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Replacing mobile home windows is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. New windows improve energy efficiency, comfort, appearance, and even home value. But mobile home windows have specific requirements that differ from site-built homes.
Why Mobile Home Windows Are Different
Mobile homes use different window sizes and installation methods than conventional homes:
- Non-standard sizes: Mobile home windows typically come in specific dimensions that don't match standard residential windows
- Installation method: Windows sit in a frame that attaches to the wall opening differently than site-built construction
- Wall thickness: Mobile home walls are thinner, requiring specific window depths
- Flange design: Mobile home windows use J-channel or specific flange styles for weatherproofing
Using site-built windows in a mobile home usually creates installation problems and potential leaks.
Single-Hung Windows
The most common and affordable option.
The bottom sash slides up, top sash is fixed. Single-hung windows are:
- Most affordable option ($150-$300 installed)
- Available in most mobile home sizes
- Easy to operate and maintain
- Good energy efficiency with modern options
This is what most mobile homes have originally and what most replacements use.
Horizontal Slider Windows
Popular for wider openings.
One or both sashes slide horizontally. Benefits include:
- Good for wide, short openings
- Easy operation (no lifting required)
- Excellent for hard-to-reach locations
- Typically $175-$350 installed
Common in bedrooms and living areas where width is greater than height.
Awning Windows
Hinged at top, opens outward.
Awning windows offer unique advantages:
- Can remain open during light rain
- Good ventilation with security (small opening)
- Work well in bathrooms and kitchens
- Typically $200-$400 installed
Often used in combination with fixed windows.
Impact-Resistant Windows
Hurricane protection for Florida homes.
Impact windows use laminated glass that resists breakage:
- Meets Florida hurricane building codes
- Provides security against break-ins
- Reduces noise from outside
- May qualify for insurance discounts
- Higher cost ($350-$600+ installed)
Worth considering if you're in a high-wind zone or want added security.
Vinyl vs Aluminum Frames
Vinyl Frames:
- Better insulation (lower energy bills)
- Won't rust or corrode
- Low maintenance
- More color options
- Generally preferred for Florida mobile homes
Aluminum Frames:
- Strong and durable
- Slimmer profiles (more glass area)
- Less expensive
- Conducts heat (less efficient)
- Common in older mobile homes
Most modern replacements use vinyl for better energy performance.
Glass Options
Single pane: Original in many older mobile homes. Poor efficiency, consider upgrading.
Double pane (insulated): Two glass layers with air or gas between. Much better efficiency. Standard for new windows.
Low-E coating: Reflects heat while allowing light. Reduces cooling costs significantly in Florida.
Tinted glass: Reduces glare and heat gain. Good for south and west exposures.
For Florida, double-pane with Low-E coating is the recommended minimum for energy efficiency.
Sizing Your Windows
Mobile home windows are measured differently than site-built:
- Measure the existing window frame opening, not the window itself
- Width first, then height
- Measure in multiple places (openings may not be perfectly square)
- Common sizes include 30x40, 36x36, 36x60, 46x36, etc.
Having accurate measurements is critical for ordering replacement windows.
Cost Expectations
For a typical mobile home window replacement in Lake County:
- Basic single-hung vinyl: $150-$250 per window installed
- Slider windows: $175-$300 per window installed
- Impact-resistant: $350-$600+ per window installed
Full-home window replacement (10-15 windows) typically runs $2,000-$5,000 for standard windows or $4,000-$9,000 for impact-resistant.
Energy Savings
New windows can significantly reduce energy costs:
- Upgrading from single to double-pane saves 15-25% on cooling
- Low-E coatings add another 10-15% savings
- Proper sealing eliminates drafts and air leakage
In Florida's climate, window upgrades often pay for themselves in energy savings within 5-10 years.
Installation Matters
Proper installation is as important as window quality:
- Old windows removed carefully to assess opening condition
- Opening prepared and any rot or damage repaired
- New window set level and square
- Proper shimming for stability
- Sealed and flashed for weather protection
- Interior and exterior trim finished
Poor installation leads to leaks, drafts, and premature failure regardless of window quality.
Pro Specialty Services provides mobile home window and door replacement throughout Lake County. We'll help you choose the right windows for your home and budget, with proper installation that ensures long-term performance.
Caleb Hutchinson
Owner, Pro Specialty Services
"Window replacement is one of the best value upgrades for a mobile home. The difference in comfort and energy bills is immediately noticeable. Just make sure you're getting windows made for mobile homes—trying to adapt site-built windows creates problems."
