Tiny Homes On Wheels Vs. Shed Homes

Tiny living comes in many different shapes, styles, and sizes. The most common building styles associated with tiny living are tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) and shed homes. However, the differences between the two can be substantial. With such significant differences in something that seems so similar, we know it can feel overwhelming to determine which option is best for you and your needs. In this blog, we will walk you through the differences between THOWs, or park model homes, and shed homes so that you can make the best choice for your situation.

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels and Shed Homes The Same Thing?

No, THOWs and shed homes are not the same thing.

The reason these two tiny home styles are often assumed to be the same is because of the physical footprint they occupy. At Zook Cabins, most of our THOWs are 400 square feet. They are built to this size to ensure compliance with RVIA specifications. If you aren’t familiar with tiny home certifications, check out our blog RVIA vs NOAH tiny homes to help you make sense of it all.

On the other hand, a shed home does not need to meet any specification. However, they are often 400 sq ft or less. A 400-square-foot shed would typically have dimensions of 16×24, which is equivalent to 384 of square footage for a little more space you could move up to 16×26.

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels or Shed Homes On Wheels More Affordable?

Generally speaking, a THOW (Tiny Home on Wheels) will be more affordable than a shed home. We know that might sound counterintuitive, but we have some good reasons why we believe this is the case.

Shed homes tend to have a more affordable sticker price. However, there are many things not included in that price. For example, delivery, finishing, and utilities are often not included in a shed home shell.

This means that finishing the shed home would either be your responsibility or you’ll need to hire someone to complete the project. With the average handyman price in the U.S. being around $60 per hour, you will quickly lose the savings you thought you gained.

Let’s break it down further: if the labor cost is $60 an hour and you factor in $30 per square foot for materials, the cost quickly rises to $90 per square foot. If the average 16×24 shed costs more than $44,000, and you need to finish off 400 square feet at $90 per square foot ($36,000), you’re looking at spending $80,000+ relatively quickly.

In contrast, THOWs (or park model tiny homes) can offer you beautifully built homes for less than that price. Even better, you don’t have to do any of the work.

Tiny homes on wheels are built to either NOAH or RVIA standards. This means they must meet specific requirements, such as plumbing, heating, and a bathroom, to sell the unit. We believe that no additional work, high-quality craftsmanship, and an affordable price make THOWs the most attractive option for tiny living.

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels or Shed Homes Moveable?

Yes, both of these structures are moveable.

However, THOWs are easier to move. This is because a THOW is built on a chassis with wheels. If you want to move the structure, you would need a large pickup truck or semi-truck with special permits, depending on the size of the THOW. Some companies even build their THOWs small enough to be pulled behind a regular pickup truck. Just remember, a smaller build will mean less space in your THOW.

A shed home, on the other hand, is built on a skid foundation. Your shed home can be moved using a shed mule. However, if you want to move it a long distance, you would need to find a shed-moving company willing to transport the shed home for you. This would require your shed home to be moved from its location by a shed mule and then transported via semi-truck to its new location.

Do Tiny HomesOn Wheels or Shed Homes Have Any Kind Of Certifications?

Tiny homes on wheels typically have an RVIA or NOAH certification. Both of these designations for tiny homes are quite popular and will give you quality in a THOW. RVIA tends to be the most popular, but NOAH is also a common certification.

Shed homes are not built to specific standards other than what the builder decides is effective. This is why some sheds can be built to “cheap standards,” while others are built to high quality with residential-like craftsmanship. When working directly with a shed company like Stoltzfus Structures, you can ensure a high-quality structure built similarly to residential standards, promising you a shed that can easily be converted to a home.

Which Are Bigger, Tiny Homes On Wheels or Shed Homes?

Shed homes can be built larger than a THOW. This is why shed homes can be a more popular option than THOWs. However, a larger size means a more significant commitment to the general maintenance and upkeep of the home.

Alternatively, while THOWs are built to be smaller than some shed homes, they boast the same functionality as larger tiny homes. This, in turn, saves you money on utilities and general upkeep.

Can A Tiny Homes On Wheels Or Shed Home be used as an ADU?

Yes.

However, using these structures for a permanent ADU heavily depends on your municipality. Each of these building types is built differently from traditional homes. This can make it difficult if your municipality has strict regulations. If you want to see which places are the most ADU-friendly, check out our blog on the Top 7 ADU-Friendly States.

If an ADU is something that interests you, we also offer a full line of ADUs. This type of building may be easier to install on your property if your municipality does not approve of THOWs as an ADU.

Do Tiny Homes On Wheels or Shed Homes Have A Better Resale Value?

Tiny homes on wheels tend to have a better resale value than shed homes. This is because shed homes are typically tied to the land on which they have been placed. On the other hand, tiny homes on wheels offer a better resale value as they are viewed as recreational vehicles and can be used in multiple instances, such as short-term rentals, seasonal cabins at campgrounds, and, in some cases, ADUs and full-time residences. 

Want to know if you can use your tiny home on wheels for full time residence? Find your state below and learn more!

Can Tiny Homes On Wheels or Shed Homes Be Used As An Investment?

Yes. Tiny Homes on Wheels are a great way to make an investment. This is because they make the perfect solution for short-term rentals and are great for expanding a campground, like Red Run Resort or Somerset Resort, by offering one-of-a-kind glamping stays. Additionally, they are a great option for RevSharing opportunities.

On the other hand, shed homes can be a great investment as well if you are okay with them being a bit more stationary and time-consuming to get into for living. Additionally, some people have been able to sell their shed homes as off-grid cabins and sell the property and the shed home as a whole.

Want to learn more about RevShare? Click the button below and learn how you can turn your Tiny Home on Wheels into a high-quality investment.

Are Tiny Homes On Wheels and Shed Homes Customizable? 

Yes and no.

This is where things become difficult. THOWs at Zook Cabins come in standard styles per the model that is being sold. However, if you have a large order, we will work with you to develop a floor plan that meets your needs. On the other hand, shed homes can be customized in exterior design. Still, you are responsible for completing everything in the interior or paying extra to have someone finish it for you.

Are Shed homes better than THOWs?

Shed homes aren’t necessarily better than tiny homes on wheels. Just like a THOW isn’t better than a shed home, it really comes down to what you need. If, after reading this blog, you think that a shed home may be a better fit, look at the list below to see shed companies that could be a good fit for your needs.

Conclusion…

THOWs and shed homes can both be used as tiny homes. However, THOWs tend to be priced at a rate that is a bit more affordable and usually have a better resale value than shed homes. Both of these homes can be moved, although THOWs tend to be a bit easier to move as they are built on a chassis with wheels. Either of these homes can be used as an ADU or as an investment, but ultimately, it is up to your local municipality which one will be more favorable. At the end of the day, we think a tiny home on wheels will meet the needs of most people, and these homes do so at an affordable rate.

When you are ready to get your park model tiny home on wheels, contact us. We would be happy to help you find the tiny home of your dreams and help you “Dwell Beyond The Ordinary.”