Manufactured Housing Systems and Their Relation to the Use of Wood Products

A number of manufactured housing firms using modular and panelized systems were studied to determine how the adoption of industrialized methods may dictate new technical or engineering requirements for wood-based, products. Also, firms were questioned regarding their attitude toward wood light-frame systems as compared to other alternatives. Manufactured housing firms studied which have a successful record of manufacturing and marketing are producing conventional wood-frame units. The firms with innovative systems, whether they be primarily wood or of other materials are in developmental or prototype stages. Major adoption of single family housing systems that do not utilize conventional light-frame wood construction does not appear to be an immediate threat to the lumber industry. The use of plywood will likely increase if the industry continues to move toward factory-built units. The criteria for selection of materials was very similar to the on-site building situation. Some firms are shifting to use of some steel framing particularly in floor systems. Warp, size variability, and price fluctuation in lumber were stated causes. The satisfaction with plywood was good and few complaints were encountered. Manufacturers were generally not familiar with particleboard decking or sheathing products.

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