Top 5 Roofing Materials for Mobile Homes and Their Costs

When it comes to mobile home roofing, the right material can make all the difference — in durability, energy savings, and cost. Whether you’re upgrading for aesthetics, repairing storm damage, or planning a full replacement, understanding your roofing options is key. In 2025, several cost-effective and efficient materials are dominating the market, and each has its unique benefits.

Let’s explore the top roofing choices for mobile homes, what they cost, and how to make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.

Top Roofing Options for Mobile Homes in 2025

Top 5 Roofing Materials for Mobile Homes and Their Estimated Costs

Here’s a quick overview of the five best roofing materials for mobile homes in 2025:

Roofing Material	Average Cost (Installed)	Lifespan	Best For
Asphalt Shingles	$2,500 – $5,000	15–30 years	Budget-conscious homeowners
Metal Roofing	$4,000 – $8,000	40–70 years	Long-term durability & efficiency
Rubber (EPDM) Roofing	$3,000 – $6,000	20–30 years	Flat or low-slope roofs
TPO Roofing	$3,500 – $7,500	25–30 years	Energy efficiency & reflectivity
Roof-Over Systems	$1,800 – $4,500	10–20 years	Quick, low-cost upgrades

These costs are based on national averages and may vary by location, roof size, and installation complexity

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Which Mobile Home Roofing Material is Right for You? Pros, Cons & Costs

Choosing the right roof depends on a few key factors:

• Climate: Metal and TPO roofs reflect heat and withstand heavy rainfall.
  
• Roof Slope: Rubber roofs are ideal for flat or low-pitched designs.
  
• Budget: Asphalt shingles are affordable but may need replacement sooner.
  
• Maintenance Tolerance: Metal roofs require little upkeep.
  

Pro Tip: Don’t just consider upfront costs. Think long-term: energy savings, lifespan, and future repairs all affect total cost of ownership.

Affordable Roofing Solutions for Mobile Homes: A Cost Comparison

Let’s break down cost-effectiveness based on both initial investment and lifespan:

Material	Cost per Year (Approx.)
Asphalt Shingles	$130 – $170/year
Metal Roof	$80 – $200/year
Rubber (EPDM)	$100 – $200/year
TPO Roofing	$115 – $250/year
Roof-Over	$120 – $300/year

While asphalt is cheap upfront, metal roofs often win out over decades thanks to minimal upkeep and superior longevity.

Metal vs. Asphalt: Which Roofing Material Offers Better Value for Mobile Homes?

Asphalt Pros:

• Lower upfront cost
  
• Easy to install and replace
  
• Wide availability
  

Asphalt Cons:

• Susceptible to wind and weather damage
  
• Shorter lifespan
  

Metal Pros:

• Excellent for hot and storm-prone climates
  
• Reflective surface reduces energy bills
  
• Minimal maintenance
  

Metal Cons:

• Higher upfront investment
  
• Can be noisy during heavy rain without insulation
  

Verdict: If you plan to stay in your mobile home long-term, metal is usually the better investment.

How to Choose the Best Roof for Your Mobile Home Without Breaking the Bank

Ask yourself:

• What’s my budget today vs. 10 years from now?
  
• Will I be living here long-term?
  
• Can I DIY part of the job to save on labor?
  

Tip: Request quotes from at least three roofing contractors and check reviews before committing.

Breaking Down the Best Roofing Materials

#1 Asphalt Shingles: Budget-Friendly, But Are They Durable?

Why Choose Asphalt?
Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for a reason—they’re affordable, widely available, and simple to install. For mobile homes, especially in mild climates, asphalt can be a cost-effective solution.

Pros:

• Costs $2–$4 per square foot installed
  
• Readily available in various colors
  
• Easy to patch or replace
  

Cons:

• Prone to cracking or curling in extreme heat
  
• Needs replacement every 15–30 years
  
• Not ideal for flat roofs
  

Best For: First-time homebuyers or those planning to sell in a few years.

#2 Metal Roofs for Mobile Homes: Long-Lasting and Low Maintenance

Why Choose Metal?
Metal roofs are fast becoming the gold standard for mobile homes. They offer unmatched durability and energy efficiency, especially in hot or storm-prone areas.

Pros:

• Lifespan of 40–70 years
  
• Resistant to fire, mold, and insects
  
• Reflective surface cuts cooling costs
  

Cons:

• Costs $5–$9 per square foot installed
  
• May require noise insulation
  

Best For: Homeowners looking for a long-term, maintenance-free solution.

#3 Rubber Roofing (EPDM): Ideal for Flat Roof Mobile Homes?

Why Choose EPDM Rubber?
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roofing is perfect for flat or low-pitched roofs. Its seamless installation reduces the risk of leaks.

Pros:

• Lightweight and flexible
  
• Can be installed in large, single pieces
  
• Good UV resistance
  

Cons:

• Can shrink or crack over time
  
• Aesthetically plain (mostly black or white)
  

Best For: Mobile homes with flat roof layouts in moderate climates.

