Thinking about giving your manufactured home a fresh, modern look? If you’re wondering whether you can replace those dated wall panels with drywall, you’re not alone. Many homeowners want the clean, classic appearance of drywall, but aren’t sure if it’s possible—or practical—in a manufactured home.
This article dives into the ins and outs of adding drywall in a manufactured home. We’ll answer your main questions, guide you through the process, and share tips to ensure a smooth, beautiful upgrade.
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Can You Put Drywall in a Manufactured Home? A Complete Guide
If you own a manufactured or mobile home and are considering remodeling, you might wonder: Can you put drywall in a manufactured home? The short and reassuring answer is yes, you can install drywall in a manufactured home. In fact, many homeowners choose drywall to give their home a more residential, modern, and solid appearance compared to the traditional wall panels commonly found in manufactured homes.
However, installing drywall isn’t quite as simple as in traditional site-built homes. Manufactured homes have unique structural considerations, and there are some distinct advantages, challenges, and tips to keep in mind. Let’s explore everything you need to know to help your project go smoothly.
Why Use Drywall in a Manufactured Home?
Drywall offers many benefits over the standard wall panels or vinyl-covered gypsum boards usually found in manufactured homes. Here are some reasons you might want to switch to drywall:
- Modern Look: Drywall provides smooth, paintable surfaces and a seamless look that feels just like a site-built house.
- Increased Home Value: Upgrading to drywall can make your home more attractive to buyers if you ever decide to sell.
- Customization: Drywall can be textured, painted, or wallpapered to reflect your style.
- Sound Insulation: It adds another layer for sound dampening.
- Durability: With proper installation, drywall can be a lasting upgrade.
What’s Different About Manufactured Home Walls?
Understanding what makes manufactured home walls different is the key to a successful drywall installation.
Common Mobile Home Wall Materials
- Vinyl over Gypsum Panel (VOG): Lightweight and easy for manufacturing, but less durable and not as easily painted.
- Wood Panels: Sometimes used, especially in older models.
- Thin Construction: Walls are often built using 2×3 or 2×4 studs, which may be spaced further apart than in traditional homes.
Unique Structural Aspects
- Lightweight Design: To keep transportation costs down, weight is minimized wherever possible.
- Movement and Flexibility: Manufactured homes can shift slightly over time or during transport, meaning rigid drywall can sometimes crack without proper installation.
Steps to Install Drywall in a Manufactured Home
Ready to transform your space? Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.
1. Prepare and Inspect the Structure
- Remove old wall panels or VOG strips carefully.
- Inspect wall studs for damage, mold, or moisture issues.
- Ensure all electrical wires and plumbing lines are accounted for.
- Check if the structure can handle additional weight—most modern manufactured homes can easily support drywall, but older homes with thinner studs may require reinforcement.
2. Choose the Right Drywall
- Thickness: 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drywall is lighter and easier for manufactured homes. 1/2-inch drywall can be used, but the weight may be an issue in some cases.
- Type: Regular drywall works for most interior walls; moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens need moisture-resistant (“green board”) drywall.
- Size: Consider 4’ x 8’ or 4’ x 12’ sheets to minimize seams, but pick a length you can safely handle in tight spaces.
3. Strengthen If Needed
- Add extra blocking or studs for support if walls are flimsy or if you plan to mount heavy objects later.
4. Install the Drywall
- Begin at one end of the room and attach sheets horizontally or vertically to studs using drywall screws (not nails).
- Stagger seams between rows for greater strength.
- Leave a small gap at the bottom for expansion and contraction.
- Use a drill with a drywall bit to avoid breaking the paper face.
5. Taping and Mudding
- Apply drywall tape over seams and use joint compound (“mud”) to smooth.
- Feather out each seam for a seamless look.
- Allow mud to dry between coats, and lightly sand between layers.
6. Prime and Paint
- Once sanded and clean, apply a drywall primer to seal and prepare the surface.
- Paint with your chosen color for a fresh, modern finish.
Challenges You Might Face
Installing drywall in a manufactured home can bring a few unique hurdles. Being prepared can help you avoid headaches down the road.
Weight Considerations
- Drywall is heavier than paneling. Make sure your home’s walls and ceiling can take the extra weight, especially in older models.
- Lightweight drywall or reinforcing the framing can be good solutions.
Home Movement
- Manufactured homes are more prone to movement and settling, which can cause drywall to crack.
- Use flexible joint compounds and mesh tape to reduce the risk of cracks.
- Consider installing trim molding over joints for added flexibility and to hide potential cracks.
Ceiling Height and Structure
- Some homes have lower ceilings or unique roof trusses—be prepared to cut drywall sheets to fit.
