So you’re a proud mobile home owner looking to spruce up those outdated, worn-out walls? We feel you. Mobile home wall panels see a lot of wear and tear over the years. Luckily, replacing them is easier than you may think. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of selecting and buying new wall panels for your manufactured home. Let’s dive in!
Types of Mobile Home Wall Panels
When it comes to mobile home wall panels, you’ve got options. The most common types include vinyl, wood, drywall and metal. Let’s break them down so you can decide what fits your home best.
Vinyl Wall Panels
Vinyl, also called VOG (vinyl-on-gypsum), is the most widely used wall panel type in manufactured housing. These consist of a vinyl surface laminated onto a gypsum core.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to clean
- Moisture-resistant
Cons:
- Prone to dents and scratches
- Can appear dated over time
- Limited color/style options
Vinyl panels are ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms and hallways where durability and water-resistance are key.
Wood Wall Panels
Nothing warms up a space quite like wood. From plywood to MDF to shiplap, wood offers natural beauty and visual interest.
Pros:
- Timeless, classic look
- Variety of stains and finishes
- Easily painted over
Cons:
- More expensive than vinyl or drywall
- Susceptible to moisture damage
- May require frequent repainting
Wood panels add a rustic, homey feel perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms and accent walls. Just be prepared for extra maintenance.
Drywall Panels
Drywall is the go-to for building and renovating traditional stick-built homes. Its popularity is growing in manufactured housing too.
Pros:
- Smooth, seamless finish
- Takes paint exceptionally well
- Allows for creative textures
Cons:
- Difficult for DIY installation
- Easily dented and damaged
- Joint compounding required
Drywall lets you achieve a modern, tailored look. It’s ideal for homeowners wanting a custom finish but requires pro installation.
Other Panel Types
Beyond the main three, you can also find metal panels, foam panels, FRP (fiberglass-reinforced plastic) and beadboard in mobile homes. Consider alternative panels when you want something sleek and contemporary or easy to sanitize. Just weigh their specialized pros and cons.
Where To Buy Wall Panels
Once you’ve settled on a wall panel type, it’s time to find a supplier. You’ve got ample options for purchasing panels locally or online.
Big Box Stores
Lowe’s, Home Depot, Menards – they’ve all got you covered for common wall paneling needs. Peruse the lumber aisles for plywood, MDF, beadboard and other wood panels. You can also grab vinyl sheets and drywall.
Pros:
- One-stop shopping convenience
- Ability to see products in person
- Frequent sales and promos
Cons:
- Limited selection for niche panels
- Inconsistent stock and availability
Big box stores work nicely if you want a mainstream panel type asap. Just know you’re not getting the widest selection.
Mobile Home Specialty Stores
For manufactured housing-specific building supplies, visit a mobile home parts retailer. They cater to the unique panel needs of factory-built homes.
Pros:
- Tailored selection of niche panels
- Staff knowledgeable about mobile homes
- Often competitive prices
Cons:
- Limited brick-and-mortar locations
- Bulk shipping costs may apply
If you want specialty panels like VOG in specific dimensions, mobile home specialists have you covered. Search online and check delivery fees.
Direct From Manufacturers
Ordering direct from panel brands skips the retailer middleman. This opens up customization options and potential cost savings.
Pros:
- Full range of sizes, dimensions and finishes
- Ability to request specialty items
- Better pricing for bulk orders
Cons:
- Limited purchasing options for small quantities
- Direct shipping costs may be high
Purchasing direct works best for big paneling projects or if you need something highly customized. Confirm order minimums and shipping fees first.
Online Marketplaces
Lastly, websites like Amazon and Alibaba offer extreme variety and price competition. Just vet suppliers carefully.
Pros:
- Broad selection of common and exotic panels
- Deep discounts vs. brick-and-mortar
- Convenience of home delivery
Cons:
- Difficult to validate panel quality
- Potential for shipping damage
- Delayed lead times
Online buying is ideal if you want maximum selection and bargain prices. Inspect shipments thoroughly and build in extra time for delivery.
Key Purchase Considerations
From intended use to costs, keep these factors in mind while shopping for wall panels:
Usage and Needs
Inspired by HGTV? Lean into wood panels in living spaces. Need a kitchen backsplash alternative? Check out metal or vinyl sheets. Tailor your paneling to each room’s functional needs.
Aesthetics and Style
Admiring your neighbor’s farmhouse-chic shiplap? Love the sleekness of drywall? Choose panels aligning with your interior design style. Mix and match for extra flair.
Budget
Crunching the numbers? vinyl and MDF offer affordability. Solid oak boards cost more. Estimate total spend including delivery, installation, adhesive and tools.
Installation
DIY-friendly tongue-and-groove wood? Pro-required drywall finishing? Consider your skill level and labor costs. Some panels = easier installs.
Durability
Kids and pets making mischief? Opt for scratch-resistant vinyl or moisture-proof PVC panels in high-traffic areas. Prioritize durability.
Eco-Friendliness
Seeking greener options? Check for FSC-certified wood harvested sustainably. Bonus points for recycled vinyl and plastic panels.
Costs and Prices
Let’s break down typical price ranges for the most common mobile home wall panels:
- Vinyl – $0.50-$1.50 per sq. ft.
- Plywood – $15-$30 per 4×8 sheet
- MDF – $20-$50 per 4×8 sheet
- Beadboard – $10-$20 per 8 ft. plank
- Drywall – $10-$14 per 4×8 sheet
Keep in mind costs will also include:
- Shipping fees
- Adhesives/sealants
- Finishings like trim and caulk
- Labor, if hiring installers
Anticipate spending $300-$1000 for materials to panel one average-sized room.
Installation Tips
While professional installation is recommended for many panel types, here are a few DIY tips:
- Clean walls thoroughly and fill any holes or imperfections for a smooth base
- Use panel adhesive for easier mounting vs. nails/screws alone
- Carefully measure and cut panels to fit outlets, windows and doors
- Fill seams with caulk for a seamless look
- Add trim pieces where panels meet for polished edges
Take it slow and don’t force panels into place. With care and patience, you can tackle minor wall panel projects solo.
Conclusion
Give your mobile home a fresh new look with replacement wall panels. Now that you know the popular panel types, costs and where to buy, you can upgrade those dreary walls with ease. Seek panels suiting your home’s needs and style. Invest wisely and your manufactured home will shine for years to come.
