What To Look For When Buying A Carport

You’d think buying a carport would be simple: you know how many cars you have, so you select that size and done. However, any legitimate carport dealer will offer a variety of options for each size, and even the size options themselves can be a bit puzzling depending on your specific situation. With that in mind, we’ll look at a few options and choices you can make when buying your carport that goes beyond one-car or two-car.

Keep Comfort In Mind

Although you may know what size you would like, it is just as important to make sure you can accommodate that size comfortably on your property, after your plot has been leveled. We say comfortably because, although the structure may fit, it may not function particularly well as a carport in the configuration that first comes to mind. Make sure that you have enough space to pull in and out with room to spare, especially if you live in a snowy area that will experience some buildup when you shovel. It is quite common for people to simply “match measurements”: they see a building measurement and it technically fits, so they move forward. Especially with something like a carport, make sure to give space a bit more thought.

Once you’re ready to make your choice, make sure to look at the size option and dimensions closely, actually going onto your site and seeing the dimensions firsthand. Carports advertised as “one-car” may not fit your car very comfortably, and this is not fun to figure out after installation! If you need to increase the size, again make sure that it will fit comfortably on your land and work for your situation. This is a great point in the process to consider whether or not you could use a bit of extra storage space (as most of us do!). A two-car carport is a great place to put some extra storage that can be exposed to open air in addition to your vehicle.

What Are Your Weather Conditions?

In addition to size, you’ll have to make a choice regarding roof style and reinforcement/certification. We offer three roof styles, and which is best for you will depend on your specific situation. The primary variations have to do with weather resistance, so make sure that you are aware of what types of harsh weather conditions your area is likely to face. If you expect a heavy vertical load from snow or fallen branches, make sure that your structure is reinforced to be able to manage it. If your area experiences a lot of wind, this is yet another type of reinforcement. And, if you expect a lot of roof buildup, the vertical roof style has got you covered. Our simple budget options for roofs can be great if your situation and environment warrant minimal protection, but the more deluxe offerings provide serious reinforcement, so keep that in mind when evaluating your needs. As always, you get what you pay for.

Our building experts are waiting to help you with any questions you may have about buying a carport. Contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you!