Winterizing Your Manufactured Home for Comfort and Efficiency

As the country is facing ice, snow, and freezing temperatures, it’s more important than ever for our residents and communities to be prepared. The recent severe winter storms that hit Texas and the southern United States serve as a reminder of how critical proactive winter preparation can be. Roots Management Group is committed to ensuring that residents stay safe and warm. Community amenities can often serve as warming centers in case of power outages or other emergencies, but there are also many steps you can take to winterize your manufactured home and enhance its comfort and efficiency.

Senior Regional Manager Jaclyn Hay and Regional Manager Richard Barone have worked closely with community managers and maintenance staff to provide practical, actionable advice to help protect residents during extreme cold weather. Here are their top tips:

1. Seal Gaps and Leaks

Drafts can make it difficult to retain heat, increasing energy costs and making your home uncomfortable. Check windows, doors, and any other openings for gaps. Use weather-stripping and caulking to seal them, and add draft stoppers to doors. For additional insulation, consider applying clear plastic window film to keep the cold air out.

2. Insulate Pipes and Water Lines

Frozen pipes are a common issue in cold weather and can cause significant damage. To prevent this, wrap your water pipes with heat tape or pipe insulation. Also, disconnect outdoor hoses and protect outdoor faucets with insulated covers.

3. Maintain Your HVAC System

An efficient heating system is crucial for staying warm. Schedule a professional inspection of your furnace to ensure it’s operating effectively. Replace filters regularly and make sure your thermostat is working correctly to maintain consistent temperatures.

4. Inspect and Repair the Roof

A well-maintained roof is essential for winter protection. Check for missing shingles, cracks, or other damage that could allow water to seep in or heat to escape. “Simple sealant repairs can prevent water intrusion and keep heat inside,” advises Barone.

5. Check Windows and Doors

Cracks in windows or broken seals can let warm air escape. Repair damaged windows and add insulating curtains or thermal blinds. Apply caulking where needed and inspect door seals for any gaps.

6. Protect Your Home’s Skirting

Skirting helps insulate the underside of your manufactured home. Repair or replace any damaged sections to keep cold air from circulating underneath. This simple step can make a significant difference in keeping your home warmer.

7. Use Energy-Efficient Solutions

Modern manufactured homes built to HUD standards offer energy-saving technologies and superior insulation. Consider energy-efficient upgrades like programmable thermostats or LED lighting to reduce energy use while keeping your home cozy.

8. Keep Essential Supplies on Hand

It’s important to be ready for unexpected cold snaps. Residents and community managers should stock up on supplies such as:

• Heat tape for pipes

• Caulking and weather-stripping materials

• Replacement furnace filters

• Fresh batteries for smoke and CO2 detectors

• Extra blankets and draft stoppers

Safety Tips for Winter Storms

When snow and ice accumulate, walkways and steps can become slippery. “Securing wobbly stairs and adding grip tape or mats can prevent slip-and-fall accidents,” says Hay. Additionally, check that outdoor lights are functioning to improve visibility.

A Community Effort

Roots Management Group values the hard work of its maintenance teams, who help ensure roads are salted, plowed, and safe for residents. Their dedication keeps communities functioning smoothly during challenging winter weather.

By taking these proactive steps, you can safeguard your home and stay warm all season long. Winterizing protects your investment, improves comfort, and enhances energy efficiency. For more advice, reach out to your community’s management team—we’re here to help keep you safe and warm.