Steps in Applying for Modular Home Building Permit and Other Permits in Jackson, Michigan

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 30, 2014 in General Contractor, Jackson, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Plumbing Permit for Modular Home

Though it is the general contractor and subcontractor’s job to procure the modular home building permit and other permits such as the electrical and plumbing permits, the homeowner must be aware of the process. Knowledge of the building permit application process would imply that you are taking part in the construction process as an inspector. You should see to it that everything is done accordingly.

Prior to submitting the application for a modular home building permit, a general contractor gathers all the necessary requirements which include the detailed plans of the modular home construction and the fees needed. The plan presents the dimension, floor plan, materials to be use and the warranty of the house. Fee for the building permit depends in each county or town. But in Jackson, Michigan it could reach up to $1,660.

Complete the Modular Home Building Permit Application Form

After gathering the required documents and fees, the general contractor will have to fill up the modular home building permit application form. The information given should coincide with the documents you carry. Any incorrect data given could barred the success of the building permit application.

Attach a Completed Residential Development Order Form

The Residential Development Order form is taken from the Jackson County Community Center and a fee of $25 must be paid. It must be attached with the recorded land deed of your property. This step in the application of modular home building permit is not required if your home is to be erected within the city limits, instead you are to have the development order from the city office.

Finish a 911 Addressing Form

A 911 addressing form must be completed along with the two forms and must be submitted to the Building Department in Jackson, Michigan. For more details about this form, you must inquire to the Building Department.

Other Permits for Modular Home

Permits for septic tank, HVAC system, and electrical system must be taken by subcontractors working to complete your modular home. In Jackson, they must apply for a permit to build or have a septic tank from the Jackson County Health Department Division of Environmental Health. The permit for a new septic tank costs for $350 and $85 for an existing septic tank.

Secure Two Sets of Approved Plans

The general contractor is then required to secure two sets of Department of Community Affairs approved plans. These plans should show the plans for the foundation, floor plan, and wind load requirements to construct a modular home.

A potential home owner must remember that only a licensed general contractor and subcontractor are allowed to apply and procure the necessary permits. That is why it is compulsory to ensure that you hire a licensed and trustworthy contractor for your modular home.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Building Permit

Why Do I Need A Modular Home Building Permit in Adrian, Michigan?

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 30, 2014 in Adrian, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

When in Adrian, Michigan, you need to have a modular home building permit as it guarantees a lot of things. It is a tool taken to commence the construction of your modular house. A building permit is a proof that your house is permitted to be constructed in a location.

There are many reasons why you should checked if your general contractor and subcontractor have procured the necessary building permits for your modular home. These modular home permits typically includes the main building permit, plumbing permit, electrical permit and mechanical permit. All these permits have important roles to complete a modular home.

When you wish to or are going to build a modular home in Adrian, Michigan, a series of permits are required which could include the electrical and plumbing permit. These permits are necessary so modular home owners could harvest efficient benefits during and after the construction of the house.

Modular Home Building Permit: Guarantee of Having Quality Built Modular Home

The main purpose of having a modular home building permit is to have a quality built modular home. The application of building permit requires your general contractor to pass the plans of constructing your modular home. The plan must present the dimension, zoning property, materials, and other accessories needed to complete the modular home. That is why each contractor must have a plan that is within the scope and limitation of the building code set for the locality.

Inspections done by the local housing department are done to checked whether the general contractor and subcontractors are following the rules and regulations to erect a superior quality modular home. Each inspector is checking and evaluating whether your general contractor and subcontractor are using the right and high performance materials and products. They ensure that the materials also conform with the standards set by the building codes. Without these, homeowners will be receiving low value house.

Modular Home Building Permit: Prevent Accidents and Unwanted Problems

When you have a modular home building permit, you are free from worries as each permit guarantees you to legally construct and own a modular home. You are ensured that at the end of the construction process, you will have a high performance and cost effective modular home. A building permit also protects you from having faulty materials as each of them are inspected prior to installation. Low quality materials especially those that concerns the HVAC, plumbing and electrical system are prohibited by the building codes to avoid household accidents caused by defective electrical wires, plumbing tubes and heating regulators.

Modular Home Building Permit: Provides Cost Effective and Durable Modular Home

A modular home building permit also gives us the privelege to embrace the cost effectiveness and durability of a modular home. Because of the materials that are typically eco- friend and budget friendly, homeowners are able to enjoy the low cost monthly utility bill.

