This identifier represents a specific dwelling unit: a manufactured home produced by Harrison in 1983. The dimensions 48 by 26 likely refer to its length and width in feet, and the serial number 245521 serves as a unique identification code for this particular home.
Such identifiers are critical for property records, legal transactions, insurance purposes, and determining compliance with building codes and safety standards applicable at the time of manufacture. The age of the home places it within a period where significant changes in manufactured housing construction and regulation were occurring, potentially influencing its structural design and material composition.
Understanding the characteristics associated with this type of manufactured home necessitates delving into its construction specifics, potential renovation considerations, and prevailing market valuation, all factors influenced by its age, dimensions, and unique serial number.
1. Year of Manufacture
The year 1983 marks a pivotal moment in the life of the Harrison manufactured home bearing serial number 245521. It is not merely a date, but a timestamp that imprints the dwelling with the technological, regulatory, and economic realities of its time, shaping its very essence.
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Regulatory Landscape
In 1983, the manufactured housing industry was under the auspices of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards, implemented in 1976. These standards dictate safety, durability, and fire resistance. A home built in 1983 would have to adhere to these codes. This adherence has profound implications for its structure, materials, and overall safety profile, influencing insurability, resale value, and habitability.
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Construction Techniques and Materials
The construction methodologies and material choices prevalent in 1983 differed markedly from those used today. The utilization of asbestos in some building materials, though becoming less common, was still potentially present. The insulation standards, window efficiencies, and roofing materials would reflect the technology of the era, potentially leading to higher energy consumption compared to modern homes.
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Design Aesthetics and Floor Plans
The architectural styles and floor plan designs of 1983 mirrored contemporary trends. Layouts may prioritize compartmentalized spaces rather than the open-concept designs favored today. Interior finishes and exterior aesthetics would evoke the design sensibilities of the early 1980s, creating a distinctive visual signature indicative of its era.
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Depreciation and Maintenance
Age inevitably takes its toll. A 1983 manufactured home has experienced decades of wear and tear. The condition of its structural components, plumbing, electrical systems, and roofing becomes paramount. Regular maintenance and necessary repairs become critical in preserving its structural integrity and extending its lifespan. The year of manufacture directly affects the likelihood and extent of required upkeep, influencing long-term ownership costs.
Thus, the year 1983 casts a long shadow on the Harrison manufactured home with serial number 245521. It influences everything from its structural composition to its regulatory compliance and potential maintenance requirements. The date serves as a crucial lens through which to evaluate its current state and future prospects, an essential element in understanding its place in the landscape of manufactured housing.
2. Manufacturer
The name “Harrison,” stamped onto the chassis of the 1983, 48 by 26 manufactured home bearing serial number 245521, is more than a label. It’s an imprint of origin, a connection to a specific history, quality, and perhaps even a legacy a story etched in metal and wood.
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Construction Standards and Design Philosophy
Harrison, as the manufacturer, dictated the construction standards adhered to during the home’s creation. Their specific engineering practices, material choices, and design philosophies shaped the structure’s durability, layout, and overall aesthetic. Knowing Harrison’s reputation at the time allows for a deeper understanding of the expected build quality and inherent strengths or weaknesses present in the 1983 model. For example, a manufacturer known for robust framing might suggest greater structural integrity, while one focused on cost-effectiveness might imply a need for closer inspection of certain components.
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Original Materials and Components
Harrison’s supplier relationships and material preferences directly influenced the components used in the 1983 home. The brand of windows, the type of insulation, the plumbing fixtures all were selected and integrated under Harrison’s direction. This knowledge assists in identifying potential issues stemming from specific materials known to degrade or fail over time. For instance, if Harrison frequently used a particular brand of roofing material prone to leaks, it would warrant a careful assessment of the roof’s condition.
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Compliance with Regulations
As the manufacturer, Harrison bore the responsibility of ensuring the home complied with all applicable HUD regulations in 1983. This compliance is evidenced by the HUD tag affixed to the home. However, understanding Harrison’s track record regarding adherence to these regulations offers insight into the reliability of that compliance. A manufacturer with a history of code violations might raise concerns about potential hidden defects or shortcuts taken during construction, necessitating a more thorough inspection.
