You did a great job!!! We have a 35ft heartland pioneer and did the foam board all the way around, ran us $200-250 for the board and tape. This is not as easy as it looks when you are making cuts and trying to close all gaps. For us we taped along the edge/little under the belly. We also put a work lamp (it gives off a lot of heat) under our RV to help keep under us warm since our under belly is not very insulated at all. For the drains, we keep ours hooked up as well and the hole needed to open/close the drains we cut a little “door” in the foam and only taped one side like a door and the wind hasn’t knocked it opened. We use the same meters too. We had to get a large dehumidifier though because the condensation is so much on the windows, (outside would be 20-24 and inside would be 65-68 (propane furnace) we’ve even had issues with condensation in some places like where the bed meets the front wall, closets.
Thank you for the feedback! Yes the condensation is no joke in winter time. I did a followup vid to this and show how crazy the condensation got. I have several dehumidifiers and they can't keep up when it's that cold. I just started noticing the condensation issue on the bed on wall recently. I have just been pulling the bed out from the wall when we get up in am. If you have any other suggestions for that one much appreciated!
We have been living fulltime in a rv for over 5 years now . Lowest temps we have delt with was -11 so far . Keep your water with a constant drip when it freezes just like in a house .
They need to replace the propane tank. You need to know how much propane you have and it's the propane companies responsibility to fix this. At least in my state.
It's a smaller company and they have been great to deal with so I'm not gunna fuss about it too much. They said they would come replace it. They even topped off my propane at no charge because of the gauge issue.
Did the same with a camper we owned except also had 3/4" plywood on top of the insulation. We had a milk house heater underneath. Was a 1989 Skyline Nomad and was propane heated. Did great for what it was at -45 in North Dakota. The biggest issue we had was the condensation in the inside. Stay safe, warm, and have a great winter.
Sweet! I have a 78 Skyline Nomad! Actually, I have a brand new RV built up from a bare trailer and then wrapped in the tin from a 78 Nomad. Unexpected cold snap this year is supposed to take it down to like 2F and I don't have time to wrap it. I know the R30 I put under the floor keeps my toes comfy down to about 15F and all the plumbing is on the heated side of the wall, so I'm just worrying about comfort and a few extra degrees at this point. But I have GOT to get a heated hose, because while the pipes are safe, that hose can freeze and then no harm no foul but also NO WATER!
Your cold-weather set up looks pretty good. Two things I would add Bales of Straw going around your skirt. That would help out tremendous with more warmth & wind abuse. Also get ahold of your gas company have them put a splitter on propane bottle. Run a hose directly to a full-size outdoor gas grill. Electric heater underneath on cold nights great idea.
So just a silly bit of advice when applying tape to literally anything if you use a heatgun or a Torch to warm the adhesive before you apply. Tape works a 1000 times better again. A dumb life hack, but it works. I've done this while taping a torrential downpour. Even the crappiest tape works better.
Use Velcro strips. The pieces of Velcro on your camper will be permanent and when you park for a long time, you just attach the skirting. Make it easier for you.
🤯 phenomenal tip! It's like once I'm parked somewhere and skirted I don't wanna move till winter is over! Love this idea, thanks for watching and sharing 💜💜💜
One thing off grid living, buy a heavy insulated tarp. Lay it down back onto it , then do ur skirting. Really helps. I have a 8x24, then I have a 30x50 trap. I use the 30x50 as a base , then 8x24 insulated, then pull the bottom tarp up the side and tape it.
If you want to know how full the big gas cylinder is just pour a kettle full of boiling water 💦over it the liquid gas inside will pull the heat out of the water and you will get a wet line showing the actual level of the liquid gas inside the cylinder
I have been experimenting off grid for a year now, my trailer is a 2 season 28ft and externally insulated with reflectix, half done the 2nd layer today, last year a low of -27F -33C and my primary heater was a 350w omni heater plus 40 mins of my 1500w. My basement with no heat was a low of 33.6F. Now you have a good idea of what I have the new upgrade could work well for you, my entire underside is airtight, this year I added a under rug heater , I put it on some flooring over the reflectix bottom, The Rug buddy is 170w 4kwh , with just the 170w heater it was 23F -5C for 10 hours, the basement was 64.4F 18C , bedroom was 68F 20C , Try tuck tape repair tape, clear and nothing pealed even on the roof after a year of -33 to 40C. If you want to try reflectix I already came up with a plan to bypass the insulated floor with no mods.
Great job! Just a few thoughts here to add. This is my 2nd winter in Colorado as I moved from Ga looking for land and just purchased 2 acres but living in a RV as well until I purchase a tiny home next year. The 1st year here I insulated the RV with foamboard like you and taped it with the Nashua Metal Tape and found that I had to reinforce it a couple of times thru the winter but we got alot of snow last Dec. It does leave a residue when you remove it but mineral spirits will remove it easily then wipe the area with denatured alcohol. This year I put the foamboard just under the rim around the RV, wedging it in, put cheap metal tent stakes at the bottom to ward off the wind and only used the tape on the seams, then spray painted the foamboard with a matt black and you can hardly tell the skirting is there, especially from a distance. I also have a heated water hose, also put heated tape on my water hydrant then wrapped in black foam pipe tape, insulated with batted insulation, then used metal tape over that. I also put insulation around the exposed water inlet on the camper side and taped that as well. I started leaving the kitchen sink cabinet open at night which stopped my facet from freezing and have not had to leave the water dripping. I also have a 120 gallon propane tank but set the thermostat around 62 at night, use my electric blanket, and use the Pelonis oil radiant heater during the day after I get up and warm the camper. I put Reflectix on all my windows which helps so much and remove the south facing ones during the day for passive heating from the sun. It's tough living in a camper in the winter but you can do it and looks like you have covered all the bases. All the Best and Happy Holidays!
