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You can spot a mobile home from its site-built home pretty quickly, but don’t let that put you off! Mobile homes have come a long way in recent years, offering comfort and quality without breaking the bank. Still, maybe you’re eyeing some upgrades to give your mobile home that “permanent” look. If that’s the case, there are a few remodeling projects worth tackling to achieve your goal.
If you want your mobile home to look more like a traditional house, we have some great tips for you! Whether it’s installing a permanent foundation or updating the roof, this guide will give you the tips and tricks you need to turn your mobile home into the space of your dreams.
1. Ground-Level Makeover for Your Mobile Home
Setting your mobile home at ground level can make it look more like a traditional, site-built house, but it can be a bit pricey. This is the most significant change you can make when remodeling a mobile or manufactured home.
If you decide to go with a ground set, you’ll need to plan ahead. This decision must be made before transporting your mobile home to the lot. The process involves digging out the area, backing the home into the pit, and installing retaining walls. Once done, your mobile home will be at ground level, giving it a more permanent and polished appearance.
2. Boost Your Space with a Basement Foundation
Who doesn’t love extra space? Adding a basement to your mobile home doesn’t just make it appear more like a regular house; it also adds significant living and storage space—something mobile homes often lack.
Plus, a basement foundation beefs up your home’s structural support. This means your home will be more valuable, especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters like tornadoes and storms.
Talk to a professional contractor to see if adding a basement to your mobile home is possible and safe.
3. Sprucing Up Your Mobile Home’s Siding
Focusing on the exterior paint and siding can work wonders to give your mobile home a fresh look. Since mobile homes often come off the assembly line looking similar, tweaking these aspects can really personalize your space and make it feel more like a traditional house.
Consider using materials like vinyl, fiber cement, or wood for the siding. These options not only closely resemble those used in regular homes but also offer durability and easy maintenance. You can choose neutral colors for a classic look or bold, vibrant hues to showcase your personality.
With new siding or a fresh coat of paint, you can quickly transform your mobile home into a cozy abode.
Harbour Crest™ Vinyl Siding
When it comes to siding, Harbour Crest™ Vinyl Siding stands out as an excellent option. It boasts a textured wood grain finish and a secure locking system, making installation a breeze. With a wide range of colors available, including Graphite Gray, Slate Blue, and Pebble Clay, you can find the perfect shade to complement your home’s aesthetic.
And if you’re looking to improve ventilation, Harbour Crest™ Full Vent Vinyl Soffit is your answer. It works seamlessly with the siding, ensuring your home stays fresh without sacrificing style. Best part? There is no need to worry about painting or constant upkeep. Just sit back and enjoy your beautifully revamped home!
4. Skirting and Paneling
Skirting, also known as underpinning, is like the finishing touch for your mobile home. The material wraps around the bottom, hiding the steel frame and giving it a more polished look. Think of it as the baseboard of your house but for the outside.
When remodeling your mobile home, choosing the right skirting is vital. It’s not just about covering up your crawlspace; it’s about adding style and personality. You want something that blends well with the overall style of your home.
Mobile Home Rock and Brick Skirting
In 2024, we’re seeing a comeback of classic, natural materials. So, why not get creative? Mix and match different materials like faux rock and brick panels to give your skirting some texture and flair. Brands like Reil Rock Skirting and Novik Brick Skirting offer options that mimic the look of natural stone and brick without breaking the bank.
So, go ahead and make your mobile home stand out with some stylish skirting!
5. Transform Your Mobile Home with a Pitched Roof
Many mobile homes are built with flat roofs, but if you want to improve your home’s appearance and functionality, consider upgrading to a pitched roof. This simple change can give your mobile home a more traditional house look while also helping rain and snow slide off more easily.
One popular choice is installing a gabled roof. This style features two sloping sides that meet at the ridge, forming an A-shape. It’s a relatively straightforward way to enhance your home’s curb appeal and structural integrity.
