Manufactured homes are more prone to flipping over or being damaged especially during windstorms, and they require tie-downs to be stable. Without skirting, manufactured homes are high and susceptible to the forces of wind uplift. Such homes’ roofs can be further exacerbated by the wind. Additionally, compared to homes that are constructed on-site, manufactured homes are comparatively lightweight.
Read on to learn more about manufactured home tie-downs to keep you safe during high wind seasons.
What are Tie Downs?
Tie-downs, simply put, are systems of anchors and powerful straps. They serve the purpose of stabilizing manufactured homes (often referred to as mobile homes) during strong winds. Reduced ability to resist overturning and sliding is the result of improper tie-down installation and maintenance.
Types of Tie Downs
- Over-the-top
These are straps positioned over the roof and siding. Some manufactured homes include disguised over-the-top tie-downs that are situated right beneath the metal roof and siding on the exterior. Under the manufactured home, the strap’s end protrudes. Despite being a useful mechanism, it detracts from the aesthetics of the house. Due to their small weight, single-wide manufactured homes typically need frame anchors as well as over-the-top tie-downs.
- Frame anchors
These straps fasten to the framing rails of the house. Many more recent manufactured homes can be anchored only with frame anchors because they are structurally superior to earlier types. Although they still need frame anchors, double-wide models are typically heavy enough to withstand winds without the use of excessive tie-downs.
What Makes Up Tie Downs?
- Ground anchors
These are metal stakes that have been buried in the ground to firmly anchor the tie-down. There are numerous types that can be used for varied soil conditions. For instance, auger anchors are suitable for usage in both soft and hard soil. The attachment to a coral or rock base is made possible by a rock or drive anchor. Inspectors won’t be able to identify the sort of anchors used because only a few inches of them will be sitting above ground.
- Tension device
These function in concert with tie-downs. For the manufactured tie-down system to support the same amount of weight as the anchor and tie-down, it must be weatherproof and robust. The tie-down should be made of 12-inch or bigger galvanized steel if it is attached to a ground anchor with a drop-forged turnbuckle.
- Roof protectors
Use roof protectors if your over-the-top tie-downs are exposed. You can place the protectors under the strap and at the end of the roof. These guard against the tie-down strap hurting the roof and stopping the tie-down from being cut by the edge of the roof. Commercial protectors that disperse the strap’s pressure are readily available.
Other Safety and Maintenance Tips for Manufactured Home Tie Downs
- Inspect the straps for slack. Straps must be straight and well wound. You can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to figure out the right amount of strap tension.
- If straps or anchors exhibit rust or deterioration, replace them.
- Learn how many straps are necessary for your neighborhood, and ensure your house conforms.
- Check to see that the straps and anchors are not rusted or broken. If so, they need to be changed right away.
- Contact your local building department and enquire about the number of tie-downs required for your manufactured home. In general, regulations are based on the size of your mobile home and the level of wind risk, and they vary greatly by jurisdiction. Tie-downs are strictly controlled and inspected in some areas, such as Florida.