Category: Interior Projects

Updating the cabinets in your mobile home can transform the look and feel of your kitchen and bathroom without a significant investment. This DIY guide will provide budget-friendly ideas and step-by-step instructions for modernizing and enhancing the functionality of your cabinets.

Materials and Tools Needed

• Screwdriver
• Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
• Wood filler
• Primer
• Paint or stain
• Paintbrushes and rollers
• Painter’s tape
• Cabinet hardware (handles and knobs)
• Drop cloths or old sheets
• Cleaning supplies (soap, water, degreaser)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation

a. Clear the Area:

• • Remove all items from the cabinets and drawers.
  • Cover countertops, floors, and nearby appliances with drop cloths to protect them from dust and paint.

b. Remove Cabinet Doors and Hardware:

• • Use a screwdriver to remove the doors from the cabinets.
  • Remove all handles, knobs, and hinges. Keep screws and small parts in a labeled container for easy reassembly.

2. Cleaning and Sanding

a. Clean the Cabinets:

• • • Thoroughly clean the cabinet surfaces with soap and water to remove dirt and grease.
    • For stubborn grease, use a degreaser. Allow the cabinets to dry completely.

b. Sand the Surfaces:

• • • Lightly sand the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and frames using medium-grit sandpaper. This helps the primer and paint adhere better.
    • Fill any holes or dents with wood filler. Once dry, sand the filled areas until smooth.

3. Priming

a. Apply Primer:

• • • Use a brush or roller to apply a coat of primer to all cabinet surfaces. Primer helps cover any stains and provides a smooth surface for painting.
    • Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Painting or Staining

a. Paint or Stain the Cabinets:

• • • Choose a high-quality paint or stain for a durable finish. For a modern look, opt for neutral colors like white, gray, or navy.
    • Apply the paint or stain in thin, even coats. Use a brush for detailed areas and a roller for larger surfaces.
    • Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next one. Typically, two to three coats are needed for full coverage.

5. Reassembling

a. Reattach the Doors and Hardware:

• • • Once the paint or stain is completely dry, reattach the cabinet doors and hardware.
    • Consider upgrading the handles and knobs for a fresh, modern look. There are plenty of budget-friendly options available in various styles and finishes.

6. Finishing Touches

a. Final Adjustments:

• • • Check the alignment of the cabinet doors and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they close properly.
    • Clean up any paint drips or touch-up areas as needed.

b. Add Shelf Liners:

• • • Consider adding shelf liners to the inside of your cabinets and drawers for added functionality and a finished look.

Budget-Friendly Tips

1. 1. Repurpose Old Hardware:
      • Clean and spray paint your existing hardware for a fresh look without the cost of buying new pieces.
   2. Use Peel-and-Stick Tiles:
      • For a quick and easy upgrade, apply peel-and-stick tiles to the inside of your cabinets or as a backsplash.
   3. Add Open Shelving:
      • Remove some cabinet doors to create open shelving for a more modern and airy feel. Use baskets and containers to keep items organized.
   4. Decorative Molding:
      • Add decorative molding to plain cabinet doors for a more custom and high-end appearance.

Updating cabinets in your mobile home is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly enhance the overall look of your kitchen and bathroom. By following these steps and incorporating budget-friendly tips, you can achieve a modern, functional, and beautiful space that reflects your personal style. Happy renovating!

Mobile homes offer a unique and flexible living solution, but they often face challenges when it comes to energy efficiency. Weatherproofing your mobile home can significantly reduce energy costs, increase comfort, and protect your home from the elements. Here are some practical DIY tips to help you weatherproof your mobile home and improve its energy efficiency.

1. Seal Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are common sources of drafts in mobile homes. Ensuring they are properly sealed can prevent heat loss in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer.

• Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping around the frames of windows and doors. This material can be found at most hardware stores and is easy to install.
• Caulking: Use a high-quality exterior caulk to seal any gaps or cracks around windows and doors. Focus on the areas where the frame meets the wall.
• Draft Stoppers: For doors, consider using draft stoppers or door sweeps. These can be attached to the bottom of doors to block drafts.

2. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a consistent temperature in your mobile home.

