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Owning a manufactured home comes with many benefits, but it also requires regular maintenance to keep things running smoothly. One key part of that maintenance is making sure your home stays level. Over time, shifts in the ground can cause your home to settle unevenly, leading to creaky floors, doors that won’t close properly, and even structural damage. But how much does it cost to level a mobile home? Let’s explore what impacts the cost and why leveling is so important.

Why Is Leveling Necessary?

Leveling a manufactured home is vital for the safety and longevity of the structure. Over time, the ground beneath a home can shift due to factors like moisture, soil type, and weather conditions.

These shifts may cause your home to become uneven, affecting everything from the doors and windows to the integrity of the foundation. If left unaddressed, these issues can worsen, leading to costly repairs. Regularly leveling your home helps prevent major problems and keeps it comfortable to live in.

What Affects The Cost Of Leveling A Manufactured Home?

Several factors determine the cost of leveling a manufactured home. One of the most significant factors is the size of your home. A single-wide home is easier and less costly to level than a double- or triple-wide home because fewer blocks and piers need adjusting. Single-wide homes typically cost between $450 and $600 to level, while double-wide homes can range from $750 to $900 or more. Larger homes, such as triple-wide models, may cost $1,000 or more depending on the amount of work required.

The condition of the piers and support beams under the home also plays a role in the total cost. If any of these components are damaged or need replacement, the price will increase. Homes with more extensive damage, such as sinking or rotting piers, will require more labor and materials to restore stability, driving up costs. Similarly, if your home has additional structural damage due to being unlevel for an extended period, the repair cost will be higher.

Location is another factor that influences the cost. Homes in rural areas may cost less to level because of lower labor costs. However, in larger cities or areas with a high cost of living, leveling a home could be more expensive, sometimes exceeding $1,200. The accessibility of the home also matters. If the home is difficult to reach or is located on uneven terrain, the job will take longer and potentially cost more.

How Is A Home Leveled?

The process of leveling a manufactured home involves checking and adjusting the blocks and piers that support the structure. Professionals use tools like water levels and hydraulic jacks to carefully raise the home and reposition the blocks and piers. Once the home is lifted to the correct level, the piers are adjusted or replaced, and the home is slowly lowered back into place.

In some cases, the skirting around the base of the home needs to be removed before leveling can begin, adding to the overall time and cost of the project. If the home is particularly old or has been unlevel for a long time, additional steps may be required, such as replacing or reinforcing support beams, which can increase the cost.

Hiring a professional is recommended for most homeowners. While some handy individuals may be able to handle minor adjustments on their own, leveling a home is physically demanding and requires specific tools and expertise. Additionally, professionals can offer a warranty for the work, giving you peace of mind that the job has been done properly.

Can You Level Your Home Yourself?

Leveling your home yourself is possible, but it’s a challenging task that requires experience and the right equipment. If your home is only slightly uneven, you may be able to use a water level and jacks to make minor adjustments. However, you should be cautious about safety, as improperly lifting or supporting the home can lead to injury or further damage.

Attempting to level your home without professional help might save you money upfront, but it can end up costing you more if something goes wrong. Without the proper knowledge or tools, you may not level the home correctly, which could lead to additional problems. For larger or more complicated jobs, it’s best to leave the work to a professional to guarantee the home is stable and safe.

Why Hire A Professional?

Hiring a professional to level your manufactured home makes sure the job is done safely and correctly. Experienced professionals have the tools and expertise needed to properly assess the condition of your home and make the necessary adjustments. They will also inspect the piers and supports for damage, guaranteeing your home remains stable for years to come.

Another benefit of hiring a professional is the warranty. Many professionals deliver warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind that if something goes wrong, they will return to fix it. Additionally, professionals can complete the job more quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort.

So, how much does it cost to level a mobile home? The average cost falls between $450 and $900, but this can vary based on factors like the size of the home, the condition of the piers, and your location.

Ignite MHC is dedicated to helping you maintain and enjoy your home for years to come. Whether you need guidance in homeownership or support with property management, we are here to make sure your home is in the best condition possible.

If you have any questions about our manufactured homes or our communities, get in touch with us today.