As an expert in the housing industry, I am often asked about the differences between a double wide and a manufactured home. While these two terms are often used interchangeably, there are actually some key distinctions that set them apart. A double wide house, also known as a prefab house, is not built on site like traditional homes. Instead, it is constructed in a factory and then transported to its final location. This allows for a lot of customization options, as the house is made up of two sections that are joined together to create a larger living space. On the other hand, mobile homes come in various sizes, including single-width and double-width options.
Single-width mobile homes are typically between 8 and 12 feet wide and can have as little as 400 square feet of living space. In order to be considered a double width, a mobile or prefab home must be at least 20 feet wide and have a minimum of 600 square feet of living space. One of the main differences between single and double width homes is the way they are built. Single-width homes are constructed in one long section, while double-width homes are built in two separate sections that are then joined together on site. This means that double-width homes are usually twice the size of single-width homes. Another key difference between these two types of homes is their base.
Single-width mobile homes are built on a steel chassis and transported whole to the property. Double-width homes, on the other hand, are also built on a steel chassis but are connected to each other at the site of origin. This means that a double width home will have two sections, while a triple width will have three. There are also some other notable differences between single and double width homes. Double-width homes typically have a larger square area, require a larger lot or land, have a longer configuration process, and come with higher costs.
They are also more difficult to move compared to single-width homes. While the terms "mobile home" and "prefab home" are often used interchangeably, there are some important distinctions between the two. Both are built in a factory, but prefab homes are subject to stricter construction standards set by the Prefab Housing Construction and Safety Regulations Act, which came into effect on June 15, 1976. At Mobile Home Living, we use the terms "mobile home" and "prefab home" interchangeably. However, it's important to note that a mobile home built before June 15, 1976 may not meet the construction standards of a modern prefab home. When it comes to customization, prefab homes can be more challenging compared to traditional homes. However, there are still plenty of opportunities for renovations and extensions, especially in two-story homes. In order for a manufactured home to be eligible for funding from NLC Loans, it must be located on land owned by the homeowner.
This means that some homes in communities may not qualify for financing if they only have a front door and a small door in the back. In conclusion, while double wide and manufactured homes may seem similar at first glance, there are actually some key differences between them. From the way they are built to their base and customization options, it's important to understand these distinctions when considering which type of home is right for you.
