A charming manufactured home with a wooden deck adorned with colorful potted plants.

Your manufactured home is more than just a place to live—it’s a sanctuary. Regular maintenance is key to preserving its charm and functionality, whether in a Sonoma County granny flat, a cozy prefab, or a custom small home. But with changing seasons, staying on top of everything can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a practical, year-round manufactured home maintenance plan. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can keep your home in top shape for years to come.

1. Spring: The Refresh Season

Spring is the perfect time to give your manufactured home a fresh start. Begin by inspecting your home’s exterior for any damage caused by winter weather.

  • Clean the Roof and Gutters:Remove debris from your roof and gutters to ensure proper drainage. Check for missing shingles or leaks.
  • Inspect the Siding:Look for cracks, peeling paint, or signs of wear. For backyard cottages and small living spaces, keeping siding in good condition prevents long-term damage.
  • Test Outdoor Systems:Check exterior faucets, sprinklers, and outdoor lighting to ensure everything works as it should.

Spring is also a great time to refresh your home’s landscaping. Trim overgrown trees or shrubs too close to your manufactured home.

A landscaped yard with raised planter boxes surrounding a modern manufactured home.

2. Summer: Stay Cool and Safe

Summer brings sunny days and warm temperatures, making it the ideal time to focus on energy efficiency and safety.

  • Service Your HVAC System:Clean or replace air filters and have your HVAC system professionally serviced to keep your home cool and energy-efficient.
  • Seal Doors and Windows:Check for gaps around doors and windows. Proper sealing not only keeps your home cool but also reduces energy bills—a smart move for ADUs for rental income.
  • Inspect Decks and Patios:If your home care cottage has a deck or patio, inspect it for loose boards, nails, or signs of wear. Sand and reseal wood as needed.

Summer is also a popular season for manufactured home transport or relocating homes. If you’re planning a move, consult professionals at Sonoma Manufactured Homes to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Spacious wooden deck of a manufactured home with seating, an umbrella, and scenic surroundings.

3. Fall: Prep for the Chill

Fall is all about preparing your home for cooler weather. Taking a few preventative steps now can save you from costly repairs later.

  • Check the Roof Again:Look for signs of wear, especially after summer storms. Replace any damaged shingles or flashing.
  • Inspect the Skirting:The skirting around your manufactured home provides insulation and protects against pests. Repair any cracks or gaps to keep your home warm and critter-free.
  • Clean the Heating System:Schedule a professional inspection to ensure your heating system is ready for winter. For Prefab ADUs, a functioning heater is crucial for comfort in colder months.

As leaves begin to fall, clear gutters regularly to prevent blockages. This simple step protects your home from potential water damage.

4. Winter: Protect and Preserve

Winter can be tough on any home, but with a little preparation, your manufactured home can handle it with ease.

  • Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with insulation to protect them from freezing. Frozen pipes can cause significant damage, especially in second units and smaller homes.
  • Check for Drafts:Seal any gaps in walls, windows, and doors to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
  • Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:Ensure your detectors are working properly, as winter often brings an increased use of heating systems.

Maintaining warmth and safety is particularly important for homes like caregiver cottages during the colder months.

Modern manufactured home interior with sliding glass doors, wooden floors, and panoramic outdoor views.

Keep Your Home in Top Shape with Sonoma Manufactured Homes

Caring for your manufactured home doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With this simple, seasonal manufactured home maintenance plan, you can protect your investment and enjoy a comfortable, beautiful living space all year long.

At Sonoma Manufactured Homes, we’re here to make your life easier. Whether you’re installing a new ADU, need help with manufactured home permits, or want expert advice on custom small home installations, our team has the expertise to guide you every step of the way.

We specialize in building and maintaining affordable small homes, granny flats, and other housing in Sonoma County. Let us help you create a stylish and easy-to-care-for space. Reach out here.