On average, manufactured or mobile homes are estimated to last between 20 and 55 years. However, this range is not set in stone. The life expectancy of a manufactured home is affected by several factors such as maintenance, installation expertise, and the home’s location.
In this blog post, we will delve into the web of influences that can either enhance or shorten the life expectancy of your manufactured home. From diligent upkeep practices to the quality of materials used during construction, we’ll explore the key elements that can help extend the lifespan of your mobile home.
Mobile Homes are Designed to be Long-Lasting
Mobile homes, contrary to popular misconceptions, are designed to be remarkably long-lasting. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has implemented stringent standards and regulations to ensure the reliability, strength, and sustainability of these homes throughout their construction process and foundation.
Under the HUD standard, mobile homes undergo a meticulous construction process that adheres to specific guidelines, ensuring their durability and structural integrity. These regulations cover aspects including materials used, installation techniques, and safety measures.
Mobile homes built in accordance with HUD standards are designed to withstand various weather conditions and maintain their strength over time.
HUD certification includes the presence of a distinct label known as the HUD Certification label, also known as a ‘red tag‘ or ‘HUD label.’ This label is a verification that the mobile home has undergone comprehensive inspections during its construction and meets the required standards for safety, quality, and performance. By displaying the HUD Certification label, homeowners and potential buyers can trust that the manufactured home has met the criteria established by HUD.
Manufactured homes are built in specialized factories by skilled professionals, ensuring precise construction and high-quality standards. This controlled environment and stable labor force contribute to the meticulous assembly of these homes. As a result, more recent manufactured homes boast excellent craftsmanship and adhere to industry standards.
Decisive Factors for the Life Expectancy of Manufactured Homes
By paying attention to several small factors, you can help extend the life expectancy of your manufactured home and possibly exceed the HUD’s range of 20 to 55 years.
1. Regular maintenance
This stands tall as the single most significant factor influencing the life expectancy of manufactured homes. Regular maintenance is necessary for any property.
However, that responsibility becomes even more crucial when mobile or manufactured homes are concerned. Without proper care, they just about fall apart, succumbing to the effects of weather, moisture, and time.
2. Initial installation
Proper installation is key to a mobile home’s durability. Skilled professionals ensure the home is level, securely anchored, and utilities are connected correctly. This expert installation minimizes issues and improves the structure’s longevity.
3. Quality of materials
Opting for high-quality materials during the construction or renovation process can make a notable difference. From sturdy flooring options to reliable roofing materials, investing in quality ensures that your mobile home is a long-term structure.
4. Location of your mobile home
Different climates can exert varying stresses on mobile homes. For example, consider the stark contrast between the climates of Florida and Arizona. Mobile homes in Florida face challenges posed by high humidity. In homes in this region, materials like particle boards are short-term options. It’s not uncommon to find them suffering from water damage, mold issues, and other moisture-related problems.
On the other hand, the Arizona climate is more favorable to wood structures. The dry climate can help prevent moisture-related problems and prolong the lifespan of the mobile home. There are many mobile homes in Arizona that have lasted for over 40 years.
How Do I Maintain My Manufactured Home to Extend Its Life Expectancy?
Several key tips can make your housing plan a long-term prospect. Here is a list of practices to help you start:
1. Preventing Water leakage
Water can be one of the most destructive forces for a mobile home. Regularly inspecting and addressing potential sources of water leakage, such as around windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures, is vital.
Water damage is also one of the biggest reasons a mobile home cannot be removed. When a water leak isn’t addressed, it can weaken the mobile home’s structure. So instead of a potentially easy and affordable removal (sometimes free by Banyan), the home may ultimately require an expensive demolition.
Promptly repairing any leaks and ensuring proper drainage can help safeguard your home from costly water damage.
2. Regular roof inspection
Your mobile home’s roof is its first line of defense against the elements. Roof overs help protect your home from these. It’s essential to make sure that the roof over is the right weight for your home because a too-heavy one can damage your home’s structure. Banyan has observed many homes from the 1960s and 1970s that are in excellent condition because a roof over has shielded them from the elements.
Perform regular inspections to check for signs of damage, such as missing shingles, leaks, or weakened areas. Timely repairs and maintenance can prevent more extensive problems and preserve the integrity of your home.
