Mobile Home Roofing Options: Metal, TPO, and Coatings

Mobile and manufactured homes in Florida face unique roofing challenges. The original roofs—typically rolled roofing or metal panels—weren't designed to last forever, and Florida's climate accelerates wear. When your mobile home needs roof attention, understanding your options helps you make the best decision for your home, budget, and long-term plans.

Understanding Mobile Home Roof Challenges

Before exploring solutions, let's understand the problems:

Original Roof Issues

Most mobile homes come with one of these original roof types:

Flat/Low-Slope with Membrane or Rolled Roofing:

• Single-ply membrane or asphalt roll roofing
• Typically lasts 10-15 years
• Develops leaks at seams and edges
• Poor insulation value
• Collects heat in Florida sun

Metal Roof (Older Homes):

• Painted steel or aluminum panels
• Fasteners work loose over time
• Seams separate
• Rust develops on steel panels
• Can be noisy during rain

Florida-Specific Problems

Our climate creates additional issues:

• Intense UV degrades membranes rapidly
• Heat buildup makes homes uncomfortable
• Hurricanes stress roof attachments
• Heavy rain finds every weakness
• Humidity promotes mold and mildew

Learn about mobile home roofing solutions we offer.

Option 1: Metal Roof-Over

Installing a new metal roof over your existing roof structure.

How Metal Roof-Overs Work

A metal roof-over system includes:

• New metal panels installed over existing roof
• Strapping or purlins create attachment framework
• Insulation added between layers (optional but recommended)
• New flashing and trim throughout
• Typically creates slight pitch for better drainage

Types of Metal Roof-Overs

Aluminum Panels:

• Lightweight—ideal for mobile home structures
• Won't rust or corrode
• Available in many colors
• Good for coastal areas (salt resistance)
• Typical cost: $6,000-$12,000 for single-wide

Steel Panels:

• Stronger than aluminum
• Slightly heavier
• Requires galvanized coating for rust protection
• More affordable than aluminum
• Typical cost: $5,000-$10,000 for single-wide

Explore mobile home metal roofing options.

Metal Roof-Over Advantages

Why metal is the most popular choice:

Longevity:

• 30-50 years typical lifespan
• Far outlasts original roofing
• Often the last roof you'll need

Weather Protection:

• Excellent hurricane resistance when properly attached
• Sheds water efficiently
• No seams to leak (standing seam options)
• Handles Florida storms well

Energy Efficiency:

• Reflective coatings reduce heat absorption
• Air gap between layers adds insulation
• Optional insulation dramatically cuts cooling costs
• Can reduce energy bills 15-25%

Structural Benefits:

• Strengthens overall roof structure
• Adds to home's rigidity
• Covers existing problems without tear-off
• Improves home appearance significantly

Metal Roof-Over Considerations

Things to keep in mind:

• Higher upfront cost than other options
• Requires proper installation for wind resistance
• Weight (though minimal with aluminum)
• May need to verify park/community approval
• Not DIY-friendly—professional installation essential

Option 2: TPO Membrane Roofing

A premium flat roof solution for mobile homes.

What Is TPO Roofing?

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a single-ply roofing membrane:

• White, reflective surface
• Heat-welded seams (extremely strong)
• Designed for flat/low-slope roofs
• Popular in commercial roofing, excellent for mobile homes

TPO for Mobile Homes

Why TPO works well:

Installation Process:

• Old roofing typically removed or repaired
• Insulation board installed for improved R-value
• TPO membrane rolled out and positioned
• Seams heat-welded together
• Edges and penetrations carefully detailed

System Options:

• Fully adhered (glued down)
• Mechanically attached (screwed through)
• Combination systems

Learn about TPO roofing for mobile homes.

TPO Advantages

Benefits for mobile home owners:

Energy Efficiency:

• White surface reflects 80%+ of solar radiation
• Dramatically reduces attic/interior temperatures
• Significant cooling cost reduction
• Can qualify for utility rebates

Durability:

• 20-30 year lifespan typical
• Heat-welded seams won't separate like adhesive seams
• Resists punctures and tears
• Handles foot traffic well

Waterproofing:

• Seamless membrane system
• Properly welded seams are watertight
• No overlapping like rolled roofing
• Excellent for Florida's heavy rain

TPO Considerations

What to know before choosing TPO:

• Requires professional installation
• Heat-welding equipment needed
• More expensive than coatings
• Flat appearance (no pitch change)
• Ponding water must be addressed
• Typical cost: $4,000-$8,000 for single-wide

Option 3: Roof Coatings

An affordable option for roofs in fair condition.

How Roof Coatings Work

Coatings are applied over existing roofing:

• Surface cleaned and prepped
• Repairs made to damaged areas
• Primer applied if required
• Coating applied (spray, roll, or brush)
• Multiple coats for best results

Types of Roof Coatings

Several coating types suit mobile homes:

Acrylic Coatings:

• Water-based, easy application
• Good UV resistance
• Economical choice
• 5-10 year protection
• Must be applied in dry weather

Silicone Coatings:

• Excellent ponding water resistance
• Superior UV stability
• Longer life than acrylics
• 10-15 year protection
• Higher cost but better performance

Elastomeric Coatings:

• Flexible, expands and contracts
• Bridges small cracks
• Good for aged roofs
• Various formulations available
• 7-12 year typical life

Aluminum Roof Coating:

• Reflective aluminum particles in asphalt base
• Traditional mobile home coating
• Most affordable option
• 3-5 year recoating needed
• Good for extending roof life short-term

Explore mobile home roof coating options.

