How to Compare Manufactured/Mobile Homes

Not all manufactured homes are created equal. When deciding on a manufactured home, there are certain things to keep in mind. Upgrades, construction materials, and design are all factors to consider when comparing manufactured homes.

Flooring Materials and Construction

Pay close attention to flooring materials when comparing manufactured homes. The most well built manufactured homes will use 2x8's spaced on 16-inch centers with a transverse instead of longitudinal joint system, and be nailed, screwed, stapled, and glued. Manufactured homes built with 2x6's and wider spacing with longitudinal joint systems and not glued are not as substantial. It is also better to buy a manufactured home with R-21 fiberglass batts for insulation instead of R-11 blown in cellulose insulation in the flooring. Look for specific floor decking materials and installation procedures. Water resistant plywood 3/4 inches thick is much better than non-water resistant OSB board that is 5/8 inches thick.

Plumbing and HAVC

Check plumbing and HVAC fixtures when comparing manufactured homes. Look for shut off valves under every sink, copper fittings, and steel ring fasteners verses only one shut off valve, brass fittings, and copper rings. Heating and Air units in the attic are better than the floor. Ductwork needs to be sheet metal caulked with mastic instead of fiberglass and taped. It's also best to have floor registers along the perimeter instead of in the middle of rooms.

Wall Construction

Compare interior and exterior wall construction when choosing a manufactured home. Interior walls are best if made with 2x4's on 16-inch centers, and exterior walls are best if made with 2x6's on 16-inch centers. Make sure interior walls are ½ inch thick instead of 5/16. Another important consideration for exterior walls is insulation. Pick a home with R-19 insulation over R-11.

Roof Construction and Materials

Look at roof construction on manufactured homes to compare durability. A 4/12 slope is better than a 3/12, and eaves that project 8 inches are better than ones who only do 3 inches. Roof insulation should be R-38 instead of a lower grade, and it is always better when plywood sheathing is used instead of OSB board. An important factor when comparing manufactured home roofs is the roof finish material. A shingle roof is better than metal because some places are not zoned for metal.

Extras and Upgrades

Consider extras when comparing manufactured homes. A manufactured home with higher end cabinets, carpet that is more durable or hardwood, upgraded faucet and light fixtures, and higher end appliances that are energy efficient is better than one with generic cabinets and fixtures, and low-end appliances that will lead to higher energy bills. Paying a little more in the beginning is outweighed by the savings in the end.

Ask for a materials and construction list when speaking with manufactured home dealers. Check everything thoroughly, and inspect all aspects of the home you are considering. Click on the checklist at the end of this article to find even more information that will ensure you purchase a well constructed home that will last.

http://ftp.nw.org/network/comstrat/manufHsg/documents/manufHsgOverheads10.pdf Checklist