Category: Mobile Home Repairs

Soft and sagging floors in mobile homes

Floor repairs in mobile homeSoft and sagging floors are a common problem in mobile homes in Florida. Soft floors need to be repaired correctly because they compromise the structural integrity of the mobile home and can cause safety hazards. Florida Anchor and Barrier repairs hundreds of mobile home floors all over Florida every year. These are some of the common causes behind soft and sagging floors and how we identify and repair them.

Causes of Soft Floors in Mobile Homes:

Mobile Home Water Damage:

a. Plumbing Leaks: Undetected or unaddressed plumbing leaks can lead to water seepage into the subfloor, causing rot and weakening the floor structure.

b. Moisture Intrusion: Improper sealing around windows, doors, or damaged roofing can allow water to enter the mobile home, leading to floor damage.

Mobile Home Foundation Issues:

a. Settling: Mobile homes may shift or settle over time due to inadequate or unstable foundations, causing stress on the floor and leading to soft spots.

b. Improper Supports: Inadequate or deteriorated support piers, beams, or joists can result in an uneven weight distribution, causing sagging or soft floors.

Insect Infestation:

a. Termites and Wood-Boring Insects: These pests can infiltrate the mobile home’s wooden components, including the floor structure, leading to weakened and softened areas.

Aging and Wear:

a. Deterioration: Over time, the materials used in mobile home construction may degrade, leading to weakened floors.

b. High Foot Traffic: Heavy use or concentrated foot traffic in certain areas of the mobile home can accelerate wear and contribute to soft spots.

Repairing Soft and sagging Floors in Mobile Homes:

Inspection of mobile home floors

a. Identify Soft Areas: Thoroughly inspect the floor for soft spots, sagging, or unevenness to pinpoint the extent of the damage.

b. Remove Floor Coverings: Remove carpets, vinyl, or laminate flooring to expose the damaged subfloor for assessment and repair.

Identify and Mitigate Water Damage In Mobile Home:

a. Fix Plumbing Leaks: Locate and repair any plumbing leaks to prevent further water damage.

b. Dry Out the Affected Areas: Use dehumidifiers or fans to remove moisture from the subfloor and surrounding areas.

c. Replace Damaged Subfloor: Remove and replace the water-damaged sections of the subfloor, ensuring proper support and reinforcement.

Mobile Home Foundation Repairs:

a. Stabilize the Foundation: Consult a professional to address any foundation issues, such as settling or inadequate support. This may involve reinforcing piers, beams, or joists.

  1. b. Leveling the Floor: Once the foundation is stabilized, use jacks or other lifting mechanisms to gradually lift and level the affected areas.

Mobile Home Insect Infestation Treatment:

a. Exterminate the Infestation: Engage professional pest control services to eliminate termites or wood-boring insects from the mobile home.

b. Replace Damaged Sections: Remove and replace any infested or weakened sections of the floor, ensuring proper treatment and prevention measures.

Mobile Home Floor Repair:

a. Reinforce Joists and Beams: Add additional support by sistering new joists or reinforcing beams to strengthen the floor structure.

b. Install Subfloor Braces: If necessary, install subfloor braces to further reinforce the weakened areas and distribute weight evenly.

c. Install New Subflooring: Replace the removed subfloor sections with new, moisture-resistant materials suitable for mobile home construction.

d. Reinstall Flooring: Once the subfloor is secured and level, reinstall the desired floor coverings.

If you have any problems with floors in your mobile home, call us today and we’ll come out and see you right away. We’ll give you a Free Consultation and a Free Estimate.

Mobile Home Hurricane Anchors are you last line of Defence!

Mobile Home Hurricane Anchors are your last line of defence against Hurricanes and other major storms common to Florida. While mobile homes are affordable, popular and a flexible option for housing, these homes are vulnerable to damage during hurricanes, and the anchor system is one of the most critical components of ensuring the safety of mobile homes during a storm. Florida Anchor and barrier Installs and repairs Hurricane Anchors all over Florida. like to tell you about the importance of mobile home hurricane anchors and how to go about replacing your anchors.