If you’re not experienced in roofing, it’s best to hire a professional contractor for this project. They’ll handle removing the old roof and installing the new one, ensuring proper ventilation and waterproofing.
Adding Eaves to Your Roof
Eaves might seem small, but they can make a huge difference in your mobile home. While most mobile homes come with flat roofs, upgrading to a pitched roof also allows for the addition of eaves.
Usually, mobile homes come with smaller eaves and gutters, typically around 6 inches and 5 inches. However, considering wider eaves can help divert water away from your home’s walls and foundation.
Eaves protect your home from water, mud splatter, mold, and mildew. This added protection extends the life of your mobile home and reduces the need for repairs related to leaks.
6. Expanding with a Garage
Are you thinking about adding a garage to your mobile home? It might seem like a big investment, but it can really enhance the look and value of your place.
A garage doesn’t just give you a spot to park your car; it adds around 13% to your home’s value compared to similar ones without a garage. Why? It increases your curb appeal by a considerable amount by making your home bigger, adding storage space, and boosting its permanence.
7. Consider a Porch or Deck
A porch can be the perfect addition to your mobile home, providing extra space and a charming touch that resembles a site-built house. Whether you’re looking for more room to entertain, unwind, or enjoy the outdoors, a porch or deck can fulfill all these needs.
For those living in hot, humid areas with pesky insects, a screened-in porch is a fantastic option. It keeps bugs out while still letting in a refreshing breeze, making it ideal for your family and home. However, if bugs aren’t a concern in your area, an open porch with a roof can be just as wonderful.
Adding Sturdy Entrance Steps
For a more inviting and traditional look, sturdy entrance steps are a must when adding a porch or deck. Consider DuraGrip II Steps from Mobile Home Parts Store, featuring a non-slip textured stone-like surface for safe footing in all weather conditions. These steps are durable, ensuring they last for years to come and can withstand various weather conditions, making them a reliable choice for your mobile home.
8. New Mobile Home Windows
Upgrading your mobile home’s windows can really make it feel more like a regular house. Getting bigger windows lets in more sunlight and lets you enjoy the view outside better. You’ve got options like single-hung, double-hung, slider, casement, and bay windows to choose from. It’s smart to pick the most energy-efficient windows you can afford. This helps you save money on your bills down the road.
9. Installing Wider Exterior Doors
When you upgrade to a larger exterior door for your mobile or manufactured home, you’re not just enhancing its appearance; you’re also increasing its comfort and convenience. This simple change can make your home look more like a site-built house, boosting its value in the process.
According to a survey by Zillow on common remodeling projects, installing larger doors offers one of the highest returns on investment (ROI), with returns ranging from 85% to 100%.
When selecting a door, choose a style that complements your home’s architecture and adds to its curb appeal. Consider options with decorative glass panels or sidelights for an extra touch of elegance.
10. Less is More With Mobile Home Landscaping
You don’t always have to spend big bucks on professionals; with some elbow grease and basic tools, you can do wonders. Landscaping, even in its simplest form, can transform your mobile or manufactured home. It just takes a bit of planning.
Think about planting trees around your home and creating a tidy flower bed to highlight and frame it. Opting for low-maintenance shrubs and plants that thrive in your area ensures your efforts last and won’t drain your wallet. With a dash of creativity and hard work, you can give your mobile home a fresh look!
Conclusion
Remodeling your mobile home’s exterior to resemble a site-built house is a rewarding project that can enhance its aesthetics, functionality, and value. Regardless of your budget, there are measures you can adopt to give your mobile home a site-built look. Even simple additions like a porch and landscaping can make a significant difference. Start realizing your mobile home remodeling goals today with Mobile Home Parts Store, your one-stop shop for the parts and supplies you need to get the job done.
Tags: manufacture home, mobile home, mobile home addition, mobile home diy, mobile home projects, mobile home remodel, mobile home renovations, remodeling a mobile home
