As they are not constructed of brick and mortar most mobile homes deteriorate just a little faster than your normal stationary house. If you happen to be a mobile home owner, then you are well aware how troublesome finding replacement parts can be. Finding a physical location can be a very hard prospect. Luckily, the power of the internet provides access to all the part orders you need for both repairs and upgrades. Online shopping can be a risk but so can finding parts in a physical store. Here is a guide to the best places to acquire parts for your mobile home.
Word of Mouth
Second hand information is a great way to get a lead on mobile home parts. If you know anyone who also owns a mobile home, ask where they procure their parts. Odds are most have had the same experience that you’ve had and can point you in the direction of a good source. Mobile Home retailers are also a good source as they have to deal in parts for their models. Companies that specialize in the transport and set up of mobile homes also know where to find good parts. What is more as such companies deal in transportation they know physical locations both at the point of origin and destination. Finally, there is the manufacturer itself. Directly contacting the maker of the part will point you in a good direction as well. They have a list of all physical locations they deliver to.
Another place to look that is hit or miss is a junkyard. Junkyards may have exactly what you need at a considerably lower price. If you are working on a budget searching local places like this can save a pretty penny. They may have nothing at all.
Online
Parts for mobile homes are readily available online. Many manufacturers have websites that sell their parts directly. Other websites exist that deal exclusively in parts of mobile homes. Finally, there are sights like eBay and Amazon that act as marketplaces for sellers of parts. There is always an inherent risk involved with purchases both physical and digital so be sure to do your due-diligence beforehand.
Cautionary Steps
Always back check the site you are using. Look at online reviews, customer responses, news articles, and anything else the internet spits at you. Consumer responses are a great way to vet as dissatisfied customers waste no time in complaining. If a company either physical or virtual is low in quality the internet will tell you about it.
Once you have pinpointed a good source look at the fine print. Make sure you know the answer to such questions as; is there a return policy, do they have a warranty, what are the shipping costs, time tables, and is there a restocking fee? You do not want to be stuck with an inferior product so make sure everything is above board going in.