Adding on to doublewide mobile

[Klaus Feige]

We are interested in adding on to our mobilehome. We would like to add 10 feet all the way across the front to extend the livingroom and diningroom and add an entryway. We would also like to add a two-story addition on one end to add extra bedrooms and baths. We would like to enclose the carport on the other end and turn it into a garage and add a redwood deck on the back opening up the masterbedroom with french doors. We have big plans for this little mobile however we are unable to find an architect or draftsman willing to tackle this job. Do you know of anyone in the northern California or Reno Nevada area that could do this?

Is it even possible to make these kind of improvements to a mobile. We want to eventually replace all the windows and exterior siding too. The mobile is a 1979 Doublewide Lancer. I understand that Lancer is out of business. How would we get the original plans for this model? Please let us know. This property sits on 15 beautiful acres and we don't have the money to build a new home from scratch.

Thank you. Klaus Feige

[jgn]

I have added onto the front of my 1976 DW to extend the living room but wouldn't do it again and doubt if I would try to go up. It would seem to be a better and less costly to move it out and build what you want or purchase a new MH. I am not an expert but the frame and supporting structure of a MH is designed for a specific design and weight and would assume that would be a problem.

[Roy Bonney]

It sounds to me, that what you want to accomplish, will only be an attachment to the original structure. The two story on the end will be virtually free standing, as will the garage and the addition. The important factor to remember, is that if the initial structure is not supported by a proper foundation, differential settlement is expected. Make sure the manufactured home has a proper and complete forundation system before you start with attachements.

[John Steinbronn]

Adding or building additions to Manufactured homes, IS NO PROBLEM....
Talk to a Manufactured Rep. OF THESE HOMES., or visit the factory, or call them TELL them what you want in size, they'll design it for you..Even talk to them on the phone first...tell THEM what you want, and have his company build to your spec's... Before delivery

I have added on to (two -2) Manufactured homes I bought.(MYSELF)
The new wall and the addition you discuss, will be just that- NEW - Where ever your ground is- what is your frost line-- "Depth required for foundation?" Then have someone with a front end loader and bucket, dig a foundation--Their bucket is the perfect width..Have a cement guy, fill in the foundation. tell the manufacture you'll need straps to tie their building to foundatio..

There are excellent books for this...Manufactures rather you buy a new one--Try and find who manufactured your home, and go to them- If your handy do it yourself. and...really save.. John

[Don]

If you want to add bathrooms and you are on septic, you may want to verify that your current septic system will handle the increased load. If it won't, a larger tank and leach field will be required to meet code.