This is the link for the tape I have found works best especially whenever you heat it somehow or another. I will be using your advice for my camper thank you
I think with our horrific economy a LOT of us are living in campers on friends or families property, it's fun but a sad thing that our economy crashed so hard. Think before you vote, we don't want war mongers anymore...and we need the housing market to get back to normal....it's way way out of control now. Anyway, off topic, Great video thank you and we LOVE Oso!!
I added 2 diesel heaters to my rv,that has add a second heat source and I set them to about around 65f to 68f.i can run my diesel heater on low and get about 10 hour to a gallon of diesel.
Great video, lots of info. All just really practical advise and experience based stuff. Love it. I'm in Missouri too, so yeah, we get some wicked winds.
You did an amazing job from what I can see. I was having the same trouble with tape but I have found a new tape that is extremely sticky it's called zip tape it has helped me and it may help you. I found it at the local hardware store Home Depot or Lowe's in the roofing section
so our rv is going to stay on the property so its kind of permanent while we build our house but we put this same skirting on then i got a bunch of pallets and broke them down and covered that all the way around for looks but let me tell you summer was cooler in the rv and last winter was much warmer in the rv
you are wonderful! i can learn a lot from you, im on my way to buying and living in a box truck, this rent in louisville kentucky is killing me, im very impressed in your RIG i will keep following you THANKYOU!
Thank you for the video and putting us at ease. We are in Macon Mo and needing to spend the winter here due to medical reasons, you have helped put our mind at ease knowing that it can be done. Now I need to find a local propane company to cone set us up a tank and get the supplies to skirt out TT.
Im a Pinter that does a lot of exteriors. You might be able to find some white exterior tape. The “exterior” part is what matters. UV resistant and is designed too stick amazing outside even after it gets wet but still peals away nice. It’s not cheap tho. I use it in yellow colour. 👍
There is a plastics squeegee that helps secure the tape much better than by hand. Go to the HVAC shop and ask if they have some?? Installers use them to heat the tape and secure it. It heats up with friction. As you apply light pressure to the tape it kinda “hears the adhesive to secure it best.
the reason i choose a box truck to live inside cause its size its bigger than a one bedroom apartment and i can HIDE in any city and its stealth looks like a regular commercial license vehicle and i will keep the license plate as a commercial vehicle, i subscribed cause i like how both of you are making it happen surviving in this f**k up america, im 58 yrs old and i never thought i would see this 55 million homeless people in america so sad to say.
I was hopping for good beginner tips but as someone who live in texas. I see this video only for cold climates tips and that’s something I just don’t have to worry about.
I've just purchased a used fifth wheel and will be putting it on some land out in the country. I came upon your channel doing a little research on what full time permanent RV living will be like. So much to learn. I enjoyed this video. You have a nice easy presentation. I'll be checking out some more of your videos. I'll be moving from a 4 bedroom house to a 36' trailer. Although in the past I have rented a travel trailer, I know almost nothing about trailer living. Your idea of putting gravel around the bottom of your insulation to cut down on drafts is something I hadn't heard before. I'll definitely try that.
That's awesome good luck to you! I've def done plenty of trial and error. Working on a video now of my most recent error. Been in the negatives for past 2 weeks and I've slacked off on some things this winter. More to come thanks for the support!
Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. I’ve been in my 5th wheel since June 2014. I live at my mom’s to help her. She’s 92. My 5th wheel is parked halfway under a rv cover because the three slides and height didn’t work. I was able to get some T-111 siding I cut up and used for skirting. I use heat tape around my water line to keep it from freezing. I had to change my toilet as a bracket broke and the second time it filled the underbelly and pulled it down. I still need to have the permanent repair done on it but it is setting back up for now. A friend helped me install an extension trench to the shop’s septic tank hookup. We installed pvc pipe in the new trench and pvc pipe from the trailer to the corner of the shop where we ended the trench/pipe. My grey water tanks traps don’t work so they are always hooked in to the system so when I flush the black tank I need to fill it with water and do an extra flush for a clean out. My bedroom floor was always cold so I insulated the ceiling in the basement as well as the pipes in there. My unit is a 2003 so things have gradually gone bad and I’m broke taking care of mom. It means things like the furnace going out calls for two to three little heaters carefully placed and monitored. One is plugged into a heavy duty extension cord that is plugged directly into the shop. I avoid blowing fuses that way. The fridge quit working so I have an electric fridge where the dining table would be. I do save on propane usage since I primarily use it for cooking on my stove top. The water heater is on electric with propane backup. I have a washer hookup for a combo machine in my bedroom closet. They are ridiculously expensive so I do my laundry at my moms house. A huge thing for the rv is to install plastic window coverings on the inside of my “house”. I use HVAC tape but do have to keep pressing it down against the wall occasionally. It makes a big difference. I like the use of insulation you’ve done for skirting. It looks like you have the shiny on one side kind. You might try foam board with a covering of plastic next time. It shouldn’t fall apart as easily as the white beaded side of the foil covered type. And dumping grey water on the ground will eventually start stinking. Can you make a dry well with a fifty gallon drum and River rock?
Sounds like you have a solid set up. It definitely does help to be more stationary through the winter months. We are debating on when we need to throw skirting on again for this coming winter. I'm holding out as long as I can.
