The Manufactured Housing Forums

We live in SD and have spent the last 2 months looking for a manufactured home to put on the farm. It is very hard to find reviews for the north. It seems like most are for buildingers in the south.

Friendship Homes in MN seems like the only builder up here, and we would so appreciate and comments as to the quality and construction of their homes. We are about to put some money down on a 60x24 that the dealer is selling for $80k delivered and just want to make sure we are not buying a pile of junk. It is so hard to know what is built well and what is just marketing.

Thank you in advance for any help you can provide.

BTW...what R ratings should we be getting for this kind of climate?

If 2x6 exterior walls and dual pane vinal windows are not standard, I would absolutely upgrade to them and get the maximum insulation package they offer. Even down here in the South that is a good idea as it helps keep down air conditioning costs.

They offer R25 standard in the ceiling with option for 33, 44 and 50. They offer R19 in the walls with option of R21. They have 2x6 exterior walls and Pella windows standard.

Are you saying I should go with R50 and R21?

You want the R50 and the R21. Also consider a 90%+ high efficiency furnace. Friendship is known for solid construction. They do sometimes have cosmetic issues with workmanship, but the homes are solid. Make sure you and your dealer don't cut corners on your foundation and installation. When properly installed,this home will be well suited to your harsh climate.

what kind of foundation do you recommend? the county zoning board says we can't put in anything "permanent"

Every local building permit department has its own standards for acceptable foundation types. Manufactured Home installation is a licensed trade in all states. Talk to a few licensed MH installers in your local area about the best way to go... and get bids.

btw...I bought the buyers guide and the rankings guide...hope to have both this week. Plan to travel to the factory next week for a tour.

I really appreciate this forum!

Piers are adequate. Make sure there are enough of them and that they are in the right places. Friendship require piers every 8' which is more than most manufacturers require. Marriage wall openings and things like picture windows and patio doors require extra piers. You also need to have the site graded so water won't collect under the home, and a ground vapor barrier installed. There is a George Porter video series that helps to explain this. They used to sell it on this site, not sure if they still do. David will know.

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