Mobile Home Brick Skirting Guide: Types, Costs & Benefits

Upgrade your mobile home’s curb appeal and protection with brick skirting—a stylish, durable option that blends beauty with function. Whether you’re seeking improved insulation, added value, or a maintenance-free solution, brick skirting offers the perfect mix of elegance and practicality. This guide will help you navigate your choices, installation tips, and key factors to create a lasting impression for your mobile home.

Mobile Home Brick Skirting: Types at a Glance

Type	Material	Appearance	Durability	Ease of Installation	Maintenance	Typical Cost (materials only)	Insulation Value	Customization
Traditional Brick	Real brick/clay	Classic, permanent	Excellent	Low (pro install)	Low	$10–$15/sq ft	High	High
Brick Veneer	Thin real brick	Authentic brick	Very Good	Moderate	Low	$5–$10/sq ft	Moderate	Moderate
Faux Brick Panels	Polyurethane/Resin	Realistic faux	Good	Very High (DIY)	Low	$3–$8/sq ft	Moderate	High
Interlocking Brick Panels	Concrete/Resin	Modular brick look	Very Good	High (DIY-friendly)	Low	$5–$10/sq ft	Moderate	High
Vinyl/Plastic Brick Pattern	Vinyl/Plastic	Simulated brick	Good	Very High	Very Low	$3–$8/sq ft	Low	Moderate
Brick + Stone Combinations	Brick & Stone	Designer mix	Excellent	Moderate	Low	Varies, higher-end	High	High

Everyday Uses and Applications

What Is Brick Skirting Used For?

Brick skirting is the enclosure around the bottom perimeter of a mobile or manufactured home, covering the crawl space between the ground and the base of the home. Its everyday uses include:

Foundation Protection: Shields plumbing and mechanical systems from weather and pests.
Aesthetic Appeal: Instantly upgrades curb appeal, making your home look more permanent and polished.
Energy Savings: Helps insulate the crawl space, increasing energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and protecting pipes in cold weather.
Regulation Compliance: Fulfills local building code requirements for underpinning.

Popular Applications

Full-perimeter foundational skirting for all four sides of your home.
Accent walls or partial skirting to enhance specific areas.
Columns and entryway accents (using brick around steps or porch pillars).
Mixed-material designs (brick with stone or stucco) for a custom look.
Combination with air vents to ensure proper crawl space ventilation.

Benefits of Mobile Home Brick Skirting

Installing brick skirting brings several advantages over other skirting materials:

1. Enhanced Durability

Traditional and veneer bricks are fire-resistant, pest-proof, and weather-resistant.
Faux and interlocking panels made from poly-resin or concrete hold up well against impacts and harsh climates.

2. Insulation & Energy Efficiency

Brick’s natural thermal mass regulates crawl space and interior home temperatures, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Improved efficiency means lower heating/cooling costs.

3. Increased Home Value

Upgrading to brick skirting can boost your mobile home’s market value and make it more attractive to buyers.

4. Low Maintenance

Brick and quality faux panels are largely maintenance-free. Occasional cleaning and basic inspections are sufficient.

5. Curb Appeal

Offers a classic, timeless look mimicking stick-built homes.
Range of colors, textures, and patterns available for flexible design.

6. Pest & Moisture Barrier

Proper installation prevents rodents, insects, and moisture from entering the crawl space, reducing future repair costs.

How to Choose the Right Mobile Home Brick Skirting

Selecting the best skirting for your home depends on several key factors:

1. Budget

Traditional Brick: Highest upfront cost but unparalleled lifespan and solidity.
Brick Veneer and Panels: Lower cost, easier to install, still offer great appearance.
Faux and Vinyl Bricks: Most affordable, especially for DIYers.

2. Appearance and Style

Real brick offers authenticity and permanence.
Faux and vinyl brick panels provide nearly the same aesthetics with much less weight and install hassle.
Consider colors (red, whitewashed, brown, gray), textures (smooth, rustic), and patterns (stacked, herringbone, running bond).

3. Installation Needs

Professional vs. DIY: Full brick requires skilled labor; faux/vinyl/interlocking panels often designed for DIY with simple tools.
Weight: Heavy brick may require specific foundation modifications.

4. Climate and Conditions

Choose materials resistant to your region’s temperature swings, moisture, and sun intensity.
For high-wind or freeze-prone areas, secure installation and robust materials like concrete or real brick are preferred.

5. Maintenance Expectations

All brick skirting is generally low maintenance, but faux and vinyl options require the least upkeep.

6. Code Compliance

Ensure your skirting choice meets local building codes, especially regarding ventilation and fire resistance.

7. Ventilation and Access

Include sufficient air vents as required by local/housing standards, even with brick panels.
Access doors/panels for plumbing or storage under the home.

8. Longevity vs. Flexibility

Heavy-duty (masonry brick, concrete) lasts decades but isn’t easily removed.
Panel-style skirting is easier to replace or update if you plan to remodel or move.

Best Practices & Tips for Shopping and Installing Brick Skirting

1. Proper Measurements

Use a skirting calculator or measure the full perimeter and average height of your home to determine the quantity of material needed.
Account for slopes in your yard, step-downs, and any access points that require doors.

2. Plan for Ventilation

HUD codes and local regulations typically require at least one vent within every 150 square feet of skirting.
Space vents evenly, and consider automatic vents for easy air control.

3. Select the Right Tools

For panel and veneer installations: Level, tape measure, saw (fine-tooth blade for polymers), drill/driver, exterior screws or nails.
For traditional brick: Masonry tools, mortar, trowels, possible concrete pads or supports.

