If you’ve ever spent a chilly night in your RV and felt a draft creeping up from the floor, you already know cold air loves a shortcut—and the underside of your rig is its favorite express lane. That’s why RV skirting is one of the smartest defenses you can use to combat cold weather. Acting like an insulating blanket, RV skirting seals off the underbelly of your camper, trapping warmth and preventing icy winds from turning your water lines into popsicles. It’s a boon for comfort but also for protecting your investment, whether you’re parked for the winter or hitting the road during the off-season.
In this guide, we’ll dive deeper into what RV skirting is, why it’s worth it, and how to install it like a pro. You’ll learn which materials hold up best and get insider tips to keep your rig snug, efficient, and road-ready all year long.
What Is RV Skirting?
At its simplest, RV skirting is a fitted barrier, typically made of vinyl or insulated panels, that wraps around the base of your RV to close off the open space between the ground and the bottom of your rig. It’s basically a big curtain that keeps the elements out and warmth in. The payoff is toastier floors, better furnace efficiency, and far less risk of frozen plumbing.
But skirting isn’t just for snowbirds. Even in mild climates, adding this upgrade can help block dust, debris, and moisture, extending the life of your RV’s underside. For long-term campers whose rigs stay put for months, skirting also helps deter critters from turning that hidden space into a cozy nesting spot.
Some skirting systems are designed more for cargo management purposes than heat retention. Using zippered doors or snap fasteners, they create a quick, covered storage space under the RV, turning otherwise wasted space into a dry, protected area.
Types of RV Skirting
Just like the RVs they protect, skirting comes in a variety of styles and materials. The “best” choice really depends on how, where, and for how long you park your rig.
1. Vinyl or Fabric Skirting
A common choice, vinyl and fabric RV skirts are lightweight and easy to handle—qualities that make them ideal for seasonal campers or those who move campsites pretty frequently. While these options provide moderate insulation and wind protection, extremely cold temperatures may require supplemental measures. For best results, opt for a professionally made, custom-fit skirt. DIY solutions using heavy-duty materials or tarps are possible, but a precise fit and secure attachment system will help ensure everything stays in place during harsher weather.
Best for: Seasonal campers and frequent movers.
2. Foam Board
Providing excellent warmth at a low cost, rigid foam insulation boards are another popular skirting option, particularly among budget-conscious campers and DIYers. The panels are easy to source and install from most hardware stores, but bulky to transport and store, making this option best suited for RVs that remain stationary for longer periods.
Best for: Long-term or stationary campers seeking budget-friendly insulation.
3. Inflatable Skirting Systems
A newer innovation, inflatable skirting uses insulated air chambers to seal around your RV. These systems provide good insulation and a very clean look, setting up quickly and packing down compactly. The tradeoff is a higher upfront cost, but RVers who value convenience or are constantly on the move may find it worth the investment.
Best for: RVers who prioritize convenience or move frequently.
Materials to Avoid
Some DIYers suggest using hay, particle board, or plywood as low-cost skirting options. While inexpensive, these materials come with serious drawbacks. For example, hay is a fire hazard and attracts critters, while wood can warp, rot, and fail quickly. Additionally, many campgrounds prohibit these materials, so it’s best to steer clear.
Installation Overview
Installing RV skirting is sort of like wrapping a very large, oddly shaped present. While exact steps will vary depending on the material and system you choose, the process always starts with the same foundation: measure, prep, and plan.
- Measure Twice, Order Once: For DIY or panel/roll kits, it’s important to measure your RV’s perimeter carefully, including around slide-outs. Accuracy matters, as too short leaves gaps and too long wastes material. Note ground clearance, especially on uneven sites. For pre-cut, custom-fit kits, double-check the manufacturer’s dimensions against your RV to ensure a snug fit.
- Prep Your Rig: Clean the lower exterior walls, since adhesive, Velcro, or track systems won’t stick to dirty or greasy surfaces. This is also a great time to inspect your undercarriage for loose insulation, wires, or plumbing issues before sealing everything up.
- Attach the Top Edge: Most skirting systems secure to your RV’s sidewalls with tracks, snaps, Velcro strips, or adhesive tape. Some may use screw-in fasteners. Regardless of the attachment system, it’s best practice to start at one corner of the RV and work your way around evenly to prevent sagging or air gaps. Note that adhesive-only systems may struggle on textured or uneven surfaces, especially in cold or wet conditions.
- Anchor the Bottom Edge: Once the top is attached, secure the bottom to prevent drafts and flapping. Options include tent stakes, sandbags, foam tubing, or weighted PVC pipes in a pocket along the bottom edge. Inflatable systems generally self-anchor but may benefit from light staking in windy conditions. On sloped sites, consider leaving a small gap or sloping the bottom edge of the skirting to allow water to drain away and prevent pooling.
- Seal and Inspect: Check for gaps around stairs, jacks, sewer lines, or slide-outs and fill them with foam blocks or trimmed vinyl. If you expect heavy snow, wind or extremely cold temperatures, consider using support rods or additional backing insulation.
General Tips
- Keep vinyl away from sharp edges or hot exhaust areas to prevent tears or melting.
- Add a vent flap near your furnace or water heater to prevent overheating.
- Consider UV-rated materials or coverings if your skirting will see long-term sun exposure.
- Label each panel before storing (front, rear, driver side, etc.) to save time next season.
- Store rolled or folded panels in a dry, protected space to avoid moisture damage.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Even well-installed skirting can run into hiccups, especially the first time. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems before they become headaches:
- Poor adhesion or panel attachment: To keep skirting from peeling off, clean the RV’s surface with rubbing alcohol before applying adhesives and warm it slightly for better grip. In windy regions, consider screw-in snaps or channel systems instead of tape.
- Wind sneaking under panels: If wind gets under your RV skirt, it can flap, rattle, or even rip loose. Secure the bottom edge with weights, stakes, or sand-filled PVC pipes. In blustery areas, tilt panels slightly inward so wind slides over instead of under.
- Water pooling or ice build-up: Uneven ground can cause puddles or icy ridges at the base. To fix, either grade the ground or use foam boards to create a gentle slope. For long-term setups, adding gravel or digging a shallow trench improves drainage.
- Air gaps around jacks or stairs: Gaps reduce insulation effectiveness, so plug them up with foam pipe insulation or spare vinyl. For access points like sewer outlets, use removable Velcro flaps.
- Condensation or trapped moisture: Skirting keeps heat in but can also trap humidity. Add a vent or screened flap at opposite ends of the RV skirt to promote airflow and prevent mildew.
- Wear and tear from storage or movement: Vinyl can crack or stretch if stored damp or folded. Clean and dry it thoroughly before storing, roll panels instead of folding, and label sections for easier reinstallation.
Stay Warm This Winter with Parts Via
Ready to find the right setup for your rig? Parts Via carries high-quality skirting solutions from trusted brands like ADCO, AP Products, and Icon, with options to fit everything from compact travel trailers to big Class A motorhomes. Cut the hassle by taking advantage of our fast, FREE ship-to-store at checkout. You’ll save on shipping costs, skip the delivery wait, and get expert help right at your local dealer.