Mobile homes are prefabricated structures built in a factory and transported by truck to their set-up location. In many instances, manufactured homes are set on a block or concrete foundation and then raised with blocks. The home is tethered to the ground by augers running deep into the soil as well as "tie down straps," or metal straps, fastened to the block foundation. Pouring a concrete foundation requires a lot of physical labor. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure out the installation location with a tape measure. Mark the dimensions of the foundation along the grass with spray paint. This will create a visual reference for grass and topsoil excavation.
2. Rent a compact loader and dig out the area where the concrete foundation will be poured, following the spray painted lines on the ground. Dig the hole about 2 inches deep, making it as wide and long as the mobile home.
3. Pound 1-by-2-inch wood stakes into each of the four corners of the excavated area with a rubber mallet. Wrap string around each stake, creating a string rectangle.
4. Place a line level on each side to raise or lower the string as necessary until level. Place the level every few feet, checking it each time to ensure all four sides are level.
5. Build the concrete forms by installing 2-by-4-inch lumber beams around the excavated, stringed area. Fasten stakes to the beams with a hammer and nails. Pound the stakes into the ground with a hammer. The lumber should be flush with the excavation's edge but not go into the 2-inch excavated area.
6. Raise or lower the forms to set even with the level string line. Each side of the forms should be level to have a good, level foundation.
7. Pour concrete into the forms. Make the concrete flush with the lumber forms using a screed. Use a bullfloat to make the foundation smooth and even. Let it dry and set for 30 days before installing the mobile home on the foundation.
Tags: concrete foundation, excavated area, flush with, mobile home, stakes into