Understanding the Differences: Mobile, Manufactured, and Modular Homes - Granger Mobile Homes

January 31, 2024

Understanding the Differences

Mobile, Manufactured, and Modular Homes

What’s in a name?

So you have your land, and you know that a traditional built home is not the direction you want to go, but you don’t know where to start. You’ve heard of the term mobile home and manufactured home, but what does it really mean? The short answer is they both are most likely referring to the same structure, just that those in the know use the correct terminology in the industry. Welcome to our comprehensive guide to understanding the lingo; mobile homes, manufactured homes, modular homes:three terms often used interchangeably but are distinct in their own right.  

Mobile Homes: A Legacy of Mobility

A Blast from the Past

The story of mobile homes in the United States dates back to the early days of automobiles and highway travel. Originating from travel trailers (once called “house trailers” or “trailer coaches”), these mobile homes were designed for people who needed a lifestyle of mobility. Over time, these homes evolved from being just temporary travel accompaniments to becoming permanent fixtures in residential areas.

Design and Structure

Mobile homes are constructed on a solid, permanently attached chassis that enables their initial transportation to a designated location. This chassis, typically made from sturdy steel, serves as a foundational structure for the entire home. While these homes are designed to be movable, a significant number of them are placed in a single location for prolonged durations, often becoming semi-permanent or permanent residences due to the convenience and stability they offer.

In the early stages of their development, mobile homes were relatively compact, measuring about eight feet in width. This narrow design was primarily due to restrictions in highway regulations and ease of transport. However, as the demand for more spacious and comfortable living quarters grew, the industry saw an evolution in the size of these homes. The width expanded to 10 feet and, in some cases, to 12 feet or more. This increase in size, while providing more living space, also made them more challenging to move. The transportation of wider mobile homes typically requires special permits and professional handling due to their oversized dimensions.

Modern mobile homes come in various configurations, catering to different needs and preferences. The most common types are single-wides and double-wides. Single-wide mobile homes are narrower and longer, making them easier to transport, whereas double-wides are essentially two single-wide units joined together, offering a larger living area. These homes are now known not only for their mobility but also for their robust construction. The trailer frames, constructed from high-quality materials, ensure durability and longevity. Additionally, these homes are equipped with tow-hitches, reinforcing their mobile nature. Despite these features, many owners choose to anchor their mobile homes to a specific location, often adding external structures such as porches or carports, further enhancing their functionality and comfort as long-term housing solutions.

With the establishment of the HUD Code in the 1970s and the Housing Act of 1980, the term “manufactured” replaced “mobile” for homes built post-1976, signaling a significant shift in standards and quality. This transition paved the way for the modern, high-quality manufactured homes that are being constructed today, offering enhanced beauty and durability.

Manufactured Homes: An Affordable Housing Solution

The Evolution

In the 1950s, mobile homes began to be marketed as affordable housing options. They were typically set up and left in one location for long periods, sometimes with a permanent foundation. The term “manufactured home” was coined in 1974 when the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) set federal standards for these homes.

Features and Flexibility

Manufactured homes are built in a factory and then transported to the home site. They can be placed on a permanent foundation and, unlike mobile homes, are often not intended to be moved once installed. These homes are subject to federal building codes set by HUD, which ensures their safety and quality.

Manufactured homes represent a modern approach to housing, where the entire building process occurs in a controlled factory environment before the homes are transported to their final location. This method of construction offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it allows for efficient and consistent building practices, as the homes are assembled under predefined standards, away from the variables of traditional on-site construction such as weather or local resource availability.

Once the construction of these homes is complete, they are then transported to the intended home site. This transportation is typically achieved using heavy-duty trailers and professional moving services, ensuring the integrity of the structure during transit. Upon arrival at the destination, these homes are commonly placed on a permanent foundation. This foundation varies from concrete slabs to more complex basement or pier-and-beam systems, depending on the homeowner’s preference and local building requirements.

Unlike mobile homes, which are designed with the potential for multiple relocations in mind, manufactured homes are generally not intended to be moved once they are installed. This is due to both their construction method and the nature of their foundation. Disassembling or moving a manufactured home after installation is a complex and costly process, which is why they are usually considered a permanent housing solution.

