32×74 Exterior Door for Mobile Home: A Complete Guide
Replacing or upgrading the exterior door of your mobile home is an essential part of maintaining both the aesthetic and security of your property. Mobile home doors, specifically the 32×74 size, are popular for their practicality, precise fit, and compatibility with most single-wide models. Choosing the right door is critical to ensuring a snug fit, long-lasting durability, and ease of use. For mobile homeowners, the inswing mechanism, material quality, and design style are key factors when selecting the ideal door.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about 32×74 exterior doors for mobile homes, covering features, pricing, types of inswing mechanisms, and replacement tips. Whether you’re shopping for a new door, looking to save by purchasing a used one, or planning a DIY replacement, this article will ensure you make an informed decision.
Features of 32×74 Exterior Mobile Home Doors
Exterior doors for mobile homes are specifically designed to fit the unique dimensions and requirements of manufactured housing. The 32×74 exterior door is one of the most common sizes for single-wide mobile homes and offers several distinct features.
Key Dimensions
The measurement 32 inches wide by 74 inches tall is smaller than traditional residential doors but ideal for mobile homes due to their more compact layouts. These doors are meant to fit snugly into the pre-existing door frame of your home, reducing the risk of drafts, leaks, or structural issues. Always confirm the exact measurements of your door opening before purchasing, as even a slight deviation can lead to improper fit.
Material Options
Modern exterior mobile home doors come in a variety of materials to accommodate different climates, budgets, and preferences:
- Steel Doors: Excellent for security and durability, steel doors are long-lasting and resistant to dents.
- Vinyl-Coated Doors: Commonly used in mobile homes due to their affordability and easy maintenance.
- Wood Doors: Provide a classic aesthetic but can be more susceptible to weather damage.
- Fiberglass Doors: Lightweight, durable, and resistant to external elements, making them a versatile choice.
Inswing Functionality
The inswing mechanism is another key feature of mobile home exterior doors. A 32×74 exterior mobile home door inswing allows the door to open inward, which is the standard choice for protecting the home’s interior from external elements.
Types of Inswing Doors
The inswing direction refers to how the door opens inside the home. There are two main types of inswing doors for 32×74 exterior mobile home doors, each with specific advantages:
1. Right-Hand Inswing
A 32×74 exterior door right-hand inswing opens inward to the right when you face the door from the exterior. This option is preferred when space on the left side of the entryway is obstructed, providing smooth access.
2. Left-Hand Inswing
A 32×74 exterior door left-hand inswing does the opposite—it opens to the left when viewed from the outside. This inswing option is useful if the right side of the entry is occupied by furniture, walls, or other fixtures.
Understanding the layout of your entryway is crucial in determining whether a right-hand or left-hand inswing door is best suited for your mobile home. Selecting the wrong inswing configuration could lead to functionality issues or require costly adjustments to the doorway.
Comparative Table of Door Types and Costs
The following table summarizes different door types, their inswing functions, and average price ranges. This will help you quickly compare options when deciding on a door that aligns with your budget and specific needs.
| Door Type | Inswing Direction | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Door (Basic) | Right Hand Inswing | $150 – $250 |
| Steel Door (Premium) | Left Hand Inswing | $400 – $600 |
| Fiberglass Door | Right Hand Inswing | $300 – $500 |
| Vinyl-Coated Door | Left Hand Inswing | $100 – $200 |
| Wood Door | Right Hand Inswing | $250 – $400 |
| Energy-Efficient Door | Right Hand Inswing | $400 – $700 |
| Decorative Glass Door | Left Hand Inswing | $500 – $800 |
| Storm Door Included | Right Hand Inswing | $350 – $550 |
| Used Steel Door | Left Hand Inswing | $50 – $150 |
| Used Vinyl Door | Right Hand Inswing | $30 – $80 |
Key Observations
- Material Choices: Premium materials and features like decorative glass or energy efficiency significantly increase costs.
- Used Options: For buyers on a strict budget, used mobile home exterior doors 32×74 inswing can offer a more affordable solution. However, inspect thoroughly for damage or wear before purchase.
- Prices for Left vs. Right Inswing: Whether the door comes as a 32×74 exterior door right-hand inswing or left-hand inswing rarely affects pricing unless customizations are involved.
Knowing these options allows buyers to weigh their needs—for example, someone in a cooler climate may prioritize energy-efficient or storm doors, while others may lean toward used budget options for cost savings.
Pricing and Availability
The 32×74 exterior door for mobile home price varies depending on the type, material, and additional features selected. Here’s what you can expect.
New Doors
- Basic Vinyl-Coated Doors: Start at $100 and can go up to $200.
- Mid-Range Steel Doors (standard durability): Retail for around $150 to $400.
- Premium Fiberglass Doors: Range from $400 to $700, offering better insulation and longevity.
Used Doors
Used options are popular for their affordability and can easily be found by searching “32×74 exterior door for mobile home near me” online. Pricing typically ranges between $30 and $150, depending on wear and tear.
Where to Buy
- Specialized Mobile Home Stores: These retailers carry mobile-home-specific doors and can often custom manufacture inswing designs.
- Hardware Stores: Many large chains now carry mobile home door sizes, including 32×74.
- Online Marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace list affordable used options locally.
Tips for Replacing Exterior Doors for Mobile Homes
Replacing your mobile home’s exterior door doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With careful preparation and the right tools, you can install a replacement exterior door for mobile homes in just a few hours.
Step 1. Measure Accurately
Before purchasing your door:
- Measure the existing doorway frame, including width, height, and depth.
- Ensure the measurements match the listed dimensions of the door, accounting for the inswing direction.
Step 2. Choose the Right Door
Select the appropriate 32×74 exterior mobile home door inswing for your entryway. Verify the material and insulation levels align with your climate and preferences.
Step 3. Gather Necessary Tools
Typical tools for installation include:
- Screwdriver or drill
- Shims
- Weatherstripping
- Level
Step 4. Remove the Existing Door
Carefully remove the old door by unscrewing hinges and loosening the door frame. Clean the surface thoroughly before installing the new frame.
Step 5. Install and Secure the New Door
Set the replacement door in place, ensure it fits securely, and use shims to align it properly before tightening all screws. Add weatherstripping for energy efficiency and protection.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 32×74 exterior door for mobile home is crucial for enhancing your home’s functionality, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you prefer a 32×74 exterior door right-hand inswing, a left-hand inswing, or something with added features like storm protection, there are abundant options to explore. Additionally, budget-conscious buyers can take advantage of used mobile home exterior doors 32×74 inswing, which deliver value without sacrificing practicality.
From affordability to availability, the 32×74 exterior door remains one of the most convenient and customizable choices for mobile homeowners. By understanding the different materials, pricing options, and replacement tips, you’re well-equipped to make the perfect pick for your home.
