What Is the Underbelly (Belly Board) of a Mobile Home?
December 30, 2024
In this three part series, we will talk about what is underneath your manufactured home at a Hames community. In Part 3, we discuss the underbelly.
What is the underbelly on a manufactured home?
The underbelly of a mobile home refers to the enclosed area underneath the home, often called the belly, belly wrap or bottom board. It is a protective layer added at the factory when the home is built. It is generally a polyethylene sheet that wraps all of the underside of the home. When major plumbing repairs are required, the underbelly will need to be cut open to access the pipes. This is another reason to make sure your heat tape is working properly!
Functions of the Underbelly:
- Moisture Protection: Shields insulation, plumbing, and wiring from ground moisture and water intrusion.
- Energy Efficiency: Helps retain heat or cool air, improving your manufactured home's energy efficiency.
- Pest Prevention: Acts as a barrier to keep out rodents, insects, and other pests.
- Debris Shielding: Prevents dirt, debris, and other elements from damaging components underneath the home.
What does a homeowner need to know about the underbelly on their manufactured home?
At Hames Homes, we check the underbelly as part of our 96-point inspection. We guarantee that the belly has been sufficiently patched or replaced if needed. The underbelly can last the entire life of a home without repairs if not damaged and does not need regular maintenance.