The Manufactured Housing Forums

My husband and I are just beginning our search for a new manufactured home. We live in South Central PA. I've done web research as a start. The names I've seen listed the most with the retail centers nearest us are: Clayton; Skyline; Fleetwood;Commodore; and Champion. Patriot is also available fairly close to us. IWe've read about upgrading the "subfloor" and wall construction. Are there any major differance to the positive or negative with any of the companies I mentioned? Any major red flags we should watch for with the sales center ?

Also we have a 16 year old daughter who wheelchair bound ? I've checked out Turtle Homes, and Shamrock a bit, but will any or all of the manufacturers offer alterations for wheelchairs. She's quite small, and doesn't have the capability to use a motorised chair, so the most we would need is alterations to the entrances, 1 bedroom and bath. We want an open floor plan anyway. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Renee in PA

Champion and Fleetwood are your two largest builders in the USA ... either will be a good choice. I have sold both in Texas. Champion will however be more accommodating on the wheelchair changes. There are some advantages to plywood floors but Duro-Deck works as well with fewer joints. In your area I am sure 2x6 outside walls at a minimum with R-19 rating would be a must. The set up crew is also important … so ask for references. Good luck on your house search ...

Most quality manufacturers will offer some features designed to help the disadvantaged...Wider doors...wheel chair showers...specialized commodes...lever interior door handles...and probably a few others as well...

To my knowledge the manufacturers you mentioned are the only ones that make true handicap homes...There used to be another in GA..I do not know if they are still in business...You could call them and ask..

CRAFTMADE HOMES
712 ASHBURN HWY
PO BOX 466
SYLVESTER GA 31791
(229) 776-2667

True handicap homes will have all of the above features ...plus special cabinets and counters that are wheel chair friendly..They even lower the light switches for a chair bound person's convenience..The list goes on and on..