In my opinion, I would have installed J-channel all the way around the bottom and intalled skirting as needed. No tape to mess up the trailer. Then when you want to move, remove the skirt, move the trialer, reinstall the skirt, good to go.
Oh nice, you will be just fine. I was far more stressed about it then I should of been. Just do some prep work now and you'll be set. Just make sure skirting is buttoned up keep that heat pumping! You got this!
Things ive learned trying to live in an rv all winter in northern Canada, don't do without shore power #2 its not easy and takes alot of planning,#3 if you don't want to go to work after work you better have it figured out ,its not for everyone.
Nice video, you done a good job, I subscribed. Don’t worry too much about the freeze up. If it’s insulated underneath, and you keep the furnace on, even if it’s turned way low, as long as it kicks on, you generally won’t have a problem. I’ve done this for years. I enjoy some of the tips people are giving. You’ve got this!
@@WanderingDryad-we6sy you’re so welcome. It can’t hurt skirting it anyway. I’ve never done it, always had a heated, insulated underbelly and never had any problems. I’ve been through several very hard freezes but never any major issues. You’ll be fine. Keep up the good videos. Thank you.
I'm not sure, I really wouldn't see the need in that. The skirting does the job just fine. My skirting all blew away in storm last year and I went to hay bales instead. So far the styrofoam keeps it warmer underneath
I'll tell ya Zip tape is the stickyest tape you will find it's used in constructrion when installing new windows Lowes and Home depot has it , just a thought good luck .
The propane company should replace the entire tank. They get old. I’ve heard of some propane tank connections freezing up, would it be good to wrap it all? It’s good to have a little ventilation under your trailer. It looks great 👍
Thank you! Yeah it was their last one, they said as soon as another one came available they would replace this one. So far no freezing connection issues.
Have you thought about buying some spray paint (rattle cans) for those skirting panels? It would really make those shiny insulated panels almost completely disappear. 😉
Great video. I may wind up living in a 4 season one in a few years and I need to know these things. So helpful and I will subscribe so I know how things are going with you.
That's awesome! I highly recommend it, the most liberating thing I've done. Appreciate the support so much! When you take that leap I'd be happy to answer any questions I can, still going to be putting out content along the way!
Wandering Dryad Thank you so much. I'm taking care of my 86 year old mom and she's getting pretty frail. Her health isn't very good but after she passes, which I hope isn't for a good long while yet, her house is sold and bills paid off what's left over gets split with my brother. That money has to buy me a roof over my head and help me to pay my bills along with social security. It's looking pretty bleak and has been really stressful.
Gorilla tape..I use mine outside on my window well I have a plastic shield for the window well and used the tape and it adhered to the brick and its kept out water and moisture...
Thank you for posting this! My husband and I are looking to move into an RV untill we can get a house. Unfortunately we’re in the northeast so I’m very nervous about living in it during the winter… we’re going to be stationary and I couldn’t really find any videos showing someone’s set up that actually works. I honestly could care less what it looks like if it keep me warm I’m good. Getting an RV is way cheaper vs rent. But thank you thank you!! Any other tips you have for camping in the cold please post! You literally saved our day!😁
That's so sweet thank you for the support! I def cannot know what it is like that far north. I plan on putting out a video of something I encountered this past winter at -10 nothing major. We have been in the middle of our move finally! I have 2 and a half yrs under my belt in that camper so I have as much knowledge of midwest winter to encourage you forward. I just haven't had the time to edit and get it out atm. Once I'm settled I plan on putting more out. Then onto our next chapter of barndo living. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have.
Thanks so much for making this detailed video. I also live in Missouri and am planning to buy my first RV in 2024 to full time at the end of 2024. Super helpful information. New subscriber here!
I'm a Missourian living in Iowa and very much considering buying and RV to live in full time. I can't seem to decide on the location I want to live permanently in. But I figure I'm trying to get closer to my family in the KC area as well. Trying to find places to park an RV.
@@malloriebuckler moved from Iowa, mom has a lakehouse in missouri, and I I'm in GA going through the same process ! I posted something on facebook in a few different community neighborhood groups and got really lucky with some of the responses. Secured a discrete location closeby with water and electricty for $400 a month. . Just a thought to consider since rv campgrounds aren't always the cheapest !! Ya have to open to people coming back and scrutinizing you of course. Good luck
very nice trailer and lot and how you got it set up, i see your in process of making the trim and everything, should look very exelant later on, let me know if theres any lots that do 5th wheels, like beast 5th wheels
The cold is my biggest thing with this. Well my 2nd biggest thing. I live in a very cold winter climate and want to make sure I'm not constantly running out of propane, but finding parking is like a slap in the face. Everyone is crying broke and say they could use an extra couple hundred a month, but not a single person would let me rent space from them, so I'm at the point where I'll have to hit crown land and push the trailer with my back every 3 weeks to be compliant.
I feel you, winter with enough propane has not been bad. I've been very fortunate with having family close to let me rent a spot. But have rented montly at a couple parks as well just depends on the options in your area.
are you using a plastic applicator squeegy to apply the foil tape? from the look of the tape it doesnt look like it. That tape sticks to anything properly applied
I understand that. Gotta factor in how much it costs to park it somewhere. Don't know your area but that can make a big difference on if it's worth it or not.
Would you recommend wrapping the hoses in insulation? I have mine parked next to a connex to help prevent wind chill but this will be my first winter in a 3 season so I'm trying to do anything and everything to prep it for the colder months
Awesome video. 🙏🙏 Im going to have to move to a friend's house but there's not enough room inside. Im moving there to help support my buddy's wife while he's in prison so she doesn't loose the property and i either have to convert the garage to a living space or live in a camper outside. Those are really the only two options other than buying a shed and insulating it. Do you have any ideas other than what I mentioned?