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Availability of Documentation and Parts
The continued existence, or lack thereof, of Harrison as a company influences the availability of original documentation, replacement parts, and even expert knowledge about the 1983 model. If Harrison is still in operation, accessing original blueprints, wiring diagrams, or replacement components might be feasible. However, if the company is defunct, locating such resources could prove challenging, potentially complicating repairs or renovations. This factor plays a significant role in assessing the long-term maintainability of the home.
Therefore, the manufacturer, Harrison, is not simply a name. It represents a complex web of decisions, practices, and historical circumstances that profoundly shaped the 1983, 48 by 26 manufactured home with serial number 245521. Unraveling this connection is essential to fully understanding the home’s origins, its current condition, and its future potential.
3. Dimensions
The numbers “48 by 26” etched into the description of the 1983 Harrison manufactured home bearing serial number 245521 are more than mere measurements. They are a declaration of space, a framework that defines the possibilities and limitations within those walls, silently dictating the flow of life within.
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Spatial Footprint and Zoning Regulations
The dimensions of 48 feet in length and 26 feet in width create a specific spatial footprint. This footprint has direct implications for where the home can legally reside. Zoning regulations often dictate minimum lot sizes and setback requirements, ensuring adequate spacing between dwellings. This 1248 square foot area might preclude placement in certain areas with restrictive zoning, impacting its potential location and value. The dimensions serve as a crucial piece of information when assessing the suitability of a particular plot of land.
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Interior Layout and Livability
These dimensions fundamentally influence the interior layout and overall livability of the home. A 48 by 26 rectangle presents both challenges and opportunities for interior design. The elongated shape might necessitate a linear arrangement of rooms, potentially impacting natural light distribution and the flow of traffic. Efficient space planning becomes paramount to maximize the usable area and avoid a cramped or confined feel. The dimensions set the stage for the arrangement of living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms, shaping the daily experience of its inhabitants.
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Structural Considerations and Transportation
The proportions of 48 by 26 introduce structural considerations that are unique to manufactured homes. The elongated rectangular shape demands robust framing and bracing to withstand transportation and maintain structural integrity over time. The dimensions influence the type of chassis required, the placement of support beams, and the overall weight distribution of the home. Furthermore, these dimensions directly impact the logistics of moving the home, potentially requiring specialized permits and transportation routes due to its size.
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Market Value and Comparability
The dimensions contribute significantly to the market value of the 1983 Harrison manufactured home. Square footage is a primary factor in determining property appraisals, and the 1248 square feet offered by this home places it within a specific range of comparable properties. However, the value is not solely determined by size; the layout, condition, and location all play crucial roles. The dimensions, combined with these other factors, dictate its competitiveness in the current market and its potential resale value.
In essence, the dimensions of 48 by 26 for the 1983 Harrison manufactured home with serial number 245521 are not merely arbitrary numbers. They are fundamental parameters that shape its legal placement, interior design, structural integrity, and ultimately, its value. These dimensions tell a story of space, limitations, and possibilities, a silent narrative woven into the very fabric of the dwelling.
4. Serial Number
Within the intricate tapestry of property ownership and identification, the serial number of the 1983 Harrison 48 by 26 manufactured home is a thread of unique significance. It’s more than just a string of digits; it is the key to unlocking the home’s history, legal standing, and potential future.
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The Home’s Fingerprint
The serial number, 245521, functions as a unique identifier, distinguishing this particular dwelling from every other manufactured home ever created. This attribute is paramount for legal purposes, ensuring accurate property records, facilitating ownership transfers, and preventing fraudulent claims. Without it, the home could become lost in a sea of indistinguishable structures, vulnerable to disputes and misidentification. It is the cornerstone of its individuality.
