Types of Roofing for Mobile Homes

A few roofing types take more skill to construct, causing do-it-yourselfers to consider hiring experienced roofers to get the job done right.

Steel Roofing

Steel roofing offers an option for mobile homes that can withstand the weight of the metal. The roofs are usually made from recyclable material, offer durability and require little maintenance. Mobile homes that feature 2 x 2-foot lumber don’t work well with steel roofing. However, if your mobile home was constructed from 2 x 6-foot lumber, steel works well. Adding a layer of insulation with the steel helps keep the home warmer.

Traditional Shingles

Similar to traditional homes, shingle roofs work well on mobile homes, too, but mobile homes can only take one layer of shingles due to the support structure of the home. Traditional homes can usually handle two to three layers of shingles since they offer more support. Shingles come in fiberglass or asphalt, with both offering water resistance and durability.

Composite Roofs

Composite roofs offer an affordable solution using a special type of roof shingle that lasts up to 50 years. While similar to traditional shingles, composite shingles offer higher durability along with a multitude of colors and styles to choose from. The shingles can resemble regular shingles, wood shake or slate but lack the weight or cost of these heavy materials. Some companies offer composite shingles designed to resist mold and algae, ideal for mobile homes located in humid climates. For mobile homes in windy locations, though, composite shingles easily blow off, making them less desirable for those areas.

Rubber Membrane

If you plan to live in your mobile home for years to come, rubber membrane roofing offers a long-term, but costly solution. Rubber membrane roofs work best on flat or low-sloped mobile home roofs. The expensive material lasts for decades. Rubber membrane requires skill to install, though, so you may want to hire an experienced contractor.