A modular home inspected following the building permit application is expected to last longer than its lifespan. Inspectors will check and if any materials do not pass, they suggest what materials are good to have a durable house. But this is not always the case as most of the general contractors in Adrian, Michigan nowadays make sure that they use high quality, sturdy and durable materials to erect a modular home.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Building Permit

Factors That Influences the Cost of Building a Modular Home Deck

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 29, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Building a modular home deck is just like constructing a modular home. You shop for the design that channels your personality and lifestyle. You also go through on the pros and cons of building an additional home structure. But definitely these steps result also to lots of benefits.

Modular Home in Michigan

Some modular home deck is inexpensive while those with complex design costs more. And lots of factors are involved in the price of constructing a deck for a modular home. These factors are more than just choosing the design or style. They include almost all of the materials and aspect of the deck. And before pushing through with the deck construction, home buyers or home owners especially the first timers must be understand these factors.

Wood Types for Modular Home Deck

Treated lumber is the most common type of deck material, but your options vary. Redwood, for example, is a high-quality wood choice, or you may choose tongue-and-groove pine decking ($300 to $600) to help keep bugs and plants from rooting through. PVC “boards” are also a popular option because they are weather resistant, won’t crack or splinter and don’t require painting. They are available both in designs that mimic wood grain and more vibrant colors as desired. If you don’t want a raised deck, consider a flagstone or poured concrete option. Both require digging, leveling and tamping of large ground sections, but they don’t require painting or staining once complete. Hiring a pro is recommended for any stone or concrete work.

Railings and other Additions for Modular Home Deck

You can also improve your modular home deck with extras: for example, gas lines for a barbecue, built-in speakers or a pergola. Remember, too, that if you have an old deck, it needs to be removed. This can add up between $1,000 and $3,000 to a contractor’s cost, depending on how much he charges to have your old decking hauled away. Some may include this free of charge if your project is large enough. Other extra costs may include fixes to your home if proper flashing wasn’t previously used or if you have significant water damage.

Labor Cost for Modular Home Deck

Building a deck has labor costs associated with it if you don’t do the work yourself. It could run you about $500 to $900 for labor. That is if you are building a simple single level deck with a square or rectangular shape. This would include rails and steps. By doing the work yourself, you could eliminate this cost, but you should have some knowledge or a guide on how to build a simple deck.

Location of the Modular Home

When shipping materials to a remote location, especially where trees are not abundant, building a modular home deck can be quite expensive. In addition, large cities will have greater selection, leaving smaller areas with fewer choices, which may be more expensive than others.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Deck

Best Strategies on How to Design your Own Modular Home Deck

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 29, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Building a modular home deck compels the customer and the dealer to complete most, if not all, of the planning steps before beginning construction. That is because the builder cannot begin construction without knowing what it is going to build and how much it is going to charge. This forces the customer and dealer to make final decisions about the deck’s design and its building specifications.

To help you with the dilemma of building or restoring your deck, here are the strategies on how to create an efficient modular home deck.

Choose a Location of Your Modular Home Deck

Selecting a nice spot for your modular home deck is the first step in designing your own deck. A deck can be located on the front or back of a mobile home; it can also extend all the way around the mobile home.

Decide on the purpose of Modular Home Deck

Do you intend to use your modular home deck for entertainment, extra living space, or simply as a way in and out of the mobile home? Will you use it for barbecues or as an extension of a children’s play area? The purpose of the deck will help in determining the necessary size and functional design of the deck. For example, a deck used for barbecuing and entertainment will need a greater amount of space than a deck designed only for the entrance and exit of the home. A deck that’s going to be used as a meditation space may not need a railing, while a deck used by small children will need a secured railing and a stair gate.

Determine the Size of the Modular Home Deck

Determine the size of the deck using a tape measure outside of your modular home. It’s easy to underestimate the proper size for a deck. For example, an 8-by-10-foot deck may seem like plenty of room for entertaining, but once furniture and guests are added, that size deck can become cramped. Take into consideration what types of outdoor furniture will be located on the deck. Leave plenty of room for barbecue grills, patio furniture, flower planters, and free space for movement and play. Think about how large an indoor room with the same intended purpose would need to be and use this as a guide in determining the size of your deck. Keep in mind the proportions of your home when planning out your deck’s size. A deck shouldn’t overwhelm the home—it should appear as a natural extension of the mobile home.

Draw the Plan of Your Modular Home Deck

Draw out several deck designs using graph paper. Use magazine pictures and landscaping books as inspiration for deck design ideas. A deck can have many different configurations, including varying stair locations and different levels. Walkways can attach the deck to different outdoor areas or other decks. Include details such as deck lighting and built-in benches or railing ideas on your deck drawings.

