Author: Mike Bolynn

Why You Should Get a Custom Build Instead of Building Your Own Carport

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

building your own carport

Does your house come without a garage? Do you want to keep your car protected from the harsh elements where you live? You may need to build a carport for your vehicle.

Cars are integral parts of our lives nowadays. It’s important that you take good care of your vehicle. Did you know that, in the US, 63% of all housing units have a garage or carport?

There is a reason why the majority chose to install garages or carports on their property. Below, we’ll list down these reasons. We also added what you need to consider in building your own carport.

1. Know Your Needs

Carports make excellent shelter for many vehicle types. Depending on your needs, you may not need a carport. You may need a garage instead.

Both the garage and the carport are spaces for protecting vehicles. Both could stand alone or have an attachment to the house. Both must be able to shelter vehicle from unpredictable weather and other outside elements.

To compare, a carport is a semi-covered structure while a garage is an enclosed structure. Their structure and design are different. Check out our post on carport vs garage for a more detailed comparison.

When deciding, consider the space. Do you have limited space or a large car? Do you want to save some space for other reasons like storage?

2. What’s the Purpose for Your Carport?

As stated above, the main purpose of your carport is to prevent damage to your vehicle. If you have a boat, tractor, or other vehicle types, you can make a carport to house them in. The carport doesn’t have to only give protection to cars.

Still, that’s not all you can use a carport for. It’s a great awning for outdoor activities like barbecues. The absence of most of its walls makes for terrific ventilation and easy access.

An aesthetic purpose of the carport is to enhance the appearance of your property. Depending on what material or design you choose, your property can stand out. Building your own carport with custom carport designs can be a wonderful experience.

If you want a style that matches the roof of your house, it’s also possible. This will give your property a uniformed look. For something eye-catching, paint its walls with bright colors.

3. Getting a Carport

When you build anything that’s larger than a doghouse, you need to get a permit. Consult a local building authority about design plans. Check ordinances for specifications or requirements you need to meet before you can build it.

Check with a homeowner’s association if you live in a neighborhood governed by one. Check with your community agreements about building carports in front yards. In general, you can’t build your own carport in any easement on the property.

Consider the Materials and Style

Do you want one made of metal, wood, or a combination of both? Think about what will best last in the weather conditions of your area. If you live in a warm area, a wooden roof should protect your car better than a metal one.

Also, consider the aesthetic it will add to your property. Does the material match or compliment your house? You can also choose colors for ready-to-build kits.

There are many styles of roofs and structure types. If you want a carport for an RV with a storage shed in the back, it’s possible. If you want a combination of a carport and a garage, that is also possible.

For roof types, there is the standard, the boxed eave, and the vertical roof type. The standard roof type is a quick, solid, and cheaper option. This is also the most popular style among carport roof styles.

The boxed eave roof style is like the standard in many ways. The difference is that it has a traditional roofline that better compliments many homeowners’ houses. This is also an inexpensive, quick, and solid option.

A carport with a vertical roof type is more durable against storms and strong winds. This also comes in larger sizes, able to fit two cars. It’s also possible to add gable ends and ornamental items to this roof style.

4. Things to Consider When Building Your Own Carport

Consider the functionality of your carport. Should you build one that can house more than one car? Should you get one with enough space for an outdoor workspace?

One way to go about choosing the design of your carport is to consider another project or hobby. If you are the creative type who likes to create things, you can make your carport a display area or workspace. If you like to exercise, some extra space can become your workout area.

Another thing to consider is your budget. Installing a carport will take time and money. The simpler the design, the faster it can finish.

It will also take a much shorter time compared to installing a garage. Also, getting permits for a garage can take more time and effort on your part. Moreover, carports are easier to maintain once finished.

Last but not least, consider the weather in your area. Does it often snow or rain? If that’s the case, you may need a vertical roof design for easy water runoff.

You want your carport with material that will protect your car best from the weather. Harsh weather conditions can ruin your car. This is why people heat their cars up on cold mornings.

Get a Carport Now

That is our quick guide on building your own carport. Did you find this read informative and useful? Check out our blog for more content on carports and similar buildings.

If you don’t have the time to learn how to build a carport, there are companies that focus on building carports for you, like us. We have installation experts and a catalog of many great designs for carports. We offer the best price, free delivery, and installation.

Ready to order a prefab carport? Got questions about warranties, builds, and more? Contact us today and shoot us an email containing your questions.

Questions You Should Ask Carport Builders Before Buying

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

carport builders

Hail storms and severe weather does more than $15 billion in damage each year. And though roof damage is relatively easy to fix, it’s not what causes you to cringe every time you hear the sound of hailstones outside.

That reaction gets reserved for your car. When it’s left out in the elements, even small hail can do serious damage to your paint job and the body itself. But if you don’t have a garage, how can you keep your ride safe?

You build a carport.

But finding experienced carport builders to create the perfect shelter for your vehicle can be tough. Before you agree to work with anyone, ask your contractors these questions.

Do I Need to Worry About Zoning in My Area?

Yes. Every neighborhood is different, and before you can install the carport at your house, you need to make sure they’re permitted by your area’s zoning regulations.

Speak with your local government to check what’s permitted and what’s not allowed on your property. They’ll provide you with sizing and material restrictions if any exist. You’ll also be able to request the necessary building permits for the installation at this time.

