Are you planning to install a mobile home on your property?
If so, one of the most important things you need to do is to secure it with mobile home anchors.
Anchoring your mobile home is crucial to ensure that it stays in place during strong winds, storms, and other natural disasters.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on installing mobile home anchors so you can rest assured that your mobile home is safe and secure.
What Is A Mobile Anchor And How Do They Work?
As the name suggests, mobile home anchors are designed to anchor or secure mobile homes to the ground.
They are essential for the stability of the structure, especially in regions prone to high winds or seismic activity.
Anchors work by transferring the load of the mobile home to the ground, preventing any potential uprooting or shifting.
2 Ways To Anchor A Mobile Home
When anchoring a mobile home, there are two main methods: Frame Tie Down and Top Tie Down.
Frame Tie Down
Frame tie-down is a type of anchoring that installs from underneath the mobile home.
Since most mobile homes typically sit on concrete piers, safely securing it from underneath the unit is possible.
With this method, you'll need to install steel straps extending from the home's I-beam down to the anchor in the ground.
The straps are then tightened to secure the home to the ground.
Top Tie Down
Top tie-down anchors are installed from the top of the home and are attached to the roof trusses.
The anchor is then driven into the ground at an angle, and the cable is attached to the anchor and tightened down to the roof trusses.
The top tie-down method is typically used in areas with high winds or where the soil is too shallow for Frame tie-down anchors.
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5 Different Types of Mobile Anchors
There are five types of mobile home anchors that you can choose from.
Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the one that best suits your needs is essential.
- Hard Rock: Used when the mobile home is placed on a rock. These anchors penetrate hard surfaces for a firm hold.
- Slab: These anchors are designed for homes placed on concrete slabs. They ensure stability on these flat surfaces.
- Auger: Suited for soil-based sites. They are twisted into the ground, acting like screws, providing a secure grip.
- Deadman: Used in loose or sandy soils. They involve burying large objects (like logs or concrete blocks) horizontally into the ground, with tie-downs attached.
- Drive: These are driven into concrete, providing quick but effective anchorage.
How to Install Mobile Home Anchors
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you install mobile home anchors.
Step 1: Gather the Equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment for the job. Here's what you'll need:
- Post hole diggers
- Earth anchors
- Straps
- Split bolts
- Hookups
- Drill
- Level
- Tape measure
- Shovel
Step 2: Determine How Many Anchors You’ll Need
The number of anchors you'll need depends on the size of your mobile home and the soil type. But generally, you'll need at least four anchors.
If you live in an area with high winds or storms, you may want to install additional anchors for security.
Step 3: Check The Soil Type
Your soil type will also impact the type of anchors you'll need. You'll need longer anchors to ensure they hold if you have soft or sandy soil.
If you have rocky soil, you may need to use a different type of anchor altogether.
Step 4: Acquire the Anchors and Hook Ups
Next, it's time to acquire the anchors and hook ups. You can find these at most hardware stores or online.
Make sure to get anchors appropriate for your soil type and the size of your mobile home.
Step 5: Plan the Utilities
Before you start drilling, it's important to plan the location of your utilities. You don't want to accidentally hit a gas or water line while drilling.
Use a tape measure and level to mark the location of your utilities and ensure they're out of the way.
Step 6: Start Drilling
Once you've marked the location of your utilities, it's time to start drilling. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than your anchors' diameter.
Drill a hole at each anchor location, making sure to go down at least 2 feet.
Step 7: Install the Anchors
Once you've drilled all the holes, it's time to insert the anchors. However, this can depend on the method you choose.
For vertical tie-downs, drive the anchor straight into the ground. Only the anchor head should remain visible.
The frame or diagonal tie-downs require the anchor to be driven at a minimum angle of 40 degrees.
While frame anchors can be installed vertically, a stabilization device is essential to prevent shifting.
Alternatively, concrete reinforcement can be used. If opting for concrete, ensure it provides substantial support.
A minimum depth of 18" and a diameter of 10" is typically suggested.
Step 8: Do the Adjustments
Once anchors are in place, adjust the tie-downs to ensure the mobile home is firmly secured and level.
If you're more of a visual learner, you can follow this helpful video as a guide.
Where Can I Buy Mobile Home Anchors?
There are several places to buy anchors. Here are a few places where you can purchase them:
- Home Improvement Stores: Retailers such as Home Depot and Lowe's offer a range of mobile home anchors, in-store and online.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and eBay list various mobile home anchors; always read descriptions to ensure compatibility.
- Mobile Home Supply Stores: These stores provide a broad selection of anchors and staff expertise, making it easier to find the right fit.
- Manufacturer Websites: You can find anchors specifically designed for your model by visiting your mobile home's brand website.
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How Deep Should Mobile Anchors Go?
Typically, mobile home anchors are installed at a depth of 2 feet.
With this, you can ensure that the anchor is deep enough to provide adequate stability while allowing easy installation.
However, the exact depth may vary depending on the soil conditions and other factors.
Do You Hammer Or Screw In Anchors?
The answer to this question depends on the anchor you are using and the type of soil you are working with.
Hammer-in anchors are typically used in hard soil conditions. These anchors have a pointed end driven into the ground using a sledgehammer.
Once the anchor is entirely driven into the ground, it is secured by attaching a cable or strap to the anchor head.
On the other hand, screw-in anchors are used in soft soil conditions.
These anchors have a corkscrew-like shape that allows them to be screwed into the ground using a large wrench or socket.
Once the anchor is fully screwed into the ground, it is secured by attaching a cable or strap to the anchor head.
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Final Thoughts
Congratulations! You have successfully installed mobile home anchors.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you have ensured the safety and stability of your mobile home.
It is important to note that the installation process may vary depending on your specific mobile home and location.
Always consult a professional or your local building code before starting any installation process.
We hope that this guide has been helpful in your mobile home anchor installation process.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you!