Maybe double sided tape on the inside of insulation then stick to RV they try outdoor tape as reinforcement, might be a good idea to fill your little propane tanks as backups just in case. Rv looks great!
I just moved from Texas to Missouri a few months ago I live in a fifth wheel on my daughter's property. I am freaking out a little bit about the winter's here in Missouri. Worried more about my water freezing than anything. I have 2 pit bulls that keep me warm. I may change my tune on that once winter really hits.
Your skirting job looks just fine to me. Tough thing to do without spending a small fortune. Some good things to think about in the comments too. Good luck to you this winter. We live about 15 miles south of KC.
Hell yeah thank you for this! I know alot bout homes but it's like campers are different in a lot of ways. I've got straw along my bottom as well as I see in the comments. But looking for something better looking and you nailed it. For the water lines I've got the heated tap and I'm wanting to say 3 inch foam because I actually ran my hot and cold from my place to my dad's lol. It began when the propane wouldn't heat the water good enough lol. I do have a question though if you have a problem with stink bugs and a solution?
I used hay my 1st winter because I didn't secure foam board well enough and wind storm took me out. Ppl worried about mice but my cat took care of that. Stinkbugs I have not had an issue with. The ladybugs got crazy but I make sure to spray around the outside specially around the support stabilizers where anything can climb up and my basement area. I'm going with thinner foam board this year it's easier to work with.
I will give you all a tip that you’ll love and thank me for….. the best insulation to use is ………. Kao wool …… it doesn’t burn…. And the heat and cold doesn’t go through it…… it’s the insulation used in melting metal in the furnaces ….. if you can melt metal but it doesn’t catch fire …. Do you think it will keep the heat in and cold out or cold in and heat out …. Yep … you’re welcome….
what are you talking about?! That skirting looks great! You did a great job!
Thank you so much!
Skirting looks just fine. Did a great job plus it gets the job done.
I agree looks great
You did a great job!!! We have a 35ft heartland pioneer and did the foam board all the way around, ran us $200-250 for the board and tape. This is not as easy as it looks when you are making cuts and trying to close all gaps. For us we taped along the edge/little under the belly. We also put a work lamp (it gives off a lot of heat) under our RV to help keep under us warm since our under belly is not very insulated at all. For the drains, we keep ours hooked up as well and the hole needed to open/close the drains we cut a little “door” in the foam and only taped one side like a door and the wind hasn’t knocked it opened. We use the same meters too. We had to get a large dehumidifier though because the condensation is so much on the windows, (outside would be 20-24 and inside would be 65-68 (propane furnace) we’ve even had issues with condensation in some places like where the bed meets the front wall, closets.
Thank you for the feedback! Yes the condensation is no joke in winter time. I did a followup vid to this and show how crazy the condensation got. I have several dehumidifiers and they can't keep up when it's that cold. I just started noticing the condensation issue on the bed on wall recently. I have just been pulling the bed out from the wall when we get up in am. If you have any other suggestions for that one much appreciated!
I'm going to judge you you did an excellent job.
We have been living fulltime in a rv for over 5 years now . Lowest temps we have delt with was -11 so far . Keep your water with a constant drip when it freezes just like in a house .
Heat lamp under the camper works great too instead of the heater.
Awesome idea, probably way safer!
How do I do heat lamp
1 or 1 on each end of camper?
They need to replace the propane tank. You need to know how much propane you have and it's the propane companies responsibility to fix this. At least in my state.
It's a smaller company and they have been great to deal with so I'm not gunna fuss about it too much. They said they would come replace it. They even topped off my propane at no charge because of the gauge issue.
Did the same with a camper we owned except also had 3/4" plywood on top of the insulation. We had a milk house heater underneath. Was a 1989 Skyline Nomad and was propane heated. Did great for what it was at -45 in North Dakota. The biggest issue we had was the condensation in the inside. Stay safe, warm, and have a great winter.
Sweet! I have a 78 Skyline Nomad! Actually, I have a brand new RV built up from a bare trailer and then wrapped in the tin from a 78 Nomad. Unexpected cold snap this year is supposed to take it down to like 2F and I don't have time to wrap it. I know the R30 I put under the floor keeps my toes comfy down to about 15F and all the plumbing is on the heated side of the wall, so I'm just worrying about comfort and a few extra degrees at this point. But I have GOT to get a heated hose, because while the pipes are safe, that hose can freeze and then no harm no foul but also NO WATER!
Your living… I’m impressed !! Great job
Your cold-weather set up looks pretty good. Two things I would add Bales of Straw going around your skirt. That would help out tremendous with more warmth & wind abuse. Also get ahold of your gas company have them put a splitter on propane bottle. Run a hose directly to a full-size outdoor gas grill. Electric heater underneath on cold nights great idea.
My only issue with the hay is it invites the mice, it's hard enough keeping them out as is. Don't want to give them a condo
I've used them before with no issues. But I do have a cat that keeps mice issues non exsistent
@@snowduckin2479 Very true I forgot about that !!! Good luck this winter wish u the best. 👍🇺🇸🇺🇸
Thank you! So far so good big snow coming and cold temps I think we are ready!
@@WanderingDryad-we6syokay thanks, I have good mousers…. I may put some straw around once snakes r sleepy… was worried
This was a great video for us as we are newbie full-time rv living and want to learn all we can to make our new living style enjoyable as possible. 👍
Woodstove
So just a silly bit of advice when applying tape to literally anything if you use a heatgun or a Torch to warm the adhesive before you apply. Tape works a 1000 times better again. A dumb life hack, but it works. I've done this while taping a torrential downpour. Even the crappiest tape works better.
