Low income homes are often in poor condition and there are many reasons for this. Part of this problem has to do with the selection of material and construction techniques in such housing.

Some of this is obvious and well documented. It should come as no surprise that many of the manufactured homes used after some recent disasters fell apart soon after they were installed - some fell apart even before that. This appears to have been the result of unscrupulous construction practices. Construction techniques, designs and material selection was also a factor.

Similar problems exist in all types of construction, particularly in the construction of homes on a limited budget. When initial costs are the dominant factor during the construction process, maintenance and repair costs are ignored. There are many examples, cabinetry that is almost impossible to clean or repair, tub and shower walls that scratch easily, unprotected entry doors that guarantee interior floor damage.

Occupancy levels are another factor: expensive homes are larger than less expensive ones and people on a limited budget tend to live in more crowded homes. More people in a limited space means that everything gets used more. More use equals more wear and tear. It also means that more moisture is collected in the home and moisture causes many of the problems in a home.

Some lower income housing also depends upon do-it-yourself construction and maintenance. And this must also be considered during the design and material selection process.

The recommendations herein are based upon my observations and recommendations from many groups. I welcome comments from readers.