Ensuring Stability: The Essential Guide to Leveling Mobile Homes
Maintaining the stability of your mobile home is crucial for its longevity and comfort. Over time, foundations can shift, leading to a need for releveling. Drawing from John Krigger's "Your Mobile Home," here's an in-depth look at the process of leveling mobile homes, common issues, and how to address them effectively.
Signs Your Mobile Home Needs Leveling
Recognizing the signs of an unlevel mobile home is the first step in maintaining its structural integrity. Here are key indicators:
- Difficult Doors and Windows: If doors and windows become hard to open or close, it's a sign that the home might be unlevel.
- Visible Siding and Roofing Issues: Warped or misaligned siding and roofing can indicate foundational shifts.
- Loose Tiedowns: These are crucial for stability; loose tiedowns are a red flag.
- Inspecting Piers: Look for tilting, loose plates, and damaged blocks. These are tell-tale signs that your home may need leveling.
The Leveling Process: Tools and Techniques
Proper leveling involves specific tools and a methodical approach. Here are the tools you’ll need:
- Two-Ton Hydraulic Jacks: For lifting the home.
- Water Level: Ideal for ensuring even levels across long distances.
- Wedges and 2x8-Inch and 1x8-Inch Wood Leveling Blocks: Essential for adjustments.
- Large Wood Blocks (4x6 of 6x6): Used for temporary support of the main I-beams during the jacking process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Leveling
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Preparation and Safety:
- Inspect the Piers: Look for tilting or damage. Damaged or tilting piers should be replaced by professionals.
- Set Up Jacks: Position jacking plates under the two main I-beams at strategic points—near the hitch, axles, and other strong chassis areas.
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Using the Water Level:
- Start by setting the water level at the top of the pier where you want to begin.
- Determine the level of the other piers by checking the liquid level in the water level's other end, which will naturally align with the top of the first pier.
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Lifting and Leveling:
- Raise Piers: Most professionals start by lowering the highest piers and raising the lower ones to match.
- Temporary Support: Use crisscrossed blocking to provide temporary support under the main I-beams. This is crucial to catch the home if a jack slips.
- Slow and Steady: Lift the home slowly, continually checking underneath to ensure stability and safety.
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Final Adjustments:
- Secure the Piers: Once the home is level, secure the piers with proper plates and wedges.
- Check Windows and Doors: Allow some time for doors and windows to return to their original shapes and alignments.
Preventive Measures
To minimize the need for frequent releveling:
- Install Additional Footings and Piers: Especially in areas where the foundation tends to shift.
- Perform Necessary Drainage Work: Proper drainage can prevent water accumulation that causes foundation movement.
Protecting Your Investment with Perma-Roof
While ensuring your mobile home is level is essential, protecting it from top down is equally important. This is where Southern Builders comes in with our top-of-the-line Perma-Roof system. Our Perma-Roof offers:
- Architect-Certified #1 Commercial Grade Heavy Duty 29 Ga Steel: Provides unparalleled durability and longevity.
- No Wood Installation: Prevents rot and decay, ensuring a longer lifespan for your roof.
- Polystyrene Foil Back Insulation: Enhances energy efficiency and comfort within your home.
- Lifetime Warranty Against Leaks: Gives you peace of mind knowing your investment is protected.
Upgrading to a Perma-Roof not only secures your home against the elements but also adds value and aesthetic appeal. Don't wait for problems to arise—proactively protect your mobile home with the best roofing system available.
For more information about the Perma-Roof system and how it can benefit your mobile home, visit our website or contact us directly. Our team is ready to assist you with any questions and guide you through the installation process.
For inquiries or to learn more about the Perma-Roof, contact us at:
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