Use Velcro strips. The pieces of Velcro on your camper will be permanent and when you park for a long time, you just attach the skirting. Make it easier for you.
🤯 phenomenal tip! It's like once I'm parked somewhere and skirted I don't wanna move till winter is over! Love this idea, thanks for watching and sharing 💜💜💜
You know what, the silver insulation on the bottom of the camper looks nice!
Incapslapsalate all edges of foam with mastic
Do not get the wet mastic on camper siding it will not come off
One thing off grid living, buy a heavy insulated tarp. Lay it down back onto it , then do ur skirting. Really helps. I have a 8x24, then I have a 30x50 trap. I use the 30x50 as a base , then 8x24 insulated, then pull the bottom tarp up the side and tape it.
Oooo that's a great idea. Thanks for the input and the support!
If you want to know how full the big gas cylinder is just pour a kettle full of boiling water 💦over it the liquid gas inside will pull the heat out of the water and you will get a wet line showing the actual level of the liquid gas inside the cylinder
Great tip! Thank you.
I have been experimenting off grid for a year now, my trailer is a 2 season 28ft and externally insulated with reflectix, half done the 2nd layer today, last year a low of -27F -33C and my primary heater was a 350w omni heater plus 40 mins of my 1500w. My basement with no heat was a low of 33.6F. Now you have a good idea of what I have the new upgrade could work well for you, my entire underside is airtight, this year I added a under rug heater , I put it on some flooring over the reflectix bottom, The Rug buddy is 170w 4kwh , with just the 170w heater it was 23F -5C for 10 hours, the basement was 64.4F 18C , bedroom was 68F 20C , Try tuck tape repair tape, clear and nothing pealed even on the roof after a year of -33 to 40C. If you want to try reflectix I already came up with a plan to bypass the insulated floor with no mods.
Great job! Just a few thoughts here to add. This is my 2nd winter in Colorado as I moved from Ga looking for land and just purchased 2 acres but living in a RV as well until I purchase a tiny home next year. The 1st year here I insulated the RV with foamboard like you and taped it with the Nashua Metal Tape and found that I had to reinforce it a couple of times thru the winter but we got alot of snow last Dec. It does leave a residue when you remove it but mineral spirits will remove it easily then wipe the area with denatured alcohol. This year I put the foamboard just under the rim around the RV, wedging it in, put cheap metal tent stakes at the bottom to ward off the wind and only used the tape on the seams, then spray painted the foamboard with a matt black and you can hardly tell the skirting is there, especially from a distance. I also have a heated water hose, also put heated tape on my water hydrant then wrapped in black foam pipe tape, insulated with batted insulation, then used metal tape over that. I also put insulation around the exposed water inlet on the camper side and taped that as well. I started leaving the kitchen sink cabinet open at night which stopped my facet from freezing and have not had to leave the water dripping. I also have a 120 gallon propane tank but set the thermostat around 62 at night, use my electric blanket, and use the Pelonis oil radiant heater during the day after I get up and warm the camper. I put Reflectix on all my windows which helps so much and remove the south facing ones during the day for passive heating from the sun. It's tough living in a camper in the winter but you can do it and looks like you have covered all the bases. All the Best and Happy Holidays!
Awesome advice and congrats on the pending tiny home. Happy holidays to you as well. Good luck this winter! Appreciate the feedback always!
Pretty clever and cost effective. Where there is a will there's a way my mom always said.
This is the link for the tape I have found works best especially whenever you heat it somehow or another. I will be using your advice for my camper thank you
Very nice video, well made and informative. Thank you for sharing!
Appreciate the support! Thank you for watching!
Great advice from someone who’s living thru it. Thanks for posting. ❤
Thanks for the support 💜
I think with our horrific economy a LOT of us are living in campers on friends or families property, it's fun but a sad thing that our economy crashed so hard. Think before you vote, we don't want war mongers anymore...and we need the housing market to get back to normal....it's way way out of control now. Anyway, off topic, Great video thank you and we LOVE Oso!!
💯 thanks for the support. Aww and thanks for showing love to our fur baby. He's a mess 🤣
I added 2 diesel heaters to my rv,that has add a second heat source and I set them to about around 65f to 68f.i can run my diesel heater on low and get about 10 hour to a gallon of diesel.
Great video, lots of info. All just really practical advise and experience based stuff. Love it. I'm in Missouri too, so yeah, we get some wicked winds.
You did an amazing job from what I can see. I was having the same trouble with tape but I have found a new tape that is extremely sticky it's called zip tape it has helped me and it may help you. I found it at the local hardware store Home Depot or Lowe's in the roofing section
Thanks for positive feedback! I'll have to check that out never heard of it before
Thank you for the upload, very useful! We are in the teens here in NW Georgia some of the nights this week so I know you are much colder! Stay warm!
I think you did an outstanding job getting ready for -7 weather.
so our rv is going to stay on the property so its kind of permanent while we build our house but we put this same skirting on then i got a bunch of pallets and broke them down and covered that all the way around for looks but let me tell you summer was cooler in the rv and last winter was much warmer in the rv
The absolute best tape that I've found for skirting is Reflectix tape. It stays for a long time, and it doesn't leave a residue on your trailer.
you are wonderful! i can learn a lot from you, im on my way to buying and living in a box truck, this rent in louisville kentucky is killing me, im very impressed in your RIG i will keep following you THANKYOU!
