Designing Your Ideal Metal Carport: Tips And Tricks

Designing a carport might seem like a straightforward task. However, a lot goes on behind the scenes that needs to be taken care of while choosing metal carports. First, you need to pick the right size. Next, you need to consider design according to your taste and the one that complies with local authorities. Finally, you need to consider whether you would like to have some extra space for storage or other activities. Let’s discuss this in depth.

Sleek And Stylish: A Guide To Designing Your Dream Metal Carport

Access Your Needs

What is the primary purpose of metal carports you want to install on your property? Is it for parking, as a patio space, or as an outdoor shaded area? A defined primary purpose will give you a clear path to choosing the right size.

For instance, if you want a carport for parking, consider the type and model of vehicle you want to park, such as an RV, sedan car, mini-truck, or boat. Do you need extra space to store spare parts, tools, car kits, or garden tools? If so, consider a bigger carport.

Pick The Right Size

Here Is How To Measure A Steel Carport For Your Car:

• Width: Measure the widest part of your vehicle, including side mirrors.
• Length: Simply calculate the length of the car from the bumper to the end of the trunk.
• Height: Measure the vertical length of the car from ground to top, including shark fin or antenna.

Make sure there is at least 2.5 to 3 feet of space on either side of the car for opening and closing doors without bumping into metal posts or sides.

The roof’s eave clearance must be about 2 feet from the top of the car. General steel carport sizes are:

No. of Cars	Minimum Size	Average Size	With Storage
One car	10’ x 20’	12’ x 20’	18’ x 20’
Two cars	20’ x 20’	24’ x 20’	30’ x 20’
Three cars	30’ x 20’	36’ x 20’	42’ x 30’

Select The Best Location On Your Property

Pick a space that has the following features:

• Good drainage
• Proximity to your home
• Convenience in bad weather
• Doesn’t disrupt your property layout
• Buffering against wind and sun
• Easy to maneuver the vehicle

Choose a place with no large trees close to the carport to avoid frequent cleaning of dust, fallen leaves, or twigs on the roof.

Style & Design That Fits Your Home

• Roof Style: There are three types of metal corrugated roof panels – regular, horizontal [boxed-eave], and vertical. Vertical metal panels are best for harsh weather conditions and large metal buildings. They also require less cleaning. Choose the roof style that matches your home.
• Roof-Only Carport: Here, all sides are open, with only metal roof panels on top. You can cover the gable ends (front and back) to avoid direct sun and rain.
• Sides Enclosed Carport: According to the International Residential Code [IRC], you can enclose at most two sides of a carport for extra protection and enclosure.
• Utility Carport: A utility steel carport has a car parking space along with an enclosed metal shed to keep your belongings. 

Additional Features 

Consider extra space for playing, outdoor seating, storage, etc. Here are some add-ons for steel carports that you can consider:

• Light: Add string lights, LEDs, or garden lights around your carport for visibility after sunset.
• Gutter: A gutter with a downspout will safely carry water from the roof to the ground. Add a gutter guard to avoid frequent cleaning.
• Electric Outlet: If you plan to use your metal carport as a patio, deck, or outdoor entertainment space, consider adding an electric outlet.
• Add a Lean-To: A lean-to is a permanent metal awning that can be attached to any side of a carport. It provides extra shaded space and is a multi-functional unit.

Do Budgeting

Create a budget for total expenditures. The raw materials will cost about 45% of the total budget. The rest will be the foundation, shipping, labor, and construction costs. 

For your convenience, Carports Advisor offers a final quote, including shipping and installation costs, so you don’t have to hassle around looking for a construction crew. Our excellent craftsmanship assures the perfect installation of a metal carport on your lot that will last for years to come.

Maintenance & Care 

Maintaining a carport is pretty easy. Before the beginning of each season, inspect for damage, dent, crack, or leakage to ensure that the carport is holding firmly. If you notice any issue, fix it promptly to avoid expensive future repairs.

Clean your carport once a year with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft bristle brush to remove stains, bird droppings, etc.

Outdoor Aesthetics

• Color: Match the color of your steel carports with your home for a seamless appeal. We also offer colored screws that blend with the carport for a polished look.
• Landscaping: Add local drought-resistant plants for greenery and appeal. 
• Garden Lights: You can add garden lamps or posts around the carport and driveway.

Carports Advisor: The Ultimate Destination For Metal Carport Design

From choosing roof style to extra space for storage, steel carports are simple yet versatile structures that give you a bank for your bucks. You can attach a storage shed, install solar panels, or lean-tos to increase functionality.

So, get creative, think outside the box, and design a structure that not only protects your car but also adds some serious flair to your lot. Call (336)-914-1654 to find out details about designs, roof styles, and colors and get a free quote. We have metal carports for every need and budget.