A new paint job can really change the appearance of your mobile home and make it look fresh and new—plus it helps protect from the elements. Exterior painting is an affordable way to enhance your mobile home curb appeal, increase its worth, and prolong its life. With the right preparation, materials and technique, even novice painters can attain a professional finish.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This blog will take you through everything you need to know, from preparing the surface to selecting the right paint and applying it like a pro. Let’s get started!
How to Prepare a Mobile Home for Painting
Preparation is the single most important step in a perfect, long-lasting paint job. Here’s how to prepare your mobile home’s exterior for a makeover.
Clean the Exterior
Before adding any paint, make sure the surface is clean and free from dirt, mildew, and debris. Give the outside a thorough clean with a power washer and a mild detergent. For tougher dirt, use a cleaning solution and a scrub brush. Emphasize crevices and corners, where residue tends to accumulate.
Pro Tip: Make sure to let the surface dry fully before going to the next step.
Repair Damages
Examine your mobile home for damage like holes, cracks or loose siding. Fix these with caulk or appropriate filler. For metal siding, look for rust and sand it off before applying a rust-inhibitive primer.
Pro Tip: If you feel bold enough, replacing worn-out weatherstripping and sealing windows or doors will add to the energy efficiency of your home in the process.
Prime the Surface
If you want your paint job to last, priming is going to be a requirement. A good primer lays down a smooth base for the paint to adhere to, helps avoid uneven coverage, and prevents stains from seeping through. Select a primer for your exterior material: metal, vinyl, wood or whatever else.
If you are painting a small space rather than an entire room or space, a roller will also work, but a paint sprayer is preferred for even and quick application and only if you have enough outdoor space.
How to Choose the Right Paint for Your Mobile Home
The right paint can spell the difference between a vibrant, long-lasting finish and peeling tragedy. Here’s how to do the right thing.
Mobile Home Paint You Would Apply
And not all paints are the same. The ideal types of paint for mobile home exteriors are acrylic latex paint and elastomeric paint.
BREAKING: Acrylic Latex Paint – This paint is long-lasting, and resistant to weather elements; Comes in a variety of final finishes (matte, satin, gloss), making it the perfect selection for a majority of exterior surfaces including vinyl and metallic siding
Elastomeric Paint: Made to stretch and then contract, this type is great for places with temperature changes and movement.
Consider Colors and Trends
For color, let function and aesthetics guide your preferences. Lighter hues like white, beige, or pale gray do not absorb as much heat, allowing your home to stay cooler in warmer climates. For a more contemporary vibe, try trendy colors like charcoal gray or navy blue, or earthy shades like sage green.
Pro Tip: If you plan on selling, neutral colors are more timeless and will attract potential buyers.
The Painting Process
Now that the prep work is complete and your paint is chosen, it’s time to get started! How to achieve a fabulous finish in just a few very simple steps.
Step 1. Gather Your Tools
- There are a few tools you will need for the painting process:
- Ladder or scaffolding (make sure it is stable and safe).
- Paint rollers (see if you can find long nap for textured surfaces).
- Paintbrushes for trimming.
- A paint sprayer for covering large areas.
- Painter’s tape for masking the edges and trim.
Step 2. Start with the Edges
Start with edges, corners, and hard-to-hug spots with a brush. Tape windows, doors and trim with painter’s tape.
Step 3. Paint Large Surfaces
How to Apply Paint to Your Wall Working from the top down, use a paint roller (or sprayer) to get to large, flat areas. Do it with consistent pressure and in small parts. Do not overload your roller or you will get drips and streaks.
Step 4. Apply a Second Coat
Once the first coat is dry, add a second coat for completely even coverage. It’s a general rule of thumb that most paints need a second coat, especially when you’re painting over a darker color with a lighter one.
Drying times and proper room temperature to paint within can be on paint cans themselves — make sure to read them before you get started.
Step 5. Remove Tape and Touch Up
After the paint is dry, gently pull off the painter’s tape, going back in to patch any missed areas or uneven spots.
Maintaining Your Paint Job
A new paintjob that glistens like it just got out of the booth takes a little TLC to keep vibrant and intact through the years. Here’s how to maintain it in top form.
Regular Cleaning
Wash the outside of your mobile home one time each year to prevent the buildup of dirt and mildew. Apply a mild detergent, and rinse with a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting.
Address Issues Promptly
Take action: if there’s peeling, chipping or cracks in the paint, treat it right away so it doesn’t lead to bigger issues down the road. Frequent touch-ups of those smaller areas will help minimize the need for a full repaint.
Protect from Harsh Elements
If you are concerned about exposure to too much rain or sun on your mobile home, you should consider installing gutters or awnings.
Pro Tip: To make the paint last longer, reapply a clear protective sealant every few years.
Transform Your Mobile Home Today!
Repainting the outside of your mobile home is a simple but effective way to improve its appearance, protect its structure, and increase its value. With the right preparation, best materials, and a little elbow grease you can achieve a professional look that will make your home the envy of the street!
If you’re ready for a makeover and want expert advice or a curated list of painting supplies, get in touch or check out our comprehensive guides and product recommendations to take the guesswork out of the process.