What are Mobile Home Anchors?

Mobile home anchors are metal devices that are used to secure a mobile home to the ground. These anchors prevent the home from being lifted or moved during high winds and storms. The anchors are typically installed at the corners of the mobile home and are connected to the home’s frame with straps or chains.

Why is Mobile Home Hurricane Anchor Replacement Important?

Mobile home hurricane anchor replacement is important because the anchors can become damaged or corroded over time. If the anchors are not in good condition, they may fail during a hurricane or tropical storm, causing significant damage or even total loss of the home.

Additionally, Florida building codes require that mobile homes be anchored according to specific standards to ensure their safety during a storm. If your mobile home does not meet these standards, you may not be eligible for insurance coverage or disaster assistance in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm.

Replacing Your Mobile Home Anchors

Replacing your mobile home anchors is a critical task that should be undertaken by a licensed contractor. The following steps outline the process of mobile home hurricane anchor replacement:

  1. Choose a licensed contractor: Look for a licensed contractor who specializes in mobile home anchor replacement. You can find licensed contractors by searching online or asking for recommendations from friends, family, or your mobile home park management.
  2. Inspection: Florida Anchor and Barrier will inspect your mobile home to determine the type and number of anchors required to meet the building code standards. They will also inspect the ground to determine the best type of anchor to use based on soil conditions.
  3. Removal of Old Anchors: We will remove the old anchors from your mobile home by cutting the straps or chains that connect the anchor to the frame.
  4. Installation of New Anchors: Florida Anchor and Barrier will install the new anchors according to the building code standards. The type of anchor used will depend on the soil conditions and the weight of the mobile home.
  5. Connection to Frame: We will connect the new anchors to the mobile home’s frame using new straps or chains.
  6. Inspection and Certification: After the installation is complete, we will inspect the anchors to ensure that they meet building code standards. They will then provide you with a certification that your mobile home meets the anchoring requirements.

Conclusion

Mobile home hurricane anchor replacement is essential to ensure the safety of your home during a storm. If your anchors are damaged or corroded, they may fail during a hurricane, causing significant damage or loss of the home. Additionally, mobile homes that do not meet building code standards may not be eligible for insurance coverage or disaster assistance in the event of a storm.

It is essential to have your mobile home anchors inspected and replaced by a licensed contractor to ensure that the job is done correctly and meets building code standards. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your mobile home is safe and secure during a hurricane or tropical storm, protecting your property and your family.

Florida Anchor and Barrier are State Certified General Contractors CGC 004138 and we’re experts at replacing and repairing your Hurricane Anchors.

Mobile Home Vapor Barrier Repair

Vapor barriers for mobile homes in Florida may also be known as moisture barriers, underpinning or underbelly. Vapor barriers are an essential component of mobile home or manufactured homes, serving as a protective barrier between the underside of the home and the elements. They help to prevent damage from moisture, animals, and debris under your home.

Our vapor barriers are made of a durable, woven polyethylene material and attached to the underside of the home using specialized hardware. They are designed to stand up to Florida’s extreme weather conditions and can be sized to fit any mobile or manufactured home.

Hole in mobile home vapor barrier

Vapor barriers also aid in keeping your mobile home’s insulation dry, which is essential in order to inhibit mold growth. The insulation in a mobile home’s floor is crucial for maintaining cool temperature in the summer as well as warm in the winter while reducing energy costs.

When it comes to installing a vapor barrier, it’s best to hire a professional for the job. The installation process can be complicated, and there are many factors to consider. Our professional installers have years of experience and knowledge to ensure that the job is done correctly and that the wrap provides the maximum protection.

