Tips on Buying a Carport

Installing a carport on your property is typically pretty easy. This portable garage can be versatile and customizable and a lot cheaper than a concrete garage. Maybe one of the best benefits of having a carport is that they can hold and store much more than just a car! Here are a few things to consider when you decide you are ready to purchase your own portable garage:

1. What are you going to store?

How many vehicles do you plan on keeping covered? Do you plan on storing anything else inside? A carport can come in a multitude of options from a simple top cover to an entire portable structure. If you think you might want to store multiple vehicles and have added storage space for the house, like a real garage might do, consider buying one that offers protection all the way to the ground.  

If you are just looking for a way to keep your motorcycle safe and clean there are more specific specialty options. You might look into a motorcycle enclosure that is specifically shaped and sized for your bike.

2. What Material Is the Structure Made Out Of?

Steel – Steel structures come in a variety of weights and strengths. The thicker the steel, the stronger the protection, but that also comes with a bigger hit on your wallet. While a steel carport may be the most common option, many homeowners associations restrict the installation of steel carports. Check the building regulations for your living community before making your purchase.

Fabric – Fabric structures tend to be a cheaper option for similar amount of protection. A fabric structure is easily converted into a multipurpose portable garage to fit many of your storage needs. In the past few years we have seen a great advancement in the quality of fabric buildings making them stronger and more durable in harsh conditions.

3. Type of Coverage

The most typical type or styles of covered carports are:

• Portable Garage – A completely enclosed structure, just like an attached garage, allowing for maximum protection.

• Shelter - A shelter usually has two or three sides keeping the vehicle safe from most harmful exposure.

• Canopy – A top cover to reduce the amount of sun or rain damage caused to the vehicle.

4. How Long Will It Last?

Is this going to be a permanent solution for your home or is this just something temporary during reconstruction.  If you are looking for a long-term carport make sure you do your research on the protective coating available. Your steel carport should have a protective coating impregnated into the actual product to keep it from rusting and chipping away. Your fabric portable garage should be strong and resistant to tears.

5. Does It Match Your House?

While it may not seem so important, the carport is an addition to your house and affects the overall appeal of your home.  If you don’t want your carport sticking out like a sore thumb, choose a company that offers a wide selection of sizes, shapes and colors. Many companies should have a few options and the best allow you to customize your portable garage to your liking.