A double wide trailer, or manufactured home, offers a surprising amount of living space, typically featuring between 5 and 9 distinct rooms. This room count usually encompasses bedrooms, bathrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and potentially a dining area, den, or utility room, depending on the specific floor plan and size.
Understanding the Layout of a Double Wide Trailer
While the specific number of rooms in a double wide trailer can vary significantly, a general understanding of common layouts helps paint a clear picture of what to expect. Unlike traditionally built homes, double wides are constructed in two separate sections in a factory setting and then transported to the final site for assembly. This modular construction impacts the floor plan possibilities.
Common Room Configurations
The most prevalent double wide floor plans feature:
- Bedrooms: Ranging from two to four bedrooms, with three being a very common configuration.
- Bathrooms: Usually two full bathrooms, often including a master bathroom attached to the master bedroom.
- Living Area: A central living room or great room serving as the primary gathering space.
- Kitchen: A fully equipped kitchen, often with an island or peninsula for added counter space.
- Dining Area: A dedicated dining area, which may be integrated with the living room or kitchen.
Factors Influencing Room Count
Several factors influence the number of rooms in a double wide trailer:
- Square Footage: The overall square footage is the most significant factor. Larger double wides naturally accommodate more rooms.
- Floor Plan Design: Different floor plans prioritize different features. Some maximize bedroom count, while others emphasize open-concept living areas.
- Manufacturer Options: Manufacturers offer a range of standard and custom options, allowing buyers to tailor the room layout to their needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Double Wide Room Counts
These FAQs address common questions and misconceptions about the room count and layout of double wide trailers.
FAQ 1: Can I customize the floor plan of a double wide to add or remove rooms?
Yes, to a certain extent. Many manufacturers offer customization options, allowing you to modify existing floor plans to suit your needs. You can often adjust the size of rooms, relocate walls (within structural limitations), and even add or remove non-structural elements like closets. However, completely redesigning the floor plan from scratch is typically not feasible. Discuss your specific requirements with the manufacturer or dealer.
FAQ 2: Do double wide trailers come with a separate laundry room?
Many double wide trailers do include a dedicated laundry room or utility room. This space typically houses the washer and dryer hookups, as well as providing storage for laundry supplies. However, the inclusion of a laundry room depends on the specific model and floor plan. Some models may integrate the laundry hookups into a bathroom or hallway closet to conserve space.
FAQ 3: Are the rooms in a double wide trailer smaller than those in a traditional house?
Not necessarily. Modern double wide trailers are designed to offer comfortable and spacious living environments. While some rooms might be slightly smaller than those in a comparable stick-built home, the difference is often negligible, especially in larger double wides. The key is to carefully consider the room dimensions and layout when selecting a model.
FAQ 4: Do double wide trailers typically have a walk-in closet in the master bedroom?
Many double wide trailers feature a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, particularly in larger models and those marketed as higher-end. However, this is not always the case. Some models may offer a standard closet instead. Be sure to check the specifications and floor plan of the specific model you are considering to confirm the presence of a walk-in closet.
FAQ 5: Can I add a room to a double wide trailer after it has been set up?
Adding a room to an existing double wide trailer can be challenging and expensive. It typically involves significant structural modifications and requires permits and inspections. It’s often more cost-effective to purchase a larger double wide or consider adding an attached deck or porch to expand the living space. Consult with a qualified contractor and local authorities before attempting any additions.
FAQ 6: What is a ‘flex room’ and do double wides often have them?
A “flex room” is a versatile space that can be used for various purposes, such as a home office, den, guest room, or playroom. While not standard in all double wide models, some floor plans include a flex room or offer the option to convert an existing room into one. The presence of a flex room depends on the specific design and manufacturer options.
FAQ 7: Are double wide trailers considered to have more or fewer rooms than single wide trailers?
Double wide trailers almost always have more rooms than single wide trailers. Single wide trailers are smaller and more compact, typically featuring fewer bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces. The double wide design provides significantly more square footage and allows for a more expansive and functional layout.
FAQ 8: Can I use one of the rooms in my double wide as a home office?
Absolutely. Many people successfully use a spare bedroom, den, or even a portion of the living room in their double wide as a home office. The key is to choose a room that offers adequate space, natural light, and privacy to create a productive workspace.
FAQ 9: How does the number of bathrooms in a double wide impact its room count?
Bathrooms are considered separate rooms in the overall room count of a double wide. Most double wides have two bathrooms, which contributes to the total room number. Some larger models may even feature three bathrooms, further increasing the overall room count.
FAQ 10: Do double wide trailers typically have a front or back porch? Is that included in the room count?
While a few double wide trailers may have an attached small porch built-in, porches are not included in the standard room count. Porches are often added as an aftermarket feature, typically built from wood or composite materials. They significantly enhance the living space and aesthetic appeal of the home.
FAQ 11: How does the “open floor plan” concept impact the number of distinct rooms in a double wide?
An open floor plan, where the living room, kitchen, and dining area are combined into a single large space, can reduce the number of physically separated rooms. However, these areas are still considered distinct functional zones, even if they are not separated by walls. The impact on the perception of the number of rooms is greater than the impact on the actual count.
FAQ 12: What should I consider when choosing a double wide with a specific room count?
When selecting a double wide based on room count, consider your lifestyle, family size, and future needs. Think about how you will use each room and whether the layout meets your requirements. Prioritize functionality, storage space, and natural light. Also, factor in the resale value of the home, as a well-designed and appropriately sized double wide is more likely to attract potential buyers in the future. Don’t just focus on the number, focus on if the rooms meet your needs.