Thank you for the support! It's best decision I've ever made. Any questions I'd be happy to answer. Good luck on your box truck!
Thank you for the video and putting us at ease. We are in Macon Mo and needing to spend the winter here due to medical reasons, you have helped put our mind at ease knowing that it can be done. Now I need to find a local propane company to cone set us up a tank and get the supplies to skirt out TT.
Im a Pinter that does a lot of exteriors. You might be able to find some white exterior tape. The “exterior” part is what matters. UV resistant and is designed too stick amazing outside even after it gets wet but still peals away nice. It’s not cheap tho. I use it in yellow colour. 👍
Awesome advice! Thank you, I'm gunna check that out
Thks for that..... I was hoping I didn't have to go flex seal tape, that stuff sticks forever (love it)
There is a plastics squeegee that helps secure the tape much better than by hand. Go to the HVAC shop and ask if they have some?? Installers use them to heat the tape and secure it. It heats up with friction. As you apply light pressure to the tape it kinda “hears the adhesive to secure it best.
Great winterizing tips! Thanks for sharing.
the reason i choose a box truck to live inside cause its size its bigger than a one bedroom apartment and i can HIDE in any city and its stealth looks like a regular commercial license vehicle and i will keep the license plate as a commercial vehicle, i subscribed cause i like how both of you are making it happen surviving in this f**k up america, im 58 yrs old and i never thought i would see this 55 million homeless people in america so sad to say.
I get it completely, smart move. It will be worth it
Thats a great set you have and that reflective tape is extremely useful for so many things... good video
I was hopping for good beginner tips but as someone who live in texas. I see this video only for cold climates tips and that’s something I just don’t have to worry about.
I've just purchased a used fifth wheel and will be putting it on some land out in the country. I came upon your channel doing a little research on what full time permanent RV living will be like. So much to learn.
I enjoyed this video. You have a nice easy presentation. I'll be checking out some more of your videos.
I'll be moving from a 4 bedroom house to a 36' trailer. Although in the past I have rented a travel trailer, I know almost nothing about trailer living. Your idea of putting gravel around the bottom of your insulation to cut down on drafts is something I hadn't heard before. I'll definitely try that.
That's awesome good luck to you! I've def done plenty of trial and error. Working on a video now of my most recent error. Been in the negatives for past 2 weeks and I've slacked off on some things this winter. More to come thanks for the support!
There's already a well and power to a pole. When it warms a bit (Colorado) I'll have a septic tank put in but until then it'll be the storage tanks.
Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. I’ve been in my 5th wheel since June 2014. I live at my mom’s to help her. She’s 92.
My 5th wheel is parked halfway under a rv cover because the three slides and height didn’t work. I was able to get some T-111 siding I cut up and used for skirting. I use heat tape around my water line to keep it from freezing.
I had to change my toilet as a bracket broke and the second time it filled the underbelly and pulled it down. I still need to have the permanent repair done on it but it is setting back up for now.
A friend helped me install an extension trench to the shop’s septic tank hookup. We installed pvc pipe in the new trench and pvc pipe from the trailer to the corner of the shop where we ended the trench/pipe. My grey water tanks traps don’t work so they are always hooked in to the system so when I flush the black tank I need to fill it with water and do an extra flush for a clean out.
My bedroom floor was always cold so I insulated the ceiling in the basement as well as the pipes in there. My unit is a 2003 so things have gradually gone bad and I’m broke taking care of mom. It means things like the furnace going out calls for two to three little heaters carefully placed and monitored. One is plugged into a heavy duty extension cord that is plugged directly into the shop. I avoid blowing fuses that way. The fridge quit working so I have an electric fridge where the dining table would be. I do save on propane usage since I primarily use it for cooking on my stove top. The water heater is on electric with propane backup.
I have a washer hookup for a combo machine in my bedroom closet. They are ridiculously expensive so I do my laundry at my moms house.
A huge thing for the rv is to install plastic window coverings on the inside of my “house”. I use HVAC tape but do have to keep pressing it down against the wall occasionally. It makes a big difference.
I like the use of insulation you’ve done for skirting. It looks like you have the shiny on one side kind. You might try foam board with a covering of plastic next time. It shouldn’t fall apart as easily as the white beaded side of the foil covered type. And dumping grey water on the ground will eventually start stinking. Can you make a dry well with a fifty gallon drum and River rock?
Sounds like you have a solid set up. It definitely does help to be more stationary through the winter months. We are debating on when we need to throw skirting on again for this coming winter. I'm holding out as long as I can.
Hello from BC Canada full time rv life 👋 Great points! Warm wishes to you for the winter ahead ❄️☃️
Thank you! You too!
I used gorilla tape and 1inch rebar hammer in ground 😊
In my opinion, I would have installed J-channel all the way around the bottom and intalled skirting as needed. No tape to mess up the trailer. Then when you want to move, remove the skirt, move the trialer, reinstall the skirt, good to go.
Instead of the silver tape, you should consider using blue or red tape used in vapour barriers.
HEY! Thank you! I have a SOLITUDE, and this will be my first winter…..MEMPHIS, TN.
Oh nice, you will be just fine. I was far more stressed about it then I should of been. Just do some prep work now and you'll be set. Just make sure skirting is buttoned up keep that heat pumping! You got this!
Good luck in -7 degrees. Looking forward to seeing you next video showing how you made it!
Thank you this video helped me. I'm thinking of moving into a camper and you covered stuff I was worried about.
Glad it was helpful! I say go for it. It's been an awesome experience for me
Thanks. Looking to get into this pretty soon.
