Leveling a double wide trailer house is crucial for its structural integrity, the proper functioning of doors and windows, and overall comfort. It involves adjusting the support piers beneath the structure to ensure a level and stable foundation, preventing costly repairs down the line. Neglecting this crucial aspect can lead to a multitude of problems.
Understanding the Importance of Leveling
A double wide trailer house, unlike a traditional stick-built home, is constructed in two separate sections and joined together at the site. This modular construction makes them susceptible to settling and shifting over time, primarily due to ground movement, frost heave, and inadequate initial support. Uneven settling can cause a host of issues, including:
- Door and Window Malfunctions: Doors and windows may become difficult to open or close, stick, or develop gaps that allow drafts and pests to enter.
- Structural Damage: Uneven weight distribution can stress the frame and walls, leading to cracks, warps, and potential structural failure.
- Plumbing Problems: Misaligned pipes can cause leaks and drainage issues, potentially resulting in water damage.
- Uneven Floors: Sloping floors are not only uncomfortable but also a safety hazard.
- Reduced Property Value: An unlevel trailer house significantly detracts from its resale value.
Regular leveling is therefore essential maintenance for any double wide trailer house. Ideally, you should inspect your home annually and address any noticeable settling promptly.
The Leveling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
While professional leveling services are available, many homeowners can tackle the task themselves with the right tools and understanding. The following steps outline the general process:
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Gather Your Tools and Materials: You’ll need:
- A long (at least 4-foot) level
- A measuring tape
- A bottle jack or hydraulic jack (rated for the weight of your home)
- Shims (wood or composite)
- A socket set or wrench set
- Safety glasses and gloves
- A helper (strongly recommended)
- A plumb bob (optional, for verifying vertical alignment)
- A string level (helpful for checking long spans)
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Inspect and Identify Problem Areas: Carefully examine the exterior of your home, paying close attention to doors, windows, and the seam where the two sections join. Look for visual cues such as leaning walls, gaps, or sticking points. Inside, use your level to check floors, walls, and countertops. Mark any areas that are significantly out of level.
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Locate and Access the Support Piers: These are typically concrete blocks or metal stands positioned beneath the main frame of the trailer house. Consult your manufacturer’s specifications or local building codes for the correct spacing and placement of piers. Ensure you have safe and unobstructed access to each pier.
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Prepare the Piers: Remove any debris or vegetation around the piers. If the piers are sitting directly on the ground, place a solid base (such as a concrete paver) beneath each one to prevent sinking.
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Jack Up the Low Spots: Using the bottle jack, carefully raise the frame near the affected pier. Lift only a small amount at a time (no more than ½ inch per lift) to avoid causing further damage. It’s crucial to use a sturdy jacking point on the frame to distribute the weight.
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Insert Shims: Once you’ve raised the frame, insert shims between the pier and the frame to fill the gap. Use a combination of different sized shims to achieve a level surface. Avoid using excessive force or bending the frame.
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Lower the Jack Slowly: Gradually lower the jack, ensuring that the frame rests securely on the shims.
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Re-Check the Level: Use your level to confirm that the area is now level. If necessary, repeat steps 5-7 until you achieve the desired result.
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Repeat for Other Problem Areas: Work systematically, addressing one area at a time. It’s important to maintain a consistent and even lift to avoid stressing the frame.
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Final Inspection: After leveling all problem areas, conduct a final inspection of the entire trailer house. Check all doors and windows to ensure they open and close smoothly. Re-check floors and walls for levelness.
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Secure the Shims: Once you are satisfied with the leveling, consider securing the shims in place with construction adhesive or by driving wedges into the gaps. This will help prevent them from shifting over time.
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Monitor for Further Settling: Over the next few weeks, periodically monitor the leveled areas for any signs of settling. If necessary, make minor adjustments as needed.
FAQs: Leveling Your Double Wide
H3 FAQ 1: How often should I level my double wide trailer house?
The general recommendation is to inspect your double wide annually and level as needed. Homes in areas with significant seasonal temperature fluctuations or unstable soil conditions may require more frequent leveling.
H3 FAQ 2: Can I level my double wide myself, or should I hire a professional?
Many homeowners can level their double wide themselves with the right tools and knowledge. However, if you are uncomfortable working under the house or if you suspect significant structural issues, it’s best to hire a professional. Professionals have the experience and equipment to handle complex leveling jobs safely and efficiently.
H3 FAQ 3: What are the signs that my double wide needs leveling?
Key indicators include doors and windows that stick or are difficult to close, cracks in walls or ceilings, sloping floors, and noticeable gaps around the seam where the two sections join. You may also notice plumbing problems, such as slow drains or leaks.
H3 FAQ 4: What type of jack should I use for leveling my double wide?
A bottle jack or hydraulic jack with sufficient weight capacity is recommended. Ensure the jack is rated to handle the weight of your home. It’s always better to overestimate the weight capacity than underestimate.
H3 FAQ 5: What are the best materials for shims?
Wood or composite shims are commonly used. Wood shims are readily available and inexpensive, while composite shims are more durable and resistant to rot and insect damage.
H3 FAQ 6: What should I do if the piers are sinking?
If the piers are sinking, you need to address the underlying issue causing the sinking. This may involve improving drainage around the piers, adding concrete pads beneath them to distribute the weight, or replacing the piers with more robust supports.
H3 FAQ 7: How much weight can I safely lift at one time when leveling?
It’s crucial to lift only a small amount at a time (no more than ½ inch per lift) to avoid stressing the frame. Overlifting can cause further damage and potentially compromise the structural integrity of your home.
H3 FAQ 8: What if I can’t access a support pier due to obstructions?
Clear any obstructions to ensure safe and unobstructed access to all support piers. If necessary, you may need to relocate utilities or trim vegetation. If access remains impossible, consult a professional.
H3 FAQ 9: Can leveling my double wide fix existing cracks in the walls?
Leveling can help prevent existing cracks from worsening and may even close some minor cracks. However, it won’t necessarily fix all cracks. Larger or structural cracks may require additional repairs.
H3 FAQ 10: What is the proper spacing for support piers under a double wide?
Consult your manufacturer’s specifications or local building codes for the correct spacing and placement of support piers. Improperly spaced piers can compromise the stability of your home.
H3 FAQ 11: Is it safe to live in a double wide that is not level?
Living in an unlevel double wide can pose safety risks due to structural instability, uneven floors, and potential plumbing issues. Addressing leveling problems promptly is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment.
H3 FAQ 12: How do I prevent my double wide from settling in the future?
Proper site preparation, including adequate drainage and a stable foundation, is essential for preventing settling. Regular inspections and prompt leveling adjustments can also help minimize the effects of settling over time. Consider adding additional piers for increased support if your home is prone to settling.
By following these guidelines and understanding the importance of regular leveling, you can help ensure the longevity, stability, and comfort of your double wide trailer house for years to come. Remember safety first, and when in doubt, consult with a qualified professional.