When installed correctly, vapor barriers help to ensure that a mobile home remains in good condition for years to come. If you own a mobile home, it is essential to consider investing in a belly wrap to protect your investment and ensure your family’s safety and comfort.

Skirting for Mobile & Manufactured Homes

Manufactured homes in Florida have become a popular and affordable housing option with the advent of higher interest rates and housing demands in Florida. Like traditional homes, mobile homes require proper maintenance and upkeep to ensure their longevity and comfort.

Skirting is the material used to cover the space between the ground and the bottom of the mobile home. It provides insulation, protection from pests and weather elements, and improves the overall appearance of the home.

Vinyl skirting is the most popular type of skirting in Florida. It’s affordable, long lasting, and easy to maintain, requiring minimal cleaning and repairs. Vinyl skirting helps with insulation, keeping your mobile home warmer during the winter months and cooler during Florida’s hot summers.

Call Florida Anchor and Barrier at 800-681-3772 for a Free Consultation and Estimate for Skirting for your Mobile or Manufactured Home in Florida.

Mobile Home Vapor Barriers

A vapor barrier or Underbelly is an essential component of any mobile home’s construction. Vapor barriers are a layer of material that prevents moisture from entering the home from the ground or other sources. Here are some reasons why a vapor barrier is important for mobile homes:

  1. Moisture Control: Mobile homes are more susceptible to moisture issues due to their construction on top of a chassis with an open crawl space underneath. A vapor barrier can prevent moisture from entering the home and causing damage to the structure, insulation, and flooring.
  2. Energy Efficiency: A vapor barrier can also improve energy efficiency by reducing the amount of moisture that enters the home. Moisture can increase humidity levels, making it harder for your HVAC system to cool or heat your home, resulting in higher energy bills.
  3. Indoor Air Quality: Moisture can lead to mold growth and other indoor air quality issues, which can have negative health effects on occupants. A vapor barrier can prevent moisture from accumulating, improving indoor air quality.
  4. Longevity: A vapor barrier can help increase the lifespan of your mobile home by preventing moisture-related damage to the structure and components.
  5. Maintain your homes value: Vapor barriers will protect your Investment in your home and will keep your mobile home looking new for years to come.

A vapor barrier helps to prevent these problems by creating a barrier between the ground and the underside of the mobile home. This barrier is typically made from a plastic or foil material that is designed to be impermeable to moisture. When properly installed, it can help to prevent moisture from seeping up into the home and causing damage.

In addition to preventing damage to the home, a vapor barrier can also help to improve indoor air quality. Moisture in the home can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems in some people. By preventing moisture from entering the home, a vapor barrier can help to create a healthier living environment for the occupants.

Overall, a vapor barrier is an important component of any mobile home because it helps to protect the home from all the outside problems that can cause damage to your mobile or manufactured home in Florida. 

In summary, a vapor barrier is an essential component of a mobile home’s construction, helping to prevent moisture-related issues, improve energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and increase longevity.

CALL FLORIDA ANCHOR AND BARRIER TODAY FOR A FREE INSPECTION OF YOUR MOBILE HOMES VAPOR BARRIER AT 800.681.3772

Returning Home after Hurricane Michael

Here are some things to consider if you’re Returning Home after Hurricane Michael… This article from the Department of Health and Environmental Control will be very helpful… 

If you’re returning home after a natural disaster like Hurricane Micheal, we don’t need to tell you that there are a lot of important decisions to be made. There are also many dangerous conditions that need to be dealt with for you and your families safety. We think you’ll find this article extremely helpful. 

We would also like to remind you that Florida Anchor and Barrier is here to answer any questions you may have. We can also help you to repair and rebuild your mobile home in Florida.  