• Underbelly Insulation: Check the insulation under your mobile home. Adding or replacing insulation in this area can make a big difference. Use insulation rated for your climate zone.
• Wall Insulation: If your mobile home’s walls are thin, consider adding additional insulation. This might involve removing paneling or drywall to insert more insulation material.
• Window Insulation Kits: In colder climates, window insulation kits can be used to cover windows with a clear plastic film, reducing heat loss.

3. Address Roof and Siding

The roof and siding of your mobile home also play a significant role in energy efficiency.

• Roof Coating: Apply a reflective roof coating to reduce heat absorption. This can help keep your home cooler in the summer and protect your roof from the elements.
• Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect your roof for leaks or damage. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water damage and heat loss.
• Siding Maintenance: Ensure your siding is in good condition. Replace any damaged sections and seal any gaps or cracks.

4. Skirting and Ventilation

The area beneath your mobile home can also impact energy efficiency.

• Skirting: Install or repair skirting around the base of your mobile home. Skirting helps to reduce drafts and can protect the underbelly insulation from moisture and pests.
• Ventilation: Ensure there is adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can damage insulation and create a cold environment. Use vents that can be closed in the winter and opened in the summer.

5. Utilize Thermal Curtains and Blinds

Thermal curtains and blinds can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your windows.

• Thermal Curtains: These are made from heavy materials that help to insulate windows. They can keep heat in during the winter and block out the sun in the summer.
• Reflective Blinds: Reflective blinds can help reduce heat gain from the sun. Use these in rooms that receive a lot of direct sunlight.

6. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Finally, consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and systems.

• Heating and Cooling: If your heating and cooling systems are old, they may be less efficient. Upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient system can save money in the long run.
• Energy Star Appliances: Look for appliances with the Energy Star label, which are designed to be more energy-efficient.

Weatherproofing your mobile home 

Weatherproofing your mobile home is a worthwhile investment that can lead to significant savings on energy bills and increased comfort throughout the year. By sealing windows and doors, adding insulation, maintaining the roof and siding, addressing the area beneath your home, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, you can create a more energy-efficient and comfortable living space.

Start with these DIY tips and enjoy the benefits of a weatherproofed mobile home!

If you own a mobile, manufactured or modular home, you understand the importance of maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. Optimal air quality and regulated indoor temperatures start with a reliable HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. However, choosing the right HVAC system for your mobile home can be a complex decision. Some of the factors that can impact your decision-making may be: the size of your home, your home’s energy efficiency, and choosing which HVAC system is most cost-effective. 

In this buyer’s guide, we will explore the different types of HVAC systems suitable for mobile homes and provide insights into how to choose the best system for your specific needs.

Types of HVAC Systems for Mobile Homes

There are several types of HVAC systems available for mobile homes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore the most common types:

Central Air Conditioning and Heat: This is one of the most common HVAC systems for mobile homes. It consists of a central air conditioning unit and a furnace, which can be either gas or electric. This system provides efficient heating and cooling throughout the home, and it can be connected to a ductwork system for even distribution of air.

Heat Pump: A heat pump is a versatile option that can provide both heating and cooling. It works by transferring heat between the inside and outside of the home. Heat pumps are energy-efficient and can help reduce utility costs, making them a popular choice for mobile homeowners.

Ductless Mini-Split System: Ductless mini-split systems are ideal for mobile homes that lack ductwork. These systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air handlers. Each air handler can be independently controlled, allowing you to set different temperatures in different rooms. This can lead to greater energy efficiency and cost savings.

Packaged HVAC System: Packaged systems are all-in-one units that contain both heating and cooling components. These systems are typically installed outside the home and connected to ductwork. Packaged systems are compact and convenient, making them suitable for mobile homes with limited space.

Key Considerations When Choosing an HVAC System

When selecting an HVAC system for your mobile home, consider the following factors:

Size of Your Home: The size of your mobile home will determine the capacity of the HVAC system you need. A system that is too small will struggle to heat or cool your home effectively, while a system that is too large may lead to higher energy costs and inefficiency.

Energy Efficiency: Look for systems with high energy efficiency ratings, such as SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for air conditioners and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for heat pumps. Higher ratings indicate better energy efficiency and lower operating costs.