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Decoding the Past
The serial number acts as a portal to the home’s past, linking it to records held by the manufacturer, regulatory agencies, and previous owners. Through it, one can potentially trace the home’s origins, uncover its initial specifications, and ascertain compliance with safety standards in effect at the time of manufacture. This information is crucial for assessing the home’s structural integrity, identifying potential hazards, and making informed decisions about renovations or repairs. It is a tangible connection to the year 1983.
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Navigating Legal Waters
The serial number plays a crucial role in navigating the legal complexities surrounding manufactured homes. It is essential for securing financing, obtaining insurance, and complying with local regulations governing property ownership and land use. A clear and verifiable serial number streamlines these processes, minimizing delays and potential legal complications. Conversely, a missing or altered serial number can raise red flags, jeopardizing transactions and potentially leading to legal disputes. It is a necessary element for smooth legal operations.
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A Marker of Value
The presence of a valid serial number enhances the market value of the 1983 Harrison manufactured home. It assures potential buyers of its authenticity, legal standing, and historical traceability. This reassurance translates to increased confidence and willingness to invest, ultimately driving up the property’s perceived worth. A home without a verifiable serial number may face skepticism and devaluation, as its history and legal status become questionable. It serves as a mark of authenticity which leads to more value.
Therefore, the serial number 245521 is not merely an arbitrary label assigned to the 1983 Harrison 48 by 26 manufactured home. It is an indispensable key that unlocks the home’s identity, history, legal standing, and ultimately, its value. This string of digits, etched into its chassis, is a silent testament to its unique place in the landscape of manufactured housing.
5. Construction Materials
The composition of the 1983 Harrison manufactured home, identified by serial number 245521, is not merely a matter of materials list. It’s a chronicle of choices, dictated by the era’s technology, regulations, and economic realities, forever shaping the home’s durability, safety, and longevity. The very essence of this dwelling is interwoven with the materials from which it was forged.
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Framing and Structural Support
Likely constructed with a wood frame dimension lumber perhaps, or engineered wood products slowly gaining traction the structural skeleton would dictate the home’s resistance to wind and snow loads. The quality of this framing, the species of wood used, and the precision of its assembly would either ensure decades of stability or foreshadow a gradual decline into structural compromise. Inspecting the undercarriage, the joists, and the marriage line connecting the two sections reveals stories of resilience or potential weakness, whispered by the wood itself.
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Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Batt insulation, likely fiberglass, filled the wall cavities, striving to regulate temperature and minimize energy consumption. However, the R-value of insulation in 1983 pales in comparison to modern standards. Settling, compression, and moisture intrusion over the decades could have significantly diminished its effectiveness, leading to drafts, elevated energy bills, and potential mold growth. Peeking behind outlets or examining exposed sections in unfinished areas could unearth the insulation’s current state, a hidden story of energy loss or conservation.
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Exterior Cladding and Weather Resistance
Aluminum siding, a prevalent choice in the early 1980s, likely clad the exterior, providing a barrier against the elements. While durable, aluminum is susceptible to dents, fading, and oxidation. The seams and joints, if not properly sealed and maintained, could become pathways for water infiltration, leading to rot and structural damage. A careful examination of the siding, the flashing around windows and doors, and the condition of the roof reveals a history of weather resistance or a tale of elemental assault.
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Interior Finishes and Potential Hazards
Inside, particleboard underlayment, vinyl flooring, and possibly even asbestos-containing materials in certain components might have been utilized. These choices, common at the time, present potential hazards today. Off-gassing from particleboard, degradation of vinyl, and the presence of asbestos require careful consideration and potential remediation. Sampling and testing of these materials become critical to ensure a safe and healthy living environment, revealing a hidden narrative of past practices and present-day concerns.
These construction materials, individually and collectively, are not mere building blocks but historical artifacts embedded within the 1983 Harrison manufactured home. They reflect the standards, limitations, and compromises of their time, shaping its physical characteristics and influencing its long-term viability. Understanding the composition is not just about assessing its present condition, but about deciphering its past and anticipating its future.