Furthermore, manufactured homes are subject to strict federal building codes as outlined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These HUD codes play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, quality, and durability of manufactured homes. They encompass a wide range of construction and safety standards, including those related to fire resistance, structural design, energy efficiency, and thermal and electrical systems. These standards are regularly updated to reflect current safety practices and technological advancements.

Modular Homes: The Modern Alternative

The New Age of Prefab Homes

Modular homes represent the modern iteration of prefabricated housing. They are built in sections in a factory and then transported to the building site where they are assembled.

Construction and Design

Unlike mobile or manufactured homes, modular homes don’t have wheels or a chassis. Instead, they are transported in multiple sections on flatbed trucks and assembled on-site with the help of cranes. These homes can range from single-story designs to elaborate multi-story residences with varying architectural styles. Once assembled, they are virtually indistinguishable from site-built homes and adhere to the same local building codes, versus manufactured homes (which are built to HUD codes).

Finding the Right Fit

Whether it’s the classic mobile home, the affordable manufactured home, or the modern and versatile modular home, each has its unique place in the housing market. Understanding their differences is key to making informed decisions about your housing needs.

We hope this guide has shed light on the fascinating world of prefabricated homes. Contact us today to help you on your way to home ownership.

Check out our available models:

Troy B.
Troy B.
1727060592
Not really a review of Clayton Homes but more so for Granger Mobile Homes dealership. We own property and was looking for a home to retire in. My wife found a listing for a manufactured home and called about. She was so impressed on how nice and helpful Kyle was we drove past a Clayton Homes dealer 5 miles from us (with rude and self centered people) 80 miles to Granger.It couldn't have been a better experience with the people there. I immediately liked the "good 'ole country boy" attitude displayed by Kyle. Made us feel right at home working with him.Still some hangups with our water department with getting water and septic installed but not the fault of Granger. I have called a few times since we purchased our home and he is always quick to answer and helpful. His assistant is extremely nice and helpful also always. I am horrible remembering names so hers escapes me.I couldn't recommend Granger Mobile Homes enough if you are in search of a manufactured home. You won't be disappointed. I wish I could rate them more than 5 stars.
Jenna R.
Jenna R.
1724795633
Very friendly! Always sent updates about build time and if Kyle ever didn't know an answer to a question I had, he would figure it out. I would recommend Granger Mobile Homes for anyone wanting a new trailer!
Monika T.
Monika T.
1724780431
We had the BEST experience with Granger Mobile Homes. Kyle and the entire crew were super amazing from the beginning to the end. We are very satisfied and in love with our new home!
Robyn L.
Robyn L.
1724776231
Kyle Granger, his wife, and their crew are amazing people! We have bought a house through an actual realtor which was such a headache and when we found Kyle I wish we would have found him years ago! He made buying a house SO EASY! We loved that Kyle & his people were a phone call or text away from fixing ANY problems! If you're in the market for a beautiful home don't walk, RUN to Granger Mobile Homes in Kiowa, Ok!
Chelsi H.
Chelsi H.
1724776078
Top notch experience! From them showing us trailers while we had to make pit stops to feed our bottle baby goat (we all had to laugh) to helping with minor problems inside of our new home, they made it enjoyable, personal, and full of respect! We traveled all over to find what fit for us, not only house wise, but the company too! We have no regret with this choice at all! 100% recommend Granger Mobile Home and will be sending all our family and friends here!
Janet M.
Janet M.
1724775939
We bought our home from Granger Mobile Homes 4 months ago and we love it!! Kyle Granger and his staff are THE BEST!! If you are looking for a mobile home GO SEE KYLE! No one can beat his prices!!!
Lisa B.
Lisa B.
1723049066
Our house burnt in February 24’ . We had shopped at other places for a mobile home. when we stopped at Granger in Kiowa, we instantly felt like this was the place to be. Kyle and everyone there made us feel so much better about our situation. We are so happy with our purchase. I got to pick out colors of a few different things which gave it more of a it’s our house type feel. I recommend this place to everyone I see that is shopping for a new home. They are so kind.