Shop for a Local Home Builder

Locate a local home builder or contractor to build your deck. There are lots of them around your neighborhood and you must select only the one who can realized the design you want. If you plan to build the deck yourself, visit your local lumberyard or home-improvement store to purchase materials.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Deck

Tips for an Efficient Maintenance of Modular Home Porch and Deck

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 28, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

To enhance the life span of both the porch and deck of a modular home, home owners must apply good maintenance techniques. But before that let us first describe what is a porch and a deck.

Modular Home in Michigan

Modular home porch and deck are two exterior features that give additional value to the house. A porch is a structure usually found in the entrance of the home. It has a roof attached to the main structure of the home and may or may not have walls. Modular home porch usually enhances the visual appeal of the house to the onlookers and future buyers. On the other hand, a deck is a horizontal platform that can extend from one side of the house. It provides a new room for living and entertainment for an inexpensive price.

Some of the materials or features found in porches and decks are maintenance free, which means, aside from the routine cleaning, they do not need to be repainted or coated. But there are other major parts that requires special care so home owners will experience comfort in these areas in the long run.

Pick High Quality Materials

The secret to having a lasting porch and deck starts with the selection of materials. Wood is the common material used in constructing a porch or a deck. Tropical woods like the ipe and tigerwood stay longer with 30 to 50 years life span than the pressure treated wood.

To ensure that the home owner picks the high quality wood for his modular home porch and deck, he must ensure that he inquires about the age and condition of the wood. Younger wood needs clear and toned products for maintenance, which can lengthen the life span of either the porch and deck without shielding the natural beauty of the wood. Older woods will require the use of waterborne semi- transparent and solid stains because they provite utmost protection and cover wood surfaces imperfection effectively.

Keep the Porch and Deck from Moisture

Being attached to the modular homes and are openly prone to water accumulation, moisture, and damages brought by sun exposure, a porch and a deck must be protected from them. Even coated decks are not exempted. Decks usually have a shorter life span because they are flat and receives more exposure from sunlight, rain, snow and moisture.

Incorporation of coatings are usually done to the surfaces of porches and decks to prevent these structure destructing agents to invade. However not all finishing products have protective qualities that could last longer and generally clear finishes do not have UV protection.

Select Effective Cleaning Products

Cleaning products will depend on what type of materials are installed in the porch and deck. For wood, a standard cleaner will do while composite specific cleaner is the choice for composite materials. Additionally, commercial degreaser and detergents are typically used in cleaning the composite material.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Porch and Deck

Construction Techniques to Observe When Building a Modular Home Deck

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 28, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Modular home deck gives more living space in an affordable price. The building process of a modular home deck in Michigan is often associated with a number of construction techniques or methods. Modular home builders gurantee that incorporating these techniques lead to a high quality deck.

Effective techniques are implemented to build a quality modular home deck. These techniques are the guidelines of builders on how to produce a durable and cost effective deck. And learning what they are is the first step.

Modular Home Deck: Make Joist Hanging Simpler

In modular home deck construction, a joist is a system of floor framing. It usually has a dimension of 2 x 6 or 2 x 8 lumber. According to the Dictionary of Construction, a joist hanger is ametal angle or strap used to support and fix the ends of wood joists or rafters to beams or girders. Utilizing joist hangers in deck construction is simplified by attaching it in the ledger board before installing the joist, which put them in a similar height.

Take an Accurate Notching

Accuracy in measurement is the key to a leveled modular home deck. Cutting the deck boards while positioning them to the posts is the most accurate way to have an even and proportion notch. Check also both sides of the posts when measuring for the depth of the notch to ensure that every thing is in the right measurement.

Utilize Jigs for Modular Home Deck

Having a jig creates a number of benefits during the decking construction. It makes the work easier, simpler and faster. Jigs are typically use to give accurate space between the balusters or railings, speeding up the construction process. Most modular home builders build jigs from effective scraps which is convenient for the budget.

Straighten the Modular Home Deck Boards

Deck boards must have the same length, smooth edge and are straight from both ends. It is a routine for suppliers and home builders to straighten any bowed deck boards prior to installing. It would be awkward to step in a bumpy deck floor if you haven’t done the straightening of the woods. To have a smooth and even edge, have a guide stick and a sharp saw to cut the excess wood part. You can also use a hard deck board as a guide when cutting the exceeding part of the deck boards. However it is recommended to have the deck boards cut evenly before installing them to lessen the construction time and effort.

