Mobile homes have different roof structures when compared to typical buildings. The roof is a lot more flat and has a gentle roof. So whether you are buying a new roof for the first time or planning to replace the roof on your mobile home, you should identify the best roofing that fits your needs and requirements.

Best roofing or a Mobile Home

There are several types of roofing materials, and no one type fits all mobile homes. In addition, each material has an equal share of pros and cons. This article will walk you through the different roofing options available for a mobile home.

Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the cheapest roofing materials you can find for your mobile home. With low maintenance and good longevity, shingles are a beneficial option for mobile homes. When analyzed alone, shingles, which are a popular roofing type, make for an excellent choice.

However, when you compare it with other types of roofing, there are a few drawbacks. To begin with, the durability of shingles is only 15 to 20 years. As said, the number looks convincing when examined separately. But when compared, the other roofing materials have longer lifespans considerably.

They also absorb a lot of heat, leading them to crack sooner and reducing their longevity. In addition, some types of asphalt shingles last only for 10 years because of low quality. But they are worth their costs, which makes them a popular choice.

Metal Roofing

The next choice for roofing is metal. The most commonly used metals include aluminum, zinc, or copper. If you already have an installed metal roof, you can use corrugated metal sheets to do a roof over. The durability of aluminum and metal roofing is higher than others. It can last between 30 and 60 years, massively higher than shingles. However, just like shingles, the quality of the metal roofing alters the longevity of the roofing.

What better about metal roofing? They have more energy efficiency. But with longer durability and added benefits, metal roofing is almost double the cost of asphalt shingles. Metal roofing is considered worth the cost if you want an increased lifespan.

The downsides of metal roofing include its high susceptibility to denting. But in case of only minor dents, you can repair it yourself. So you must properly maintain the roofing to avoid large dents and additional expenses. Another major problem is when it rains heavily. The noise of rain hitting the metal roof is more than asphalt.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)

The next choice for roofing is thermoplastic polyolefin, also known as TPO. Known for its durability and easy installation, TPO is one of the better choices in the market currently. In addition, it is resilient to different weather conditions, which increases the durability of the roof.

While there are both black and white colors in TPOs, the most used variety is white. TPO is naturally energy efficient, and the use of white color only doubles up the quotient. With a longer lifespan, resistance against different weather conditions, and energy-efficient options, TPO roofs are more beneficial.

When you install TPO roofs over the existing ones, it is much cheaper to roof over flat or bowed roofs. While you can roof over on a pitched roof as well, the installation cost might be higher. There is more to TPO roofs – they are lightweight and cost-efficient. But it is better to install the TPO roofs with professional services to reduce the chances of faulty installation.

Rubber Roofing

People looking for a quick installation or easier roof over can opt for rubber or liquid roofing methods. If you are on a smaller budget, rubber roofing is the better choice. It will last as long as the asphalt roofs.

The rubber-proofing material will be poured over the roof to seal its cracks or damages. So it is better to install it on a dry day when the proofing material can be set quickly and properly.

But the maintenance comes at a cost. Not only does rubber roofing require annual resealing, but it also needs you to watch out for damages and others constantly.

FAQ

What roof should I opt for?

At the end of the day, what type of roof you should choose depends on your needs and wants. Check your budget, long-term needs, how durable the roof should be, noise reduction capacity, energy efficiency, and other factors before choosing the proper roofing for your mobile home.

Should I opt for roof overs or roof replacements?

Even after you select the type of roofing you need, you are liable to make an important decision. It would be best if you chose whether you want to do a roof over or replace your roof. A roof over refers to installing a new roof over the old material. This method is quite common when it comes to mobile homes. If you go for aluminum or metal roofing, a roof over is not the best as it needs multiple sheets for installation. But if you opt for materials like TPO roofs, which can be installed in one piece, roof overs are an ideal choice.

Should I DIY or hire a professional?

When it comes to roofing, there is an important job other than selecting your roofing materials. It would help if you decided whether to install it by yourself or hire professionals. Whenever you try to find the answer to this question, it is always best to calculate your budget and enquire about professional rates to make a clear decision. Similarly, your material type can also demand a certain kind of installation. For instance, when a rubber-sealed or metal roof can be installed DIY, roofs like TPO need delicate handling by professionals for proper installation.

Summing Up

The best roof for your mobile home is the material that most suits your preferences, budget, and planning. In the case of any roof type, remember durability is the key. Also, consider cost-effectiveness, the structure of your current roof, and long-term needs before narrowing down your options.