I used to haul these homes as of two years ago and while it will never be quite as 'solid' as a conventional house would be, they are built quite well nowadays.
Consider that they have to be built well enough that they can be transported by truck down the highway, and it does quite well, if you're wondering about the house falling apart or anything of that matter, it wont happen from the framing or build, like any other house the main issues I see with damage/deteriorating is neglect.
I see a lot of water damage (Washer/Dryer or Dishwasher) that gets cleaned up on the surface but ignored where one cannot see it, namely the underbelly and the pad the house sits on being damaged as well (You are sitting on top of the ground, so your blocking can sink and twisting your frame and dropping a section of your house).
The main thing people need to know is how the home is set up has a lot to do with how it lasts through the seasons. The change between winter and spring does result in heaving in the earth and with that can result in the level of your house changing, typically around the doors. This is actually an easy upkeep, but if ignored can become a bigger problem, these are the day-to-day occurrences and upkeep you need to keep your eye on.
Cement pilings, while initially more pricey will provide a better base and requires less upkeep, while treated, wooden blocking initially works as well but will most likely need to be re-leveled and eventually replaced. (Re-level in the $500-$800 range, replacing in the $1,800 range).
Basically, if you take care of a Modular home it will last for you as anything else will.
|