Prefabricated homes are becoming more popular in India. Manufactured homes are one of the types of prefabricated homes that support sustainable construction. They are affordable and offer comfortable living spaces. These homes are built in factory settings to meet strict safety standards.
This blog will help you to understand manufactured homes.
What Is a Manufactured Home?
Manufactured housing, also called mobile homes (in the United States), is one of the types of prefabricated housing that is prepared in factory settings and transported onsite to assemble and create a house. The special feature that differentiates manufactured homes from other types of prefabricated houses is the wheeled chassis.
These houses are often constructed per federal standards (HUD Code) instead of local building codes.
History and Evolution of Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes originated in the form of mobile homes, which were small trailers people used for short stays. Before 1976, there were no proper rules for building these homes. This often made them unsafe or of low quality.
However, in 1976, the government created a set of building regulations called the HUD Code to make sure these homes were built safely and with better quality.
Today’s manufactured homes are much stronger, better designed, and more energy-efficient. They are now more like regular houses but still cost less, so many people can afford them.
What are Common Types of Manufactured Homes
There are various types of manufactured homes, each serving unique purposes. The following are some major types of manufactured homes:
Single-Section Homes
These manufactured homes are commonly built in compact form with energy-efficient features. They commonly involve an open floor plan with essential amenities.
These homes are commonly suited for small families or bachelors. They can be easily transported and can fit in smaller construction areas or plots.
Double-Section Homes
Double-section manufactured homes involve two connected sections, offering more living space and privacy than single-section models. They can be suitable for medium-sized families.
They are built with widths typically around 20 feet or more; double-wides offer separate spaces for bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, and a living area. These houses feel the same as a site-built home.
Triple-Section Homes
The larger triple-section manufactured homes provide more living space for larger families. These houses involve large layouts with amenities like walk-in closets and well-furnished kitchens.
These homes give you the comfort of a regular house and the convenience of a manufactured home. They are a great choice for families who need more space to live.
Luxury Manufactured Homes
Luxury manufactured homes are created with premium finishes and best-quality amenities. These homes include amenities or features such as custom cabinetry, fireplaces, and spa-like bathrooms. Everyone would love such amazing features.
These homes offer a fancy lifestyle at a lower cost than regular luxury houses. They are perfect for people who want a home that’s both stylish and functional at a low cost.
They ensure a high-quality scale of living at an affordable price tag compared to traditional homes.
Park Model Homes
Park model homes are compact manufactured units that are specially designed for seasonal or recreational living. You can use these houses as vacation spots or retirement communities.
They are compact but well-designed, with small kitchens and comfortable living areas. These homes are easy to take care of and offer a cosy place to relax.
Why You Need to Choose Manufactured Homes?
You can choose manufactured homes to enjoy the following benefits:
Affordability
Compared to regular homes, manufactured homes are more affordable than traditional site-built homes. This is due to the efficiency of factory construction and bulk trade of materials. This budget-friendly construction makes homeownership more accessible to all income groups, including LIG and MIG. This can offer a sense of financial security and peace of mind.
Customisable Options
You have the freedom to choose the style and pattern of your manufactured home. You can design your space to fit your lifestyle. You can include special features like a kitchen island, a loft, or a fireplace.
Energy Efficiency
You can build a manufactured home as an energy-efficient home. With these features, you can reduce utility costs and environmental footprint. With these beautiful home options, you can also positively impact the environment for future generations.
Faster Construction
Since they are factory-made, these homes can be built and installed in a few weeks. This speed is a major advantage for manufactured homes, especially for those urgently needing housing.
Limitations of Manufacture Home
Limited customisation options: When compared to site-built homes, you will get minimum customization, and they are often smaller in size.
May face zoning restrictions: Zoning laws often restrict this construction to specific areas or communities. Before starting the construction, make sure to check if the area allows manufactured homes.
Depreciates over time: According to a HUD report, “irrespective of it’s location, manufactured housing generally depreciates in value. Therefore, the market value of the manufactured homes could be or become lower than the principal balances of the related contracts.”
May not be as durable in extreme conditions: The durability of manufactured homes in extreme conditions can vary based on construction standards, materials used, and site preparation. Not all manufactured homes are built to the same rigorous standards as modular or site-built homes, which can affect their performance in severe weather.
How Are Manufactured Homes Built?
The construction of manufactured houses commonly obeys the following stages:
Design & Planning
Buyers begin by selecting from pre-designed models or customizing layouts and features to fit their needs. This planning phase determines the home’s size, style, and any upgrades or options.
Frame Construction
The process starts with building a robust steel chassis, which forms the foundation for the entire home. This steel frame supports the structure during transport and installation. Layers of insulation are added before the flooring system and plumbing lines are installed. The wooden floor frame is assembled atop the steel chassis, integrating plumbing and initial electrical components.
Flooring and Walls
Flooring finishes-such as laminate, wood, or carpet-are installed on the floor frame. The choice of material and installation method depends on the home’s design and buyer preferences. Interior and exterior walls are constructed from materials like finished drywall or wallboards. Interior walls are installed first, followed by cabinets and appliances. Exterior walls are then positioned using a track system, with insulation and electrical wiring incorporated at this stage.
Roof Installation
The roof truss system, which provides structural support, is attached to the ceiling. Some lighting fixtures are installed during this step. The prefabricated roof section is then lowered onto the home and joined to the exterior walls. Sealing, insulation, and ceiling finishes complete this phase.
Siding and Interior Finishing
With the main structure complete, teams install shingles, siding, doors, and windows. The exterior is wrapped for weather protection. Inside, finishing touches such as paint, custom features (e.g., fireplaces, kitchen islands), and built-in shelving are added, depending on the model and buyer’s choices.
Delivery and Installation
Manufactured homes are transported to the prepared site, where they are placed on a permanent foundation. Final connections for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are made, and skirting is installed to conceal the chassis. A final inspection ensures everything meets standards before move-in.
Maintaining a Manufactured Home
- Ensure the foundation is level and crack-free to avoid structural issues.
- Regularly check and reseal or recoat the roof to prevent leaks.
- Clean exterior siding often to remove mold and mildew buildup.
- Maintain proper skirting and ensure it’s ventilated correctly.
- Caulk windows, doors, and vents to improve insulation and energy efficiency.
- Clean and replace the HVAC system’s filters regularly to maintain air quality.
- Keep the home interior and exterior clean to avoid damage and wear.
- Use non-corrosive cleaners for surfaces.
- Inspect plumbing annually for leaks, corrosion, and mold.
- Be proactive to prevent costly repairs.
Common Myths and Misconceptions about Manufactured Homes
Myth 1: “They’re the same as mobile homes.”
Manufactured homes are not the same as mobile homes. Mobile homes refer to structures built before 1976, while manufactured homes are constructed after 1976 under the strict federal HUD Code, ensuring higher quality and safety standards.
Myth 2: “They’re low quality.”
Modern manufactured homes are built in climate-controlled facilities using quality materials and must meet stringent federal standards for durability, safety, and energy efficiency.
Buying or building a manufactured home on private land can be a great idea if you are looking to increase your property value. When you own a manufactured home on private land, you may get a better return in the future because the land tends to develop over time. For more details, you can consult an expert construction company.
Hemali Patel