In this day and age when nearly everyone seems to be feeling the squeeze of rising prices due to a lack of supplies from the Covid-19 pandemic Buyers and Sellers of mobile homes in the Sarasota area want to make sure their dollar is going as far as possible. The pandemic is not totally over yet and there are still a lot of uncertainties in the economy, being wise with your money is the best way to avoid a financial meltdown
One of the most common repairs we, at The Mobile Home Dealer, continue to see on mobile homes in the Sarasota area is the need for repairs done to the flooring system.
If this is your first venture into the mobile home world then you will quickly learn that mobile homes, although very similar to traditional single-family homes, do have their unique features one of which is the flooring system.
Mobile home park
A mobile home flooring system is unlike that of a condo, townhome, or single-family home in that the construction of the floor is wood-based and not concrete.
When walking into a mobile home, under the actual flooring that one sees is usually a sheet of lumber. This lumber will either be a 5X8 sheet of particle board or a 5X8 sheet of plywood.
Usually, mobile homes from the factory come with particle board sub-flooring which is a composite type material that can hold up well over the years so long as it does not get wet. If this product does get wet then it can be susceptible to breaking apart quicker than plywood does. Many times over the course of a mobile home’s life the original particle board flooring will eventually be replaced by plywood to help make the floor sturdy for years to come.
Under the plywood, most mobile homes have 2X8 support beams that are then built into the frame of the home. Under the 2X8 supports, most homes will have the plumbing, vapor barrier, and then the ground that the home sits on.
With all of this understanding, it would be reasonable to think that over time the flooring system may have to be replaced because it is a wood-based product and not a flooring system based on concrete like many single-family homes are in the Sarasota area.
Mobile homes can have, what is referred to as soft spots on the floor that develop over time.
Soft spots can occur for a variety of different reasons but most commonly it is created by the moisture that comes from either the ground or the air conditioning system that penetrates through the wood subflooring and makes it weaker over time. If one were to walk on these weak spots they will feel a little “soft” or one may see a dip in the floor where the soft spot is located at.
Many times mobile home Buyers will see or feel a soft spot and immediately think that this will turn into a large repair bill, which, in all reality, this is false.
If a soft spot occurs then the owner of the mobile home will have to decide if they are going to go in and replace all of the subflooring or only the sections that are soft. If the homeowner is looking to only replace the sections with the soft spots then all that will be needed to be done is to have the soft portion of the subflooring cut out and a new piece of subflooring installed that matches the piece that was taken out.
Most handy professionals around the Sarasota area can replace a soft spot for around $100.
If the owner of the mobile home is looking to replace the entire subfloor system then prices will skyrocket as with the cost of lumber and lack of supplies right now in the building industry nothing is coming cheap!
Bay Indies-Venice Florida
Another way to cut the flooring repair expenses is to do it yourself. We saw many homeowners who have spare time during weekends replace sections of their mobile home flooring. Although not all people can do this, mobile homeowners who have basic carpentry skills and extra time can save money on labor costs.
Although flooring repair could be cheap or expensive, there are several factors that contribute to the increase in replacement costs. Regular cleaning and checking can help prevent these soft spots in the long run.
Making sure to budget your money for repairs to your mobile home in Sarasota is key to having a safe and comfortable living space. To start, you should make a list of all the repairs that need to be done and the estimated cost. Knowing what needs to be done and what it will cost will help you plan your budget accordingly. Additionally, you should research potential repair options and find out what materials are necessary for each job. This will help you find the most cost-effective solution.
Once you have an understanding of the repairs that need to be done and the necessary materials, you should look for discounts or deals on these materials. Many stores offer discounts for bulk purchases or you may be able to find deals online. Additionally, it’s a good idea to shop around for repair services and compare prices. Once you have a clear picture of your costs, you can create a budget that you feel comfortable with.
Finally, if you need additional help with repairs, several organizations in Sarasota assist with mobile home repairs. These organizations are often able to provide free or low-cost assistance, so it’s worth looking into if you find yourself in need of assistance. With a little bit of planning and research, you should be able to successfully budget your money for mobile home repairs in Sarasota.
When budgeting for your Sarasota mobile home, do not be overly concerned about a few soft spots. Sure, they may look and feel unsightly, but when they are repaired by a professional, they are not expensive and will add years of life to your mobile home flooring system!