Crystal S.
Crystal S.
1723038244
Kyle and his wife are the sweetest and most knowledgeable. I am so glad we went through this process with them.
Melissa M.
Melissa M.
1722968480
Kyle and his entire crew were completely helpful from the beginning to the end of my getting into my new home. He and his staff go above and beyond-even after the home is delivered and set up! Thanks Granger Homes! Y’all made the purchase and move of my home easy!
Aaron W.
Aaron W.
1712357843
My wife and I have been shopping for a house for over 10 years now. Kyle has the best customer service and we are so happy with our choice of coming here we will not buy a house from any other place, ever.I invite you to see for yourself just how amazing everyone here is! They take ownership and pride in what they do and your experience.Every interaction is addressed with care, love and politeness.
Angela K.
Angela K.
1712017925
What a great team of people! Highly recommend!
S C.
S C.
1711479198
Purchased a new home in the of October and beginning of November. We had it set up and we were living in it by the beginning of Dec. Fast, easy transition. All of our concerns were addressed. Kyle is easy to work with and lined us up with financing. Will buy another place from him!
Cristy R.
Cristy R.
1709757123
Great folks - fantastic homes- and tremendous service!!!!!!!
Sandy D.
Sandy D.
1709756441
Love, love Kyle Granger. He goes above and beyond with anything
Susan B.
Susan B.
1708786518
Mr. Kyle and the gang at Granger Mobile Homes have been absolutely wonderful and patient with us during the whole process. Received my new mobile home in record time. They are wonderful people and truly care about their customers. You can not find better service than Granger Mobile Homes.
Dillon G.
Dillon G.
1708127769
Kyle is a very knowledgeable person. Customer service is top notch. Highly recommend!!
Bradley P.
Bradley P.
1706558000
Absolutely the best place to purchase your new home from. Staff is awesome! Thanks a million Granger team!!
Christina H.
Christina H.
1705685421
This was our first manufactured home purchase for my son and I. The owner was so helpful in everyway. With getting us our help to taking care of the paperwork for our land.They have a big selection of homes in all price ranges and was able to take care of all our financing needs. Kyle was very generally responsive to our concerns . He was on my speed dial. He answered every one of my calls and text and if he didnt know the answer to my questions, he would get the answer and call me back..The foundation guys were excellent. The set crew was very professional and with real quality at work. The utility contractors were very reliable at installing the power , septic and water..we had a great experience with them all.
Lynk V.
Lynk V.
1705084342
Kyle is the man! Get with him for your new manufacture home.
tera H.
tera H.
1702778836
Granger mobile homes, great customer service from awesome people!
Cody W.
Cody W.
1702762932
Great customer care and overall great owners
Calvin M.
Calvin M.
1702752242
Price was great and service was great. Kyle and Heather made sure we were happy with all phases of the purchase.
Krystal M.
Krystal M.
1702747718
Kyle, his beautiful family and staff are wonderful! Grainger Mobile Homes is the #1 Mobile Home Dealer in Oklahoma. Kyle prides himself in customer service and has only the BEST quality homes.
Aaron D.
Aaron D.
1702743564
Great people..wonderful to deal with and get the job done..was an amazing experience
caitlin S.
caitlin S.
1702489258
Kyle is absolutely amazing!!! He went above and beyond for my family and I.He is such an amazing person to deal with and makes sure that you don’t leave unless you are 1000% happy!
Caitlin H.
Caitlin H.
1702489039
Kyle went above and beyond when I came to him to purchase a home for our family. He was straight forward, honest and most of all he did whatever he could to help me through the whole process!!! I hands down won’t go anywhere else besides Granger Mobile Homes!!
Alicia P.
Alicia P.
1702413828
Kyle and his staff were awesome to work with and made our home buying process so easy and were there to answer any questions we had! I would recommend Granger Mobile Homes to any one looking for a great buying experience!!
Kenny H.
Kenny H.
1694099623
Hands-down, the best experience ever in buying a home Kyle and his whole crew are nothing but top-notch people
Trevor S.
Trevor S.
1691940198
Would highly recommend Granger mobile homes. Customers are always satisfied! Even after the sale they go above and beyond making sure the customer is happy!
