What Is the Best Roof for a Mobile Home? 4 Common Types (With Pictures)
- Pete Ortiz
- Last updated:
No matter what kind of home you have, it’s always imperative to select a roofing material that is durable, lightweight, and fits into your budget. Due to the nature of mobile homes, finding the best material for roofing can be difficult, but it doesn’t make the job any less important.
For mobile homes, there are four main roof types you can select: thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) membrane, asphalt shingles, metal, and rubber. It’s important to know which of these options is right for you and your mobile home during renovations and upgrades.
In this article, we take a comprehensive look at the four most popular mobile home roofing options. That way, you can decide which material is best for your mobile home.
The 4 Types of Mobile Home Rooftops
All the best mobile home roofs are made from TPO membrane, asphalt shingles, metal, or rubber. Each of these materials has its own benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to thoroughly evaluate all four materials before making your final decision.
1. TPO Membrane
Most mobile home users and manufacturers agree that TPO membrane, or thermoplastic polyolefin membrane, is the best material for mobile home rooftops. It is incredibly durable, lightweight, and easy to install. It is even considered energy efficient and works for flat and bowed roofs.
If you have a problem with your roof frequently becoming damaged due to the weather and elements, TPO membrane may be for you. They have incredible durability that exceeds metal and asphalt roofs dramatically. It can also be installed in practically every color and fits on all roofs.
TPO membrane is a pretty cost-efficient material too. It is lightweight and it is relatively available. In most cases, TPO membrane roofs cost the same as asphalt shingle roofs, if not less. They are dramatically more affordable than metal roofs.
The only downside of TPO membrane is that you cannot install it yourself. You will need to find a professional to install TPO membrane for you, but it is still one of the most affordable materials you can use. The shape of your roof may impact the final cost, though.
If you have no idea which material to select, we recommend TPO membrane. This is a favorite roofing material because it is durable, light, energy efficient, and affordable. You cannot go wrong with TPO membrane, no matter the situation.
2. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing types for all homes, not just mobile homes. Many homeowners select shingles because they are incredibly cost efficient. The cost of getting a mobile home roof covered in asphalt shingles ranges from $1,500–$3,000 in most cases.
The main downside of asphalt shingles is that they do not last a long time. Because they’re asphalt, they absorb a lot of heat and crack over time. They are also more susceptible to wind damage. Most shingles have to be replaced every 15–20 years.
3. Metal
Metal roofing is becoming popular among mobile home manufacturers. Most metal roofs are made from steel, although aluminum, zinc, and copper are other popular materials.
Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofs can last as long as 60 years, depending on your environment and the quality of your roof. They are very energy efficient because they don’t get super hot in the summer.
Of course, metal has some drawbacks as well. The upfront price for metal roofs is incredibly expensive. They also are more susceptible to damage if you live in an area with heavy rainfall and hail. Plus, metal roofs can be annoying if there’s a lot of rain because you will hear noise as it falls on your roof.
4. Rubber
The last common material we are going to look at is rubber. Rubber is not frequently used over the entire mobile home, but it is a good choice for quick repairs.
Rubber roofing is the best option if you’re on a budget. It is incredibly cost efficient and is even more affordable than the TPO material. It lasts about 10 years before it needs to be replaced.
There aren’t many drawbacks to this roofing other than it has one of the shortest lifespans and it’s better for small fixes than complete coverage. If you’re just looking for a quick fix, rubber may be right for you.
Which Roof Material Is Right for Me?
There’s not a one-size-fits-all answer to which material is best. However, we would recommend TPO membrane in most cases, though there are some instances when another material should be selected.
Consider these factors to determine which roofing material is best for your mobile home:
Current Roof Condition
Your current roof condition is the number one determiner of which roofing material you should select.
In cases where you’re getting a complete roof renovation, especially if you are building a new mobile home, TPO membrane is the best. It is cost efficient, durable, and long-lasting. Asphalt shingles are another option for new roofs or complete renovations. If you are just wanting to patch up some issues, you will probably want rubber.
Weather
Your weather conditions make a huge difference in which material you should select.
If you live in a super hot environment, you will want to look for energy-efficient options, such as TPO membrane and metal. Asphalt shingles and rubber will get way too hot in the summer if you live in hot conditions.
How much rain and hail you get is another factor to consider. You will want to avoid metal roofing if you live in rainy areas since it can get damaged and become annoying from the noise. Once again, TPO membrane is the best choice for rainy environments, but asphalt shingles will be fine, too, as long as there’s not too much wind accompanying the rain.
Your Budget
The last factor to consider is budget. Rubber roofing is by far the cheapest, but TPO membrane and asphalt shingles are pretty affordable. If you have an unlimited budget for your roof, metal is the most expensive.
Final Thoughts
TPO membrane, asphalt shingles, metal, and rubber are the four best materials for mobile home roofing. Of these four options, TPO membrane is our favorite, but all four of these materials have their place. You might find that one of the other options is more ideal for your situation.
It’s important to consider your current roof’s condition, the weather in your area, and your budget when determining which material is right for your home. Go with whatever material fits your mobile home’s needs and budget best.
Featured Image Credit: agil73, Shutterstock
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