loose from the travel trailer.
  • The skirt can get caught on objects.
  • The skirt can be damaged by weather.

To avoid these problems, it is important to install the skirt correctly and to maintain it properly.

Q: How can I maintain my travel trailer skirt?

To maintain your travel trailer skirt, you should:

  • Clean the skirt regularly with a mild detergent and water.
  • Check the skirt for damage regularly and repair any damage as soon as possible.
  • Store the skirt in a cool, dry place when it is not in use.

By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your travel trailer skirt.

Summing up, skirting a travel trailer is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a custom skirt that will protect your trailer from the elements and add a touch of style to your rig.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember when skirting your trailer:

  • Choose the right materials for your climate.
  • Make sure the skirt is the correct length and width for your trailer.
  • Secure the skirt to the trailer using a sturdy method.
  • Be sure to leave enough clearance for airflow underneath the skirt.

By following these tips, you can create a custom skirt that will keep your trailer looking its best for years to come.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.