- For ceilings, use thinner sheets and have at least one helper, as installing overhead drywall is challenging.
Limited Space
- Maneuvering large drywall sheets through tight hallways or doorways can be tricky.
- Opt for more manageable panel sizes if needed, and rent or borrow a drywall lift for ceilings.
Benefits of Using Drywall Over Wall Panels
Let’s recap some benefits to reassure you that your hard work will pay off:
- Aesthetic Upgrade: No more visible seams or plastic strips.
- Greater Decorating Options: Easier to repaint, texture, or wallpaper.
- Stronger Walls: Drywall can better support shelves and hanging items (with proper anchors).
- Adds Value: Many buyers prefer homes with a more traditional appearance.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Want the best results? Here are expert-approved suggestions:
- Measure Twice, Cut Once: Drywall repairs are easier to avoid than to fix.
- Plan Seams Carefully: Place seams over studs when possible.
- Don’t Overdrive Screws: Screws that break the paper layer won’t hold—drive them until just below the surface.
- Use Drywall Adhesive: Along with screws, adhesive can reduce future cracking and squeaks.
- Ventilate: Work in a well-ventilated space, especially when sanding joint compound.
- Seal and Prime: Unprimed drywall absorbs paint unevenly—always prime before painting.
Cost Considerations
Installing drywall can be a budget-friendly upgrade, but costs do vary. Here’s what typically affects the price:
- Material Costs: Drywall sheets, screws, joint compound, and tape.
- Labor: You can save money doing it yourself, but professionals can get the job done faster with fewer mistakes.
- Tools: Utility knives, T-square, saw, screw gun, mud pans, and drywall sanders.
- Repairs and Upgrades: Budget extra for structural reinforcement if your home requires it.
As a ballpark, expect to pay between $1.50–$3.50 per square foot when hiring a professional, or about half that if you DIY. Ceilings and odd-shaped rooms can increase labor costs.
Drywall on Ceilings: Special Considerations
You can absolutely drywall your manufactured home’s ceiling for a flatter, more traditional look. Here are a few pointers:
- Use the thinnest drywall that will still provide adequate strength (1/4″ or 3/8″).
- Always screw ceiling drywall into joists for security.
- Consider renting a drywall lift for safety and easier handling.
- Account for light fixtures, HVAC vents, or ceiling fans before installation.
Remodeling Tips for Manufactured Homes
- Don’t Forget Permits: In some areas, major renovations require permits—even inside mobile homes.
- Remove VOG Strips: For a seamless look, take off the old strips before drywalling.
- Update Insulation: Once the wall panels are off, consider adding or updating insulation for better energy efficiency.
- Watch for Moisture: Address any sources of leaks or condensation before installing new drywall.
Alternatives to Full Drywall Replacement
If full drywall replacement seems daunting or expensive, consider these options:
- Skim-coating VOG panels with joint compound for a smoother surface.
- Installing beadboard or thin wood paneling over existing walls.
- Using paintable wall coverings designed for manufactured homes.
These can give a fresh look without the weight or complexity of drywall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you install drywall over existing wall panels in a manufactured home?
Yes, you can attach drywall directly over existing panels if the walls are sound, but this adds thickness and weight. Make sure to screw into studs for a secure hold, and account for changes in room dimensions and trim.
Will adding drywall make my manufactured home too heavy?
In most modern manufactured homes, standard 1/4″ or 3/8″ drywall is fine. For older or smaller homes, reinforce walls if needed and avoid using heavy 1/2″ drywall. Always check your home’s structural capability before beginning.
How can I prevent drywall cracks in a manufactured home?
To minimize cracks caused by settling or movement, use fiberglass mesh tape and flexible joint compound. Avoid butt-joint seams in high-stress areas, and consider adding trim molding at ceilings and corners to hide minor movement.
What is the best drywall thickness for manufactured homes?
Most manufactured homes benefit from using 1/4″ or 3/8″ drywall, which is lighter and easier to work with. Use moisture-resistant drywall (“green board”) in kitchens and bathrooms.
Do I need professional help to install drywall, or can I do it myself?
Drywall installation is a common DIY project, especially for small rooms or accent walls. Ceilings or large spaces can be challenging without experience. Consider hiring professionals for larger jobs or if your home needs structural upgrades.
Conclusion
Upgrading to drywall in a manufactured home is very possible—and often a smart investment. With careful preparation, the right materials, and a bit of planning, you’ll create a modern, sturdy, beautiful living space that truly feels like home. Remember the unique needs of manufactured homes, proceed step-by-step, and don’t hesitate to seek expert help for larger or more complex projects. Your updated walls will reward you with improved comfort and style for years to come.