4. Installation Sequence

Begin at the lowest point of the home and work around.
Ensure starter strips or supports are level, especially for interlocking and faux panels.

5. Leave Expansion Gaps

For plastic or vinyl panels, allow a slight gap (about 1/16” under screw/nail heads) for thermal expansion to prevent warping.

6. Customize for Look and Function

Stagger panel seams or brick joints for visual appeal and extra strength.
Incorporate decorative corner bricks or trim for a seamless finish.

7. Maintain Regularly

Clean skirting as needed using a mild detergent and hose.
Inspect annually for damage, moisture issues, or pest intrusions.

8. DIY vs. Professional Help

Faux, interlocking, and vinyl brick panels can be installed by a handy homeowner.
Traditional brick or custom combinations usually require pro installation for structural safety and code compliance.

Technical Specification Comparison Table

Type	Thickness	Typical Panel Size	Weight per Sq Ft	Fire Rating	UV Resistance	Warranty	Installation Difficulty
Traditional Brick	2–3″	Standard Brick Size	4–6 lbs	High	Excellent	20–50 yrs	High
Brick Veneer	~0.75″–1″	36″x12″ (common)	1–2 lbs	High	Very Good	15–30 yrs	Moderate
Faux Brick Panels	0.5-1″	48″x18″ up to 48″x36″	<1 lb	Class C	Excellent	20–25 yrs	Very Low
Interlocking Brick Panels	0.75-1.5″	36″x18″ or modular	1–2 lbs	Class C	Excellent	20 yrs	Low
Vinyl Brick Pattern	0.125–0.25″	36″x48″ (standard)	<1 lb	Varies	Very Good	10–15 yrs	Very Low

Everyday User Tips for Brick Skirting

Blend In with Your Home: Choose brick colors/patterns that coordinate with your siding, trim, and landscape.
Mix and Match: Combine stone, brick, and stucco elements for upscale or custom looks.
Accent Only Key Areas: Use brick patterns as feature walls or on columns to save costs while getting the visual benefits.
Accessibility Matters: Plan for lockable access doors for under-home repairs or storage.
Upgrade with Air Vents: Use decorative or automatic vents to meet requirements without sacrificing appearance.
Future-Proof: If you anticipate moving your home or changing skirting, opt for panels over full masonry for easier removal.
Warranty Awareness: Keep records of product warranties for future reference or claims.
Protect Pipes: Add foam or other pipe insulation before final skirting installation in cold climates.

Conclusion

Brick skirting is a transformative investment for mobile or manufactured homes, offering unbeatable benefits in protection, energy efficiency, curb appeal, and property value. With a wide range of material types—from traditional masonry to lightweight faux panels—there is a solution for every style, budget, and skill level.

When choosing your brick skirting, balance your preferences for appearance, durability, installation effort, and cost. Always plan for proper measurement, ventilation, and future accessibility. Whether you’re seeking a permanent look with authentic brick or a quick, budget-friendly facelift with vinyl or faux panels, the right skirting will significantly improve your living comfort and the lasting value of your mobile home.

FAQ

What is brick skirting, and do I need it for my mobile home?
Brick skirting is an enclosure around the crawl space beneath your mobile or manufactured home. It isn’t just decorative—it protects your home’s understructure from pests, weather, and cold, improves curb appeal, and meets building code requirements.
How do I choose between traditional brick and faux brick panels?
Traditional brick is best for long-term investment, durability, and permanent aesthetics but is more expensive and labor-intensive. Faux brick panels are lighter, easier to install (even DIY), and cost less but may not have the same lifespan as real brick.
Will brick skirting help insulate my home?
Yes. Real brick has a high thermal mass, helping regulate crawl space and interior temperatures, reducing heat loss in winter and protecting pipes. Faux panels offer some insulation but typically less than solid bricks.
Is brick skirting expensive to install?
Costs vary:
Traditional brick: $20–$30 per sq ft (installed)
Brick veneer: $15–$20 per sq ft
Faux panels: $10–$15 per sq ft
DIY installation can lower costs for panel types.
Can I install brick skirting myself?
Many faux brick and vinyl brick-pattern panels are designed for DIY projects, featuring interlocking panels and simple tools. Heavy brick or brick veneer typically requires a professional mason for safe and lasting installation.
How do I ensure proper ventilation with brick skirting?
Integrate air vents spaced evenly around your home’s perimeter according to local codes, generally at least one vent every 150 square feet of skirting. Automatic or decorative vents maintain airflow without ruining the look.
How do I maintain brick skirting?
Simply wash it periodically with water and mild soap. Inspect for cracks, chips, or moisture intrusion annually. Most brick and faux panels are highly durable and maintenance is minimal.
What styles and finishes are available?
From classic red brick to whitewashed, brown, stacked, and patterned designs, and even painted custom colors, you can match virtually any house style. Consider also combinations with stone or stucco for a custom, upscale appearance.
Can brick skirting increase my home’s value?
Absolutely. Quality brick skirting enhances curb appeal and gives your mobile home a more permanent, high-value appearance, which can attract buyers and boost sale prices.
Is brick skirting weather- and pest-resistant?
Yes. All brick options—real or quality faux—are resistant to pests, rot, mold, and fire. Choose products with UV and impact resistance for the best protection in extreme climates.

By understanding the types, benefits, installation details, and best usage practices, you’ll be fully equipped to select the ideal mobile home brick skirting that fits both your needs and your style.

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