Maintaining the exterior of your mobile home isn’t just about boosting curb appeal—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring its longevity. By caring for your home’s siding, roof, and other surfaces, you’re helping safeguard it against the elements and extending its lifespan.
Every material that makes up your home’s exterior has unique needs. Some require a little extra TLC, as they may be more sensitive to sun exposure, wind, or rain. Regular upkeep helps these materials stand strong against whatever Mother Nature throws their way, keeping your home looking great and standing strong for years to come.
Maintaining the Siding for Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes can feature siding made from materials like vinyl, concrete, fiber cement, or engineered wood. No matter which one you choose, they all have a common goal—protecting your home from the elements. Proper maintenance is key to keeping your siding in great shape, so it’s important to use the right cleaning products to avoid causing any unintended damage.
For most materials, a simple rinse with a garden hose will take care of loose dirt and debris. For tougher spots, mix a mild detergent with water and use a soft sponge to gently clean the surface, then rinse with clean water. Be sure to check your homeowner’s manual for any specific care instructions or recommended cleaning products.
If you have wooden or concrete siding, make sure to inspect it regularly and plan to repaint it every few years to keep it looking its best. Address any damage quickly and reapply caulking where needed.
For brick or stone exteriors, it’s a good idea to have a professional mason handle any necessary repairs. Annual inspections can help you catch any small issues before they become bigger, helping you preserve the beauty and durability of your home’s exterior for years to come.
Maintaining Mobile Home Skirting and Decks
Keeping your home’s skirting and outdoor areas in top shape is essential for longevity and safety. Regularly checking and maintaining these features helps to protect your manufactured home from moisture and wear, ensuring it stays in excellent condition over the years.
Skirting Maintenance Tips
The skirting around your home plays a critical role in maintaining proper airflow, protecting your foundation, and enhancing the overall look of your property. To keep it in great condition:
- Inspect Vents: Make sure that the vents under your skirting are clear and allowing for adequate airflow. This prevents moisture buildup, which can cause mold, mildew, and even structural damage.
- Clean the Skirting: Use a garden hose to gently rinse off dirt and debris. For tougher stains, mix a mild detergent with water and gently scrub using a sponge or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the material.
- Check for Damage: Look for cracks, holes, or loose panels. Repair any damage you find immediately to maintain the skirting’s protective barrier.
When it comes to the materials used for skirting, options include vinyl, metal, and concrete, each with its own maintenance needs:
- Vinyl Skirting: This popular choice is easy to clean with just a hose and mild soap. Inspect it for cracks or holes, and replace any broken pieces.
- Metal Skirting: Metal is durable but can rust over time. Make sure to inspect for rust spots and treat them with a rust inhibitor or paint as needed.
- Concrete Skirting: Concrete is sturdy and long-lasting, but it’s essential to keep it clean to prevent staining and check for cracks that can weaken its structure.
Deck, Patio, and Porch Maintenance Tips
Don’t forget about your outdoor spaces! Whether it’s a deck, patio, or porch, regular maintenance is key to ensuring these areas remain safe and inviting:
- Annual Inspections: At least once a year, take the time to inspect your deck, patio, or porch for any signs of damage or wear. Look for loose boards, cracks, or rotting wood, as well as rusted nails or screws.
- Cleaning: Use a pressure washer or a hose with a scrub brush to remove dirt and debris from the surface. Choose cleaning products based on the material—wood, concrete, or composite decking—to avoid damaging it.
- Repairs and Treatment: Repair any damaged boards, tighten loose screws, and reseal wooden decks every few years to prevent moisture damage. For composite materials, inspect for mold or mildew and clean accordingly.
Choosing the right materials for your skirting and decking can make maintenance easier and extend the life of these features:
- Wood Decking: Regularly treat and seal the wood to prevent rot and water damage.
- Composite Decking: Clean with a gentle detergent to remove mold or mildew without harming the material.
- Concrete Patios: Seal concrete surfaces to prevent cracks and make cleaning a breeze.
With a little routine care and attention, you can keep your manufactured home’s skirting, deck, and patio looking their best for years to come. Taking these proactive steps not only maintains the appearance of your home but also protects its value and ensures your family has a safe and welcoming place to enjoy.
Mobile Home Roof Maintenance
Taking care of your manufactured home’s roof is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring it stays in great shape for years to come. A good rule of thumb is to inspect your roof twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall—as well as after any severe weather, such as hail or high winds.
Roof Maintenance Tips
Start by checking the seals around vents, joints, and chimneys to make sure nothing is loose or damaged. This is where leaks can start, so catching any issues early can save you from costly repairs down the road. While it’s always a good idea to do a visual inspection yourself, hiring a professional is highly recommended. Professionals know exactly what to look for, like loose or curling shingles, buckling, and cracks that may not be obvious at first glance.
If your manufactured home has a metal roof, regular maintenance is even easier. Metal roofs are known for their durability and minimal upkeep. However, it’s still important to inspect the seams and ensure there’s no damage after storms. For homes with a rolled metal roof, consider having it coated after the first year to extend its life. Using a high-quality aluminum or white coating provides the best protection and helps reflect heat, keeping your home cooler in the summer.
Finding the Perfect Home
If you’re considering purchasing your first home or upgrading to a new one, a manufactured home is a great choice for affordability and convenience. At Braustin Homes, we proudly serve customers throughout Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. With a wide range of single-wide and double-wide models to choose from, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget. Visit one of our two locations or explore our selection online to get started.
Our team is here to support you throughout your home buying journey—from finding the right home to making sure it’s set up and maintained properly. Contact us today to learn more about our available homes and delivery options.
