Manufactured homes are part of an industry that’s by no means new. These are a prime housing option chosen by millions of people in the country, not in small part because of recent innovations in building technology. You will see a lot of things people claim manufactured homes to be, and most of the time this creates a muddle of ideas. Let’s clear that up.

The Basics

Manufactured housing is a more affordable option than the traditional site-built houses, which are built in a factory and follow the HUD code brought out in 1974.

Mobile Homes

Before 1953, these were called trailer homes, but progressively, it became essential to find new terminology to define them. These days, mobile homes also include permanent, factory-built homes.

Are Manufactured Homes Mobile?

Few homes aren’t. But most manufactured homes have a steel frame, which is easier to relocate if needed. You can have one placed on a lot with a permanent foundation, on leased or owned land. A stick-built home can be moved the same way, which shows mobility does not really affect the quality of construction. Manufactured homes simply have a chassis that makes them easier to build in a factory.

Are Manufactured Homes Permanent?

Manufactured homes can be placed on a piece of land the same way as any traditional home, and even designed such that you couldn’t tell the difference. You can also the site one in a land-lease community where it is owned, on leased land.

Distinctions From Modular Homes

Modular home construction adhered to the state, local, or regional code in the area. The modules would have to be moved there and installed on-site. Manufactured homes on the other hand, are constructed fully in a controlled factory environment under HUD specifications.

How Safe Are Manufactured Homes?

Yes, since they comply with HUD standards, and are built to regional conditions. Manufactured homes have been shown capable of withstanding weather events like hurricanes as well as or better than site-built homes. They are also designed to prevent fires, and to limit damages should one occur. Overall, they are safer than stick-built homes.

Are Manufactured Homes Energy-Efficient?

HUD includes specific energy efficiency standards set by the federal government, so yes. It is mandatory for manufactured homes to be insulated to the geographic zone where they are installed, with double-pane windows and ventilation fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Several builders improve on this with energy-efficient ventilation systems, and tighter construction.