Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Restore A Double Wide

Mobile homes such as this one are made of one section, so are not double-wides.


A double-wide is a mobile home that is twice as wide as a single-section mobile home. A double-wide mobile home can be restored to create a more attractive living environment if you can afford to invest in improvements for both the interior and exterior. Focus on integrating the structure within the landscape and updating finishes to transform your double-wide into a comfortable home. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Tackle essential repairs, especially if your double-wide is older. Before you embark on cosmetic improvements, evaluate your double-wide for any must-fix issues, such as a leaky roof, inefficient heating and cooling equipment or plumbing problems. Since mobile homes are made from lightweight and economical materials, they are often prone to such issues. Double-wides also sometimes leak at the joint between the two sections. Once you've made the necessary repairs, determine your budget for cosmetic repairs after you've dealt with the basics.


2. Replace rusted aluminum exterior siding with new vinyl siding or real wood panels. Also update the trim around the doors and windows. Consider building a porch or patio as an addition to your mobile home. This addition will not only provide outdoor space for your family to enjoy, but it will also help integrate the home into the landscape. Planting shrubs and flowering plants along the base will further conceal the skirting that covers the space beneath your double-wide.


3. Restore or upgrade the double-wide's interior finishes. The interior can look just like a traditional home if you repaint the ceiling and wall panels. Choose a light color to make the space feel larger. Also replace worn flooring with new laminate wood flooring planks or linoleum tiles, which are both affordable and lightweight.


4. Update the kitchen cabinets. Since the kitchen often opens into the living space in a double-wide, it is worth the investment to reface or replace cheap-looking kitchen cabinets. Try cabinet doors with glass panels for a more expansive feel.


5. Remodel the bathroom. Mobile home bathrooms can look dated, but by replacing old plumbing fixtures with newer, more water-efficient versions you can make the space look modern and ultimately save money. Retile your counter and back-splash with glass or ceramic tile to make the bathroom feel fresh and new.







Tags: mobile home, your double-wide, double-wide mobile, double-wide mobile home, kitchen cabinets, make space, with glass