Pier and Beam Foundation

The pier and beam foundation system is widely used for manufactured homes. This system uses one or more metal platforms that are placed under the foundation piers. Steel bracing then secures the platforms to the I-beams under the home.

Pier and beam foundations:

• Are one of the most affordable types of foundations
• Typically take less time to build than other systems
• Can be used in areas that see seismic activity, floods or heavy frost
• Are not typically a type of permanent foundation
• Could potentially shift over time
• Mean your home will be raised off the ground and have skirting, which can affect its curb appeal. You may also need to have stairs or a ramp installed

Runner Foundation

Runner foundations have runners made of concrete, gravel or stone, and steel that go along the length of the home to create beams or pads to support it.

Runner foundations:

• Are also an affordable option
• Are a good choice for a flat lot
• Make it easier to access utility connections under the home
• May be best for drier climates, as they do not always allow for a lot of ventilation
• Are not recommended in areas that see seismic activity

Slab Foundation

There are several different types of slab foundations, but they typically sit on top of the ground with ground anchors that are embedded in concrete. A slab foundation needs to be insulated around its perimeter to help keep the ground beneath the foundation warmer and your home more comfortable.

Slab foundations:

• Are often an affordable, time-efficient option
• Can be used in areas that see seismic activity or floods
• Can potentially be used in certain wind zones or areas that see heavy frost, depending on the specific requirements for your location
• May not work for a sloping lot
• Can make it difficult to access utility connections under the home
• Are not always considered a permanent foundation, depending on how your home is anchored to it

Crawl Spaces

A crawl space foundation, sometimes called a pit foundation, is similar to a basement. It has an excavated floor and is usually built using poured concrete footers that go into the soil and anchor the home down. The home then rests on a perimeter wall and is supported by piers strategically placed for support points, which are customized to each home.

Crawl space foundations:

• Generally fall into the middle price range compared to other foundation options
• Can work well if you have a sloping lot because the size of the crawl space can be adjusted
• Offer good frost and seismic resistance
• May not be ideal for hurricane- or flood-prone areas
• Are a permanent foundation
• Don’t provide the extra living space or storage of a basement

Basement Foundation

Not only does a basement provide a strong support system for your home, but it can also add extra living or storage space and potentially increase your home’s value.

Basement foundations:

• Are the most expensive foundation option and can typically cost tens of thousands of dollars
• Take longer to build and install due to their materials, as well as their structural design
• Can be used on a sloping lot
• Can be used in areas with seismic activity or frost
• Are not recommended in flood hazard areas
• Are a permanent foundation