Manufactured and Mobile Home Inspections

Information on Tie-Downs for Manufactured Homes

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Two Types of Tie-Downs:

• Over-the-top tie-downs, which are straps that are placed over the siding and roof.
  ​Some manufactured homes come equipped with concealed over-the-top tie-downs, which are located just under the exterior siding and metal roof. The end of the strap is present under the manufactured home. While this is an effective system, it can detract from the appearance of the home. Single-wide manufactured homes, as they are lightweight, generally require over-the-top tie-downs as well as frame anchors.
• Frame anchors, which are straps that attach to the home’s frame rails.
  Many newer manufactured homes, as they are structurally superior to older models, maybe secured solely with frame anchors. Double-wide models are generally heavy enough to resist winds without the aid of over-the-top tie-downs, but they do require frame anchors.

Tie-Down Components:

• Ground anchors are metal rods driven into the ground to secure the tie-down tightly in place.
  ​A number of different types of ground anchors are available to suit various soil conditions. Auger anchors, for instance, have been designed for use in both hard and soft soil. Rock anchors or drive anchors allow the attachment to a rock or coral base. As only several inches of the anchors will be above the ground, so inspectors will not be able to determine which type is used.
• Hook-up and tension devices work in conjunction with tie-downs.
  ​The tie-down must be connected to the anchor with a system that allows for the tension to be adjusted. This system must also be weather-resistant and strong enough to support as much weight as the anchor and tie-down. If the tie-down is fastened to a ground anchor with a drop-forged turnbuckle, it should be 1⁄2- inch or larger galvanized steel. The turnbuckle should have forged or welded eyes, and not hook ends, as the tie-down could slip from hook ends.
• Roof protectors are placed under the strap at the edge of the roof for exposed over-the-top tie-downs.
  These prevent the tie-down strap from damaging the roof and will prevet the edge of the roof from cutting through the tie-down.​