What is a Carport? | ProMatcher

Building a Carport

A carport is a covered shelter used to protect cars, as well as other larger vehicles and equipment. Unlike a garage, the sides of a carport are typically left open. Building a carport is typically much cheaper than building a fully enclosed garage. Carports come in a number of different sizes and styles. So whether you need to protect one car or four cars and a boat, there is a carport out there for you.

Carport Materials

Many carports are made from metal. Aluminum and steel are the two most popular options. Metal carports are often constructed on the desired site with the help of prefabricated kits. Wooden carports are also a great option. They can be made of pressure-treated pine, oak, cedar, cypress, and many other types of wood. Additionally, the wood can be painted or stained any color you would like.

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Benefits of Building a Carport

1. Carports are budget-friendly, especially when compared to garage additions.

2. The paint on your car will be less likely to fade due to prolonged sun exposure.

3. You won’t have to dig out your car after a snowstorm.

4. If it hails, your cars and other belongings will be protected.

5. A carport can provide extra outdoor storage space for your belongings.

6. Carports are extremely versatile. They can be attached to your home or they can be totally separate, freestanding structures. Your carport can protect one car or 8 cars. It’s all up to you.

7. Many carports can be built from start to finish in a day or two. The construction process will not disrupt your life for weeks (like a garage addition might).

8. Just because you have a garage, doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from a carport. The carport can protect your lawn mower, your guests’ cars, your motorcyle, or any number of things.

Carports don’t just protect cars

Carports are multi-purpose structures. They come in a number of different sizes and styles. In addition to protecting your cars, they can also be used to protect:

- Recreational vehicles (RVs)
- Boats
- Trailers
- BBQ grills
- Bicycles
- Snowmobiles
- Children’s toys
- ATVs and Four-wheelers
- Tractors
- Farm equipment
- Motorcycles and scooters
- Outdoor furniture

One drawback

Unfortunately, there is one drawback of building a carport. A carport doesn’t lock. There are no garage doors or enclosed walls to protect your belongings while you are away from the house. For about the cost of building a garage, check out this article.

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