In case you still have question about modular home decks, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Deck

Best Tips for a Beautiful Modular Home Composite Deck

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 27, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

A beautiful modular home composite deck starts with careful planning and design. The best looking deck often reflects some architectural elements from the house and uses them in the deck.

There are a lot of things to consider when it comes time to build or replace a modular home deck. If you’re in the market to replace your existing deck or want to build a new one, will want to know what products are available and what your contractor can do with them. You may choose the modular home composite deck. That is why it is a must to understand the following considerations when choosing the composite deck for your modular home.

Texture of Modular Home Composite Deck

Ensure that the materias have slip resistance especially in frost prone areas.

Color of Modular Home Composite Deck

Try to compliment your homes color. Most composite deck materials fade 30% in the first year and then stabilize. Some even change color so look at samples that have been weathered when possible.

Cost of Modular Home Composite Deck

Almost everyone is on a budget so pick the best material you can afford. A new deck can cost as much as a new car so take the time to weigh your options and hire a competent builder. The cost of composite decking varies from $2-$4 per linear foot of decking board. I suggest that you not only talk with a builder’s past client but also take the time to see one of their completed projects.

Warranty of Modular Home Composite Deck

Since there have been failures in the past research the company’s products that you are considering and find out their track record and read the fine print on warranties.

Maintenance of Modular Home Composite Deck

Consult manufacturer’s suggestions but most can be cleaned with mild soaps and water.

No decking is completely environmentally friendly or sustainable. In general, many of the natural wood decking products available are from hardwoods or slow growing softwoods which make them less sustainable. Pressure treated southern yellow pine is a faster growing, more sustainable wood product but it utilizes chemicals for rot and insect resistance. If the composite decking industry can develop a product that is recyclable and will consistently perform it will climb to the top of the sustainability chart and my “A” list.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Composite Deck

Safety Tips for Building a Modular Home Deck in Jackson, Michigan

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 27, 2014 in Jackson, Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

If you do not wish to suffer, you can always hire a modular home builder who can erect a deck that will give you a pleasing additional living and entertainment space for a small price.

In Jackson, Michigan, building of a modular home deck requires a person to implement safety measures. It is always better to understand what you are doing before you proceed. The key things to remember in deck building are to be sure you have used all the proper materials and construction techniques, to fend off the decaying properties of water, and to be sure everything is level, plumb, and properly built.

Always understand, develop, and adhere to proper safety practices for each project. For modular home deck construction, these include:

Use Appropriate Tools During Modular Home Deck Construction

Decking construction may seem easy and simple but without utilizing the right tools and materials, the building process will be in a dire jeopardy. Just like in any construction, tools are checked if they are functioning properly, clean, sharp and new. For example, blades that are used for cutting should always be sharp because a dull blade could cause you to exert force, leading to unwanted accidents.

Wear Safety Googles and other Safety Equipment

Protective gears are always worn by home builders in Jackson, Michigan. In modular home deck construction, use of safety googles, boots, and construction gloves are done accordingly. These protective equipments should be worn especially when handling power tools to minimize or prevent construction- related accidents. Additionally, ear muffs or other ear protection gears can be worn during decking construction. This is practiced to avoid hearing impairment while being in a construction site.

Utilize Electric Powered Tools Appropriately

Electric powered tools should be used appropriately during the building of deck. The home builder and his workmen must ensure that before using the tool, it is properly hook to the power source and no unwanted materials such as water are around. Placement of the electric cord must also be checked and put in accordingly to prevent interference during the construction process. Lastly, power tools must be plug off from the source every after utilization.

Observe Proper Body Mechanics in Building a Modular Home Deck

For modular home builders and his team, it is always a must to observe proper body mechanics when constructing the modular home deck. Proper body mechanics prevents body structure pain and deformities or accidental tear of the bones and muscles. Avoid lifting heavy tools with your back. Bend from knees when lifting heavy materials and tools to avoid straining your back muscles.

In case you still have question about the modular home deck, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Deck

Modular Home Deck: Wood or Composite?

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 26, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

In selecting which material to use for the modular home deck, home owners should take a stringent planning and research. A modular home buyer can either go for the most common material such as the wood, or you can opt for the composite decking material. For those who have low budget, an inexpensive pressure- treated wood is a good choice. But it may be hard to reach a decision when there is a better budget for a modular home deck. As a home buyer you may be torn between the tropical wood and the composite decking material.

Modular Home Built in Michigan

Understanding the different factors affecting each type of decking materials must be done before making any decision. These factors can either be the cost, durability, quality, and appearance.

