What is a Carport? A Helpful Explanation

A carport is an versatile structure that provides shelter and protection for vehicles from sun, rain, snow and other elements. More open than a garage yet more covered than a typical driveway or parking area, carports offer unique benefits for homeowners and properties.

Defining a Carport's Purpose and Function

Carports serve as a covered, semi-enclosed space to park cars, trucks, RVs, boats, and other vehicles. Unlike a closed garage, carports typically have open walls on one or more sides to allow airflow. Some key features help define carports:

• Roof and roof supports over a driveway or parking area
• Partially open walls or no walls at all
• Provides cover from weather without being fully enclosed
• Offers easy access for parking vehicles

Carports provide the basics - a roof and supports - without the cost of building full garage structures. The openness allows for easy pull through access without the constraint of doors or tight turns.

Comparing Carports to Other Structures

Understanding differences from other buildings helps further define carports:

• Garages: Fully enclosed by four walls and a door
• Sheds: Fully covered storage for items other than vehicles
• Covered Patios: Typically have integrated bench seating without vehicle access

Carports occupy a unique space between open driveway parking and enclosed garages. The exposed sides provide more airflow and accessibility compared to garages, while the roof offers elements protection lacking from open air parking.

Carport Design Elements and Options

While serving the same basic functions, carports can vary greatly in size, shape, materials and design features. Getting the right carport for your needs and property requires some key considerations.

Layouts, Sizes and Dimensions

Some factors to consider related to carport layout and scale:

• Number and size of vehicles being covered
• Available space on the property
• Local zoning rules and permit requirements
• Home aesthetic and design cohesion

Standard carport sizes may range from a single-car (~12 ft wide) to RV-accommodating (~20+ ft wide). Custom building allows adjusting dimensions, overhangs and clearance as needed.

Roof Styles and Materials

Another structural consideration includes choices of:

• Roof style: Gable, hip, flat or custom design
• Roofing material: Metal, shingles, tile and more
• Support posts: Wood, metal, concrete or carved

These choices allow homeowners to match or contrast the carport design with their homes. Roof pitch, coverings and support features can integrate well or stand out.

Construction Materials

Beyond the roof itself, carports may utilize various building materials for the open structure:

• Wood, vinyl or metal frame construction
• Metal, wood or mesh screens on sides
• Concrete pads and flooring surfaces
• Sturdy support beams or decorative posts
• Gutters, lighting or ceiling fans

Material selection impacts durability, weather-resistance, and overall installation and lifetime costs.

Benefits of Adding a Carport

Carports can provide many helpful benefits beyond just vehicle parking spaces. Understanding these perks can help motivate carport construction projects.

Cost Savings Over Garages

Fully-built garages often cost $10,000+, just for a simple single car size. Comparatively, basic carports can be purchased for well under $2000. For budget-focused projects, carports provide substantial cost savings over traditional garages. Homeowners realize lower costs from:

• Open sides needing fewer construction materials
• Simpler permitting without stringent building codes
• Reduced foundation needs without full garage walls
• Shorter build times and labor costs

For creates protected parking on a budget, carports simply make financial sense.

Design and Usage Flexibility

Beyond vehicle parking, a carport's semi-open design allows for other flexible uses not possible with closed garages, such as:

• Covered patio area for grilling, dining or parties
• Protected outdoor storage for bikes, ATVs and more
• Space for workshops, gardening or projects
• Sheltered walkways along the home exterior

Since vehicles don't occupy them at all times, carports offer uniquely customizable covered spaces.

Protection from Weather and Sun

Without the full enclosure of a garage, carports still offer excellent protection from outdoor elements that can damage vehicles and equipment over time, including:

• Hot sun causing interior heat and exterior paint fading
• Hail storms inflicting body damage
• Freezing winters and ice build up
• Heavy rains promoting interior mold and rust
• Tree sap, bird droppings and dirty runoff

Shielding your assets from such exposure helps maintain their appearance, performance and resale value.

Key Considerations When Planning

While carports provide unique advantages, careful planning helps maximize benefits. Some key considerations around planning include:

Placement on the Property

Choosing the optimal site to situate a new carport depends on factors like:

• Convenient access for regular vehicle use
• Distance to electrical or water lines if adding utilities
• Graded, low areas that won't require extensive earth moving
• Sun patterns to take advantage of lighting or shade as needed
• Site visibility for enhanced security monitoring

Consider existing trees, structures and use patterns when identifying potential carport locations.

Building Codes and Permits

While simpler than garages, carports still require awareness of codes and permits like:

• Zoning rules limiting structures in setbacks or easements
• Maximum height and total footprint limits for accessory buildings
• Snow load rating requirements based on regional climate
• Permitted construction materials in specific neighborhoods
• Aesthetic review processes in communities with oversight

Know your local regulations and processes for smooth carport planning and approvals.

Aesthetics Matching the Home

Another key planning factor includes integrating carport aesthetics with existing home design. Strategies to blend styles include:

• Matching roofing shingles/materials to establish cohesion
• Repeating architectural motifs seen on the home exterior
• Mirroring paint colors from other exterior structures
• Aligning support beam designs with the home
• Using consistent finishes and construction materials

Well-matched aesthetic design ensures carports complement properties rather than clash.

DIY vs Hiring Carport Installers

Once planning is complete, next comes the construction. Homeowners can either DIY build their own carports, or hire professional installers to take over the entire process.