The Mobile Home Dealer are licensed mobile home broker in Sarasota Florida and the surrounding areas. We provide professional buy and/or sell assistance to our clients. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us by clicking this link. You may also visit our Facebook Page and send us a message
This is Mark Kaiser with The Mobile Home Dealer and we help mobile home Buyers and Sellers get to a better place in life.
Mobile homes are a popular housing option for many people due to their affordability and flexibility. However, over time, the subfloor of a mobile home can become damaged or rotten, creating unsafe living conditions. If you’re facing this issue, don’t worry – you don’t need to replace your mobile home floor! Following our step-by-step guide on repairing your mobile home subflooring, you can make it feel as good as new again. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about repairing the flooring in your mobile home and provide essential tips and tools to help ease the process!
Mobile home flooring replacement
What is the Subfloor in a Mobile Home?
The subfloor is a foundational layer of a mobile home’s flooring system. It is the base for all other layers, including insulation, floor coverings, and finishes. The subfloor typically comprises plywood or particle board sheets laid over the mobile home’s steel frame.
One key difference between mobile homes and traditional stick-built homes is their construction method. Mobile homes are built off-site in factories and transported to their final location. This means they must be designed with lightweight materials to ensure easy transportation.
The use of lightweight materials in construction can make mobile homes more susceptible to damage from moisture and humidity than conventional houses. As a result, the subfloors of mobile homes often require attention before any new coverings are installed.
It’s important to note that repairing or replacing your mobile home’s subflooring requires some knowledge and expertise in carpentry work. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it may be best to seek professional help during repairs or replacement projects.
Understanding How Mobile Homes Are Constructed
Mobile homes are built differently than traditional stick-built homes. They are constructed using lighter materials and have a chassis that makes them mobile.
The chassis is the home’s foundation, and all other components are attached. The frame is usually made from steel or aluminum, which makes it lightweight and easy to transport.
The walls of a mobile home are also lighter in weight than those of traditional homes. They may be made from wooden studs with paneling or drywall attached. Some newer models use foam insulation sandwiched between two metal or vinyl siding layers for added energy efficiency.
The roof of a mobile home is typically made from sheet metal or shingles, though some modern designs incorporate flat roofs for aesthetic purposes.
Due to their unique construction, mobile homes require specialized subfloor repair techniques. Understanding how these structures are built is essential so you can properly assess any damage and make necessary repairs without compromising the integrity of your home’s structure.
Is Replacing Flooring in a Mobile Home a DIY Project?
Replacing the flooring in a mobile home can be daunting, but is it something that you can do yourself? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. First and foremost, if you’re uncomfortable with using power tools or don’t have any experience with Do It Yourself (DIY) projects, it’s best to hire a professional.
That being said, replacing the subflooring in your mobile home can save you thousands of dollars compared to hiring someone else to do it. Additionally, by repairing work yourself, you’ll have more control over the project and can ensure that everything is up to code.
However, before embarking on this type of project alone, consider whether you have all the necessary tools and materials. It’s also important to note that leaks must be fixed before replacing subflooring; otherwise, this will cause further damage.
Lists of Tools and Materials You Need
Before starting any DIY project, it’s always essential to have the right tools. For a mobile home subfloor repair or flooring repair, here are some essential tools you will need.
1. Safety gear such as gloves and eye protection. This is crucial when using power tools like circular saws or jigsaws.
2. Measuring tools such as tape measure and level to ensure accurate cuts and installations.
3. Basic hand tools, such as hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches, are needed to remove old flooring materials and install new ones.
4. Power tools like an electric drill with various bits for screws and nails can help speed up the process. A circular saw or jigsaw may also be useful when cutting boards to size.
5. Don’t forget about adhesive products like construction adhesive or wood glue to secure your new subflooring in place.
6. You’ll also need new subflooring material, such as plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The thickness of the new subfloor depends on its intended use; typically, ¾ inch works well for most homes.
7. You may consider adding insulation between floor joists to improve energy efficiency and sound reduction within your home. Having these materials ready before starting this project can help ensure a smoother process with less downtime.
Damaged mobile home subfloor
Important: Leaks Need to Be Fixed Before Replacing the Subfloor
Before starting the subfloor repair process, it is important to identify and fix any leaks in your mobile home. Water damage can cause severe structural problems and weaken the flooring over time.
Leaks can be caused by various issues, such as roof or plumbing leaks. If you notice damp spots on your floors, ceiling, or walls, this could indicate water damage. Be sure to address these issues before moving forward with replacing your subflooring.
