What to Know About Replacing Mobile Home Windows
Replacing mobile home windows is similar to replacing standard house windows. The biggest difference is mobile home windows come in fewer sizes and have fewer customization options.
If you’re ready to replace the windows in your mobile home, here’s what to consider.
The Difference Between Mobile Home Windows and Standard Windows
While mobile home and standard house windows do the same job of letting light in and allowing for ventilation, there are a few key differences.
The biggest difference between mobile home windows and standard windows is size. Standard house windows come in hundreds of size configurations. But, most mobile home windows come in one of three sizes: 30” x 60”, 36” x 54”, and 36” x 60”.
Another difference is the frame material. You can get standard house windows in six frames, including wood, wood-clad, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, and composite. On the other hand, mobile home windows are either aluminum or vinyl framed.
As for similarities, you can get both windows with energy-efficient double-pane glass and Low-E coatings.
Where to Buy Mobile Home Windows
You can buy windows at local mobile home supply stores, Lowes, Home Depot, and even Amazon. You can also use regular house windows in your mobile home as long as they are the correct size. In addition to looking at height and width, ensure the frame depth is the same as the window you’re removing.
What Kind of Windows Can You Put in a Mobile Home?
You can put any window style in your mobile home as long as it fits the frame opening. Here are some common types:
Double Hung
A double-hung window looks like a tall rectangle and is the most popular window style. It features two sashes, and each can open. The bottom sash lifts up, and the top sash opens by pushing it down.
Some versions of this window tilt in so you can clean the outside glass from inside your home.
Single Hung
Single-hung windows look the same as a double-hung window – a tall rectangle. But only the bottom sash opens.
Single-hung windows are less expensive than double-hung versions.
Casement
Casement windows are tall rectangular windows with a single sash. The sash opens outward toward one side via a hand crank.
Awning or Sliding Window (Over the Kitchen Sink)
Awning windows are long rectangles that open up and outward via a hand crank. The benefit is the window can remain open even during the rain. Awning windows are popular above the kitchen sink.
Another over-the-kitchen-sink option is the sliding window. Sliding windows are long narrow rectangles with two sashes. Depending on the model, you can open one or both sides of the window by sliding the sash.
Bay/Picture/Bow (Decorative Style Windows in a Mobile Home)
Some mobile homes go beyond the standard window sizes and have decorative options. The most common decorative window styles in a mobile home are:
- Bay window – composed of 3-5 glass panels jutted out from the wall
- Bow window – consisting of 4-6 glass panels that “bow” out of the wall
- Picture window – large clear glass window that doesn’t open
Signs You Should Get New Windows for Your Mobile Home
Not sure if it’s time to invest in new windows? Look for these signs:
You have single-pane glass windows. Single-pane glass used to be the standard for mobile homes. But these windows aren’t efficient if you live in an area with extreme temperature fluctuations.
You have high heating and cooling bills. I once lived in a mobile home and would get $500+ electric bills in the winter for my heat. If you, too, are receiving excessive heating or cooling bills, check your insulation and windows.
Look for energy-efficient mobile home windows that have at least double-paned glass. Also, check the Energy Star rating. Pay attention to the U-Factor – the lower the number, the better the window insulates. Aim for a U-Factor of .30 or below.
You have cracked glass or drafty windows. You don’t have to replace all of your windows at once. If you have one window that’s letting in the air or has a crack in the glass, consider replacing it.
Repairing vs. Replacing Mobile Home Windows
If your windows are energy efficient and not more than 10-15 years old, you can repair issues instead of replacing the entire window.
Window repairs include replacing caulking or casing, broken screens, locks, and small cracks in the single-pane glass. But, you’ll need replacement trailer windows if they are drafty, have cracks in double pane glass, have fog between the glass, or the window frames have warped.
It costs, on average, $200-$400 per replacement mobile home window. The cost will depend on the type of glass package you choose, frame material, and brand.
If you have construction experience, you can install replacement mobile home windows yourself. If not, consider ordering your windows from a company that provides installation services.