Making the Case for Healthy, Climate Positive Manufactured Homes

Manufactured homes provide affordable housing for nearly 22 million Americans, representing a vital piece of the nation’s housing landscape, especially for rural areas. The report “Manufactured Homes: An Analysis of Health and Environmental Impacts of Common Building Materials,” highlights the critical need to rethink the industry’s reliance on petrochemical-based construction materials. Download it here.

With the manufactured housing market projected to grow significantly in the coming decade, the health and sustainability implications of commonly used materials need close scrutiny. Most modern manufactured homes are built using petroleum-derived plastics for floors, walls, ceilings, and cabinetry. Materials like luxury vinyl tile (LVT), PET carpets, and acrylic latex paints dominate interior surfaces. Over time, these products emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other hazardous chemicals, impacting indoor air quality and increasing the risk of asthma, cancer, developmental disorders, and other health issues. These concerns are especially pressing for marginalized and low-income communities, who are often most exposed to such hazards.

The environmental costs are just as stark. The building sector is the second-largest global user of plastics, nearly all of which are derived from fossil fuels, making it a significant contributor to carbon emissions. Even conventional insulation materials like fiberglass add to the industry’s carbon footprint. 

This study analyzes five common building materials to measure the amount of plastics and toxic additives in a typical manufactured home. It also evaluates their toxicity and impact on global warming. These findings can help manufacturers, developers, and policymakers choose healthier and more sustainable options for affordable housing.