Tyden A.
Tyden A.
1691803330
If your looking for top notch service all all the way around !!GRANGER MOBILES HOMES!! Is the only way to go! From sales to service you can’t go wrong with these guys!
Lee N.
Lee N.
1690918126
Kyle has been wonderful at helping us! Thanks Kyle!
Alice E.
Alice E.
1690845346
Kyle and Heather did everything humanly possible to get me in my home in spite of the weatherWhat an awesome couple
Kolbey&Connor E.
Kolbey&Connor E.
1690494762
Great people and would recommend them to anyone. They helped every way possible!
Aaron M.
Aaron M.
1690254773
WOW!!!! Kyle and Heather are amazing people and great to work with! They made our experience quick and easy!! I love that to this day I can still call and ask questions and they answer the phone and always are willing to help!! Thanks!!
Tristan S.
Tristan S.
1689965578
Amazing people and treat their customers fabulous!! We bought our first house from them and the experience was A++!
Kate S.
Kate S.
1689436134
I would absolutely 1,000 % highly recommend granger mobile homes in Kiowa, Oklahoma. Kyle is the absolute best to work with and takes pride in selling these homes. He’s super personable and always keeps us updated. We made the best decision by choosing this establishment!! 🏠
Tara M.
Tara M.
1689005356
Great easy process. Everyone friendly and very helpful. Highly recommend doing business with Granger Mobile Home.
Kristi
Kristi
1688603740
Kyle and Heather are absolutely amazing! If I could give them a 10 I would. Every detail of our home buying process was perfect from start to finish. We will recommend them, and Tyden and crew, all day long! Thank you guys for everything ❤️
Leslie B.
Leslie B.
1687461905
This business has the kindest and greatest people ever! They go above and beyond to try and find the best home for ur family. They are willing to help in any way that they can and even if u don't get a house with them in the end. They still treat u like family. If I am ever in the need to buy a mobile home this is the only place I am goin or sending anyone that I know to. Y'all are the true meaning of what good people are. I wish u and ur family the best future ever possible. With best wishes from the Ayers.
William T.
William T.
1687375479
Amazing sales and service, keep up the great work Kyle!!!
Austin B.
Austin B.
1687048693
Go see Kyle at Granger Mobile Homes for a great house buying experience. His customer service is stellar and makes sure each customer leaves happy. Keep up the great work Kyle!
Shelly
Shelly
1687045291
My husband and I shopped around for a mobile home for awhile . Then we see granger mobile home on Facebook so we went and looked at what they had . We met Kyle and Heather and next thing we knew we were buying our home. Kyle and Heather and all the crew that helped get our home moved and set up are awesome they really do treat you like family and they make sure that if something is wrong they get it took care of immediately. So if you want a really good deal on a new home I highly recommend Granger Mobile Home.
Mate S.
Mate S.
1674691387
Kyle is the most genuine of all the mobile home places we ever visited. We plan on getting a house from him soon and look forward to it!
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Troy B.
Troy B.
1727060592
Not really a review of Clayton Homes but more so for Granger Mobile Homes dealership. We own property and was looking for a home to retire in. My wife found a listing for a manufactured home and called about. She was so impressed on how nice and helpful Kyle was we drove past a Clayton Homes dealer 5 miles from us (with rude and self centered people) 80 miles to Granger.It couldn't have been a better experience with the people there. I immediately liked the "good 'ole country boy" attitude displayed by Kyle. Made us feel right at home working with him.Still some hangups with our water department with getting water and septic installed but not the fault of Granger. I have called a few times since we purchased our home and he is always quick to answer and helpful. His assistant is extremely nice and helpful also always. I am horrible remembering names so hers escapes me.I couldn't recommend Granger Mobile Homes enough if you are in search of a manufactured home. You won't be disappointed. I wish I could rate them more than 5 stars.
Jenna R.
Jenna R.
1724795633
Very friendly! Always sent updates about build time and if Kyle ever didn't know an answer to a question I had, he would figure it out. I would recommend Granger Mobile Homes for anyone wanting a new trailer!
Monika T.
Monika T.
1724780431
We had the BEST experience with Granger Mobile Homes. Kyle and the entire crew were super amazing from the beginning to the end. We are very satisfied and in love with our new home!