3. Refilling cracks as soon as they show up
Mobile homes are susceptible to developing cracks, particularly in areas where stress is concentrated, such as corners or joints. Fill these cracks promptly using appropriate sealants to prevent them from expanding and causing further damage.
4. Re-leveling the mobile home
Over time, a mobile home may settle or shift, leading to an uneven foundation. Re-leveling the structure helps maintain its stability and prevents structural problems. Hire a professional to ensure precise and accurate re-leveling.
5. General maintenance
It’s also essential to mention the importance of general maintenance, such as repairing or replacing skirting, maintaining proper ventilation, and routinely checking the home’s electrical and plumbing systems. These ongoing tasks contribute to the overall well-being of your mobile home and save you from potential troubles down the line.
6. Thorough cleaning
Regularly clean both the interior and exterior of your mobile home. This includes washing the siding, cleaning gutters, and maintaining a clean and dry interior. Keeping your home free from dirt, debris, and excess moisture helps prevent deterioration and prolongs the life expectancy of your manufactured home.
7. Remodeling
While remodeling may not be necessary for maintenance, it can enhance the overall longevity and appeal of your mobile home. Consider replacing outdated fixtures, upgrading insulation, or improving energy efficiency. A well-maintained and modernized home translates to an extended lifespan.
However, we understand that not everyone may have the funds or energy to maintain their mobile home. If you wish to move out and secure a more supportive living environment, consider donating your mobile home to someone who can benefit from it.
Can I Still Save My Manufactured Home or Is It Ready To Be Scrapped?
While every situation is unique, there are certain circumstances where scrapping becomes a more practical option. Consider the following factors:
1. The home is close to or more than 20 years old
As manufactured homes age, their components and structural integrity can become compromised. After two decades, the wear and tear may have taken a toll, making extensive repairs necessary to restore its functionality and safety.
Banyan has run into situations where finding mobile home movers to remove older homes very difficult. In some parts of Florida, movers outright refuse to touch mobile homes dating back to 1985 or earlier. When thinking about the future of your mobile home, it is important to take into account the trade-off between the home’s age and the potential costs of necessary repairs, as it could eventually become too old for removal by movers.
2. Costs of repair exceed the worth of the manufactured home
Assess the costs of repairs against the overall value of your mobile home. If the estimated repair costs significantly outweigh the home’s worth, it may not be financially sensible to invest in extensive repairs.
3. The damages are too significant to be fixed
Some damages to a mobile home can be so severe that they are beyond reasonable repair. Structural issues, extensive water damage, or mold infestations are examples of significant concerns that may render the home unviable for continued use.
4. The mobile home exceeds the age limit of the mobile park
Mobile parks often have age restrictions in place, which determine the maximum age of homes allowed within their community. If your mobile home surpasses the age limit, you may not have the option to keep it in the park, making scrapping a more practical choice.
Scrapping a mobile home involves dismantling and recycling its materials, which can have value in the salvage market. While the decision to scrap your home may feel difficult, it can provide an opportunity to recover some of the worth through recycled materials.
Here’s a table outlining the approximate price per pound and common locations to find valuable materials in a manufactured home:
| Material | Price per Pound | Where To Find It |
| Copper | $3.70 | Plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, appliances, flashing |
| Brass | $1 to $1.5 | Locks, handles, light fittings, plumbing |
| Zinc | $1.30 | Roof, gutter, downspouts, flashing |
| Aluminum | $0.50 to $1 | Window frames, roofing, metal sidings |
| Stainless steel | $0.40 | Appliances, sinks |
| Iron and Steel | $0.05 to $0.10 | Chassis, frame |
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, the life expectancy of your manufactured home can still stand strong after 55 years. Keeping your manufactured home well-maintained is well worth the effort and offers numerous advantages.
Manufactured homes are often more affordable than stick-built homes, making them an attractive housing option for many. Additionally, they can be more environmentally friendly, with potential energy-saving features and the ability to repurpose materials during renovations or scrapping.
However, if maintenance has gotten too expensive for you to manage and the cost-to-benefit ratio doesn’t make sense any longer, consider donating the mobile home.
Banyan Mobile Home Removal is an accredited (501)(c)(3) nonprofit that removes mobile homes from those who no longer need them and gives them to families and people in need of shelter. We also provide free mobile home removal, so you don’t need to worry about any costs.What’s even better: Your donation can get you a tax deduction equivalent to the market value of your mobile home. See if your home qualifies today.