#4 TPO Roofing Systems: What Makes Them Energy Efficient?

Why Choose TPO?
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a newer roofing material known for its heat-reflective properties and energy savings. It’s often used on commercial flat roofs and is making its way into mobile home upgrades.

Pros:

• White surface reflects sunlight
  
• Energy Star certified options available
  
• Welded seams reduce leak potential
  

Cons:

• Higher cost than EPDM
  
• Requires expert installation
  

Best For: Mobile homes in sunny, hot climates where AC costs are a concern.

#5 Roof-Over Systems: Is a Mobile Home Roof Over Worth the Cost?

What is a Roof-Over?
A roof-over involves installing a new roof layer on top of the existing one. It’s quicker and cheaper than a full replacement, but may not last as long.

Pros:

• Lower labor costs
  
• Fast installation
  
• Less mess and debris
  

Cons:

• Adds weight to your structure
  
• May trap moisture if not properly sealed
  

Best For: Older mobile homes needing a temporary or low-cost solution.

Cost Insights & Budget Planning

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Mobile Home Roof in 2025?

In 2025, the national average for mobile home roof replacement ranges between $3,000 and $8,000, depending on:

• Roof type and pitch
  
• Materials used
  
• Labor rates in your area
  
• Size (single-wide vs. double-wide)
  

Single-wide mobile homes: $2,000 – $6,000
Double-wide mobile homes: $4,000 – $10,000

Roofing Costs Per Square Foot for Mobile Homes: What to Expect

Here’s a general cost guide per square foot (including materials and installation):

• Asphalt Shingles: $2.00 – $4.00
  
• Metal Roofing: $5.00 – $9.00
  
• EPDM Rubber: $3.00 – $6.00
  
• TPO Roofing: $3.50 – $7.50
  
• Roof-Over System: $1.50 – $3.50
  

Tip: Always ask for a detailed quote with material, labor, warranty, and removal costs separated.

Hidden Costs of Roofing Mobile Homes (And How to Avoid Them)

Watch out for these surprise expenses:

• Structural repairs (if decking is damaged)
  
• Old roof removal fees
  
• Permit costs (varies by location)
  
• Insulation upgrades (common with metal roofs)
  

Avoid surprises by:

• Requesting a free inspection first
  
• Reading the fine print on roofing contracts
  
• Asking if cleanup and disposal are included
  

Do Energy-Efficient Roofs Actually Save You Money on Mobile Homes?

Yes—especially in warmer regions. Here’s how:

• Metal and TPO roofs reflect sunlight, reducing indoor temps by up to 10°F.
  
• This can lower cooling costs by 10–30% annually.
  
• Over 20–30 years, this could equal $3,000+ in savings on utility bills.
  

Buying & Installation Tips

What to Consider Before Installing a New Roof on Your Mobile Home

Key factors to evaluate:

• Roof slope
  
• Local weather conditions
  
• Budget & timeline
  
• Contractor credentials
  

Checklist Before Starting:

• Check with your local municipality about permit requirements.
  
• Verify contractor is insured and licensed.
  
• Ask about warranties (both material and labor).
  

DIY vs. Professional Roof Installation: Which Saves More in the Long Run?

DIY Pros:

• Saves on labor (30–50% of cost)
  
• Control over materials and timing
  

DIY Cons:

• Risk of leaks or damage from improper installation
  
• No labor warranty
  

Professional Pros:

• Expertise, speed, and warranty
  
• Better resale value
  

Verdict: If you’re experienced and have the right tools, DIY may work for small repairs. But full installations are best left to pros.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Mobile Home Roofing Investment

Maintenance tips to increase roof longevity:

• Inspect your roof twice a year
  
• Clean off debris and leaves
  
• Reseal flashing and vents
  
• Recoat rubber roofs every 3–5 years
  
• Trim back overhanging branches
  

Can You Roof Over an Existing Mobile Home Roof Safely?

Answer: Yes, but only if:

• The existing roof is in fair condition
  
• Weight isn’t a structural issue
  
• Moisture problems are addressed
  

Tip: Roof-overs are best used as a short- to mid-term fix.

How Often Should You Replace a Mobile Home Roof?

Answer: It depends on the material:

• Asphalt: Every 15–30 years
  
• Metal: 40–70 years
  
• EPDM/TPO: 20–30 years
  
• Roof-Overs: 10–20 years
  

Key Signs It’s Time to Replace:

• Leaks or water stains
  
• Sagging sections
  
• Curling or missing shingles
  
• Higher energy bills
  

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best roofing material for your mobile home doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding your options—whether it’s affordability with asphalt, longevity with metal, or energy efficiency with TPO—you can make a smart investment for years to come.If you’re unsure where to start, get a few free quotes from licensed roofers in your area and ask about material warranties, energy savings, and install timelines. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—choose wisely.

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