  • Continue to monitor your radio or television for up-to-date emergency information.
  • You may not be able to return to your home immediately after the storm ends. It could take a few days before emergency crews have assessed all areas for safety hazards or any necessary rescue operations. Do not attempt to re-enter your neighborhood until authorities have declared the area safe.
  • It may also take a couple of weeks before power and telephone service can be restored to all neighborhoods.
  • Limit driving to what is necessary. There will be downed electrical wires and debris covering the roads.
  • Avoid high water. Remember, most deaths attributed to a hurricane are from drowning while in a vehicle driven into high or fast flowing waters.
  • Limit the use of your telephone and avoid tying up telephone lines that may be needed by emergency responders.
  • Take one day at a time. This type of experience creates a great amount of stress. Go easy on yourself and those around you. Try to get back into family routines such as meal and bed times. Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • If you have children, listen to their feelings about losing favorite toys or possessions. It is important to give yourself and your children permission to be sad about what you have lost.
  • Ask for help if you need it.
  • Reach out and help a neighbor.

Safety Concerns When Returning Home

Most visits to hospital emergency rooms following a hurricane are because of injuries which occurred after the storm. Sprains and strains are        common, as are cuts and punctures, broken bones, and motor vehicle accidents.

Be patient, take it easy, and be careful. You can make your recovery from the storm a safer one if you follow the advice below.

General Precautions and Recommendations

  • Return to your home during daylight hours.
  • Before entering, check for any structural hazards that might make it unsafe to go in the house. Enter your home with caution. If you can go inside, open all the doors and windows to increase ventilation.
  • Fire is another cause of death following a storm, often caused by the use of candles. It is much better to use battery operated flashlights and lanterns instead of candles.
  • Electrical power should be shut off until it is determined that there is no risk of fire, explosion, or electrocution. If you smell something burning when the electricity is turned on but can find no visible source of fire or smoke, immediately turn off the electricity at the main breaker.
  • All appliances and other equipment and lighting must be completely dry before using them. Even if you are able to turn on the power, do not plug in any item which is not completely dry.
  • Use generators or gas pumps in well ventilated areas. They can generate deadly carbon monoxide gas. Do not plug generators into house outlets; plug appliances directly into the generator.
  • You should contact the utility company before connecting an electric generator to your home’s electrical system. This is almost always against the law and prohibited by fire code unless you have approved automatic interrupt devices.
  • Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. If using a generator, be extra aware of your carbon monoxide detector.
  • Take photos of damages for insurance purposes.
  • If you boarded your windows and doors before you left home, be careful of nails and broken glass when you remove the boards.
  • Avoid wading in water since there may be broken glass, nails, or other objects in the water along with chemicals and sewage.
  • If you get a cut or puncture would, contact a doctor, a public health department, or hospital to determine if you need a tetanus vaccination.

Precautions to Take When…

Smelling Gas:

  • If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main valve, open all windows, and get out of the house immediately.
  • Do not turn on the electricity, light matches, smoke, or do anything that could cause a spark.
  • Immediately notify the gas company as well as your local fire and police departments.
  • Do not return to the house until you are told it is safe to do so.

Handling Electrical Damage:

  • If you see frayed wiring or sparks when you restore power, or if there is an odor of something burning but no visible fire, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker.
  • You should follow the instruction provided by your utility company or emergency preparedness agency about using electrical equipment, including power generators. Be aware that it is against the law and a violation of electrical codes to connect generators to your home’s electrical circuits without the approved, automatic-interrupt devices.
  • If a generator is on line when electrical service is restored, it can become a major fire hazard. In addition, the improper connection of a generator to your home’s electrical circuits may endanger line workers helping to restore power in your area.
  • Make sure all electrical equipment and appliances are completely dry before returning them to service. It is advisable to have a certified electrician check these items if there is any question.