Robyn L.
Robyn L.
1724776231
Kyle Granger, his wife, and their crew are amazing people! We have bought a house through an actual realtor which was such a headache and when we found Kyle I wish we would have found him years ago! He made buying a house SO EASY! We loved that Kyle & his people were a phone call or text away from fixing ANY problems! If you're in the market for a beautiful home don't walk, RUN to Granger Mobile Homes in Kiowa, Ok!
Chelsi H.
Chelsi H.
1724776078
Top notch experience! From them showing us trailers while we had to make pit stops to feed our bottle baby goat (we all had to laugh) to helping with minor problems inside of our new home, they made it enjoyable, personal, and full of respect! We traveled all over to find what fit for us, not only house wise, but the company too! We have no regret with this choice at all! 100% recommend Granger Mobile Home and will be sending all our family and friends here!
Janet M.
Janet M.
1724775939
We bought our home from Granger Mobile Homes 4 months ago and we love it!! Kyle Granger and his staff are THE BEST!! If you are looking for a mobile home GO SEE KYLE! No one can beat his prices!!!
Lisa B.
Lisa B.
1723049066
Our house burnt in February 24’ . We had shopped at other places for a mobile home. when we stopped at Granger in Kiowa, we instantly felt like this was the place to be. Kyle and everyone there made us feel so much better about our situation. We are so happy with our purchase. I got to pick out colors of a few different things which gave it more of a it’s our house type feel. I recommend this place to everyone I see that is shopping for a new home. They are so kind.
Crystal S.
Crystal S.
1723038244
Kyle and his wife are the sweetest and most knowledgeable. I am so glad we went through this process with them.
Melissa M.
Melissa M.
1722968480
Kyle and his entire crew were completely helpful from the beginning to the end of my getting into my new home. He and his staff go above and beyond-even after the home is delivered and set up! Thanks Granger Homes! Y’all made the purchase and move of my home easy!
Aaron W.
Aaron W.
1712357843
My wife and I have been shopping for a house for over 10 years now. Kyle has the best customer service and we are so happy with our choice of coming here we will not buy a house from any other place, ever.I invite you to see for yourself just how amazing everyone here is! They take ownership and pride in what they do and your experience.Every interaction is addressed with care, love and politeness.
Angela K.
Angela K.
1712017925
What a great team of people! Highly recommend!
S C.
S C.
1711479198
Purchased a new home in the of October and beginning of November. We had it set up and we were living in it by the beginning of Dec. Fast, easy transition. All of our concerns were addressed. Kyle is easy to work with and lined us up with financing. Will buy another place from him!
Cristy R.
Cristy R.
1709757123
Great folks - fantastic homes- and tremendous service!!!!!!!
Sandy D.
Sandy D.
1709756441
Love, love Kyle Granger. He goes above and beyond with anything
Susan B.
Susan B.
1708786518
Mr. Kyle and the gang at Granger Mobile Homes have been absolutely wonderful and patient with us during the whole process. Received my new mobile home in record time. They are wonderful people and truly care about their customers. You can not find better service than Granger Mobile Homes.
Dillon G.
Dillon G.
1708127769
Kyle is a very knowledgeable person. Customer service is top notch. Highly recommend!!
Bradley P.
Bradley P.
1706558000
Absolutely the best place to purchase your new home from. Staff is awesome! Thanks a million Granger team!!
Christina H.
Christina H.
1705685421
This was our first manufactured home purchase for my son and I. The owner was so helpful in everyway. With getting us our help to taking care of the paperwork for our land.They have a big selection of homes in all price ranges and was able to take care of all our financing needs. Kyle was very generally responsive to our concerns . He was on my speed dial. He answered every one of my calls and text and if he didnt know the answer to my questions, he would get the answer and call me back..The foundation guys were excellent. The set crew was very professional and with real quality at work. The utility contractors were very reliable at installing the power , septic and water..we had a great experience with them all.
Lynk V.
Lynk V.
1705084342
Kyle is the man! Get with him for your new manufacture home.
tera H.
tera H.
1702778836
Granger mobile homes, great customer service from awesome people!
Cody W.
Cody W.
1702762932
Great customer care and overall great owners
Calvin M.
Calvin M.
1702752242
