Primary Wall Types Found in Mobile Homes

All of our new construction manufactured homes can be customized to enhance the design, quality, and aesthetics beyond typical color finishes. One of the most impactful (and most commonly requested) ways to customize your home is to choose the type of wall finish used in your home. Manufactured homes typically feature a variety of wall options, ranging from traditional drywall to more modern alternatives like paneling or textured finishes. Each wall type offers different benefits in terms of durability, insulation, and overall appearance, allowing you to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and preferences. We explain the types and key differences in the article below.

VOG (Vinyl-Over-Gypsum) Wallboard

VOG is a type of wall consisting of panels (gypsum board) with a layer of vinyl covering the surface. These panels are installed in sections, with the seams covered in wooden strips called battens.

Advantages of VOG Walls

• Affordability: VOG walls are cost-effective because the pre-finished panels save labor time during installation.
• Easy Maintenance: The vinyl coating makes the walls resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture making them easy to clean.
• Quick Installation: Utilizing the batten strips to hide the seams makes VOG panels easy and quick to install.

Tape and Texture (Floated Sheetrock)

Tape and Texture walls involve installing drywall panels, taping the seams between them, applying joint compound, and then sanding them to create a smooth, seamless surface. A textured finish is often applied afterward, especially on ceilings. This type of wall can be easily painted afterward.

Advantages of Tape and Texture Walls

• Seamless finish: One of the main draws of tape and texture walls is the smooth, seamless look.
• Customizable: Utilizing drywall makes it easier to paint to customize your walls to match your preferred aesthetic.
• Higher Perceived Value: Homes with tape and texture have a more upscale appearance, which can increase the home's resale value.

Key Differences Between VOG and Tape and Texture Walls

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between VOG and tape and texture walls largely depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and future plans for your home.

• Choose VOG Walls if you’re looking for an affordable, low-maintenance option and don’t mind visible seams or limited customization. They’re ideal for homeowners who want a budget-friendly, easy-to-clean finish that doesn’t require frequent updates.
• Choose Tape and Texture Walls if you prefer a more traditional, seamless look and are willing to invest more in the installation process. If you enjoy redecorating and want the flexibility to repaint or change the wall texture in the future, tape and texture walls are the better option. They also provide a more polished appearance and can increase your home’s value.

Additional Wall Types

Other less common wall types include:

• Paneling: Often made of wood, MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard), or laminate, paneling is a common wall type in older or budget-friendly manufactured homes. It’s easy to install and can be customized with different finishes. While it’s affordable, it doesn’t provide as much insulation as drywall or VOG, and it may be less durable over time, especially in high-humidity areas.
• Textured Walls: Some manufactured homes come with textured wall finishes, such as knockdown, orange peel, or stucco-style textures. These textures are applied to drywall or plaster to create a more aesthetic finish. The level of insulation would still depend on the material beneath the texture, but textured walls often add a higher-end look compared to flat drywall.
• Fiberglass Reinforced Panels (FRP): Used in areas that require more moisture resistance (such as bathrooms and kitchens), FRP panels are highly durable and easy to clean. They are made of fiberglass and resin, providing a smooth, washable surface, but they don't offer significant thermal insulation on their own.
• Plaster: Although less common today, some older manufactured homes feature plaster walls. Plaster is more durable and can offer better sound insulation compared to drywall, but it can be more expensive to repair and harder to install.
• Composite Wall Panels: Some newer manufactured homes use composite materials like fiberglass or PVC-coated panels, which combine durability and moisture resistance. These panels are typically found in specific regions or models and can offer enhanced insulation properties, depending on the material used.
• Bonus: Accent Walls
  Accent walls featuring shiplap, brick, bead board, or board and batten can be added during the customization process. Options vary based on floorplan and factory, so speak to your home consultant to see what options are available.

Both VOG and tape and texture wall finishes offer distinct benefits and trade-offs. While VOG walls are economical and practical, tape and texture walls provide a more refined, residential look with greater design flexibility. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision and create the ideal space in your manufactured home that suits your lifestyle and preferences.