If you ignore fixing the leak, it will continue to cause damage to your new subflooring and lead to costly repairs down the line. The process of fixing leaks may vary depending on what’s causing them, so it’s best to consult a professional if you’re unsure.
Remember that prevention is key – schedule regular maintenance checks for your mobile home’s roof and plumbing system to avoid future water damage problems. By taking care of leaks promptly and preventing future ones, you’ll ensure that your newly repaired sub-flooring will last for many years without issue.
Step-by-Step Process to Replace Flooring in a Mobile Home
Before you start working on the subfloor, consider the following.
Remove all furniture and appliances from the room where you’ll replace the flooring. Then, use a circular saw to cut around the perimeter of each wall to free up any trapped edges.
Locate joists that may have been damaged by water or pests. Inspect them thoroughly before proceeding with repairs.
Follow the step-by-step procedure below once you’ve located any damaged joists and replaced them with new ones as needed.
Cut the Sub-Floor Out Around the Perimeter of the Room
The first step in replacing the subfloor of your mobile home is to cut it out around the room’s perimeter. This allows you to remove all damaged and rotting material, making way for a fresh start.
First, ensure you have removed any furniture or appliances from the area that could obstruct your work. Then use a circular saw with a diamond blade to carefully cut through the old flooring along the edges of each wall. Be sure to wear protective gear like safety glasses and earplugs when using power tools.
Once you’ve made your cuts, use a pry bar and hammer to remove any nails or screws holding down the subflooring. Start at one end of each board and work toward the other side until they are all loose enough to be lifted up.
If there are areas where the water damage has caused additional rotting or softness in adjacent joists or supports, take extra care not to disturb them further during this process. You may need professional assistance in these cases.
In some instances, entire sections of subfloor will need replacement rather than just cutting out individual planks/boards around walls as discussed above; such full section removals can vary based on factors such as location (e.g., bathroom vs bedroom), the severity of the damage, etc., but often involves removal of more extensive portions – possibly even involving ceiling tiles below if necessary so always consult an expert before attempting more complex repairs alone!
Cut the Sub-Flooring Between the Joists
Once you have cut the sub-flooring out around the room’s perimeter, it’s time to cut between the joists. This step is crucial as it allows for easy removal of damaged subflooring and access to necessary repairs in the joists below.
To make this cut, use a circular saw set to a depth that matches your current subfloor thickness. Start by making parallel cuts every few inches along each joist, creating flooring strips to remove. Then, use a reciprocating saw or handsaw to cut through any remaining sections that are still attached carefully.
Once all sections of damaged subflooring have been removed between the joists, inspect each one for rot or other issues that may require repair before adding insulation and laying down new subflooring.
Inspect and Repair Joists
Joists are responsible for supporting the flooring above them, so your new floor won’t be stable if they’re not in good condition.
Start by scrutinizing each joist. Look for signs of rotting or insect damage. If you find any issues, replace that joist section with a new lumber. Use a saw to cut out the damaged portion and then attach the replacement board with screws.
If there are no visible signs of damage but some areas feel weak or unstable when stepped on, use a level to check for sagging or warping in the joists. You can reinforce these areas by attaching additional framing members alongside them.
Remember to repair damaged joists before installing new subflooring since their structural integrity affects your mobile home’s overall stability and safety. Take time during this step to ensure everything is strong and secure before moving on to insulation and laying down your brand-new subfloor!
Add Insulation
Before adding insulation, measure the space between the joists accurately. You can use fiberglass or foam board insulation for this purpose.
If you’re using fiberglass, wear gloves and a mask to avoid irritation from its fibers. Push it into place between the joists until it’s snugly fit. Avoid compressing it too much, as that could result in reduced effectiveness.
Foam board insulation is cut into pieces and placed between the joists in sections until all spaces are covered. This method provides better results than fiberglass because it doesn’t sag over time, but it can be more expensive.
Remember to insulate only where necessary since over-insulating might lead to moisture buildup and damage to your floor.
Laying the New Sub-Flooring Down
Now that the joists are in good condition, it’s time to lay down the new sub-flooring. This is essential in ensuring a sturdy and safe floor for your mobile home.
Before laying down the new subflooring, measure and cut the pieces to fit precisely between each joist. Take extra care when cutting around corners or obstacles like pipes and vents.
When placing each piece of sub-flooring, be sure to stagger them so that no seams are lining up with one another. This will provide additional strength and stability to your new flooring.
