Tired of the basic white exterior of your mobile home? You’re not a plain person, so why should your home be? People too often think mobile home remodeling can’t be done. With the right know-how and determination anyone can accomplish an attractive mobile-home exterior remodel. Doing so might even save you money in the long run on your electric bill and your Texas mobile home insurance. Here are seven ways to make over the outside of your mobile home and enhance its appeal.
1. Doors
Fancy or plain, steel or glass, replacement doors can be found at your local mobile home parts supply center or one on the Internet. Coupled with an attractive storm door, a replacement door for your mobile home can help prevent break-ins and add to your home’s energy efficiency. If you buy a door for a standard home, be aware that it might not fit and will have to be trimmed.
2. Windows
Replacing broken or cracked windows instantly improves the look of your mobile home. Installing double-paned or shatter-resistant windows from a mobile home dealer or local window replacement shop can also increase energy efficiency. Covering the windows with attractive solar screens also boosts energy savings.
3. Roof
Tired of that lumpy, leaky and discolored roof? A steel roof-over keeps the original roof of your mobile home but adds 2 to 3 inches of foam insulation and sheets of heavy gauge steel. It doesn’t require maintenance and can lead to savings on your energy bill. Other options include rubberizing your roof with a sealant picked up at the hardware store or having a professional install a plasticized membrane over the entire roof.
4. Porches
An attractive entrance adds instant curb appeal. Upgrade existing porches with fresh paint, water-resistant wood products, lattice, screens and gutters to create a cozy, welcoming spot. Extending a porch to add a screened seating area also gives a home additional living space.
5. Siding
One of the least expensive ways to perk up the outside of your home is to paint the siding and skirting. Most experts recommend using a paint brush to apply two coats of satin exterior paint or a paint designed for metal in the color of your choice. The surfaces should first be pressure washed to remove built-up dirt. Another option is installing new siding, such as cedar shingle, over the old. New siding can help lower energy bills because it increases the home’s insulation. Consider adding shutters in a complementary color for a decorative effect.
6. Landscaping
It seems so simple, but the right landscaping can add substantial appeal to a home. Use plants native to your area and add splashes of color with seasonal flowers in pots. Trim hedges and shrubs so the yard looks tidy and loved.
7. Belly wrap
Insulation hanging out from the underside of your home is unsightly and an invitation to vermin. Plus, it can lead to moisture accumulation and flooring rot. If the belly wrap or bottom board underneath your home has minor tears and is free of dampness, reseal it or replace it. Use a sheet of polyethylene and fiber tape for patches.
Once you’ve made your manufactured home into your dream home, don’t forget to talk to your Texas mobile home insurance agent about updating your policy. Certain updates could possibly earn you discounts.
Coming next month:
Find out how to make the inside of your mobile home look just as good as the remodeled outside.