Things ive learned trying to live in an rv all winter in northern Canada, don't do without shore power #2 its not easy and takes alot of planning,#3 if you don't want to go to work after work you better have it figured out ,its not for everyone.
Nice video, you done a good job, I subscribed. Don’t worry too much about the freeze up. If it’s insulated underneath, and you keep the furnace on, even if it’s turned way low, as long as it kicks on, you generally won’t have a problem. I’ve done this for years. I enjoy some of the tips people are giving. You’ve got this!
Thank you for the support and encouraging words. I'm almost too chicken to go no skirting but it sure would be nice to not have to mess with!
@@WanderingDryad-we6sy you’re so welcome. It can’t hurt skirting it anyway. I’ve never done it, always had a heated, insulated underbelly and never had any problems. I’ve been through several very hard freezes but never any major issues. You’ll be fine. Keep up the good videos. Thank you.
Great video! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. Also excellent job on the foam board skirting. Looks nice and neat.
A lot of people recommending blue or red construction tape. I don’t recommend it as it is extremely hard to remove. 45 years in construction.
Research Vevor Diesel Heater. Propane causes condensation. They are also super efficient.
I wonder if placing hay under the camper, with the skirting would make an impact?
I'm not sure, I really wouldn't see the need in that. The skirting does the job just fine. My skirting all blew away in storm last year and I went to hay bales instead. So far the styrofoam keeps it warmer underneath
I lived in a 32 ft fifth wheel with a 16 ft slideout for 5 years, I used three space heaters for heat.
Excellent video, great job thanks for posting. I'm going to try and do the same thing on my toy hauler that's in Tennessee.
Thanks for the support and positive feedback! This setup has done me well the last 2 winters 🤞
I'll tell ya Zip tape is the stickyest tape you will find it's used in constructrion when installing new windows Lowes and Home depot has it , just a thought good luck .
The propane company should replace the entire tank. They get old. I’ve heard of some propane tank connections freezing up, would it be good to wrap it all? It’s good to have a little ventilation under your trailer. It looks great 👍
Thank you! Yeah it was their last one, they said as soon as another one came available they would replace this one. So far no freezing connection issues.
You did a great job, please always know everything looks just fine
Thanks for the support! 💜
Great video, I’m thinking the tape comes loose around the foam boards due to the camper rocking when walking inside etc
There is a spray type glue for gravel so it will not move at Lowe’s
Have you thought about buying some spray paint (rattle cans) for those skirting panels? It would really make those shiny insulated panels almost completely disappear. 😉
Good video you seem like a good natured caring person!!!!
Not sure why they don't use a bigger tank. But if you do run out you can transfer the hose over to the other two and keep going.
Preparation is key 🤣 Rarely have to refill
Do you have videos of the winter month's 🤔.
Great video. I may wind up living in a 4 season one in a few years and I need to know these things. So helpful and I will subscribe so I know how things are going with you.
That's awesome! I highly recommend it, the most liberating thing I've done. Appreciate the support so much! When you take that leap I'd be happy to answer any questions I can, still going to be putting out content along the way!
Wandering Dryad Thank you so much. I'm taking care of my 86 year old mom and she's getting pretty frail. Her health isn't very good but after she passes, which I hope isn't for a good long while yet, her house is sold and bills paid off what's left over gets split with my brother. That money has to buy me a roof over my head and help me to pay my bills along with social security. It's looking pretty bleak and has been really stressful.
Insulate propane tank , although rare , it can freeze. And , hell yea 🤙
Condensation tips perhaps ?
Gorilla tape..I use mine outside on my window well I have a plastic shield for the window well and used the tape and it adhered to the brick and its kept out water and moisture...
I live in Missouri full time I. A camper to this the first winter in here so far so good
Awesome news! If we survived that -7 I thing we can survive anything 🤣
Thank you for the wonderful video im gonna do same to my travel trailor im liveing in one to know
Thank you for posting this! My husband and I are looking to move into an RV untill we can get a house. Unfortunately we’re in the northeast so I’m very nervous about living in it during the winter… we’re going to be stationary and I couldn’t really find any videos showing someone’s set up that actually works. I honestly could care less what it looks like if it keep me warm I’m good. Getting an RV is way cheaper vs rent. But thank you thank you!! Any other tips you have for camping in the cold please post! You literally saved our day!😁
That's so sweet thank you for the support! I def cannot know what it is like that far north. I plan on putting out a video of something I encountered this past winter at -10 nothing major. We have been in the middle of our move finally! I have 2 and a half yrs under my belt in that camper so I have as much knowledge of midwest winter to encourage you forward. I just haven't had the time to edit and get it out atm. Once I'm settled I plan on putting more out. Then onto our next chapter of barndo living. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have.
wait what did u say about flower pots ? mint skirt job by the way
Thanks so much for making this detailed video. I also live in Missouri and am planning to buy my first RV in 2024 to full time at the end of 2024. Super helpful information. New subscriber here!
Thank you for the support! Glad to answer any ?s you have, and good luck to you. It's so worth it
I'm a Missourian living in Iowa and very much considering buying and RV to live in full time. I can't seem to decide on the location I want to live permanently in. But I figure I'm trying to get closer to my family in the KC area as well. Trying to find places to park an RV.
@@malloriebuckler moved from Iowa, mom has a lakehouse in missouri, and I I'm in GA going through the same process ! I posted something on facebook in a few different community neighborhood groups and got really lucky with some of the responses. Secured a discrete location closeby with water and electricty for $400 a month. . Just a thought to consider since rv campgrounds aren't always the cheapest !! Ya have to open to people coming back and scrutinizing you of course. Good luck
very nice trailer and lot and how you got it set up, i see your in process of making the trim and everything, should look very exelant later on, let me know if theres any lots that do 5th wheels, like beast 5th wheels
Maybe you should try the ductwork tape that's rated for the extreme heat and cold to seal up the seams on the foam board.