Installation Requirements: Consider the installation process and whether your mobile home already has existing ductwork. Ductless mini-split systems are a great option if your home lacks ductwork.

Budget: Your budget will play a significant role in your decision. While more efficient systems may have a higher upfront cost, they can lead to long-term savings on utility bills. Consider the overall cost-effectiveness of the system over its lifespan.

Maintenance and Service: Choose a system that is easy to maintain and comes with good warranty coverage. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.

Making the Final Decision

When you have considered all of these factors, you can feel confident to make your decision. Consult with our team of professional HVAC experts at General Supply Inc. who can help you evaluate your options and recommend the best system for your mobile, manufactured or modular home. We are also here to assist with installation and maintenance, with benefits including our 24/7 HVAC Maintenance Service. 

Choosing the right HVAC system for your mobile home is an investment that impacts your comfort and quality of living. Be sure to carefully consider the factors that may impact your decision making so that you are well prepared to explore the HVAC choices in front of you and make the most sound decision for your home. 

Mobile homes offer a unique living experience, but they also come with their own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Whether you’re facing scorching summers or chilly winters, a malfunctioning HVAC system can disrupt your comfort and well-being. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most common HVAC issues in mobile homes and provide practical troubleshooting tips to help you address them before seeking professional help.

Inadequate Heating or Cooling

Issue: One of the most prevalent problems in mobile homes is inadequate heating or cooling, which can be caused by various factors such as improper insulation, duct leaks, or an undersized HVAC unit.

Solutions:

• Check Insulation: Ensure that your mobile home is adequately insulated. Poor insulation can lead to heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, making it difficult for your HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature.

• Inspect Air Filters: Dirty or clogged air filters restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency of your HVAC system. Regularly check and replace air filters every one to three months to ensure optimal performance.

• Seal Ductwork: Leaky ducts can result in air loss, diminishing the effectiveness of your HVAC system. Inspect ducts for leaks and seal them using duct sealant or metal-backed tape.

Uneven Temperature Distribution

Issue: Uneven temperature distribution is a common complaint in mobile homes, with certain areas feeling too hot or too cold compared to others.

Solutions:

• Check Vents: Ensure that all vents are open and unobstructed. Blocked vents can disrupt airflow and result in uneven temperature distribution.

• Adjust Dampers: Some mobile homes are equipped with dampers in the ductwork to regulate airflow. Adjust the dampers to balance the airflow and improve temperature consistency throughout the home.

• Consider Supplemental Heating or Cooling: In areas with persistent temperature discrepancies, consider using supplemental heating or cooling solutions such as space heaters or portable air conditioners to augment your HVAC system.

Noisy HVAC Operation

Issue: Unusual noises emanating from your HVAC system can indicate underlying issues such as loose components, debris accumulation, or mechanical problems.

Solutions:

• Inspect Outdoor Unit: Clear any debris, such as leaves or branches, from the outdoor unit. Accumulated debris can obstruct airflow and cause the system to work harder, resulting in increased noise levels.

• Tighten Loose Components: Check for loose screws, bolts, or panels in the HVAC system and tighten them as necessary. Loose components can vibrate during operation, leading to noise.

• Schedule Maintenance: Regular maintenance by a qualified HVAC technician can prevent potential problems and ensure smooth, quiet operation. Schedule annual inspections and tune-ups to keep your HVAC system in top condition.

Frequent Cycling On and Off

Issue: If your HVAC system frequently cycles on and off, it may indicate issues such as thermostat problems, dirty coils, or refrigerant leaks.

Solutions:

• Check Thermostat Settings: Verify that your thermostat is set to the appropriate temperature and mode (cooling or heating). Incorrect settings can cause the system to cycle unnecessarily.

• Clean Condenser Coils: Dirty condenser coils can impair heat transfer and cause the system to overheat, leading to frequent cycling. Clean the coils using a coil cleaner and a soft brush.

• Inspect for Refrigerant Leaks: If you suspect a refrigerant leak, contact a professional HVAC technician for inspection and repair. Refrigerant leaks not only affect system performance but can also pose health and environmental hazards.