6. Historical Context
To truly understand the 1983 Harrison 48 by 26 manufactured home, bearing the unique identifier 245521, one must step back in time. Its very existence is a product of the prevailing economic, social, and regulatory forces of the early 1980s, a confluence that shaped not only its physical form but also its place in the American housing landscape.
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The Rise of Manufactured Housing
The early 1980s witnessed a surge in the popularity of manufactured homes as an affordable housing alternative, particularly for first-time homebuyers and those in rural areas. Inflation and rising construction costs made traditional site-built homes increasingly inaccessible, driving demand for more economical options. The Harrison home, emerging during this period, represents a tangible response to this need, embodying the spirit of cost-effective homeownership. The 48 by 26 footprint reflects the size constraints dictated by affordability, a practical solution to a pressing economic challenge.
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HUD Code Evolution
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Code, established in 1976, was still relatively new in 1983. While it set minimum standards for safety and construction, the industry was still adapting and innovating within those guidelines. The Harrison home, built under these early HUD standards, represents a specific point in the code’s evolution. Materials, construction techniques, and safety features reflect the regulations of that era, differing in some respects from both pre-code “mobile homes” and modern manufactured housing.
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Economic Conditions and Interest Rates
The economic climate of the early 1980s, characterized by high interest rates and economic uncertainty, significantly impacted the manufactured housing market. Financing options were often limited, and buyers faced higher monthly payments. This reality influenced the design and construction of homes like the Harrison, prioritizing affordability over elaborate features or high-end finishes. Understanding these economic pressures sheds light on the design choices and material selections evident in the home’s construction.
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Energy Crisis and Design Responses
The energy crises of the 1970s lingered in the collective consciousness, prompting a growing awareness of energy efficiency. While not as pronounced as in later years, energy conservation measures were beginning to influence housing design. Insulation, window glazing, and heating systems in the 1983 Harrison home likely reflect early attempts to improve energy performance, though these features would be less sophisticated than those found in contemporary homes. Examining these features reveals a nascent effort to address energy consumption concerns of the time.
Therefore, the 1983 Harrison 48 by 26 manufactured home, serial number 245521, is more than just a structure. It is a time capsule, encapsulating the economic pressures, regulatory landscape, and societal trends of its era. To truly appreciate its value and understand its limitations, one must consider the historical context in which it was conceived and constructed, recognizing it as a product of its time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Decades after its assembly, questions still arise concerning the 1983 Harrison manufactured home, particularly the 48 by 26 model identified by its serial number. These inquiries often delve into the realities of owning and maintaining such a dwelling in the present day.
Question 1: How does the age of the 1983 Harrison manufactured home impact its insurability?
Insurance companies assess risk, and age is a critical factor. Securing coverage might prove challenging, as insurers often view older homes as higher risk due to potential deterioration of structural components, outdated electrical systems, and plumbing vulnerabilities. Be prepared for higher premiums or the need to seek specialized insurance carriers experienced with older manufactured homes. Diligent documentation of upgrades and renovations can mitigate these challenges.
Question 2: Can one still find replacement parts specific to a 1983 Harrison model?
The passage of time presents a challenge. Original parts from 1983 are unlikely to be readily available through standard retailers. Resourcefulness becomes essential. Specialty suppliers catering to older manufactured homes, online marketplaces for vintage components, and salvage yards may hold the key to sourcing compatible replacements. Be prepared to adapt and consider modern alternatives where original parts are unattainable.
Question 3: What potential environmental hazards should be considered when evaluating a 1983 Harrison home?
Homes from this era may contain materials no longer deemed safe. Asbestos, though its use was declining, could still be present in insulation, flooring, or roofing. Lead-based paint poses a risk, particularly if disturbed during renovations. Formaldehyde off-gassing from particleboard is another concern. Professional testing and remediation may be necessary to ensure a safe living environment.
Question 4: How does the 1983 HUD code impact the safety and structural integrity of this home?
