You’ve decided a garage isn’t the best option. Maybe it’s a little outside your budget or you don’t have space on your property. Whatever the reason, you need a place to park your vehicle that also protects it from things like thieves and the elements. This means you’re probably going with a carport.
However, this also means selecting the right size and design for your carport. Yes, you have options, probably more than you’re expecting. So, how do you know if you’re going with the right carport to meet your needs?
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Various Types of Carports
If you’re envisioning a roof supported by four posts, similar to a tent, this is an open carport. However, your options don’t stop there. You can go with a fully or partially enclosed carport. Carports can also be free-standing structures or attached to your home.
Detached, free-standing carports are a tad more expensive than attached ones. The advantage is detached carports are usually easier to modify and you can place them just about anywhere on your property.
An attached carport is often cheaper since it shares a wall with your house. The downside is you’re limited on where you can install the carport. You may also run into problems if you want to make any modifications.
Choose the Materials
Carports are often made from metal and this has advantages. Metal tends to be durable, though rust and corrosion can be issues in wet, humid climates.
Metal carports are relatively easy to customize. This is something to consider if you need a specially sized carport to accommodate something like a boat or if you want plenty of storage space. Metal is also a cost-effective option. Even though carports are cheaper than garages, most homeowners still want to keep costs down.
You can also go with a wooden carport. If you want to customize the carport’s appearance or even have it match your home’s exterior, wood is probably the way to go. Don’t forget wood is more expensive than metal and it’s a little harder to customize the size. Keep this in mind as you’re comparing the different materials.
Picking a Size for Your Carport
Picking the right size for your carport is a little more complicated than closing your eyes on pointing at a picture in a sales brochure. A little bit of effort is required, along with some common sense.
For example, don’t go with the largest available carport if you have limited space on your property. Your neighbors probably aren’t going to be thrilled if your carport encroaches on their property. With that being said, you also don’t want to choose a carport with the smallest footprint if you’re planning on parking a large SUV inside.
Take a look at your vehicle/s. Count the number of vehicles you’re planning on keeping in the carport. Grab the measuring tape and scope out the carport’s intended location. Before you settle on the carport’s size, make sure there’s enough room for you to get into the vehicle. You probably don’t want to climb in your vehicle through the window. Reenacting a Dukes of Hazzard episode can be fun one or two times but then it gets exasperating.
Don’t Forget About Clearance
Just like you don’t want to be forced to use the windows to get in and out of your parked vehicle, you also want it to clear the carport. Can you imagine pulling into the carport for the first time only to discover your vehicle doesn’t have clearance? On the bright side, at least you still have plenty of storage space for your clutter.
Avoiding this potential issue should be at the top of your list. Remember the measuring tape you used to find the perfect spot? Go ahead and figure out your vehicle’s clearance. If you don’t feel like measuring your vehicle’s height, head to the automaker’s website. You shouldn’t have a problem finding your vehicle’s exact specifications.
You can also simply Google the vehicle’s make and model. A quick online search should pull up the necessary information. Yes, this is an added step but it’s an important one if you want to make sure the carport is the right size.
What Style Catches Your Eye
Okay, carports have progressed well past consisting only of a roof and some support poles. This type of carport is still available but you have so many more options to consider. If vehicle protection is paramount, you should go with a fully enclosed carport. Don’t forget you can cut back on costs if the carport shares a wall with your house.
Now, on to the carport’s style. Do you want the carport to match your home’s exterior? Maybe you prefer something a little different. What about a pergola-inspired carport or one with a more industrial look? You can even go rustic, you know something similar to a Swiss chalet or woodsy cabin.
You can even make the carport multi-functional. Along with providing covered parking, the carport can also have a walkway to your door. This way, when it’s raining you’re sheltered from the carport to your house.
You can even decide to add a dedicated storage room to the carport. Your design and style options are basically endless. Chances are, if you can envision the design the manufacturer can turn it into reality. Something to keep in mind is the carport’s design and style can affect price. You typically pay more for a custom design compared to a prefabricated carport.
Think About Future Modifications
Some carports make modifications easy. Others make it almost impossible. Are you planning on adding another vehicle or possibly some more storage? Before settling on a size and style for your carport, think about your future needs. If you’re not positive you’re going with the right model, don’t be afraid to ask a professional.
A professional carport supplier or installer can make recommendations so you’re bound to be thrilled with your structure for years. Are you ready to start looking at carports? Just remember to keep things like the size and style in mind.
