What is a Manufactured Home?




Starting at the Beginning with Mobile Homes


The long history of mobile homes first started in the 1930s when the first model was designed. From the beginning, mobile homes were intended to serve as a cheap way for families to have a flexible living space that could be moved anywhere. Every year since mobile home models have become more and more advanced in construction and design. 


Today we are familiar with the various terms, such as mobile homes and manufactured homes, that are used to describe these structures. The difference between the two wasn’t outlined and made apparent until the “HUD Code” was put into effect. This code distinguishes mobile and manufactured homes by a few specific details including accessory structures, foundation details, ground anchors and ties, interior details, site preparation, and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Before this code was enacted, many mobile homes were created with very little regulation, but several Americans at the time did not want them to be regulated so that the cost would stay low. Many opinions changed as people found that they wanted to make upgrades to the traditional mobile home to make it feel more like a site-built home. Around that time, the Housing Act of 1980 was created and stated that the term mobile home would be changed to manufactured home in all legal aspects.


Transformation to Manufactured Homes


Manufactured homes have started to be designed to look identical to site-built homes and have started to become more popular as the housing industry continues to grow. The main difference is that manufactured homes are built ahead of time in a warehouse and then moved to the desired location instead of being built on the original site. These homes are manufactured in an indoor, climate-controlled facility so they can be built to the best quality standards possible. After the home is built, it will be transported to the customer’s desired location.


Manufactured homes are built in three sizes and are customizable to each customer. These homes can be built in single-wide, double-wide, and triple-wide layouts. Once you choose the size you would like, you can then choose specific interior customizations such as cabinets, flooring, and finishes to give it the personal touch it needs for you and your family.


Single-wide manufactured homes are typically 14 feet to 18 feet in width and around 52 feet to 80 feet in length. The overall price of these homes is typically less than a double-wide home since everything is designed to function in the smaller home size. Double-wide manufactured homes usually range from 28’ to 36 feet wide and up to 80 feet long. This style of home typically has more layouts to choose from and additional space for bedrooms or bathrooms. If you have a larger family then a triple-wide manufactured home might be the best option! These homes can be over 2,000 square feet and can include two to four bedrooms and two or three bathrooms.


What Are Modular Homes?


Modular homes are similar to manufactured homes in many ways. The main difference is that modular homes must conform to state and local regulations. Modular homes are also built into sections and then put together at the desired site. Modular homes have several positive aspects that come with a site-built home but don’t take as long to build and tend to have a lower price point.





Manufactured Homes For Sale in Montana


At Rangitsch Brothers Manufactured Home Center of Missoula, Montana, we will transport, deliver, and set up your next manufactured home for you at no additional cost. We want to help you to find your dream home, so contact us today and experience the difference of shopping with Rangitsch Homes!


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