Excellent video thank you for sharing your experience.
they make heaters for under the trailer cheap and very safe thanks for the video
Really!? You happen to know the name of them, or can I just go to an rv shop and find some? Thanks for that info!
Have you tried the white tape they use when winterizing boats? Great job btw! So glad I found your channel.
No I haven't tried that yet but I'm going to look into it. Thanks for the support.
I used it to apply a vinyl access door in my greenhouse and it held through 2 seasons up here in the northeast. GL 😊
The cold is my biggest thing with this. Well my 2nd biggest thing. I live in a very cold winter climate and want to make sure I'm not constantly running out of propane, but finding parking is like a slap in the face. Everyone is crying broke and say they could use an extra couple hundred a month, but not a single person would let me rent space from them, so I'm at the point where I'll have to hit crown land and push the trailer with my back every 3 weeks to be compliant.
I feel you, winter with enough propane has not been bad. I've been very fortunate with having family close to let me rent a spot. But have rented montly at a couple parks as well just depends on the options in your area.
Great video. Thanks for all the advice and tips.
are you using a plastic applicator squeegy to apply the foil tape? from the look of the tape it doesnt look like it. That tape sticks to anything properly applied
Didn't even think of that. I will give that a shot. Thanks for the suggestions
You did a better job than I could have. I may need to do this soon because I can't afford to live in my house anymore
I understand that. Gotta factor in how much it costs to park it somewhere. Don't know your area but that can make a big difference on if it's worth it or not.
You could get pretty lattice and make something decorative to go in front of that white gas tank,,, make some kind of wall,,,
Try using Alien Tape. Used it on Christmas Lights outside and it stayed the entire time. I live in STL, Mo.
Great suggestion! Never even heard of that, will it leave a residue?
Good job on everything. A video I can actually understand
Thank you! And thanks for the support
Why don’t you use heavy duty industrial grade Velcro for your panel around camper?
Different tapes have different adhesives. Some require warm temperatures to stick, others do not. A little research goes a long way. Good luck.
I wonder if you could use Velcro…..or caulk….
Looks good real good and clean. Nice clean simple layout
Where did you get the scarf?
Would you recommend wrapping the hoses in insulation? I have mine parked next to a connex to help prevent wind chill but this will be my first winter in a 3 season so I'm trying to do anything and everything to prep it for the colder months
Awesome video. 🙏🙏 Im going to have to move to a friend's house but there's not enough room inside. Im moving there to help support my buddy's wife while he's in prison so she doesn't loose the property and i either have to convert the garage to a living space or live in a camper outside. Those are really the only two options other than buying a shed and insulating it. Do you have any ideas other than what I mentioned?
Where is the link for the thermometer please 🙏
Maybe double sided tape on the inside of insulation then stick to RV they try outdoor tape as reinforcement, might be a good idea to fill your little propane tanks as backups just in case. Rv looks great!
I just moved from Texas to Missouri a few months ago I live in a fifth wheel on my daughter's property. I am freaking out a little bit about the winter's here in Missouri. Worried more about my water freezing than anything. I have 2 pit bulls that keep me warm. I may change my tune on that once winter really hits.
I felt the same way but if you set it up right you should be just fine. I made it through -7 last year no problem. What kind of camper do you have?
@@WanderingDryad-we6sy 2006 Jaco J flight.
Your skirting job looks just fine to me. Tough thing to do without spending a small fortune. Some good things to think about in the comments too. Good luck to you this winter. We live about 15 miles south of KC.
Thank you! There have been some great suggestions in here, love the feedback! Thanks for the kind words and support 💜
Nice job keep up the good work
You did a fantastic job! 🎉🎉🎉 Your video has been extremely helpful. Continued blessings!😊😊
Glad to hear it thank you for the positive feedback
You should maybe do the mini wood stove for camping.
Like outdoor one? I got a solo stove awhile back and love it. Just don't have it out front of the camper atm.
Hell yeah thank you for this! I know alot bout homes but it's like campers are different in a lot of ways. I've got straw along my bottom as well as I see in the comments. But looking for something better looking and you nailed it. For the water lines I've got the heated tap and I'm wanting to say 3 inch foam because I actually ran my hot and cold from my place to my dad's lol. It began when the propane wouldn't heat the water good enough lol. I do have a question though if you have a problem with stink bugs and a solution?
I used hay my 1st winter because I didn't secure foam board well enough and wind storm took me out. Ppl worried about mice but my cat took care of that. Stinkbugs I have not had an issue with. The ladybugs got crazy but I make sure to spray around the outside specially around the support stabilizers where anything can climb up and my basement area. I'm going with thinner foam board this year it's easier to work with.
When you say “top
It off”? How much does that cost? How many gallons does that take to “top off”??
Maybe like 30 to 40 bucks. They don't have to come out often except during winter it's more frequent
I will give you all a tip that you’ll love and thank me for….. the best insulation to use is ………. Kao wool …… it doesn’t burn…. And the heat and cold doesn’t go through it…… it’s the insulation used in melting metal in the furnaces ….. if you can melt metal but it doesn’t catch fire …. Do you think it will keep the heat in and cold out or cold in and heat out …. Yep … you’re welcome….
Awesome thank you we will have to check that out
Awesome video for Winter RV. Thanks!
Thank you!