Mobile homes, otherwise called trailer homes or trailers are very common in the US. They are manufactured in a factory and moved to the desired location for habitation. It’s built on a permanent chassis, which are mounted on wheels and tires. The basic idea is that they can be moved, whenever needed. Basic maintenance is required from time to time, to avoid and fix wear and tear. One very common maintenance requirement is mobile home re-leveling, which is done when the house seems off-level.
Typically, the ground on which the home is set can trigger damage overtime. Gaps begin to form in the soil, disrupting the foundation of the mobile home. This can trigger wall cracks, or even how jamming windows and doors. Also, floors can develop creaking noises and squeaks, coupled with structural damage to the home. To avoid structural damage, it is important to consider mobile home re-leveling, when symptoms of deterioration starts showing up.
Basically, the piers under the manufactured or mobile home is adjusted to level the pressure exerted on the pivotal beams of the mobile home. Though it has nothing to do with leveling, and more to do with structural support, the term is used to refer adjustments done to the foundation of the mobile home. More often, mobile home re-leveling is required for old houses, or houses put up in locations that trigger damage easily. Also, when the bought mobile home isn’t constructed properly, or set-up properly, mobile home re-leveling can help fix issues.
Though many consider doing this as a DIY project, even trained professionals face challenges while taking up mobile home re-leveling. There are many engineers who succumb to injuries while doing it, so hiring professionals who are trained to do this job, is ideal. Basically, the home is raised and then an assessment is done to gauge the current status and what’s required. Professionals then determine what type of material is used for the home and suggest amendments according to it’s strength. This is very important since old structures might have worn out, or have become delicate over years of wear and tear. Getting professional help for mobile home re-leveling ensures experts get the job done, without damaging the structure of the mobile home.
There isn’t much difference between a mobile home and a traditional home, except for the foundation and the way mobile homes are manufactured. However, mobile homes are regulated, with approved materials that can be used for manufacturing mobile homes. There are certifications for mobile homes ad requirements that are to be met, which varies for every state. Thus, these regular checks and maintenance is mandatory to ensure the structure remains intact. Depending on the condition of the foundation, maintenance or permanent foundation upgrade is suggested.
Not sure when to call mobile home re-leveling service experts? Listed below are few problems that can indicate it’s time to call experts right away:
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Cracks appearing on mobile home walls
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Jamming of doors or windows
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Altered shape of existing skirting
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Uneven flooring
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Piers that seem rusted
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Sub-flooring creaks
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Intrusion by rodents, insects, etc.
Generally mobile home re-leveling cost varries from state to state and the service provider. You should ask as many questions as possible to find out exactly what each service will do for you. It's a good idea to read all that you can before you make a call. Being informed makes a great deal of difference.