Determining the floor area of a mobile home, like a 16x80 Fleetwood, might seem straightforward, but several factors can influence the final square footage. This guide will clarify how to calculate the area and address common questions surrounding mobile home dimensions and space.
The most basic calculation for a rectangular mobile home is length multiplied by width. In this case, a 16x80 Fleetwood mobile home would appear to have:
16 feet (width) x 80 feet (length) = 1280 square feet
However, this is often an oversimplification. Several factors can reduce the actual usable living space:
- Interior Walls: Internal walls reduce the actual floor space available. The placement and thickness of these walls can vary from model to model.
- Exterior Features: Features like porches, skirting, or attached sheds are typically not included in the stated dimensions and therefore not considered part of the livable square footage.
- Architectural Details: Unique architectural details, such as bay windows or angled walls, can make accurate calculation more complex than a simple multiplication. These features might add to the overall visual size but don't always translate directly into additional square footage.
How to Get the Most Accurate Square Footage?
For the most accurate square footage, refer to the original Fleetwood mobile home blueprints or the manufacturer's specifications. This documentation will provide the precise interior measurements, accounting for any internal walls or unusual architectural elements. If you don't have access to these documents, consider the following options:
1. Measuring the Interior Manually:
The most reliable method is to manually measure the interior dimensions of each room and add them together. This accounts for all irregularities and provides the most accurate usable living space. Remember to measure from wall to wall, and be consistent in your measurements.
2. Consulting Real Estate Listings:
If the mobile home is listed for sale, the listing may include the official square footage. However, double-check this measurement against other sources if possible, as errors can occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to mobile home square footage:
What is considered livable square footage in a mobile home?
Livable square footage typically refers to the area inside the home that is usable for living purposes. It usually excludes porches, garages, or unfinished areas like basements (which mobile homes rarely have). The specific inclusion or exclusion of certain areas can vary based on local building codes and how the square footage is calculated.
Does the square footage of a mobile home include the exterior dimensions?
No, the stated square footage of a mobile home usually refers to the interior livable space. Exterior dimensions, including porches, decking, or attached structures, are not typically included in the overall square footage.
How is the square footage of a mobile home determined?
The square footage of a mobile home is ideally determined by measuring the interior livable space. However, official documentation from the manufacturer is the most reliable source. If neither is available, careful interior measurement is necessary.
Are there differences in square footage calculations between different manufacturers?
While the basic principle of length multiplied by width applies, the final square footage can vary between manufacturers due to different architectural designs, internal layouts, and wall thicknesses. Fleetwood's calculation methods might differ slightly from other brands.
By understanding these factors and utilizing the suggested methods, you can obtain a precise and reliable measurement of your 16x80 Fleetwood mobile home's floor area. Remember, consulting the original documentation always provides the most accurate information.
