Maintaining your manufactured home is essential for preserving its value, ensuring comfort, and preventing costly repairs. While home maintenance may not be the most exciting task, it is a necessary responsibility for both owners and renters.
Many critical maintenance tasks only need to be performed once or twice a year. Taking the time to complete these checks will help keep your home in top condition, avoiding long-term issues. Neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive and frustrating problems down the road.
This Annual Maintenance Checklist for Manufactured Homes outlines eight key areas to inspect and maintain each year. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and well-maintained home for years to come.
Annual Home Maintenance Checklist
1. Foundation
- Ensure your home is level and structurally sound.
- Check for cracks or imbalances in the foundation or support structure, especially in the first few years after installation.
- Use a carpenter’s level or water level to check for uneven settling.
- Homes with permanent foundations should be inspected by a professional annually to detect any signs of shifting or cracking.
A damaged foundation can lead to misaligned doors and windows, structural stress, and air or moisture leaks, causing premature wear and tear on your home.
2. Skirting
- Inspect for holes or cracks that could allow moisture or rodents to enter.
- Ensure proper ventilation—one square foot of venting per 150 square feet of space under the home.
- Avoid excessive moisture buildup, which can lead to foundation damage and temperature regulation issues.
3. Roof
- Check for debris, missing shingles, and signs of damage at least twice a year.
- Inspect flashing and caulking for cracks or soft spots.
- Reseal or recoat the roof annually, especially for flat-roof homes.
- Use the appropriate coating based on your roof material (e.g., asphalt, aluminum, PVC, or rubber EPDM).
A well-maintained roof prevents leaks, mold, and other structural issues that can compromise your home’s integrity.
4. Gutters
- Clean gutters at least once a year to prevent clogs and water damage.
- If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or snowfall, clean them twice a year—once in spring and again before winter.
- Prevent debris buildup to avoid sagging gutters and potential home damage.
5. Siding
- Clean your siding annually to prevent mold and mildew.
- Use a mild detergent and water for vinyl siding.
- For stubborn mildew, mix a 1:3 solution of chlorine bleach and water.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage your home’s exterior.
Regular siding maintenance keeps your home looking fresh and prevents long-term deterioration.
6. Window and Vent Caulking
- Inspect and reseal caulking around windows and vents annually.
- Focus on sealing gaps before winter to prevent heat loss and drafts.
- Check ducts, vents, and other exterior openings to maintain indoor climate control.
Proper sealing improves energy efficiency and reduces heating and cooling costs.
7. Heating and HVAC Systems
- Change air filters multiple times a year to maintain air quality.
- Vacuum air ducts annually to remove dust and allergens.
- Consider professional duct cleaning for thorough maintenance.
- Regular upkeep extends the lifespan of your HVAC system and helps prevent costly repairs.
8. Smart Indoor Cleaning
- Wipe down walls, surfaces, and fixtures with a gentle detergent annually.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that may discolor or damage surfaces.
- Use non-corrosive products, especially on fiberglass fixtures like sinks, tubs, and showers.
Routine cleaning prevents yellowing, fading, and premature wear on your home’s interior.
Home Maintenance Pro Tips
Check Warranty Requirements
Some warranties require specific maintenance to remain valid. For example, carpet warranties may mandate professional cleaning once a year. Review your warranties to ensure compliance and maintain coverage.
Consider a Manufactured Home Community with Maintenance Services
Many manufactured home communities offer maintenance services as part of their lot rental or HOA fees. These may include gutter cleaning, winterizing, and even full plumbing and heating maintenance. Researching these options can save time and money while ensuring expert care for your home.
Maintain Your Manufactured Home to Protect Your Investment
While home maintenance may seem time-consuming, it helps prevent costly repairs and keeps your home in excellent condition. Compared to traditional site-built homes, manufactured homes are easier and more affordable to maintain.
Creating a maintenance calendar can help you stay on track throughout the year. By following this checklist, you can ensure a comfortable and well-maintained home for years to come.
