Here are some considerations for carport designs to help guide you when you are looking to build a carport. Carports are becoming more popular as a cheaper alternative to a garage when you want to protect your car from the elements, or as an additional parking space as well as an already owned garage. However just because a carport is less costly than a garage does not mean it needs to look cheap. You can take existing plans are make your own plans so that it looks how you want it to as well as meeting your practical needs. Considerations for carport designs include thinking about budget, size, appearance, location and other practical aspects such as materials, roofing and foundation.
Work within your budget
Do some research, learn how much materials are and work out a budget that you can meet. Have a top limit you set and be firm about not going over it. Often people spend over budget because they have not done their homework and have not planned well enough.
Design and location
Considerations for carport designs need to take into account where you want it to go. Is it one that is off the side of your house or a structure that is stand alone? You want something that enhances the look of your house rather than clashing with it, but still falls within budget. Look online at various design options, drive around and see what other people have and make notes on what you like and do not like.
Size
Of course how big the carport is going to be is largely dependent on how big the vehicle that will be parked in it is. But you also need to make sure there is room to open doors and get out comfortably, there is enough height for when you have the bikes on top of the car, and that if you also want it to be a storage space you have enough room for that too. Size will have a big impact on your budget.
A good foundation and roof
Obviously the whole structure needs to be solid, but key parts are the foundation and roof. Consider what foundation you are going to use remembering it needs to hold the weight of your car as well as the structure. A strong concrete base is a good idea but you also need it to effectively drain any water that blows in. The roof needs to be practical as well as looking good. You might like flat roofs but if you get a lot of rain and snow is that going to last long?
Building materials
The two materials carports are usually made from are metal or wood. Metal is the cheapest option and are low maintenance. You can buy metal carport kits that come with instructions on how to build them. If you have the money wood is more pleasing to the eye for many people. Check out which woods you can afford as they do range in cost and make sure the timber is pressure-treated to stand the elements. Wood structures may need some maintenance.
