How to Replace the Ceiling Tiles in a Single-Wide Trailer

Among the differences between a standard house and a mobile or trailer home is the way the ceilings are designed and the materials used in their construction. Many mobile home ceilings are comprised of long panel tiles that span the width of the room. Over time, these tiles may start to sag or suffer other damage due to water leakage, for example. Removing and replacing the tiles requires some skill and effort.

Replacement ceiling panels
Batten and molding strips
Screwdriver
Tape measure
Utility knife
1 1/4th-inch drywall screws
Rosettes
Hammer and nails

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the existing panels to be replaced. Pry off the batten and molding strips and any rosettes from between the panels. Remove any nails or screws holding the panels to the trusses of the roof. Cut the panels into sections with a utility knife to make them more manageable if needed.
- 2
  Obtain replacement tile panels of the same texture and thickness as your current panels, unless you are replacing all the panels. Matching the color is not as important, as you can always paint later. Replace only the damaged sections of the panels, if you wish to purchase shorter panels, saving money and the hassle of hauling the larger full panels.
- 3
  Measure and cut the replacement panels, if necessary, to fit into the space vacated by the old panels. Check the trusses for any nails or screws sticking out before installing the new panels and remove any that are found.
- 4
  Lift a new panel into place and anchor it to the truss with drywall screws. Space screws roughly 18 inches apart in the center of the truss. Place a rosette over each screw to cover the head.
- 5
  Add and secure the batten and molding strips between the panels and at the edge of the wall, nailing them into place.

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Ceilings