A carport is a convenient and affordable way to protect your valuable investments. Carports provide protection from the rain, tree sap, bird dirt, and the sun’s powerful UV rays. A simple carport can be permanent or portable. Most carports are very affordable and easy to set up. Traditionally carports are made from metal and most are backed by a 20 to 30 year warranty. A variety of colors and styles are available. Gabled, hip, flat, and tilted roof designs offer a design to fit just about any style home.
Sizes are mostly standardized to fit one, two, or three cars. Some residential zoning laws limit the size of a carport. This limit can be by maximum dimensions of length, width, and height, or can limit the size by number of cars one, two, or 3 car carport. In a residential setting carports can be used to protect your boat, tools, yard and gardening machines, or it can be used to house farm animals, such as chickens. A carport can give a bit of privacy and can deter theft and vandalism. Plans or drawings can be purchased and you can build it yourself. This also offers the potential for custom modifications to be made.
Generally speaking, you should consult a structural engineer before making any major modification to an existing plan. If you wanted to add interior walls or close in the carport, you will probably be safe on your own. You may also want to consider the installation of a foundation or concrete pad to set your carport on. This is a lot of work if you have never tackled such a project. For best results, call a concrete company or contractor to do this part of the job. Concrete can be difficult to work with. You will need special tools and knowledge. Finishing the concrete is critical and must be done properly as to prevent cracking.
