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How to Build Concrete Runners for Mobile Home

Written By

Carmen

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If you’re a mobile home owner, you know how difficult it can be to find ways to protect your investment from the elements – but with concrete runners for mobile homes, you’ll be able to ensure that both your home and its ground are secure and safe.

How to Build Concrete Runners for Mobile Home

Not only do concrete runners for mobile homes provide excellent foundation support, but they also add life expectancy to your home. In this blog post, we’ll show you step-by-step how to build concrete runners for mobile home so that they can stand strong and withstand any stormy weather. Let’s get started!

What Are Runners for a Mobile Home?

Runners are the foundation structure used to secure and level a mobile home. They provide a flat and stable surface on which the mobile home sits, which helps reduce movement caused by wind or other external forces. The runners also allow for easy installation and relocation if needed.

There are two types of runners for mobile homes; wooden runners and concrete runners. Wooden runners are constructed using pressure-treated wood beams that are usually 4×4 inch in size, although larger sizes may be used depending on the size of the mobile home being installed. Concrete runners are made from poured concrete that is allowed to cure before supporting the weight of the mobile home. 

The most important factor when installing either type of runner is making sure they are level. If the runners are not installed correctly, it could cause problems with the mobile home’s structure or foundation, as well as cause uneven wear on its tires.

10 Methods How to Build Concrete Runners for Mobile Home

1. Clear the Area

Before building concrete runners, you need to clear the area where the mobile home will be placed. Remove all debris and level the ground. This will provide a solid foundation for your concrete runners. If the area has loose soil or grass, lay down landscaping fabric to prevent weeds from growing up around your mobile home. To ensure the mobile home is level, you may need to bring in extra soil or gravel and spread it in the area.

Remove All Debris and Level the Ground

2. Measure the Mobile Home

Measure the length and width of the mobile home to determine the number and spacing of the concrete runners. Generally, a mobile home will need at least three runners spaced evenly along the length of the home. Make sure to leave enough space between each runner so that the home will not be unstable.

Additionally, measure the thickness of the barricade that will be used to secure the runners. While this number may vary, usually, the barricade should be at least two inches thick. Although the barricade is not necessary for the runners to be stable, it does provide an extra layer of security.

3. Determine the Size of the Runners

The size of the runners will depend on the weight of the mobile home. The thickness of the runners should be at least 4 inches for a light mobile home but can be up to 6 inches for a heavier mobile home. The width of the runners should be at least 16 inches.

If the width of the mobile home is wider than 16 inches, then runners should be constructed in two pieces, with the first piece being at least 12 inches wide and the second piece filling in the remaining width. The overall length of the runners should be slightly longer than the mobile home itself. This extra length is necessary to provide a solid foundation for the mobile home.

4. Dig the Holes

Dig holes for the concrete runners. The holes should be at least 12 inches deep and wider than the runners themselves. This will provide a solid base for the runners. When digging the holes, make sure to keep the top of each hole level with one another and measure out the exact distance between them.

Provide a Solid Base for the Concrete Runners

Use a tape measure and wooden stakes to mark out the position for each runner. While digging, remove any grass and debris. Fill the holes with gravel or sand to help keep the runners in place. Once the holes are dug and filled, check to make sure they are level.

5. Add Gravel

Add a layer of gravel to the bottom of each hole. This will improve drainage and provide a solid base for the concrete runners. Make sure the gravel is evenly spread and level. Though the amount of gravel used will depend on the size and shape of your concrete runners, a general rule is to use three inches of gravel for each foot of the runner. If you are using a rebar grid, make sure to position it in the middle of the gravel layer. Make sure to tamp down the gravel gently.

6. Build the Forms

Build forms for the concrete runners. Use lumber to create forms that are the same size as the runners. The forms should be placed inside the holes and leveled. Make sure that the forms fit snugly into the holes and are level. Use stakes to secure the forms in place.

While the stakes should be driven into the ground, use concrete to secure the forms even further. If done correctly, the forms should stay in place while the concrete is poured and setting. When the forms have been secured, use a level to make sure that everything is still level before proceeding.

Use a Level

7. Mix the Concrete

Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add water slowly and mix thoroughly. The concrete should be a thick consistency. Once the concrete is mixed, it will need to be placed in the forms quickly. to ensure the concrete doesn’t start to set before it is placed in the forms.

While the concrete is mixing, make sure to wear the proper protective gear such as gloves, face masks, and goggles. Additionally, it is important to make sure the area is well-ventilated as the dust created by mixing concrete can be hazardous.

8. Pour the Concrete

Pour the concrete into the forms, filling each hole to the top. Smooth the surface of the concrete with a trowel. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours. If your climate is cold, cover the runners with a tarp to protect them from frost.

