Owning a manufactured home offers many advantages, from affordability to lifestyle flexibility. Like a traditional home, the exterior of a manufactured home requires regular maintenance and occasional upgrades to preserve its aesthetic appeal and longevity.
Whether you're the proud new owner of a manufactured home or looking to update your lived-in prefabricated home, there are several easy ways to turn a house into an oasis.
Let's look at some insightful tips and ideas for maintaining and upgrading the exterior of your manufactured home.
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Maintenance on Your Manufactured Home's Exterior
Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your manufactured home's exterior. Over time, dirt, mold, and mildew accumulate, affecting the appearance of a home. Consider pressure washing the siding at least once a year, and remember to clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage.
Inspect the Roof
The roof is a home's shield against the elements, and it receives the most wear. Regular inspections can help catch damaging or missing shingles and leaks before they lead to significant, costly problems, especially after a major storm. If necessary, consider applying a fresh coat of roofing sealant or even upgrading to energy-efficient roofing materials that enhance a home's insulation.
Homeowners can complete most inspections from the ground by stepping back and looking for areas where dirt and debris have gathered, as well as any loose, damaged, or missing shingles. Inspect ceilings for leaks, stains, or water damage inside the house. Moisture in the roof cavity leads to molding and rotting, which can cause leaks and extensive damage to the property.
Expert tip: Avoid stepping on the roof or attempting to repair damages. Roofs can be steep and slippery. Seek professional assistance. An expert knows precautionary ways to inspect vents or roof surfaces. Reach out to licensed roofing experts when repair or replacement is necessary.
Upgrades to a Manufactured Home's Exterior
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows
Windows can be a significant source of heat loss in modular homes. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient, double-pane windows. This will improve a home's energy efficiency, save money on utility bills, and improve curb appeal.
Fresh Paint or Siding
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders for your manufactured home's exterior. Choose colors that complement your neighborhood without losing character and personality. If painting isn't an option, consider upgrading the siding. Options such as vinyl or composite materials provide durability and minimal maintenance.
Gutters
Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts twice per year. They're designed to direct water away from your home's foundation. Check the surrounding area for standing water, flooding, or signs of erosion to ensure the gutters are functioning properly. Contact an expert when these warning signs are visible:
- Rust
- Mold or mildew
- Leaks
- Sagging
- Water damage
- Cracks or holes
- Standing water
- Clogs
- Peeling paint
Landscaping for Curb Appeal
Landscaping is an excellent way to boost a home's aesthetic. Planting flowers, shrubs, or trees can create an inviting environment. For added charm, incorporate hardscaping elements like pathways, patios, or decorative stones.
A well-executed landscape plan can transform a home's entire look. Create an outdoor space that matches a home's style by picking the right blend of plants, shrubs, and trees local to the region. Consider using native plants that need less water and maintenance. Landscaping can create natural privacy barriers or paths that guide guests through the outdoor living spaces.
For garden-savvy owners, consider creating outdoor gardening spaces with raised or small in-ground beds. Not only will you enjoy the beauty of the plants, but you will also harvest and eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
Upgrade Skirting
Skirting enhances the appearance of a manufactured home, insulates the structure, and strengthens its stability. Upgrading to modern skirting materials can provide durability and style while helping prevent pests and water damage and improve insulation. Options like brick, stone, or modern vinyl skirting offer a home a solid, premier look.
Not ready for an upgrade? Power washing is an affordable option to keep a home looking fresh and clean.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Creating outdoor living areas significantly increases the enjoyment of factory-built dwellings. Consider adding a deck, patio, or pergola to allow space to unwind or entertain guests. Choose durable, weather-resistant materials to withstand the elements while enhancing a home's exterior.
Lighting and Fixtures
Pay attention to the impact of outdoor lighting. Upgrading exterior fixtures like porch lights, floodlights, or decorative lanterns can increase safety and create a welcoming atmosphere. Solar lights along pathways or in gardens can enhance visibility while being energy efficient.
Attach Porches and Decks
Porches and decks are popular add-ons for many modular homes. It creates an outdoor living space ideal for relaxing, barbecuing, or entertaining weekend guests. Customizing a porch or deck is easy, and there are many styles and sizes to choose from. Adding a porch or deck increases your outdoor space's usability and boosts your home's value.
Discover: Find manufactured homes with porches or decks
Regular Maintenance Checks
Routine maintenance checks can help identify potential issues early. Inspect areas like foundations, siding, windows, and doors for signs of wear and tear. Addressing minor problems as they arise can prevent them from turning into expensive repairs.
Maintaining and upgrading the exterior of your manufactured home is crucial for appearance, longevity, and energy efficiency. We hope these helpful tips and suggestions have sparked creative ideas on maintaining or upgrading your manufactured home. These tips can increase your home's curb appeal and create a comfortable environment that everyone can enjoy for years. Your home is a reflection of you, and with a little effort and creativity, your manufactured home can be a source of pride.
The Sun Communities Way
Sun Communities promotes a social environment where families and neighbors can live active lifestyles. We strive to provide a convenient and pleasant experience for our residents.
Our manufactured home communities are strategically located around large parks, hiking areas, and gorgeous mountain ranges nationwide - perfect for individuals and families of all ages. With vast open areas and various amenities, there's something for everyone to love.
If you have questions about us and our communities, message us here. One of our many professionals will gladly help as you begin the search for your manufactured home.