A Carport Buying Guide
Carports can be the best solution for people who can’t build a garage. Perhaps the local council has tight regulations about the kinds of structures are build or perhaps you can’t afford a whole structure, whatever the reason is, a carport is often the next best thing.
Carports can range from being very budget-friendly and portable to being high end, solid structures that will look and feel just as permanent as any garage.
Carport Tents are portable and freestanding frames that are usually covered with a canvas canopy. They assemble quickly and are great for renters and those on a very tight budget.
Composite or metallic carports can be free standing or attached to the home. They are usually permanent, durable and can accommodate doors and shelving. They can be enclosed using a light weight material and the roof can be covered with a plastic or canvas canopy.
Steel carports are usually powder coated or galvanised. They are usually covered with a fairly rigid panel and come complete with roof and sides.
Wooden carports can be expensive, and it is possible to use aluminium with a wood grain finish as a cheaper alternative. Either way, a wooden frame might look better with a wooden house or cottage. Wooden carports can be similar to a pergola in that they can be roofed with plastic or canvas canopy and are usually not enclosed.
Once you have decided what type of carport suits your needs and budget, you can then look at the preparations that need to be made before you purchase your carport kit or installation.
Space is the biggest concern when looking at building or installing a carport. Check that you have ample room to build or assemble the structure and that it won’t cause access problems or become inadequate and therefore unusable. Sometimes getting someone in to fit and install a carport can save the hassles of measuring the area.
Local councils often have very definite restrictions on what sort of carport you can build. The regulations might insist on it being a certain distance from the curb or be constructed to remain in keeping with the look of the suburb. It is essential you look into the local restrictions and permissions required before you purchase your carport.
Do it yourself or Installation is usually determined by your budget. If you can afford it, get someone in to either assemble or build your carport. It is a good rule of thumb to always get the best you can afford. Buying the most solid and well made structure you can afford will ensure it will last longer and most likely look better. But if you don’t have the funds, then why not call in the help of friends and family or ask a friend in the construction business if they lend their support or help. Many kits come with excellent assembly instructions.
The look of your carport is an important element. Keep in mind the design of your house when choosing a carport. If you have a large, brick house, then a portable, freestanding carport might detract from the appearance of your home. Likewise if you have a quaint cottage or timber house, a large, steel structure might look inappropriate and overpower the look of your home.