@Home - Tiny Home Delivery and Installation
So, you’ve made the decision to purchase a Tiny Home and now you’re eagerly awaiting delivery. Are there things you should know and site preparations you should do, before it turns up and is ready to move in to? Here are several key factors to consider to ensure a smooth process.
How Far Away is Your Delivery Site?
The distance of your delivery site from the manufacturer is a primary consideration. Hopefully you’ve discussed this BEFORE signing and agreement, as transport can add unnecessary cost. The further your site is, the more expensive the delivery will be, and costs are typically calculated based on the distance from the manufacturing base. Ensure you obtain a clear, written quote so you fully understand and have budgeted for the expenses involved. It’s also wise to consider any possible delays or additional charges if your location is particularly remote or difficult to access.
Access Requirements: Is Your Site Ready?
Ensuring the site is accessible for delivery is crucial. The delivery truck will need a clear path to your location, so it’s important to check the dimensions and conditions of your access road. At a minimum, the road should be at least 10 feet wide with a height clearance of about 14 feet to accommodate the size of the tiny house and the delivery truck. Any overhanging branches or obstacles that could impede delivery should be trimmed or removed beforehand.
If your location has tight spots, sharp turns, or difficult driveways, it’s worth discussing this with your tiny house provider in advance. Many companies have experience in delivering to challenging locations and can work with external crane companies if necessary. Cranes can lift the tiny house into place if a truck can't reach the final destination, but this will incur additional costs.
Preparing the Site: Flat, Level, and Ready
Before your tiny house arrives, you'll need to prepare the site where it will be placed. A flat, level area is essential to ensure the stability of your home. While a concrete slab provides a solid foundation and is preferable, it’s not mandatory. Many tiny houses can be set up on concrete pads, compacted crusher dust, or road base, which are more flexible and often less expensive options.
If you're unsure about site preparation, consult with your tiny house provider for recommendations. They can often provide guidance on what will work best for your specific location and the type of tiny house you've purchased.
Installation: Do It Yourself or Opt for Professional Help?
Once your tiny house is delivered, the next step is installation. This involves leveling the house on adjustable piers or landing legs and securing it for long-term stability. While some people prefer to handle this themselves - especially if they have experience or know someone who does -many tiny house providers offer professional installation services.
Opting for professional installation can provide peace of mind, ensuring that your tiny house is correctly set up and braced against potential issues like shifting or settling. This service may be offered as an optional extra, so it's worth considering if you want a hassle-free setup.
Security Features: The Removable Drawbar
A unique and valuable feature is a removable drawbar. Once your tiny house is delivered and set up, the drawbar, which is used for towing, can be removed. This improves the appearance of your tiny house by hiding the towing mechanism, and adds an extra layer of security. Without the drawbar, it becomes much more difficult for anyone to tow your house away without your permission, reducing the risk of theft.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the delivery and installation of your tiny house requires careful planning, but with the right preparations, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. From ensuring proper access and site readiness to deciding on professional installation and security features, taking these steps will help ensure that your tiny house is safely and securely set up in its new location.