Price was great and service was great. Kyle and Heather made sure we were happy with all phases of the purchase.
Krystal M.
Krystal M.
1702747718
Kyle, his beautiful family and staff are wonderful! Grainger Mobile Homes is the #1 Mobile Home Dealer in Oklahoma. Kyle prides himself in customer service and has only the BEST quality homes.
Aaron D.
Aaron D.
1702743564
Great people..wonderful to deal with and get the job done..was an amazing experience
caitlin S.
caitlin S.
1702489258
Kyle is absolutely amazing!!! He went above and beyond for my family and I.He is such an amazing person to deal with and makes sure that you don’t leave unless you are 1000% happy!
Caitlin H.
Caitlin H.
1702489039
Kyle went above and beyond when I came to him to purchase a home for our family. He was straight forward, honest and most of all he did whatever he could to help me through the whole process!!! I hands down won’t go anywhere else besides Granger Mobile Homes!!
Alicia P.
Alicia P.
1702413828
Kyle and his staff were awesome to work with and made our home buying process so easy and were there to answer any questions we had! I would recommend Granger Mobile Homes to any one looking for a great buying experience!!
Kenny H.
Kenny H.
1694099623
Hands-down, the best experience ever in buying a home Kyle and his whole crew are nothing but top-notch people
Trevor S.
Trevor S.
1691940198
Would highly recommend Granger mobile homes. Customers are always satisfied! Even after the sale they go above and beyond making sure the customer is happy!
Tyden A.
Tyden A.
1691803330
If your looking for top notch service all all the way around !!GRANGER MOBILES HOMES!! Is the only way to go! From sales to service you can’t go wrong with these guys!
Lee N.
Lee N.
1690918126
Kyle has been wonderful at helping us! Thanks Kyle!
Alice E.
Alice E.
1690845346
Kyle and Heather did everything humanly possible to get me in my home in spite of the weatherWhat an awesome couple
Kolbey&Connor E.
Kolbey&Connor E.
1690494762
Great people and would recommend them to anyone. They helped every way possible!
Aaron M.
Aaron M.
1690254773
WOW!!!! Kyle and Heather are amazing people and great to work with! They made our experience quick and easy!! I love that to this day I can still call and ask questions and they answer the phone and always are willing to help!! Thanks!!
Tristan S.
Tristan S.
1689965578
Amazing people and treat their customers fabulous!! We bought our first house from them and the experience was A++!
Kate S.
Kate S.
1689436134
I would absolutely 1,000 % highly recommend granger mobile homes in Kiowa, Oklahoma. Kyle is the absolute best to work with and takes pride in selling these homes. He’s super personable and always keeps us updated. We made the best decision by choosing this establishment!! 🏠
Tara M.
Tara M.
1689005356
Great easy process. Everyone friendly and very helpful. Highly recommend doing business with Granger Mobile Home.
Kristi
Kristi
1688603740
Kyle and Heather are absolutely amazing! If I could give them a 10 I would. Every detail of our home buying process was perfect from start to finish. We will recommend them, and Tyden and crew, all day long! Thank you guys for everything ❤️
Leslie B.
Leslie B.
1687461905
This business has the kindest and greatest people ever! They go above and beyond to try and find the best home for ur family. They are willing to help in any way that they can and even if u don't get a house with them in the end. They still treat u like family. If I am ever in the need to buy a mobile home this is the only place I am goin or sending anyone that I know to. Y'all are the true meaning of what good people are. I wish u and ur family the best future ever possible. With best wishes from the Ayers.
William T.
William T.
1687375479
Amazing sales and service, keep up the great work Kyle!!!
Austin B.
Austin B.
1687048693
Go see Kyle at Granger Mobile Homes for a great house buying experience. His customer service is stellar and makes sure each customer leaves happy. Keep up the great work Kyle!
Shelly
Shelly
1687045291
My husband and I shopped around for a mobile home for awhile . Then we see granger mobile home on Facebook so we went and looked at what they had . We met Kyle and Heather and next thing we knew we were buying our home. Kyle and Heather and all the crew that helped get our home moved and set up are awesome they really do treat you like family and they make sure that if something is wrong they get it took care of immediately. So if you want a really good deal on a new home I highly recommend Granger Mobile Home.
Mate S.
Mate S.
1674691387
Kyle is the most genuine of all the mobile home places we ever visited. We plan on getting a house from him soon and look forward to it!
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