Should You Invest In A Metal Carport Or Garage

Many people face the decision to build a garage or a carport to protect their cars, tools, and other storage items. There are several factors that you need to take into account. Metal carports are more affordable and easy to install than a garage, making them a practical choice for buyers with strict budgets. But, a garage may be the better choice for extra security and protection of your vehicles or to create additional workspace. Metal garages are fully enclosed and can even boost your property’s value. Ultimately, the decision boils down to specific needs and budget constraints.

Structural Difference Between A Garage And A Carport

A carport is the simplest form of metal building with a minimum of 4 legs/ posts and a roof. It can have closed front and back gable ends with partial side walls. While a garage is a fully enclosed structure with a door. It can have roll-up and walk-in doors along with windows.

Type Of Parking Space	Carport	Garage
Basic Structure	Frame with 4 legs Roof panels	Frame Roof panels Fully enclosed side walls Door
Others	Trim Closed gable ends Partial side walls	Trim Extra doors Windows
Accessories	Roof insulation Vents on gable ends	Insulation [full/ roof] Vents Finish flooring

Carport Vs. Garage: Which One Should You Choose?

Here are some effective comparisons between carports and garages based on your budget, use, protection, and overall value.

1. Cost Comparison

Initial Investment

There is no doubt that a metal carport will cost less than a steel garage as it has the simplest structural requirements. Carports are cost-effective if you need a parking space that is under budget. For comparison:

• 40 x 40 x 14 vertical roof style carport: $13.21 per sq. ft.
• 36 x 40 x 14 two car metal garage: $18.23 per sq. ft.

Long Term Expenses

Here, garages may outshine carports as they are versatile in use and can be renovated into another dwelling unit [guest house, office space, or a rental unit].

2. Durability

Both steel carports and garages are durable and long-lasting. They require minimal care to stay put throughout their lifespan.

How Metal Structures Hold Up With Time

For moderate climatic zones, a metal carport may be a good idea, as you can spend time outdoors in a shaded space or have an afternoon BBQ lunch with family and close pals. But for areas with extreme heat waves or snowfall in most parts of the year, a garage is more suitable as it provides more temperature control.

Is It Better To Have A Garage?

It comes to the purpose of the metal structure. If you need a parking space with some outdoor storage, choose a carport, and if you need a parking space with high security and functionality, choose a one or two car steel garage.

3. Versatility

There are numerous uses for carports and garages. Here are the main pointers you should know. Depending on which application suits your day-to-day lifestyle, you can choose between a carport and a metal garage.

Carports	Garages
Shaded parking space Outdoor workspace Picnic area Shaded patio/ deck Poolside cabana	Fully enclosed parking space Home gym Personal office Guest house Game room Personal retreat Art studio Workshop Home bakery

4. Security

To protect your vehicle and belongings, a robust building that can withstand harsh weather events and deter theft is necessary. In these situations, a garage is most convenient as it is safe and closed, and you can install an alarm, motion sensor lights, and durable door locks to keep items safe and secure.

A carport protects your vehicles and belongings from direct sun, rain, and snow. You can increase security by adding gable ends and side walls.

5. Customization Options

Both carport and garage have multiple design choices for personalization. Some of them are as follows:

• Color: You can select a color that matches your home or an existing building. We offer 15 unique colors for roofs, gable ends, side wall panels, wainscots, and trim.
• 12 and 14 Gauge Steel Frame: The industry standard is a 14-gauge steel frame for residential construction, but we also have 12-gauge for areas prone to high-speed winds and heavy snowfall.
• Size: You can customize the length, width, and height of a carport or garage. If you opt for a garage wider than 32 ft., we also offer clear span designs with no internal columns.
• Roof Style: Both steel carports and garages can have three different styles of roofing – regular [good], horizontal [boxed-eave, better], and vertical [best]. You can choose roof pitch and style as per your local building code, budget, metal building size, and weather conditions.
• Structural Trim: It supports roof panels and holds them in place. It is suitable for large carports and garages and for vertical roof panels.
• Insulation: You can add insulation to the carport’s roof and fully insulate a metal garage with our affordable insulators like single bubble and double bubble. For superior thermal control, we offer woven R17 insulation.
• Lean-To: Add a lean-to to your carport or garage to create an open shaded area as a multi-functional space.

6. Installation Process

A carport takes less time to install [about 4 to 6 hours, depending on design complexity and weather], while a garage takes about a week, depending on its design, size, and add-ons.

What to choose – DIY vs. professional installation for a metal structure? A metal building is as good as its installation. Moreover, most manufacturers don’t hold up warranties if you DIY as there are chances of installation errors. So, we suggest choosing a professional team.

7. Resale Value

A carport or a garage, which stands out to a buyer? Generally, a metal garage tends to have a higher resale value than a steel carport structure. This is due to garages offering more protection and storage options. A garage can give back around 75 to 85% of the investment.

8. Climate Considerations

When comparing the weather resistance of carports and garages, we must note that carports are meant to be open parking spaces with shade from sun and rain. If you are looking for temperature control or want to store temperature-sensitive items, you should get a garage; otherwise, a carport will work, too.

Is There Any Middle Ground Between Carport And Garage?

Yes, suppose you want to park your car in a carport but are concerned about the safety of your household belongings, extra recreational gear, or garden tools and equipment. In that case, you can opt for a utility metal carport. These are carport cum storage shed. You can customize the shed and carport parts, too.

These can be as wide as 30 ft. to park three sedan-sized cars and have a wide and large shed for other tools, household storage, and seasonal outdoor gear. Add insulation for longevity and climate control.

Pros And Cons Of Carport & Garage
Metal Carport
👍	👎
Affordable Quick & easy to install May be DIY Attached/ detached Outdoor patio Maybe exempt from permit	Less security against theft Limited storage use No livable space Low property value impact
Metal Garage
👍	👎
Boost property’s value Attached/ detached High security Additional storage Renovate into living space	More time for installation More labor Cost more than carport Stringent permit/ building codes Property-driven style

Upgrade Your Car Protection With Carports Advisor

Whether you choose a metal carport or a garage, both options provide shelter for your vehicle and help keep it safe from weather damage and vandalism. Either way, you will be assured of high-quality material and excellent workmanship from us. So, why settle for less? Call (336)-914-1654 today for your metal carport needs!