Today's mobile homes and manufactured housing options offer more quality and value for consumers than ever before. Because their purchase price is usually well below that of a traditionally constructed house, it is much easier for young singles, couples, and families to become homeowners.
There are, however, a couple of differences that mobile homeowners face that stick-built homeowners do not - skirting and leveling. If you are interested in purchasing a mobile home and would like to get a better understanding of your needs in these areas, this information can help.
Skirting
The material installed between the lower edge of the mobile home and the ground is commonly referred to as skirting. Many different materials can be used for this, although vinyl and metal are two of the most commonly chosen. The goals of installing a quality skirting material around the bottom of a mobile home include:
Mobile home skirting is also meant to protect and improve the appearance of the home.
If the mobile homeowner chooses, the skirting can be constructed from more permanent materials, such as masonry (brick, concrete blocks, or rock), or wood that has been treated to resist insects and moisture.
Leveling
During the initial installation process, a mobile home must be checked to ensure that the floors are level for both occupant comfort and to ensure that appliances and the plumbing system work correctly. Because mobile homes are built to be durable, they are substantial in weight.
The pressure from the weight of their structure, along with the weight of occupants and furnishings exert downward pressure that can result in the home become un-level in the months or years after the initial setup process. This can result in a need for the mobile home to be checked periodically and re-leveled, as needed.
A licensed, reputable general contractor can help mobile homeowners choose the right skirting material for their needs and ensure that it is installed correctly. This expert can also advise on whether or not an extra layer of insulating material is also needed to help keep the home warm and comfortable in cold climates and provide both the initial and later leveling services.