Next, use screws rather than nails to secure the sub-flooring into place. Screws hold better over time, preventing any creaks or squeaks from developing in the future.
Be sure to leave a small gap between each piece of subflooring as you install it. The gap should be about 1/8 inch wide, allowing room for expansion during fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Install the New Floor Covering
With the new subflooring successfully installed, it’s time to cover it with your desired flooring material. Depending on your preference and budget, this can be hardwood, tile, laminate, or carpet.
Before installing the new floor covering, ensure you have properly cleaned the subfloor of any debris left during installation. Sweep or vacuum the area thoroughly so that no sharp objects or dirt particles may damage your new flooring.
If you’re using a floating type of flooring such as laminate or engineered hardwood planks, follow manufacturer instructions when installing them. These floors require an expansion gap around the room’s perimeter to allow for natural movements caused by temperature and humidity changes.
If you’re planning on using tiles as your floor covering option, consider using a cement fiberboard underlayment instead of plywood, as these provide better moisture resistance and stability.
Remember to add baseboards after finishing your new floor covering installation. Baseboards protect walls from scratches while also hiding gaps between them and flooring materials.
Enjoy Your New Floor
After all the hard work and effort you put into repairing your mobile home subfloor, it’s finally time to enjoy your new floor! The feeling of accomplishment that comes with completing a DIY project is unmatched.
Now that the installation process is complete take some time to appreciate your hard work. Walk around on your new floor and test it out for any weak spots or creaks. Make sure everything feels sturdy before moving furniture back in.
Add finishing touches like area rugs or decorative throw pillows to complement the new flooring. You’ll be amazed at how much these little additions can transform the space and make it feel more like home.
Final Thoughts
Repairing the subflooring in your mobile home may seem daunting initially, but with patience and attention to detail, it is achievable as a DIY project. Remember that fixing leaks before starting the repair process will save you time and money in the long run.
Following our step-by-step guide and using the tools and materials listed above, you can successfully replace your mobile home’s subflooring. This will improve the structural integrity of your home and give you a fresh new floor to enjoy for years to come.
What Is The Average Cost Of Mobile Home Flooring Repair In 2023? Unless you are a professional carpenter or a certified floor installer, it is not a DIY project that you can complete if you have a subfloor that needs to be repaired or replaced in your mobile home. A professional company can assess whether your mobile home needs new subfloor panels or if it needs a mobile home subfloor repair.
One of the things to consider when having your mobile home floors repaired is the cost and in this article, we will focus on the cost of repairing the mobile home’s floor.
Mobile homeowners always need floor repairs due to Florida’s subtropical climate. In mobile homes with particle board flooring that doesn’t hold up well to water, sagging and soft floors are usually a result of water damage. Usually, mobile home floor damage is caused by leaks from inside, such as leaky water heaters, leaky toilets, dishwashers, and just plain old spills.
In mobile homes, moisture barrier systems help prevent moisture from affecting the floorboards, preventing the floors from rotting. If your home’s vapor barrier is missing or torn, your subfloor is susceptible to this rotting.
Sealing the wood on your mobile home floor with a vapor barrier can prevent it from becoming exposed and moist. A vapor barrier will also help keep animals and other pests away from the wood.
Mobile home flooring replacement
How much does floor repair cost in Florida?
Even the most well-designed mobile home floors might need repair or replacement. Whether it’s due to a storm, a broken pipe, gradual wear and tear, or some other cause, your mobile home floor might need repair or replacement. Repairing a mobile home floor will cost an average of $3,000 to $5,000.
Assess the extent and cause of damage to your mobile home’s floor before estimating the cost of repairing or replacing it.
What is the cost per square foot of fixing mobile home floors?
In general, repairing mobile home flooring costs between $ 75-$100 per square foot. As with other house floors, mobile home floors are constructed by installing joists, a subfloor over the joists, and visible flooring over the subfloor. The layered approach reduces the need for repair by creating a more stable structure that will withstand normal wear and tear.
Repairing the subfloor typically costs between $2 and $10 per square foot, largely because the materials used aren’t as expensive. On average, joists cost between $10 and $60 per square foot to maintain floor system stability.
The exact cost depends on the damage’s cause and extent and the flooring type. For example, you can easily replace stained carpets and water-damaged laminate, but you’ll have to pay a higher price to replace hardwood flooring. Typically, vinyl costs $0.40 to $2.00 per square foot, while hardwood flooring typically costs $3 to $11 per square foot.
What is the cost of repairing mobile home floors in your area?
