Foundation Skirting

Detail ID 4.0388.1
Topic
Floors
Subtopic
Unique Installations
Desired Outcome

Reduce pest, wind, and water intrusion while reducing conductive heat loss in floor assembly

SF Single Family Site-Built Housing
MH Manufactured Housing
MF Multifamily Housing

Specifications

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Verify that installation area is free of:

active water leaks, fuel leaks (i.e., gas, oil, propane), and pest intrusions

uncovered electrical junctions

improperly terminated devices (ventilation fans, dryers, plumbing stacks, condensate lines, combustion appliance flues/chimneys, etc.)

unshielded high-temperature devices (non-IC rated recessed lights, chimneys, flues, vents, etc.) unless they are zero clearance devices

Verify that installation area is intact and structurally sound

Verify that all plumbing is within the thermal boundary, or insulated appropriately

Verify an appropriate class I vapor retarder is installed between the ground and the floor assembly

Space safe and prepared for insulation

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Select materials that are corrosion and rot resistant, compatible with existing surfaces, and pest resistant

Select materials that are rated for ground contact if they touch the ground

Select durable and pest-resistant materials

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g., thermal or ignition barriers)

Select durable, safe, and pest-resistant sealants

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Remove any existing skirting materials

Remove any vegetation from installation area

Installation area free of obstructions

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Install skirting continuously around the entire perimeter of the conditioned space

Minimize pests, wind and water intrusion, and freezing of plumbing under dwelling

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Install support material as needed to adequately support new skirting to prevent failure under wind or snow loads but that allows for expansion, contraction, and frost heaving

Adequate yet flexible support

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Mechanically fasten all skirting in accordance with manufacturer's specifications using corrosion resistant materials

Durable installation

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Install flashing that directs bulk water away from the dwelling and to outside skirting

Seal flashing to dwelling with compatible sealant

Prevent water from entering foundation space

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Install skirting that meets the prescribed R-value

Reduce conductive heat loss through floor assembly

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Seal all seams, joints, connections, penetrations, etc. in the skirting with compatible sealant

Seal all exposed wood (e.g., paint, sealed, treated)

Stuff any gaps larger than 1/4" with copper metal mesh or steel wool prior to sealing

Airtight, pest resistant exterior

  • SF
  • MH
Specification Objective

Post a dated receipt signed by the installer that minimally includes: Installed insulation type, coverage area, installed thickness, and installed R-value

Comply with 16 CFR 460.17 and document contract compliance

View Sub-Topic:
Unique Installations