28 Jan Tiny homes vs. caravans
You might be wondering what the difference is between a tiny home and a traditional caravan. It is a subject of considerable debate amongst mobile home advocates. While there are obvious similarities, there are a few key differences with each having its distinct advantages.
Let’s take a closer look at both to understand the differences…
Tiny Homes Advantages
1) Aesthetics
Aesthetically speaking, tiny homes are much more similar to a traditional house. The materials used in construction are identical, as is the structure – only on a smaller scale. If aesthetics are important to you, then a tiny home is a logical choice.
Typically, you will also have much more control on design and finishing touches, making the overall appearance customised to your specific style – allowing you to create your own designer eco home.
Furthermore, because the materials used in construction are similar to what you will find in an average sized regular house, the structure feels much more robust. Tiny homes advocates will tell you how well-built a tiny home is in comparison to a caravan.
2) More comfortable
Tiny homes are designed for more permeant living arrangements. They are built with the intention to provide medium to long-term accommodation for day-to-day living – in complete comfort. Particularly if you are involved in the design, you will be able to customise it in accordance with your requirements.
And another thing…
Tiny homes often feel more spacious, evoking stronger feelings of homeliness.
3) Better insulation
Tiny homes are typically better insulated, reducing energy costs and providing a more comfortable ambient temperature all year round. They also generally have better waterproofing than caravans and campers.
Caravan Advantages
1) Better Mobility
Caravans are designed to move frequently. Everything about them is intended for regular transportation – from their lightweight materials to their aerodynamic shape. If you plan to travel a lot, then a caravan may be more appropriate for you. This is the upside to using less solid building materials – as are used in tiny home construction.
2) Likely to be cheaper
For those on a tight budget, due to the less costly materials used, a caravan could cost you a lot less. Particularly if you track down an old vintage fixer-upper and you are not afraid of a bit of hard work. There are many older style caravans for sale that you can renovate – not a lot of older tiny homes available for the same purpose.
3) Legal compliance and insurance
While legal compliance and insurance coverage are relatively easy with caravans, the laws and regulations of tiny home living in Australia may be a little greyer. Rules can vary between different states and local jurisdictions.
Because tiny homes are an emerging trend, there may be some grey areas that currently exist in regards to compliance and being covered by insurance, particularly if your tiny house is on foundations or you plan on living in your tiny home full time.
Researching your circumstances is key before purchasing or building a tiny home to live in. There are certainly ways to be compliant and coverage by insurance, however, understanding the law is vitally important.
The Australian Tiny Homes Association is a great resource to get started.
overall
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Neither option is a bad choice; however, one of the options will likely suit you better than the other.
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