While not necessary, adding a concrete sealant to the surface of the runners once they are cured will extend their life significantly. Try to wait at least a week before moving the mobile home onto them to ensure the concrete is completely cured and dry.

9. Remove the Forms

Once the concrete has cured, remove the forms. Use a shovel to fill in any gaps around the runners with dirt. Make sure the fill is packed tightly. Finally, level the ground around the runners with a rake and use some stones to create a border. The runners are now ready for use. If the runners are to be painted, wait until a few weeks after pouring the concrete for the best results.

Use Some Stones to Create a Border

To paint the runners, use concrete paint that is specifically designed for outdoor use. Apply two coats of paint and make sure to allow each coat to dry before applying the second. After painting, you can secure the runners to your mobile home by bolting them to the frame or securing them with straps.

10. Place the Mobile Home

After the concrete has cured and the forms have been removed, the mobile home can be placed on the runners. Use a level to ensure that the home is sitting evenly on the runners. The home should be secured to the runners using anchor bolts.

Make sure that the area around the mobile home is cleared of debris and garbage, as it will be visible from the outside. Once the mobile home is in place, soil can be backfilled around it to help secure it further.

Things to Consider When Building Concrete Runners for Mobile Home

1. Foundation & Ground Prep:

Before laying the concrete runners for a mobile home, it is important to prepare the ground and foundation beneath it. Make sure the area is level and completely free of debris vegetation, as this can affect the stability of the structure.

Consider reinforcing soil with gravel or adding a layer of crushed stone as a strong base for added support. Additionally, you may want to add a polyethylene vapor barrier to provide additional insulation and protection from moisture accumulation.

Add a Polyethylene Vapor Barrier

2. Drainage:

Proper drainage should be taken into account when building concrete runners for a mobile home. This will help ensure that water does not accumulate beneath your structure and compromise its stability over time. Consider installing appropriate drainage systems such as French drains, or larger drain pipes to direct water away from your home.

3. Reinforcement

It is important to reinforce the concrete runners for a mobile home by adding rebar or other appropriate reinforcement materials. Depending on the size and weight of your mobile home, you may need additional reinforcement in order to ensure that the structure remains stable over time.

4. Weather Resistance:

When laying down concrete runners for a mobile home, it is important to consider weather resistance as well. Use weather-resistant sealers and waterproofing products on your concrete runners to protect them from wear and tear due to moisture and temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Additionally, make sure all cracks are filled using an elastomeric crack filler.

Using an Elastomeric Crack Filler

Following these steps will help ensure that your concrete runners for a mobile home are stable and secure throughout the years. By taking the necessary precautions, you can rest easy knowing that your structure is safe and sound.

Some Common Mistakes When Building Concrete Runners for Mobile Home

1. Not Double Checking Measurements:

When building concrete runners for a mobile home, it is essential to double check all measurements before pouring the concrete. This will ensure that the runners are at the correct size and shape for your mobile home.

2. Using Low-Grade Concrete:

To ensure that the concrete runners will last over time, you should use quality concrete rather than a lower grade material which is prone to cracking or shifting.

3. Not Planning Ahead:

It is important to plan ahead when building concrete runners for your mobile home so that you can anticipate any potential problems during construction and adjust accordingly. This includes considering how long it will take to complete the project as well as what materials and tools are needed.

4. Not Taking Safety Precautions:

When building concrete runners for your mobile home, it is essential to take safety precautions such as wearing protective gear and using the proper tools for the job. This will help ensure the safety of yourself and others around you during construction.

Wearing Protective Gear

5. Failing to Allow Proper Drying Time:

Once the concrete has been poured, it is important to allow adequate time for it to dry before applying any additional materials or attempting to move the mobile home onto its new foundation. It can take up to a week for concrete to fully set and cure, so be sure you account for this when making your timeline.

These are some of the most common mistakes people make when building concrete runners for mobile home foundations. With proper planning and attention to detail, you can create a lasting foundation that will provide a secure base for your mobile home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, building concrete runners for your mobile home doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult. With the right preparation and instructions, it can be done quickly, easily and safely. Make sure you know where to begin, that you have all the necessary supplies, and that you follow safety guidelines while working.

Even if you need to outsource the project in some aspects, remember that even with minimal experience, you can DIY most of the project and end up with a more secure living environment for you and your family. So don’t hesitate – take on the challenge of learning how to build concrete runners for your mobile home now!

If you would like extra guidance on this topic, please visit our website and browse through our comprehensive guides on How To Build Concrete Runners For Mobile Home. We will be with you every step of the way!

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