Metal Roofing For Mobile Homes

While mobile homes are considered excellent for their affordability and flexibility, many homeowners are concerned about their longevity and durability.

Knowing that you have traditional shingles above your head is a concern. An excellent alternative to these traditional shingles is metal roofing.

And why would it not be? Metal roofing is known for its energy efficiency, durability, and strength; however, what I and many others need help understanding is why people still have this doubt about whether or not metal roofing is suitable for mobile homes.

If you truly believe that “quality life requires quality investment,” making the right choice for yourself should not be hindered by merely the thought of where you are residing.

In this article, we will look into the myths associated with metal roofing on mobile homes, the pros and cons of metal roofs for mobile homes, and help you determine whether the choice is worth the investment or not. 

Can You Put A Metal Roof On A Mobile Home?

Yes, a metal roof is an excellent option for your mobile home. It usually comes in aluminum and is installed above the original roof in mobile homes. 

While considering this upgrade, you might also think about how to install gutters on a metal roof to enhance its functionality.

Just like the shingles on your permanent residential properties, mobile homes’ roofs (shingles) are prone to weather elements and can crack up after a few years, leading to potential leaks. 

For the same reason, metal roofing is recommended. Continue reading for that. We are going to debunk some real myths regarding metal roofing on  “sweet homes.”

Myths About Metal Roofing On Mobile Homes

We see a lot of people on the internet declaring metal roofing not a smart choice for mobile homes, claiming that they are heavy, way too expensive, and blah blah.

This would never come from someone who actually has tried metal roofing on their mobile home.

Here are the most common associated myths:

Metal Roofs Are Too Heavy For Mobile Homes

Before believing in this, I want to ask: Do you know how much your asphalt shingles weigh and the roof replacement cost associated with them?

It might surprise you, but to break it to you, metal roofs are less heavy than your typical shingles, alright?

Weight of asphalt shingles per square foot: 2–5 pounds. (including textured shingles)

Weight of metal roofs per square foot: 1-3 pounds. (This can vary depending on the metal.)

Now you decide. 

If your roof is lighter, your mobile home will feel less overhead pressure and have fewer damaged wedges and shims below. 

Metal Roofs Are Too Expensive For Mobile Homes

This might not entirely be a myth considering the initial installment cost of a metal roof, but it is compensated in the long run.

Do you want something long-lasting? Okay, bet. A roof that would save you on electricity bills? That it is. Extreme durability and no corrosion? 

Perfect. Metal roofing has got them all. Additionally, since it is installed on top of the pre-existing roof in mobile homes, it significantly reduces the replacement cost, too.

Metal Roofs Look Too Industrial For Mobile Homes

This probably “was” true to some extent, but not anymore. In the current age, metal roofing is built such that all of the hardware is hidden underneath, giving it a seamless and sleek look.

Moreover, you also have multiple color options to choose from for your roof. 

Change the way you look at it, and I bet it won’t look too “industrial” for you. 

Advantages Of Metal Roofing For Your Mobile Home

Metal roofing is highly advantageous for your mobile home due to the following reasons:

1. Durability

Metal roofs are extremely durable and long-lasting. They can last up to 70 years and survive extreme weather conditions like hail storms, heavy rain, and hurricane-force winds. 

When considering gutters for metal roof installations, it’s important to note that metal or aluminum roofing is also resistant to rust and corrosion. 

With a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty, these roofs are easily maintained or restored using EPDM liquid rubber, which provides the best waterproofing solution.

2. Low Maintenance

Metal roofs are very low-maintenance. How? They require less cleaning, are resistant to mold and mildew growth, and offer a great extent of water resistance.

Metal roofs, unlike typical shingles, are not brittle and require less examination for cracks and repairs, making the process very low maintenance.

3. Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs reflect the sun’s heat and UV radiation, reducing cooling costs by up to 25% and allowing homeowners to save up to 40% in energy costs. 

4. Lighter Than Shingles

As mentioned above, metal roofs are lighter than shingles. With a lighter roof, the structure of your mobile home will support a lot less weight, protecting its structural integrity, avoiding excessive damage to the wedges, and facilitating transportation if necessary.

Disadvantages Of Metal Roofing For Your Mobile Home

Regarding the drawbacks of metal roofing, it is crucial to consider the following aspects prior to obtaining a metal roof.

1. They Could Be Noisy

I don’t really want to make this a “thing,” but unfortunately, it IS a thing in mobile homes. While metal roofs are not that noisy—almost not at all—in common permanent homes, they can get quite noisy in mobile homes during times like heavy rain. 

Why is that, you ask? 

First, the noise is not entirely because of the roof, okay? The walls of mobile homes are thinner due to comparatively less insulation, which leads to a greater noise allowance when it rains. 

Similarly, the roofs, too, contribute to the noise to some degree. If you don’t have a double-story house, which is not very common in mobile homes, you may hear more rain noise. 

Many mobile homes’ roofs need to be better structured and insulated in permanent properties, leading to noise production. 

2. Prone To Rust

We did say aluminum roofing on mobile homes is rust-resistant due to the coatings, but after all, it’s a metal roof, and rusting is the characteristic quality of metal. 

If your home is located in an area with high humidity and proximity to coastal areas, your roof is more susceptible to rust and corrosion, which can further lead to leaks and cracks.

Metal roofing may be a better choice for your mobile home, my friend.

Metal Roofing For Mobile Homes FAQs

Conclusion

In this article, we discussed the advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing on mobile homes and debunked some myths people have regarding metal roofing for mobile homes.

For further questions, please email us.