Inspecting and Cleaning Up

When Cleaning Up Inside:

  • Walls, wood, vinyl or ceramic floors, counter tops, cabinets, pantry shelves, refrigerators (inside & out) plus many other surfaces should be cleaned with soap and water and disinfected with a bleach diluted with water at a rate of one cup of bleach to five gallons of water.
  • Wash all linens in hot water.
  • Wash all clothing or take it to the dry cleaners.
  • Steam clean all carpeting.
  • Take mattresses and upholstered furniture outdoors to air dry in the sun, then spray them with a disinfectant.
  • Wear rubber gloves when cleaning. If there has been a back up from the sewer, wear rubber boots.
  • Make repairs, even if temporary ones, to limit further damage.
  • Hire only licensed contractors.
  • Remember to lift with your legs, not your back.

When Cleaning Up Outside:

  • Stay away from dangling power lines and metal fences. Be careful when clearing fallen trees as they may have wires tangled in them.
  • Avoid wading in water. Broken glass, metal fragments, and other debris may be present in the water.
  • Wear safety glasses, gloves, long sleeve shirts, pants, and sturdy shoes.
  • Use caution if you will be using a chainsaw. Read the operating and safety instructions. When using an electric chainsaw, use extreme caution to avoid electrical shock.
  • Be aware of snakes or other animals that are driven to drier ground by any flooding.
  • Don’t burn trash. Contact your trash pick up service and find out their schedule for pick up.
  • Call a professional service to remove large uprooted trees.
  • Once again, remember to lift with your legs, not your back.

Septic System Problems

The large amount of rain and flooding that typically occurs with a hurricane may cause some problems with septic systems. The problems you might experience include slow draining toilets and sinks or wastewater bubbling up from the ground.

There are a few simple steps you can take to limit any potential problems:

  • Limit the use of water.
  • Do laundry at the laundromat.
  • Don’t flush the toilet every time it’s used.
  • Wash dishes by hand.
  • Don’t park on or drive over the septic tank or field area.
  • Limit walking or playing in that area.
  • If water is bubbling up from the ground, don’t let children play in that area.
  • If sewage is backing up into the house, use gloves and wear rubber boots and clean with a disinfectant such as diluted bleach.

Florida Anchor and Barrier truck 4Florida Anchor and Barrier has men and equipment standing by if you need help repairing your mobile or manufactured home after Hurricane Michael… 

Florida Anchor & Barrier has offices throughout North / central and southern Florida.

Tampa Fl  (813) 528-5988

503 E JACKSON ST
TAMPA, FL 33602

Cape Coral Fl  (239) 823-0263

1217 E CAPE CORAL PKWY
CAPE CORAL, FL 33904

Sarasota Fl (941) 448-3577

7350 S TAMIAMI TRAIL
SARASOTA, FL 32431

Lakeland FL (863) 512-2800

3616 HARDEN BLVD
LAKELAND, FL 33803

Palm Harbor FL (727) 237-6772

35246 US HWY 19 N
PALM HARBOR, FL 34684

Orlando FL (407) 792-0288

4630 S KIRKMAN RD (407, 386, 321, 352)
ORLANDO, FL 32811

Port St Lucie Fl (772) 539-5154

7548 S US HWY 1
PORT ST LUCIE, FL 34952

Daytona FL  (386) 478-7814

West Palm Beach Fl  (561) 337-1275

Fort Pierce FL  (772) 539-5154

Ft. Lauderdale FL  (954) 713-9366

Brooksville FL (352) 398-9286

Melbourne FL  (321) 215-4009

 

MOBILE HOME NATURAL DISASTERS IN FLORIDA & FEMA

Hurricane Michael With Hurricane Michael heading up the west coast of Florida we thought this would be a good time to remind you of the laws concerning FEMA as they pertain to mobile homes in Florida. Here are some some FAQS from the Miami Law Center that you’ll find helpful. 

My mobile home is damaged, am I eligible to apply for FEMA disaster relief benefits?

You may be eligible for FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) disaster relief if you are a mobile homeowner living in the mobile home or a renter living in the mobile home. Only one member of the household living in the mobile home should apply for FEMA disaster relief.

What kind of benefits will FEMA provide mobile home owners?

