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Replacing mobile home siding transforms your home's appearance while improving protection and energy efficiency. In Florida's climate, choosing the right material matters. Here's what you need to know about your options.
Original Mobile Home Siding
Most mobile homes come with one of these original siding types:
- Metal (aluminum or steel): Common in older homes, durable but dents
- Vinyl: Standard in newer homes, low maintenance
- Hardboard/Masonite: Pressed wood product that deteriorates in humidity
- Wood-look panels: Composite materials with varying durability
Understanding your current siding helps determine replacement options and costs.
Vinyl Siding
The most popular choice for Florida mobile homes.
Pros:
- Affordable ($4-8 per square foot installed)
- Low maintenance—no painting required
- Won't rust, rot, or be eaten by insects
- Many colors and styles available
- Good impact resistance (won't dent like metal)
- Can be installed over existing siding
Cons:
- Can fade over time in intense sun
- May warp in extreme heat if dark colored
- Not as durable as fiber cement
- Can crack if hit very hard
Best for: Budget-conscious upgrades, homes where appearance matters.
Aluminum Siding
Classic mobile home material.
Pros:
- Very durable—won't rot or rust easily
- Fire resistant
- Can be painted if desired
- Reflects heat well
- Long lifespan with minimal maintenance
Cons:
- Dents from impacts (hail, baseballs, etc.)
- Oxidizes over time (chalky appearance)
- Limited color options
- More expensive than vinyl ($6-10 per square foot)
Best for: Durability-focused homeowners, homes in protected locations.
Steel Siding
Heavy-duty option for demanding conditions.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Excellent impact resistance
- Fire resistant
- Long warranty options
Cons:
- Can rust if coating is damaged
- Heavier, may need additional support
- Most expensive metal option ($8-12 per square foot)
- Requires careful installation to prevent rust
Best for: High-wind areas, maximum durability requirements.
Fiber Cement Siding
Premium option with wood-look appearance.
Pros:
- Looks like real wood
- Extremely durable—won't rot, warp, or burn
- Termite and pest proof
- Holds paint well, can be refinished
- Excellent in Florida humidity
- Highest resale value impact
Cons:
- Most expensive option ($8-15 per square foot)
- Heavy—may require structural consideration
- Requires periodic painting (every 10-15 years)
- Professional installation required
Best for: Maximum durability and appearance, long-term homes.
T1-11 and Wood Siding
Not recommended for Florida mobile homes.
While wood siding looks attractive, it performs poorly in Florida:
- Rots quickly in humidity
- Attracts termites and wood-boring insects
- Requires constant maintenance
- Short lifespan without extensive care
If you want wood appearance, choose fiber cement or vinyl with wood-grain texture.
Florida-Specific Considerations
When choosing mobile home siding in Florida, consider:
Hurricane resistance:
- Check wind ratings for your zone
- Heavier materials resist wind-driven debris better
- Proper fastening is critical regardless of material
UV exposure:
- Light colors fade less than dark
- Quality vinyl includes UV inhibitors
- Fiber cement and metal handle sun well
Moisture resistance:
- Avoid wood-based products
- Ensure proper flashing and moisture barriers
- Vinyl and metal handle humidity best
Insects:
- Wood attracts termites
- Metal, vinyl, and fiber cement are insect-proof
Installation Over Existing Siding
In some cases, new siding can be installed over existing:
- Good candidates: Sound, flat existing siding
- Not recommended: Damaged, rotted, or wavy siding
- Benefits: Lower cost, added insulation layer
- Drawbacks: Adds weight, may affect window/door trim
A professional assessment determines if overlay is appropriate for your home.
Cost Comparison
For a typical single-wide mobile home (approximately 1,000 sq ft of siding):
- Vinyl: $4,000-$8,000
- Aluminum: $6,000-$10,000
- Steel: $8,000-$12,000
- Fiber cement: $8,000-$15,000
Double-wide costs approximately 1.5-2x these ranges.
Making Your Decision
Consider these factors:
- Budget: Vinyl is most affordable, fiber cement most expensive
- Appearance: Fiber cement offers best aesthetics
- Durability: Fiber cement and steel last longest
- Maintenance: Vinyl requires least upkeep
- Resale value: Fiber cement adds most value
Pro Specialty Services installs all types of mobile home siding throughout Lake County. We can help you choose the right option for your home, budget, and goals.
Caleb Hutchinson
Owner, Pro Specialty Services
"For most mobile home owners in Lake County, vinyl siding is the sweet spot—affordable, durable, and looks good. But if you're planning to stay long-term and want the best appearance and value, fiber cement is worth the investment. Whatever you choose, quality installation matters as much as the material."