By addressing these common HVAC issues in your mobile home promptly, you can optimize comfort, improve energy efficiency, and prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system. However, if troubleshooting steps fail to resolve the problem or if you encounter complex issues beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a licensed HVAC technician like our HVAC team here at General Supply Inc. With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your mobile home remains a haven of comfort all year round! 

Winter’s arrival signals a time of frosty mornings and snow-covered landscapes, bringing with it the need to prepare our mobile homes for the challenges of the cold season. Mobile homes, due to their construction, may require specific attention to safeguard against freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. To get prepared for the changing season, check out these key steps to winterize your mobile home:

1. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

One of the most crucial tasks is preventing your pipes from freezing. Insulate pipes in vulnerable areas, such as the underside of your home, to guard against freezing temperatures. Consider using heat tape or pipe insulation and allow faucets to drip slightly during severe cold snaps to prevent pipe damage.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Combatting cold drafts is essential in maintaining warmth. Apply weatherstripping or caulking around windows and doors to block cold air from seeping into your mobile home. Consider using window insulation kits or heavy-duty plastic to add an extra layer of protection.

3. Manage Heavy Snowfall

Heavy snow can pose risks to the exterior of your mobile home. Regularly clear snow from the roof to prevent excessive weight that may lead to structural damage. Additionally, watch for icicles forming along the roofline, as they could indicate potential ice dam issues.

4. Skirting and Insulation

Ensure your mobile home’s skirting is intact and well-insulated. Skirting helps prevent cold air from reaching the underside of your home, protecting pipes and insulation. Inspect for any damages or gaps in the skirting and make necessary repairs.

5. Maintain Heat and Insulation

Keep your home comfortably heated throughout the winter. Check your heating system regularly to ensure it’s functioning optimally. Consider adding extra insulation in attics, floors, and walls to retain warmth and lower energy costs.

6. Prepare for Power Outages

Be ready for potential power outages during heavy snowfall or severe weather. Stock up on emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, and water to stay prepared.

Winterizing your mobile home is crucial for staying warm, safe, and secure during freezing temperatures and snowfall. By taking proactive measures to protect your pipes, block cold drafts, manage heavy snow, and maintain adequate insulation and heating, you can ensure a comfortable and worry-free winter season.

At GSI, we understand the unique challenges mobile homeowners face in winter. We hope these tips assist you in preparing your mobile home to withstand the icy grip of winter and keep you snug and safe throughout the season.

Stay warm and enjoy the magic of winter from the comfort of your mobile home!

Winter in Indiana is cold, and you don’t want your furnace to fail! When it’s frosty outside, it pays to have a heating pro on speed dial. In this blog, we’ll go over signs your furnace needs a tune-up, how to choose the right HVAC company for the job, and a shameless plug for Indiana’s best furnace repair company (that’s us!).

Signs Your Furnace Needs a Tune-Up

If your mobile home furnace needs a repair or replacement during the winter, YOU WILL KNOW! It’s important to keep an Indiana HVAC specialist’s number close by in case any of the following happen to your manufactured home in the middle of winter:

• Your energy bills keep going up
• The vents are blowing cold air, even when the heat is on
• A strong odor that reminds you of gas or burning is coming from your furnace
• Your home’s thermostat seems way off
• The HVAC unit is rattling, hissing, or clicking
• The furnace is regularly breaking down or not working
• Your unit is 10+ years old
• Temperatures throughout your home are inconsistent 

If any of these are happening in your mobile home, it’s time to call in the experts! Keep reading to find out why General Supply Inc. is the right team for the job!

Is General Supply Inc. Right for the Job?

Choosing an Indianapolis furnace repair specialist is important! Your family depends on comfortable temperatures, which is why no matter what brand of heating equipment you have, General Supply Inc. can service it! When you choose General Supply Inc., you NEVER have to wonder if we can handle your HVAC system.

Winter furnace issues are no match for our Indiana HVAC specialists! Our quality customer service representatives and HVAC specialists have been taking care of Indianapolis manufactured home owners for over 25 years and are here to answer any questions you may have about the heating unit in your mobile or manufactured home. Plus, our furnace repair team is IN-HOUSE, which means quick turn-around-times so you can get back to cozying up on the couch with the heat turned up.

