How Much to Paint a Double Wide Mobile Home? Real Cost Breakdown: 1 Minute to Estimate Your Mobile Home Painting Budget—Save Time & Avoid Costly Mistakes

Wondering how much to paint a double wide mobile home? I get this question a lot, especially from fellow small-space dwellers who want a fresh look without breaking the bank. After helping dozens of families revitalize their mobile homes—including some weekend warrior projects with just a paintbrush and sheer grit—I’ve found that price depends on more than just square footage. In fact, figuring out how much paint your double wide will need is only half the battle.

Besides cost, most folks worry: Do I need pros or is DIY enough for my skill level? And is it really worth it? Figuring out the reality of taking on this project yourself can be as tricky as laying out each room to maximize functionality. Let’s dive into the true cost (money, time, and energy), plus get honest about hidden expenses most guides never mention.

Understanding the Cost to Paint a Double Wide Mobile Home

On average, painting a double wide mobile home exterior runs anywhere from $1,500 to $4,500 when you hire professionals in the US. DIY costs are typically lower—expect $500 to $1,400 if you supply your own elbow grease. The disparity comes from home size (most double wides are 1,000–2,400 square feet), paint quality, repair needs, and whether you need special equipment (think: sprayers, scaffolding, or even just endless masking tape).

In my last project, we chose mid-grade exterior latex (about $50/gallon), tackled the 1,200 sq. ft. home in a long weekend, and our all-in total was just under $900 (including some urgent caulking in rainy-season Los Angeles). If your home’s siding needs repairs or stripping first, budget an extra $300–$900 depending on materials.

Cost Factors in Mobile Home Painting

Let’s break down why there’s so much variance in painting costs for mobile homes:

- **Paint type and finish:** Higher-end paints last longer and withstand UV, but can double your per-gallon price.

- **Preparation required:** Power washing, sanding, caulking, and minor repairs may eat up unexpected dollars. Those “quick” weekend touchups often balloon if mold or peeling turns up.

- **Labor vs. DIY:** Pros bring their own tools, often finish faster, and warranty their work. DIY saves, but your sweat equity is worth considering—plan for 3–5 days if working solo.

Unexpected Expenses (and Personal Mistakes to Avoid)

Here’s what the tutorials don’t tell you: leftover paint disposal, paint primer, and solid ladders add up. I once forgot to factor in trim paint, which meant a panicked extra trip to the store (pro tip: always buy a quart more than you think!). Plus, mobile homes with old metal siding need special primer for lasting results.

If your home’s exterior is textured or corrugated, trust me, you’ll use 10–20% more paint than “flat surface” calculators suggest. For a more detailed calculation, try to visualize the surfaces that need coating in advance.

Case Study: Painting on a Budget

Meet the Garcias, who loved their double wide but dreaded its dated yellow facade. With two teens and a tight schedule, they went DIY. Total cost: $1,150—thanks to paint on sale and reused ladders. Their biggest win? Doing prep on weeknights and streaming a favorite playlist to keep motivation high. They finished in four days, splurged on cheerful navy blue, and say it made their home feel brand new.

Lesson: Cost savings come from hustle, careful prep, and buying supplies off-season, not just from skipping contractors.

How to Plan—and Save—on Your Double Wide Paint Job

Measure accurately, research your siding type, and don’t forget the primer. For tight budgets, split the project by elevation—tackle one “face” of the home each weekend. Always factor in weather delays and drying times. If you’re just repainting interiors, expect a lower range: $700–$1,800, depending on how deeply you plan to refresh each room.

FAQ

How do I calculate the paint needed for my double wide mobile home?

Measure wall lengths and heights, multiply to get square footage, divide by paint coverage (per gallon). Account for extra on textured surfaces.

Should I hire a professional or DIY to paint my mobile home?

If you’re comfortable with repairs and ladder work, DIY can save money. Hire pros for faster, consistent results or tricky surfaces.

Does the type of siding affect painting cost?

Yes—aluminum, vinyl, or wood require different primers or treatments. Corrugated and textured siding need more paint and time.

How long does a painted exterior last on a mobile home?

With quality paint and prep, expect 7–10 years before a full repaint is needed.

Conclusion: Ready to Transform Your Double Wide?

Painting a double wide mobile home can be affordable and rewarding if you plan ahead—and budget for the small stuff. Don’t let fear of hidden costs stop you; measure up, price your supplies, and let creativity lead. Curious about the right prep and color combos? Share your biggest painting question below, and I’ll help you brainstorm solutions for your space!