FEMA may provide financial assistance for repairs to the mobile home if repairs are possible. If the mobile home is classified as destroyed, the mobile homeowner may receive a cash award for the “loss of housing unit”. In extreme cases, FEMA may provide a new mobile home for temporary living, sometimes with the possibility of purchasing the home at a reduced rate.

What kind of benefits will FEMA provide to mobile home renters (not homeowners)?

FEMA may provide financial assistance to mobile home renters whose personal property was damaged by the hurricane. Mobile home renters may also be eligible to receive assistance to cover 3-months rent for alternative housing, and other needs such as disaster-caused medical expenses, repair of a car damaged by the storm, disaster-related moving and storage expenses, and food costs.

What should I do after I apply for FEMA disaster relief benefits?

After applying for FEMA benefits, you should make every effort to be present when FEMA comes to inspect the mobile home. You should take photos of the mobile home and its contents and to provide the FEMA agent any information he/she may have regarding the value of your losses.

If my mobile home is damaged or destroyed, do I still have to pay lot rent to the park?

Yes, if you own your home and rent the lot, you are obligated to pay lot rent in order to maintain possession of the lot. But, if your park is unlivable, you should speak to the park owner about whether he will reduce or waive rent for some period of time. If the owner agrees, make sure you confirm the agreement in writing, by email, or text.

If you don’t pay rent the park owner may file an eviction for non-payment of rent. If that happens, you will be required to deposit your rent with the court. If you do not deposit your rent with the court, you will automatically lose the eviction.

If you do not have money to pay the rent, you should contact your local disaster recovery center to see if you are eligible for any other financial assistance.

Who is responsible for debris clean up?

You should review your lease, prospectus, and mobile home park rules and regulations to determine if there is a written agreement regarding this issue. If there is no written agreement, then Florida law governs, which states that the mobile home park owner is responsible for cleaning the debris in common areas of the mobile home park. The mobile home owner is responsible for cleaning up the debris on his/her individual lot caused by his/her own personal property (i.e. destroyed utility sheds, mobile home parts, furniture, etc.)

If the mobile home park is destroyed, can the park owner permanently close down the park?

The park owner must provide a 6-month notice to all residents prior to closing down a mobile home park. In addition, the park owner must provide written notice to all residents within 5 days of filing an application to change the park’s zoning from mobile home park to some other use. If the park owner closes the park, you may be eligible for a small amount of financial assistance from Florida’s Mobile Home Relocation Corporation.

To find a legal aid office in Florida, go to: https://floridalawhelp.org/find-legal-help 

Call us at any of our Florida offices at these locations listed below:
Florida Anchor & Barrier has offices throughout central and southern Florida.

Call us and we’ll give you a free quote in writing.

Florida Anchor & Barrier also has offices throughout central and southern Florida.

Tampa Fl  (813) 528-5988

503 E JACKSON ST
TAMPA, FL 33602

Cape Coral Fl  (239) 823-0263

1217 E CAPE CORAL PKWY
CAPE CORAL, FL 33904

Sarasota Fl (941) 448-3577

7350 S TAMIAMI TRAIL
SARASOTA, FL 32431

Lakeland FL (863) 512-2800

3616 HARDEN BLVD
LAKELAND, FL 33803

Palm Harbor FL (727) 237-6772

35246 US HWY 19 N
PALM HARBOR, FL 34684

Orlando FL (407) 792-0288

4630 S KIRKMAN RD (407, 386, 321, 352)
ORLANDO, FL 32811

Port St Lucie Fl (772) 539-5154

7548 S US HWY 1
PORT ST LUCIE, FL 34952

Daytona FL  (386) 478-7814

West Palm Beach Fl  (561) 337-1275

Fort Pierce FL  (772) 539-5154

Ft. Lauderdale FL  (954) 713-9366

Brooksville FL (352) 398-9286

Melbourne FL  (321) 215-4009