The 1976 HUD code, while a significant step forward, differed from modern standards. The 1983 Harrison home adheres to those earlier requirements, which may be less stringent regarding wind resistance, fire safety, and energy efficiency. A thorough inspection by a qualified professional is crucial to assess the home’s structural soundness and identify any areas of potential vulnerability requiring reinforcement or upgrades.
Question 5: What are the key maintenance considerations unique to a 1983 Harrison manufactured home?
Preventive maintenance is paramount. Regular inspections of the roof, siding, plumbing, and electrical systems are essential to identify and address minor issues before they escalate. Sealing seams, replacing worn weather stripping, and ensuring proper ventilation can extend the lifespan of the home and prevent costly repairs. Vigilance is the key to preserving its integrity.
Question 6: How does the dimensions of 48 by 26 affect property value?
Size plays a role, but it is not the sole determinant of value. Location, condition, upgrades, and market demand all contribute. While the 1248 square footage provides a baseline, a well-maintained and updated home in a desirable location will command a higher price than a neglected property in a less appealing area. Comparative market analysis is essential to determine a fair market value.
Owning a 1983 Harrison manufactured home presents both opportunities and challenges. A thorough understanding of its history, construction, and potential issues is crucial for informed decision-making and responsible ownership.
Next, exploring renovation possibilities will further shed light on this dwelling’s potential.
Wisdom Gleaned From a Harrison Home
The Harrison home, built in 1983 and measuring 48 by 26, serial number secured, stands as a quiet teacher. Its age and construction offer vital lessons for prospective owners, each one a hard-won insight into the nature of time, maintenance, and the enduring spirit of home.
Tip 1: Respect the Asbestos Whisper.
Homes of this era might harbor asbestos, a silent danger. Do not disturb suspect materials. Engage a professional for testing before any renovation; ignorance is not bliss, but a costly and dangerous gamble.
Tip 2: Chronicle Every Improvement.
Detailed records of repairs, upgrades, and inspections form a valuable history for the home. This documentation reassures potential buyers, simplifies insurance claims, and illuminates the homes evolution, proving its value and lifespan, and helping you sell better.
Tip 3: Ventilation is Non-Negotiable.
Poor ventilation invites moisture, mold, and structural decay. Ensure proper airflow in crawl spaces, attics, and bathrooms. Invest in dehumidifiers where necessary; a dry home is a healthy and long-lasting home.
Tip 4: The HUD Tag is Gospel.
Verify the HUD tag affixed to the home. It confirms compliance with federal safety standards at the time of manufacture. A missing or illegitimate tag signals potential code violations, jeopardizing the home’s legality and safety.
Tip 5: Seek Specialized Insurance.
Standard homeowner’s insurance might not adequately cover a manufactured home of this vintage. Explore specialized policies tailored to manufactured housing, ensuring comprehensive protection against potential risks.
Tip 6: Survey Before Purchase
It is not enough to have a home inspector survey. Get a land surveyor to survey the land your home is sitting on. You will need to know if the structure is legally on the land.
These tenets, learned from a dwelling weathered by time, underscore the responsibilities that come with ownership. It asks you to respect its past, protect its present, and ensure its future.
In conclusion, the wisdom of the 1983 Harrison home provides a foundation for informed stewardship, ensuring its continued existence for decades to come.
Echoes of ’83
The identifier “1983 harrison 48 by 26 manufactured home serial number 245521” has served as a focal point, an entry into a world of construction standards, historical contexts, and individual narratives interwoven with the structure itself. From decoding the significance of its year of manufacture and tracing the influence of the Harrison brand, to understanding the implications of its dimensions and the crucial role of its unique serial number, the exploration has revealed the multifaceted nature of this dwelling.
This particular Harrison home is more than just an aging structure; it’s a testament to a time when affordable housing solutions took tangible form, reflecting both the ingenuity and the limitations of the era. As time marches forward, and structures degrade, there are echoes in the structure still. Whether as a dwelling revitalized through mindful renovation, or as a source of valuable salvaged materials, its essence persists. The legacy of “1983 harrison 48 by 26 manufactured home serial number 245521” will be a story told in the future.
