Hybrid Expandable Wintering in NJ ~ Skirting

[Disa]

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As new first year full timers... (Solaire 190X Palomino with 3' slide out length of the hard body part of the RV) we will be wintering here at the Northern Jersey Shore. We have decided to skirt the rv and I have found several methods. It looks like the most popular method is with the snaps... and as we can't get away to drive to Colorado (working here) or South Dakota to have it done and fitted... I am looking for other ideas.
I've found the gluing suction cup/velcro guy, and the channel (like this idea) company, but I doubt they will come to Jersey to fit and make it for us.
Then there is the total DIY Idaho Canvas company... I take the measurements and figure out how to install the skirt company.
As well, there is the problematic issue of the tent bunk ends. Not much to adhere to... except underneath. I do have the windows done with reflectix and PUGS on the ends.
Any one have some constructive ideas?
And actually we are not crazy.
RV has a great furnace! Heated beds and we will be putting 1" foam board under the mattresses.
Thanks!!!

[Disa]

Anyone???

[BamaBob]

You will definitely want to skirt your rig - what would concern me is how you are going to insulate the bunk ends maybe some sort of insulation under the bunk end toppers you have? And the ends - maybe insulation around the sides as well - again not sure how you can attach them though.

Not sure exactly where you are at but the low temps in January in NJ can get in the teens

[BamaBob]

My wife just took a look at your setup and she has a great idea!

At Lowes you can purchase 4'W x 8'L attic insulation styrofoam sheets that have a reflective surface on one side (think aluminum foil) These will probably go a HUGE way to helping you out insulating your bunk ends and inside the skirting around the base of your RV.

Also halogen shop lights might be a good under bunk end solution - just be aware of the potential fire hazard.

DW just had another thought - they make these oil filled space heaters the work really well - use the CG's electricity and save on your propane They are fairly inexpensive - we bought a couple a few years ago to heat our 5th wheel:

https://smile.amazon.com/DeLonghi-EW...l+space+heater

Finally, consider getting a heated water hose:
https://smile.amazon.com/Pirit-PWL-0...+RV+water+hose

Hope these ideas help!

[youroo]

Do NOT Try This!! This will Fail! When was the last time you were tested? Skirting looks nice,but Bales of Straw TOTALLY around you unit would be a better R factor,but would look like Hell! Go with another Plan,this one is doomed to Fail! Youroo!!

[BamaBob]

Also you will want to use that insulation to cover the top, side & bottom exposed sections of your slide out....

[Disa]

Thanks for the tips!! The skirt is probably the way to go, because we sometimes have to be mobile quickly. The foam under the mattresses is good.
I did not know about the hose. That is cool. Looking into it.
I wonder... is it is more effective than heat tape and pipe insulation?
The campground requires the heat tape and pipe insulation.
I appreciate the replies. Does anyone have the skirting which uses turnbuckles screws and snaps?
Thanks!

[BamaBob]

Originally Posted by Disa

Thanks for the tips!! The skirt is probably the way to go, because we sometimes have to be mobile quickly. The foam under the mattresses is good.
I did not know about the hose. That is cool. Looking into it.
I wonder... is it is more effective than heat tape and pipe insulation?
The campground requires the heat tape and pipe insulation.
I appreciate the replies. Does anyone have the skirting which uses turnbuckles screws and snaps?
Thanks!

Click on this link:
https://smile.amazon.com/Pirit-PWL-0...+RV+water+hose

It will take you the the heated hot water hose on Amazon (It plugs in to 110v )

BTW if you are not a Amazon Prime member consider it - it's the full timer's friend!

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by Disa

Anyone???

I think most haven't responded because we feel that a hybrid is a bad choice for what you're doing.
Only a tent or popup would be worse choices.

[KenHwy61]

Originally Posted by bikendan

I think most haven't responded because we feel that a hybrid is a bad choice for what you're doing.
Only a tent or popup would be worse choices.

I agree. Bad condensation and possible mold will be among your many issues. Hybrids just are not built for sub-freezing camping. I would consider a different camper if possible.

[rockfordroo]

Originally Posted by bikendan

I think most haven't responded because we feel that a hybrid is a bad choice for what you're doing.
Only a tent or popup would be worse choices.

X2.

If you do decide to go through with this,I think you are going to have major moisture problems; i.e., inside moisture condensing on cold surfaces. You should probably invest in a dehumidifier, too.

[Disa]

Be that as it may... it is the RV we have and just bought last fall and are still making payments on. So, a different rv is not a possibility at this time. We have already addressed condensation and moisture issues with reflectix in windows, solid cell foam underneath bunks and I found a place in SD to get skirting installed. Road trip!!
We have heated mattresses and a sunny site. We have already been camping in the rv since February. Probably more work, but as a previous poster suggested... hybrids are not for everyone.
Thanks for the advice.

[rockfordroo]

Be sure to let us all know how it's going. This is a great experiment.

[dblr]

I am surprised you found a year round campground in New Jersey, thought most of them closed up after the Halloween weekend rush. Good luck and stay warm

[Disa]

Me too... there are actually 5 in the south shore section of Jersey. This one has about 15 sites that are full hookups all winter.
The Pine Cone Resort Capmground.
It is an experiment... for sure. But hey whats the worst that could happen?
We give up and get a hotel! LOL