The main purpose of tie-downs is to keep a manufactured home stable atop it's foundation if subjected to extreme wind or seismic activity. Without properly installed tie-downs, the home could shift or even overturn completely. There are different types of tie-downs, some which may work better than others depending on the location of the home and what forces you are protecting against.
Mother Nature certainly has the power to topple a mobile home, and her wrath may come in the form of earthquakes and tornados. Those who live in areas prone to earthquakes and tornados must considering having a strong tie-down system in place on their manufactured home. Seismic activity can literally shake the manufactured or mobile home off it's foundation if the home is not properly secured to the ground. In areas prone to tornados, it is the elevation off the ground that makes these types of homes vulnerable to wind. This vulnerability exponentially increases if skirting is not in place to block wind. Without skirting, wind is allowed to pass both above and beneath the home and the home can be swept away in this wind current. And the lightweight construction of a mobile home only adds to the problem.
Types of Manufactured Home Tie-Downs
Different types of tie downsOver the top and frame anchors are the two main types. Top varieties go completely over the roof and can be an eye sore if installed after the home is built. When installed during construction, they can be hidden underneath the roof and siding. Frame anchors are installed underneath the home and usually attach to a layer of concrete or other solid material. They may also be driven into the ground. Single-wide mobile homes may need both types, as they are lighter in weight than double-wides.
Tie-Down Components
Ground anchors are simply rods made of metal. These are driven in the ground, and provide a place for the tie-down to be secured. There are different types of ground anchors created for different types of soil conditions. Auger anchors can be used in both soft and hard soil. Drive anchors can be driven into rock or coral. Once the anchors are installed, only a small area will be visible. Because of this, untrained home inspectors doing 433A foundation inspections may be unable to determine the type of tie-downs used.
Tension devices and hookups work together with tie-downs. Tension may need to be adjusted from time to time to ensure a powerful hold. Roof protectors will also be needed if tie-downs of the over the top variety are used. The metal could easily damage the sides of the roof if these are not in place. Alternately, the roof could damage the tie-downs and cause them to break. Commercial grade protectors help to provide even pressure throughout the strap.
Manufactured Home Tie-Down Tips
- Periodically check to make sure that the straps are tight
- Follow the manufacturers suggest tension guidelines
- Should straps or anchors show signs of damage, replace them
- Use straps that extend from one end of the home to the other lengthwise (not width) to increase safety
- Make sure that the home has the required number of straps in place. Note: Regulations will vary depending on location
- Straps should not be bent or twisted
- Radius clips should be used on any sharp edges
- Anchors need to be driven down to full depth
