Why Do Mobile Homes Not Use Drywall?

Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, typically do not use traditional drywall due to a combination of factors including cost-effectiveness, durability during transport, ease of installation, and maintenance benefits. Instead, they often utilize pre-finished panels, commonly Vinyl-Over-Gypsum (VOG), which offer distinct advantages for their unique construction and delivery methods.

Key Reasons for Alternative Wall Materials

The choice of wall material in manufactured homes is a strategic decision influenced by the specific requirements of their production and use.

1. Cost Efficiency and Affordability

One of the primary drivers for opting out of traditional drywall is cost. Drywall installation is a multi-step, labor-intensive process involving hanging sheets, taping seams, applying multiple layers of joint compound (mudding), sanding, and finally painting. This extensive labor significantly increases the overall cost.

• Lower Material & Labor Costs: Pre-finished panels like VOG are generally more affordable to purchase and much quicker to install in a factory setting.
• Reduced Finishing Time: Since VOG panels come with a finished surface, there's no need for the time-consuming taping, mudding, sanding, or painting required for drywall. This streamlines the manufacturing process, contributing to the overall affordability of the home. If you're working with a smaller budget, the cost savings of these materials can be a deciding factor.

2. Durability and Transport Considerations

Manufactured homes are built in a factory and then transported to their final location, often over long distances. This transportation process can subject the structure to significant vibrations and stresses.

• Resistance to Cracking: Traditional drywall is rigid and brittle, making it highly susceptible to cracking and damage from the flexing and shifting that occurs during transport.
• Flexibility of Panels: Materials like VOG panels, which are often installed in larger, more flexible sheets, are better able to withstand these movements without cracking or incurring damage, ensuring the home arrives in good condition.

3. Ease of Installation in Factory Settings

The assembly line nature of manufactured home construction benefits from materials that allow for rapid and efficient installation.

• Streamlined Process: Pre-finished panels can be quickly attached to the studs, significantly reducing the time and labor involved compared to the traditional drywall process. This efficiency is crucial for maintaining production schedules and cost targets.
• Less Mess: Drywall installation creates a significant amount of dust from sanding, which can be a challenge in a factory environment. Panel systems produce much less debris.

4. Maintenance and Moisture Resistance

The materials used in mobile homes are also chosen for their practical advantages in terms of upkeep and resilience.

• Easy to Clean: Vinyl surfaces are exceptionally easy to clean. They do not absorb liquids like painted drywall, meaning spills and marks can typically be wiped away with a damp cloth. This makes them more practical for everyday living and contributes to their longevity.
• Moisture Resistance: The non-porous nature of vinyl makes these walls more resistant to moisture absorption, which can be beneficial in areas prone to humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens. This helps prevent issues like mold and mildew growth that can be more prevalent with traditional drywall if it gets wet.

Comparison: Drywall vs. VOG Panels

Here's a quick comparison highlighting the key differences:

In summary, while traditional drywall offers a different aesthetic and feel, the practical benefits of materials like VOG panels in terms of cost, durability, installation efficiency, and maintenance make them the preferred choice for manufactured homes.