Indianapolis Furnace Repair Specialists

We are honored to be trusted as Indiana’s best furnace repair company. At General Supply Inc., we are committed to keeping your furnace up and running in your manufactured home so your family can stay warm, especially on those frigid Indiana nights! 

Don’t forget, our HVAC specialists are here for you! Contact us with any questions you have about your furnace today!

 

When thinking about the cost of a furnace for your mobile home, there are many factors to consider. The cost of comfort, the cost of peace of mind, the cost of maintenance, and ultimately, the cost of a repair, should you need one. 

In this blog, our Indiana HVAC specialists are going to walk you through how much a furnace for a mobile home really costs. 

The Cost of Comfort

When cold Indiana winters arrive, the last thing you want is for your family to be left in the cold due to a malfunctioning furnace! Comfort during harsh seasons is a non-negotiable. After all, your mobile home is HOME, and your HVAC unit should be doing the job of keeping your family comfortable.

The Cost of Peace of Mind

Nothing beats peace of mind. Conducting regular maintenance on your mobile home’s HVAC system, twice a year in the spring and fall, can save your furnace from going down, and give you the peace of mind you deserve during long, chilly nights.

The Cost of Maintenance

As an Indiana HVAC company, we know maintenance on your furnace can be costly, but we also know that an all-new HVAC system is much costlier. Investing in the maintenance of your mobile home’s furnace throughout the year ensures that your unit can serve your family for years to come.

The Cost of Replacing Your Furnace

Are you on the fence about a new unit? Here are a few signs your HVAC unit might need a repair or replacement:

• Your furnace is breaking down
• Your energy bills keep increasing
• Your HVAC system is 10+ years old
• Your unit is making hissing or clicking noises
• You are experiencing inconsistent temperatures throughout your home

If you notice any one of these is happening to your furnace, it’s time to call an HVAC expert. At General Supply Inc, we strive to be affordable and serve our community well! We offer payment plans and financing options for those who qualify.

General Supply Inc. is proud to be Indiana’s top HVAC service provider since 1993. Our team has a combined 100+ years of service experience within the manufactured housing industry and are committed to offering affordable HVAC services using on-site HVAC specialists. We don’t compromise on quality and we won’t leave you in the COLD!

Call us today to schedule your maintenance, repair, or HVAC installation.

Summer is here, and DIY projects are heating up! (literally) If you’re an Indiana mobile homeowner looking to upgrade your space this summer, then keep reading to see our 3 tips you need to know before starting on your DIY project. 

Customize Your Mobile Home

Your mobile home is your sanctuary, which means it should be designed how you like! At General Supply Inc, we have a wide range of materials, finishes, and fixtures that are designed specifically for manufactured homes. Whether you want new skirting, sturdier doors, custom trim, or a large interior remodel, we have the expertise and resources to guide you through the DIY customization process!

At General Supply Inc., we know that your mobile home deserves to run efficiently and look good while doing it. That’s why we are always happy to provide you with guidance on the best path to installation, maintenance, and making upgrades when it suits you. Contact our team to learn more about DIY projects for your mobile home!

Plan Your DIY Budget

The first step of any DIY project? Figure out your budget! The experienced team at General Supply INC can help manufactured homeowners like you estimate the time, value, and cost of your DIY project. 

We want the DIY process to be enjoyable and financially manageable for you. Meeting with one of our team members to talk about your next project can help you avoid unexpected costs and unnecessary challenges! Do DIY right and contact us first.

Know Your Limits 

Let’s get one thing straight… we LOVE DIY projects.

DIY projects are exciting, rewarding, and often turn out exactly as intended… if you know what you’re doing. 

When planning a DIY project for your mobile home, it’s important to know the limits of your skills and capabilities. The last thing we want is for you to get in over your head, and abandon the project altogether!

General Supply Inc can help you set realistic expectations about which tasks are perfect for DIY work, and which ones are more suitable for the pros. Our team wants you to stay safe, and eliminate any costly mistakes.

Set yourself up for DIY success by talking with the pros at General Supply Inc first!