RESIDING A MOBILE HOME

[RAY GILDER]

I AM REDOING THE SIDING ON MY HOME AND I AM TRYING TO DECIDE BETWEEN USING METAL SIDING AND VINYL SIDING. I WAS WONDERING WHICH ONE WOULD BE A BETTER CHOICE. I AM WANTING TO INSTALL IT MYSELF TO SAVE THE COST OF LABOR. I WAS JUST WONDERING WOULD ONE WOULD BE A BETTER CHOICE AND EASIER TO INSTALL. I BEEN CHECKING PRICES AND THE METAL IS CHEAPER BUT I WANT SOMETHING THAT IS GONNA LAST FOR A LONG TIME. ANT SUGGESTIONS WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. AND THANKS FOR THE RESPONSES TO MY OTHER QUESTION.

[Tom]

Metal is cheaper initially, but will have to be repainted eventually. Also is suseptable to denting. Vinyl is easier to install and requires less maintenance. Both require some decent carpentry skills to install. If your current home does not have sheathing behind your current siding it will be necessary to install it in order to put up the new siding, plus you would want to upgrade your insulation if thats the case. There is a self help book available that has good instructions on installing siding at www.mobilehomerepair.com Click on the books and parts link. Tom

[Tracy]

Most people feel vinyl is a better choice. Easier to install, better resale value. Keep in mind that the thinner vinyl is, the more it buckles in the heat and bleaches in the sun. Depending on the age of the home, this might be a good time to also look at the wiring and insulation in the wall studs as well. If you add plywood, exterior windows and doors will have to be removed and the insides of the openings will have to be extended.

Good Luck.

Tracy