When winter hits Pennsylvania, one of the most important steps to staying warm in your RV is installing skirting. Skirting creates a barrier around the bottom of your RV, trapping warmer air underneath and blocking icy wind from freezing your floors, pipes, and tanks. For RVers spending winter near Pittsburgh — especially at year-round parks like Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort — skirting isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of a warm, energy-efficient, freeze-free winter setup.
But here’s the big question: should you build your own RV skirt or buy a manufactured one? Both options work well, but each has clear advantages depending on your goals, budget, winter temperatures, and how long you plan to stay.
This guide compares the best DIY skirting methods and the top store-bought skirting systems so you can choose the right solution for your rig and stay warm all winter long.
Why RV Skirting Is Essential in Extreme Cold
Pennsylvania winters bring freezing nights, strong winds, and plenty of moisture — conditions that make the underside of your RV vulnerable. Without skirting, cold air moves freely under your rig, stealing heat and putting plumbing at risk.
Skirting helps by trapping warmer air under the RV, reducing heat loss through the floor, preventing pipes and tanks from freezing, lowering propane and electricity use, improving furnace efficiency, and making your RV feel more comfortable.
For more preparation tips, review the Winter RV Packing Checklist.
DIY RV Skirting Options
DIY skirting is popular because it’s budget-friendly and easy to customize. Here are the best materials RVers use for cold winters in Pennsylvania.
Foam Board Skirting
Foam board (rigid insulation board) is one of the most effective and affordable DIY options.
Benefits: excellent insulation value, blocks wind, easy to cut, and extremely stable in cold temperatures. Ideal for seasonal or long-term stays.
Vinyl or Tarp Skirting
Heavy-duty vinyl, tarp, or reinforced fabric can create flexible skirting.
Benefits: low cost, easy to install, good wind protection, and simple to store. Great for travelers who move often.
Plywood Skirting
Wood panels offer excellent strength and insulation.
Benefits: durable, high insulation when paired with foam, and great for seasonal setups. Best for stationary winter sites.
Hay Bale Skirting
An old-school method that works in emergencies.
Benefits: good insulation and wind blocking. Not suitable for long-term use because it attracts pests and absorbs moisture.
Professional / Store-Bought RV Skirting Options
If you want a clean look and long-term durability, manufactured skirting is worth the investment. These systems are designed for harsh winter conditions and daily use.
Custom Vinyl RV Skirting
Professionally measured and custom-fit for your RV.
Benefits: perfect fit, durable, wind-resistant, and reusable for multiple years. Ideal for full-time RVers.
AirSkirts Inflatable RV Skirting
A modern, premium skirting system using inflatable tubes.
Benefits: extremely fast installation, portable, no adhesive or drilling, and excellent insulation.
Verified link: https://www.airskirts.com
Snap-On or Rail-Mounted Vinyl Kits
Semi-custom kits that attach to your RV permanently.
Benefits: clean appearance, stable in winter weather, and more affordable than fully custom skirting.
Which Skirting Option Is Best?
Best for severe Pennsylvania winters: foam board or custom vinyl skirting
Best for full-time RVers: AirSkirts inflatable system
Best for budget RVers: foam board or tarp skirting
Best for beginners: snap-on vinyl kits
Best for long-term stationary stays: plywood + foam board combo
Tips for Effective Skirting Installation
Seal all gaps with tape or foam.
Secure skirting tightly with stakes, blocks, Velcro, PVC pipes, or weights.
Add insulation underneath the RV for extra protection.
Avoid blocking furnace or water heater vents.
Check the skirting after storms for wind or snow damage.
For full winterization strategies, see the RV Living in Winter Guide.
How Much Does RV Skirting Cost?
DIY foam board: $80–$200
DIY tarp/vinyl: $40–$120
Custom vinyl skirting: $1,200–$2,500
AirSkirts: $1,500–$3,000
Plywood skirting: $150–$400
Store-bought skirting costs more upfront but lasts for years and offers professional protection.
Why Skirting Saves Money
Proper skirting reduces heat loss, lowers propane usage, reduces electric heater costs, prevents furnace overuse, and protects against freeze damage — saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Stay Warm With the Right Skirting Setup
Whether you choose DIY foam board or invest in a custom vinyl system, RV skirting is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for winter living. Your floors stay warmer, your furnace runs less, and your pipes stay protected. Winter RV life becomes far more comfortable when the underside of your rig is insulated and sealed.
Stay Cozy All Winter at Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort
If you’re spending the winter in your RV, Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort offers full hookups, plowed roads, and winter-ready sites perfect for installing skirting.
Stay warm, save energy, and enjoy peaceful cold-weather camping in Western Pennsylvania.
