Determining the floor area of a 16x80 Fleetwood mobile home might seem straightforward, but several factors can influence the final square footage. This guide will clarify the calculation and address common questions surrounding mobile home dimensions and space.
Calculating the Basic Square Footage
The most basic calculation assumes a perfectly rectangular home. In this case, the square footage is simply length multiplied by width:
16 feet (width) x 80 feet (length) = 1280 square feet
This 1280 square feet represents the nominal floor area. However, this figure doesn't account for several real-world considerations.
What Affects the Actual Usable Square Footage?
Several features reduce the actual usable square footage compared to the nominal calculation:
- Walls: Interior walls take up space and reduce the usable floor area. The thickness of the walls varies depending on the model and building materials.
- Appliances and Fixtures: The space occupied by built-in appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher) and bathroom fixtures (toilet, shower, bathtub) subtracts from the usable space.
- Closets and Storage: While offering valuable storage, closets and other built-in storage units reduce the available open floor space.
- Structural Supports: Supporting beams or columns might reduce the floor area in certain areas.
- Porches and Decks: Outdoor features like porches and decks are typically not included in the calculation of interior floor area.
How Do I Find the Exact Square Footage of My Fleetwood Mobile Home?
The most accurate method to determine the precise square footage of your specific 16x80 Fleetwood mobile home is to:
- Consult the Manufacturer's Documentation: Your Fleetwood mobile home's original paperwork should list the precise dimensions and square footage.
- Measure the Interior: Measure each room individually and add the measurements together. Remember to account for any irregularities in the shape of the rooms. This will provide the most accurate reflection of your usable space.
- Review Your Property Taxes: Your property tax assessment often includes the assessed square footage. While not always perfectly accurate, it provides a reasonable estimate.
What about the Different Models within the 16x80 Fleetwood Range?
Fleetwood offers various models within its 16x80 range. These models may incorporate different floor plans, resulting in variations in usable square footage. Some might feature larger closets, different layouts, or additional features that impact the actual living area. Consulting Fleetwood's official documentation for your specific model is crucial for accurate information.
Are there additional fees associated with a larger mobile home square footage?
The square footage of your mobile home can influence several aspects, including:
- Property Taxes: Larger homes typically incur higher property taxes.
- Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums might increase with larger square footage.
- Utility Bills: You'll likely pay more for utilities (heating, cooling, water) in a larger home.
Does the square footage include the attached structures?
No, the square footage calculation typically refers only to the interior living space of the main mobile home structure. Garages, sheds, or other attached structures are separately assessed.
This comprehensive guide addresses the key considerations in determining the square footage of a 16x80 Fleetwood mobile home. Remember that the nominal square footage is a starting point, and the actual usable space will depend on various factors specific to your home's design and features. Always consult your documentation or conduct precise measurements for the most accurate results.
