Do I Need to Consider Wind Zones When Buying a Manufactured Home?

Manufactured homes attract customers seeking an affordable and customizable housing option, but how do they face severe environmental factors - especially when it comes to wind? One of the most critical factors for your manufactured home is its wind zone, which was created to protect homes from the risks of high winds. In this article, we will explore what wind zones are and how they affect manufactured home construction.

What are Wind Zones?

Wind zones are specific geographical areas designed by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to indicate the potential wind speeds a home needs to be braced for in a given location. These zones help regulate the construction standards of manufactured homes to ensure they can withstand local weather conditions.

There are three main wind zones in the United States:

• Wind Zone I:
  This is the least severe wind zone and covers most of the country. In these areas, wind speeds are generally lower, and homes are built to withstand winds up to 70 mph. If you live far from a coastal area, you are most likely in Wind Zone I.
• Wind Zone II:
  Found in areas that experience moderate wind speeds, mostly in inland areas along the southeastern part of the US. Homes in this area must be able to withstand winds up to 100 mph, making them more resilient than homes in Wind Zone I. (All homes placed in Florida are required to be at least Wind Zone II.)
• Wind Zone III:
  Wind Zone III includes coastal regions prone to hurricanes and severe storms, such as Florida and the Gulf Coast. Homes built in this zone must withstand winds up to 110 mph or more. These homes are designed to endure the most extreme weather conditions.

Each manufactured home is built to meet the specific standards required for its wind zone designation, ensuring that it can handle the wind speeds expected for that region.

Why Do Wind Zones Matter?

• Safety and Structural Integrity
  The most important reason for wind zones is the safety of the inhabitants. Though manufactured homes are built differently than traditional site built homes, they have proved to be just as strong in storms. However, it is critical to have the correct wind zone home for your location. For example, a home built for Wind Zone I may suffer damage if moved to a Wind Zone III area. Wind zones ensure the home's structural integrity matches the conditions it will face, therefore reducing the risk of severe damage or collapse during storms.
• Legal Requirements
  HUD mandates that homes be built to the specifications of the wind zone in which they will be located. When purchasing a manufactured home, the home must comply with the standards set for that wind zone. For example, if you plan to place your home in Wind Zone 3, you can't legally install a home build for wind zone I in that location. Understanding the legal requirements is crucial to avoid fines, penalties, or potential loss of insurance coverage.
• Longevity and Maintenance
  Manufactured homes built for the correct wind zone require less maintenance and have longer lifespans because they are equipped for the local weather. Homes built for higher wind zones have stronger construction materials, enhanced anchoring systems, and bolstered roofing techniques, reducing wind-related wear and tear. Investing in the right home for your location can save you money in repairs and increase the longevity of your home.

Is there a price difference for each Wind Zone rating?

Yes. Higher Wind Zones require sturdier materials and construction techniques to handle stronger winds, which leads to increased costs. Plus, the extra certification and testing these homes undergo can also contribute to the price difference.

How to find your Wind Zone

If you're unsure which wind zone applies to your location, HUD provides maps and resources online, example below. Additionally, when purchasing your home at a Regional location, our professional housing consultants will provide information about the wind zone each home is rated.

No matter where you’re planning to move in the Southeast US, it's important to consider Wind Zones. At Regional Homes, we can build all of our homes to meet the specific Wind Zone requirements you need.

Understanding and adhering to manufactured home wind zones is essential for protecting you and your investment. Not only is it required by law, but safeguards you from high winds and severe weather. Before buying a manufactured home, always confirm that it meets the wind zone standards for your area to secure home and peace of mind.

***Note: Wind zones offer bracing guidelines for the construction of the home. This is not a guarantee for safety. Always listen to local recommendations for evacuation and protection against storms.