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sperkinsrn's avatar
sperkinsrn
Explorer
Jun 22, 2017

New to permanent site, need advice

Hello, I'm new to having a permanent site on NC coast. I have a new Cherokee BH TT and will be putting it on site next week. I plan on using it year round but mostly on weekends. Likely once a month or so in the winter. I know I will need anchors, blocks, skirting, and some type of surge protector. I am appreciative of any advice.

What type surge protector?
How many block supports, (I'm around 35 feet I think)?
How many hurricane anchors (I'm not beachfront, on the waterway)? Do I need one over the top of the TT?
Should I insulate under the belly of the TT or inside vinyl skirting, or skip it?
How do I keep the water hose from faucet to camper from freezing?
In sub freezing temps do I leave heat on low when not there, or do I winterize?

Thanks in advance for the help.

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  • four to six anchors should be enough, but a couple of things to consider. Will you insure the trailer? Will they cover it for your usage including flood damage? You may want to consider planning on removal when storms threaten if you dont live too far.
    As far as freezing, that area will go below 32 but not by much and not often. If you are able after skirting I would leave a couple of droplights with 60 watt bulbs or so on under the unit. It doesnt take a lot to warm a small area 5 degrees if it isnt open to the outside. You could also use one of the oil filled heaters both inside and under the trailer on a low setting if you get one with a thermostat control.
    Blocks, if I remember right most seemed to use 6 stacks at Walnut Island years ago when I went there.
    Hopefully there are some neighbors you will get to know there that can offer guidance also.
  • Great info, thanks so much. Yes, it is insured and I will double check the flood insurance. I like the idea of removal for storms but is that doable with skirting? I was thinking I needed to build a 2x4 frame to mount skirting on. Great idea about the lights and oil heaters.
    thanks again.
  • What part of NC coast? You may or may not be in a flood hazard area.

    I don't have a permanent TT but have 2 Mobile Homes that I rent out on the NC coast. Both are within 1 mile of the ICW but not subject to flooding and not in a 100 flood zone. Unless it it a cat 5 hurricane, direct hit, then they will likely blow away before flooding, so I have no flood insurance on them.

    Can you even get flood insurance on an Rv? Just asking, don't know, never checked on it.

    On the skirting, I would look into mobile home skirting if it will work on your TT. No need for a 2x4 frame if it will. Here is a link to something like I have used although I buy mine a a local mobile home supply store. You can buy it by the piece there. The skirting comes in 12' pieces and you cut it to needed length, fits together like vinyl soffit and you just need to put it in the bottom track and secure it at the top ever so often. I use vented skirting so the moisture is vented properly. You may or may not need heat depending on whether you drain the system when not is use and where you are located.

    http://mobilehomepartsstore.com/category/VS.html
  • thanks for the info. Just double checked and I am good with insurance for flood/ hurricane damage. thanks again.