Cost of the Modular Home Deck Materials

Ipe deck boards are a little more expensive than composite boards. The cost of composite decking varies from $2-$4 per linear foot of decking board. However, if you go with an alternative tropical hardwood you may find the materials costs are similar.

Ease of Installation

Tropical hardwoods take more time and effort to install because the materials are heavier and require special tools to cut and drill. In addition, a small percentage of the population will have an allergic reaction to the sawdust when cutting the deck boards (this isn’t an issue on an installed deck). Composite, on the other hand, is a lightweight material that is easy to work with, and the manufacturing companies have an array of accessories such as hidden fasteners, deck lights, and railing options that go with the decking material itself.

Ongoing Maintenance for Modular Home Deck

While a weathered gray ipe requires no ongoing maintenance to look good and perform well, most people prefer the color of an oiled tropical hardwood, and this takes yearly maintenance. Capped composite requires no maintenance beyond occasionally washing the deck.

Durability of Modular Home Deck

Ipe can last 30 to 50 years, while alternate tropical hardwoods can last 20 to 50 years. Most capped composite products are warrantied against fading and other issues for 25 years. However, some of the products are new enough that it’s hard to say how their long-term performance compares with a tropical hardwood.

Design and Look of Modular Home Deck

Contractors unanimously said that there was no difference in what they could do design-wise with wood as opposed to composite. If you would like curves, octagonal bump-outs, or diagonal deck slats, all of those design features can be attained using either material.

Many people fall in love with the shimmery color of an oiled ipe, or the gray industrial look of weathered ipe. However, there are many styles of capped composite that look like a tropical hardwood. Some contractors note that in the sunshine, the capped composite has a shine that looks plasticky. Others prefer the look of composite, especially given the maintenance requirements to keep up the rich brown color of ipe. “With composite, I can go back in three years and it looks almost identical,” says Parks. With wood, a lot depends on the maintenance.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Deck

Wood Options for Modular Home Deck in Allen, Michigan

Posted by Legendary Homes on June 26, 2014 in Modular Homes with No Comments Yet

Planning for a modular home deck requires one to explore the different options and strategies. There are many strategies or methods used to realize a high performance deck for your modular home. You should also research and identify the various types of materials available to construct a deck. You may even find that researching options for deck materials will lead to new decking ideas, resulting in a deck design that improves the appeal of your home’s outdoor living areas and value.

Modular Home in Michigan

Choosing the materials to be used for modular home deck in Allen, MI is easy, because there was one choice and that would be the wood. It is a natural, strong and easy to install material. However it offers a variety of options for modular home decks as wood roots from a number of trees and there are lots of methods suppliers have been introducing to decking materials.

These days, you can choose between many different natural surfaces and the advanced or treated wood for your modular home deck that can enhance the life span of your deck and promote cost effectiveness.

Pressure Treated Wood for Modular Home Deck

Pressure treated wood is the least expensive material used for building modular home decks. It is the most common and preferred type of decking materials as it could last up to 15 years and more. According to the United States Environmental Protection agency, pressure-treated wood used for building is generally considered safe for people. Pressure- treated wood is basically wood that protective chemicals are added to by using pressure. This treatment allows wood used for decks to last longer, or to repel water.

Most manufacturers in Allen, Michigan choose pine or more specifically the Southern yellow pine as a pressure-treated wood. Pines absorbs protective chemicals so well and is inexpensive, making the construction of the deck through a treated wood cost lower.

Redwood and Cedar as your Modular Home Deck

If you don’t want any chemicals to be infused in your deck or if you are a purist, you can opt for the redwood or red cedars as your decking materials. Both these woods are natural. They are naturally rich in color and are not pumped with hundred percent chemicals. Redwood and red cedar are highly resistant to damage, decay and insects as they are both high in tannins and oils.

Tropical Hardwoods for Modular Home Deck

Tropical hardwood is an excellent choice for a modular home deck. These woods are strong and durable. Though tropical hardwoods have comparable cost with the redwood and cedar, it is expensive than the pressure treated wood. These type of decking wood are dense, making it hard to drill, cut and make a hole into them. That is why most modular home builders and suppliers is installing the tropical wood with hidden fasteners that secures the boards.

The common tropical woods are the Philippine mahogany, ipe, tigerwood, and red tauari. These woods are extremely hard, very durable and naturally resistant to rot and insects.

In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog.

Topic: Modular Home Deck

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Legendary Homes Inc
10197 S Meridian Rd US 127
Clarklake, Mi 49234
(517)206-2435
http://LegendaryHomesInc.com
Todd_Rutledge@LegendaryHomesInc.com

Located in Jackson County Michigan