A mobile home floor repair project’s cost may vary according to the project is location in Florida. You can expect to pay $1 to $30 per unit for surface floor coverings. You can expect to spend between $120 and $3,600 on a 120-square-foot room. Depending on your location, labor costs range from $25 to $40 per hour.
Vinyl tiles are the most affordable option across the state. Prices start at less than a dollar per square foot, while plywood sheeting can cost almost $40 per four-by-eight-foot board.
What is the cost of repairing mobile home floors yourself?
As long as you don’t need to hire an assistant or subcontractor (or bribe your friend with pizza) to handle your mobile home repair work, you’ll certainly save labor costs. The average price for this type of repair and construction work is between $25 and $50 per hour. Small patches can take two to four hours to repair, while more substantial repairs or replacements can take much longer.
The problem is, that even skilled DIYers may take longer to complete a subfloor or floor repair than an experienced contractor team. You can expect it to take at least a full weekend to repair your damaged floors or subfloors, depending on how extensive it is. Because of this and other reasons, it’s usually best to hire a professional to do this work.
What factors affect the cost of repairing mobile home floors?
Several major factors will determine the cost of repairing a mobile home floor, including the size of the damaged area and the local market and conditions. The most significant impact on the cost is usually the extent of the damaged layers of your mobile home’s flooring and the type of material you use.
The layer of the floor
Typically, your mobile home’s flooring consists of three layers: joists that provide the underlying support, a subfloor, and a covering. You may be able to swap out that visible layer of flooring for less money, whereas replacing joists can be more challenging and expensive.
The cost of repairing a floor covering can range from $200 to $800 while replacing one can cost from $800 to $7,000.
Subfloor repairs cost between $500 and $700 on average while replacing the subfloor costs between $1,800 and $3,000.
Generally, repairing underlying joists will cost $1,000–$10,000, while replacing them will cost $5,000–$20,000.
Surface or subflooring material type
In the event that you have to replace the entire flooring of a room in order to repair the existing damage, you may wonder what type of flooring to use.
Older mobile homes often have subflooring made of plywood or OSB, but newer ones are often made of sturdier materials. When working with moisture-damaged subflooring, it is crucial to find and repair the source of moisture, as well as replace the damaged area of the subfloor. Many use particle boards, which can cause major problems by developing soft spots that can impact the joists.
The size of the repair area
It is typically cheaper to repair a small section of the mobile home floor than a much larger section. You’ll also usually pay more for a proper and thorough repair if the damage extends to the subflooring or even to the joists.
Damaged mobile home subfloor
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my floor needs to be repaired?
It is possible for your floors to wear down faster than normal if they are heavily used (and pawed). If your flooring has large scratches or marks, you may need to consider repairing them. Water damage can lead to soft spots and peeling. Consult a professional for advice if your floor begins to sag.
Tiles that are cracked or have breaks in the grout may indicate subfloor damage. If the floor moves when you walk on it, it’s time to start budgeting.
Is it a good idea to fix the floor of my mobile home myself?
As you can see, the process of repairing your mobile flooring, subfloor, or joists can be quite complex and requires a lot of skill and precision. A small repair, however, can be quite challenging and may require an experienced hand to complete skillfully. DIY repairs to small areas are easier for skilled homeowners than replacement projects.
Therefore, it’s probably best to let the experts handle this one. If you need floor or subfloor repairs in your mobile home, you can hire a local remodeling contractor or flooring company, or you can hire a flooring company or laminate floor installer to replace it.
Do I need to replace or repair my mobile home floor?
This factor is another reason why you might want to leave this job to the professionals rather than attempt to repair or replace your mobile home flooring or subfloor.
The subfloor underneath your laminate or carpet surface flooring can be degraded if it is submerged in water for an extended period or if it completely soaks through. You might be able to repair only the impacted portion of your flooring if it experienced moisture conditions that dried quickly, or if the water was located in a small area.
Is there anything else I should be working on at the same time?
Before tackling any other remodeling or improvement projects in your mobile home, you might want to let your flooring contractor complete the work if you’re replacing the entire floor or just repairing a small portion of it.
It is probably safe to paint or install new appliances or cabinets in other rooms, as long as anyone hired to work on those other tasks won’t have to walk over or through the area to repair or replace them. The Mobile Home Dealer is not a professional floor installer company nor provide flooring repair and replacement services. If, however, you are selling your mobile home and think that the flooring needs to be repaired or replaced, you may contact us for assistance.
