Even though a mobile home is a great option for housing, there are some things you’ll want to look out for.
To assist in your search for that dream abode for you and your family, we have listed seven things that define mobile home quality. We’re also taking the time to explain what you ought to avoid as you shop around and deal with different manufacturers.
7 things that define mobile home quality
Here are a few things that define the quality of a mobile home.
#1 Roof pitch
First, let’s begin with the roof pitch.
A low pitch roof is a sign of a mobile home that meets the minimum requirements set forth in the HUD code. You’ll want to look for a mobile home that was manufactured beyond the minimum requirements. The higher the roof pitch, the higher the quality of the mobile home.
Premium mobile homes are harder to distinguish from site-built homes. The roof pitch for these quality homes is 4/12.
#2 Roof overhang
Next, we have the roof overhang to consider.
A budget mobile home has no or very little roof overhang. A roof overhang protects the walls of your mobile home from the continuous stream of rainwater.
Higher quality mobile homes will have a longer roof hang.
#3 Ceiling height
For a quality mobile home, you should expect a ceiling height that boasts of 8 to 9 feet. The lower quality mobile homes will have 7-foot ceiling heights.
#4 Siding
On the outside of the mobile home, you’ll want to avoid homes with budget vinyl siding. High-quality vinyl siding (or even fiber cement) is a far better option for the longevity of your home.
Stay away from any mobile homes that use particle board as that type of material is a magnet for moisture problems.
#5 Front door
Thin, lightweight aluminum doors are a sign of a cheaply constructed mobile home. If you want a home that will serve you well in the long run, look for steel doors. It’ll give you peace of mind by providing better security and by holding together for a longer period of time.
#6 Roofing
Additionally, you’ll want to stay away from budget shingles. Unlike quality roofing material, these shingles will not last long. You’ll end up spending more money long-term in an effort to replace them.
Quality mobile home roofing uses architectural shingles.
#7 Interior walls
Look for mobile home interior walls that are made of drywall. This is a sign of a quality mobile home. Not to mention, if you were to use the low-cost alternative, your walls would be constructed with vinyl wallboard. This type of interior wall material can give your home a cheap vibe.
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Bonus: Windows
Last, we have windows. Windows are something that you most assuredly do not want to skimp on. With low-quality windows, your home will not be the most energy efficient and it will cost you in your monthly electric bill.
Double paned, insulated glass windows are a must.
What to avoid
Now that we’ve established what defines mobile home quality, we thought it important to point out what should be avoided.
#1 Budget models
You read the above list of 7 things that define mobile home quality. Want to know what the deal breakers have in common? They come with the common denominator of being in budget model homes.
Yes, the pricing of a budget mobile home is low. But think about it – you still get a knockout deal for square footage in a higher quality model.
There’s no need to go for the lower end model. Do yourself a favor. The long-term benefits are real.
#2 An unstable home
If you’re buying used, check on the stability of the mobile home.
Bring in a mobile home inspector to check on the home prior to dishing out the money. They’ll know what to look for in the mobile home’s foundation. A poorly installed mobile home may have placed unnecessary and extra stress on the home. This stress can cause serious damage. The damage may not be evident now, but it’ll rear its ugly head in your plumbing system later on.
#3 A home with plumbing issues
Check that the water and waste system are in great condition. Taking the pains to do this extra legwork will spare you from expensive repairs if you’re buying used.
Quality first
All in all, it’s not that complicated to pick out a quality mobile home. With the right knowledge in hand, you may seek out a home that will serve you and your family well. And now that you know what pitfalls to avoid, you’re all set to continue your home search with mobile home quality in mind.
If you’re in the market for a mobile home, you’ll be pleased to know there are many mobile home manufacturers to choose from. Take the time to compare their mobile home offerings.