Roof Coating Advantages

Why coatings are popular:

Affordability:

• Lowest cost option
• Typically $1,500-$3,500 for single-wide
• Extends roof life significantly
• Can be reapplied as needed

Simplicity:

• Minimal disruption during application
• No structural changes required
• Quick application (often same-day)
• Works over various existing materials

Energy Savings:

• White/reflective coatings reduce heat
• Immediate temperature reduction
• Lower cooling costs

Roof Coating Limitations

When coatings aren't the answer:

• Won't fix structural problems
• Not suitable for severely damaged roofs
• Shorter lifespan than other options
• May need reapplication every 5-10 years
• Ponding water areas problematic for some coatings
• Surface must be in reasonable condition

Comparing Your Options

Side-by-side comparison for decision-making:

Cost Comparison (Single-Wide Mobile Home)

| Option | Initial Cost | Lifespan | Cost Per Year |

| Metal Roof-Over | $6,000-$12,000 | 30-50 years | $150-$300 |

| TPO Membrane | $4,000-$8,000 | 20-30 years | $160-$320 |

| Roof Coating | $1,500-$3,500 | 5-10 years | $175-$500 |

Performance Comparison

Hurricane Resistance:

• Metal: Excellent (when properly installed)
• TPO: Good (mechanical attachment important)
• Coating: Depends on underlying roof

Energy Efficiency:

• Metal with insulation: Excellent
• TPO: Excellent (highly reflective)
• Coating: Good (reflective options available)

Waterproofing:

• Metal: Excellent
• TPO: Excellent
• Coating: Good (if properly applied to sound roof)

Best Choice By Situation

Choose Metal Roof-Over If:

• You plan to keep the home long-term
• Maximum protection and longevity matter
• Energy efficiency is a priority
• You want improved appearance
• Budget allows for premium solution

Choose TPO If:

• Flat roof design makes sense
• Energy efficiency is top priority
• You want proven commercial-grade protection
• Moderate budget available
• Good contractor available

Choose Roof Coating If:

• Existing roof is in fair condition
• Budget is limited
• You're extending roof life, not replacing
• Short-term ownership planned
• Buying time before major investment

Choosing a Contractor

Finding the right professional for mobile home roofing:

What to Look For

• Mobile home experience: Different from site-built homes
• Licensed and insured: Verify coverage
• References: Specifically for mobile home work
• Written estimates: Detailed scope of work
• Warranty: Both materials and labor

Questions to Ask

• How many mobile home roofs have you done?
• What attachment method do you use?
• How do you handle wind resistance requirements?
• What's included in your warranty?
• Will you pull required permits?

Red Flags

• No mobile home experience
• Pressure for immediate decision
• Cash-only requests
• No written contract
• Unable to provide references

Additional Considerations

Other factors in your decision:

Park/Community Rules

If your mobile home is in a park:

• Check for roofing restrictions
• Verify approval process requirements
• Understand any aesthetic standards
• Confirm contractor requirements

Insurance Implications

Roofing affects your insurance:

• New roof may reduce premiums
• Metal roofs often get best rates
• Document the improvement
• Notify your insurer

Financing Options

Ways to fund your roof project:

• Home improvement loans
• Contractor financing programs
• Energy efficiency rebates (for qualifying systems)
• Personal loans

Permits and Inspections

Most roofing work requires permits:

• Ensures code compliance
• Protects your investment
• Required for insurance claims
• Professional contractors handle this

Making Your Decision

Steps to choose the right option:

Step 1: Assess Current Condition

• How old is your current roof?
• Are there active leaks?
• What's the overall condition?
• Is the structure sound?

Step 2: Consider Your Plans

• How long will you own this home?
• What's your budget?
• What matters most (cost, durability, appearance)?

Step 3: Get Professional Input

• Schedule inspection
• Get multiple estimates
• Ask about all options
• Compare recommendations

Step 4: Decide and Act

• Don't wait until emergency
• Schedule work for good weather
• Address problems before they grow

The Bottom Line

Florida mobile home owners have excellent roofing options today. Metal roof-overs provide the ultimate in protection and longevity. TPO offers commercial-grade waterproofing and energy efficiency. Roof coatings can extend your roof's life affordably when the underlying structure is sound.

The right choice depends on your budget, how long you'll own the home, and your existing roof's condition. Whatever you choose, addressing roof issues promptly prevents the water damage, mold, and structural problems that turn minor repairs into major expenses.

At Pro Specialty Services, we specialize in mobile and manufactured home roofing throughout Lake County. We'll assess your current roof honestly, explain all your options, and help you choose the solution that makes the most sense for your situation. Contact us for a free inspection and estimate on your mobile home roof.

For more information on roofing options, check out our guides on energy-efficient roofing options, metal roof benefits, and roof coating benefits. If you're considering insurance options for your mobile home, see our insurance claim guide.