If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, you’ll also need to check with them. Unfortunately, some HOAs don’t permit carports, even if they’re not visible from the street. If you install one anyway, you could face fines and get forced to take it down.

What Type of Warranty Do You Offer?

Reputable builders offer warranties both on their work and their products. Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you understand the types of warranties included in your purchase.

Get the details from each contractor you speak with. This gives you a way to compare companies and pick the best contractor for your needs.

Though you shouldn’t base your decision solely on the warranty offered, it can help you narrow down your choices. And if a contractor doesn’t offer a warranty for their work, look elsewhere. Trustworthy companies stand behind their installations and will do everything they can to make things right.

Can I Customize the Carport to Fit My Needs?

Not all builders offer custom carport solutions. If you know exactly what you want, you need to work with professional installers that can bring your vision to life.

Custom builders will work with you to design, build, and install the perfect car storage system for your home. This means you’ll need to discuss your ideas, your concerns, and your property’s specifications before you can buy the carport in the first place.

Think about what you need the carport to accomplish. Are you looking for a simple way to keep your car out of the elements? Or do you need a partially enclosed unit with an attached lockable shed?

The better you understand your needs, the sooner your builders can create the carport you need.

Do You Offer Financing?

Any home improvement project costs money. Your carport installation is no different. But that doesn’t mean you have to pay out-of-pocket.

Many companies offer in-house financing to help you pay for the project in smaller installments. Others, particularly smaller operations, don’t, and you’ll have to take out a personal loan through a bank.

This takes time and can result in higher interest fees for the life of the loan. If you’re not paying cash for the project, look for a company that offers financing. You’ll likely get a better rate and have a better chance of getting approved for the loan in the first place.

Are Your Carport Builders Licensed and Insured?

As a homeowner, you’re responsible for everything that happens on your property. This means if someone gets injured while working for you, you could be liable for their injuries and medical expenses.

That’s why you always need to work with contractors that are fully licensed and insured.

They have the experienced required to install your carport safely. But more importantly, they carry their own liability and workers’ compensation insurance. These policies protect you from liability if a worker gets injured during the installation.

Should something happen, their coverage will pay for the necessary medical treatments. And if they damage your property during the installation, their liability coverage will pay for the repairs.

This can save you thousands depending on the severity of the injury or damage.

How Much Experience Do You Have?

Carports may look simple, but they’re responsible for protecting your car. And with the average price of a new car falling around $36,000, you want to make sure the installation gets done correctly.

The best way to do this is to work with a company that has years of experience installing these structures. The more experience they have, the better prepared they are to work with different soil types, navigate around tight corners, and get your carport installed quickly.

Inexperienced installation teams may cost less, but you get what you pay for.

What Do I Need to Do to Get Ready for Installation?

You will need to get your property ready for your carport, and your contractor will tell you what you need to do for your specific property.

But in general, you’ll need to move all cars, bikes, and equipment away from the installation site. If you have low-hanging limbs and tall trees nearby, you may need to get the branches trimmed to accommodate the new carport.

On the day of installation, make sure the crew can access your driveway by moving all cars to the street and away from the installation site. If you have small children or pets on the property, make sure they’re kept away from the work zone.

The crew will make sure the site itself is level and ready for the build.

Final Thoughts

Hiring carport builders is the best way to have a new carport installed. And as long as you ask them these simple questions, you’ll know you’ve picked the right team to handle the job.

Ready to get your free quote and to speak with our dedicated team? Contact us today to discuss your needs and see how our carports can make a difference.

Top 11 Benefits of RV Carports for Storing Your RVs

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

rv carports

Did you know that the average American has only visited 12 of the 50 U.S. states?

There is so much to see and do in each individual state throughout America. Yet, the majority of people never get the opportunity to check out almost 80 percent of the country in which they live.

If one of your goals is to see as many states as you possibly can during your life, you should consider investing in an RV. It’ll give you the chance to look at America through a new lens.

RV owners should also purchase RV carports for their investments. They’re designed to protect RVs for people when they’re not out seeing the world.

There are many benefits that come along with using RV carports for storing RVs. Here are 11 of them.

1. Protects RVs From Precipitation

Depending on where you live, your RV is likely going to face off with all kinds of precipitation through the course of the year. It’s going to be subjected to:

  • Rain
  • Snow
  • Ice
  • Sleet
  • Hail

A little rain won’t do much harm to your RV. But if a foot of snow sits on top of your RV for three months or if huge chunks of hail fall down on it during a bad hailstorm, your RV could get damaged.

You won’t have to worry about these things when your RV is resting comfortably underneath an RV carport. Carports like the Vertical Roof RV Carport will make sure your RV is safe and sound as far as precipitation is concerned.

2. Stops the Sun From Shining on RVs

Precipitation isn’t the only thing that can do damage to an RV. The sun can also wreak havoc on both the interior and exterior of your RV if you’re not careful.

When your RV sits out in the sun for days, weeks, and months at a time, the UV rays from the sun can cause the paint on your RV to fade. They can also cause seats, carpeting, and other aspects of the interior of your RV to fade.

Placing your RV under an RV carport when you’re not using it will stop the sun from beating down on it. This will keep it looking like new and prevent you from having to paint your RV anytime soon.

3. Prevents Wind From Blowing Debris Into RVs

Does it get windy a lot in your neck of the woods? Wind can send debris flying all over the place and cause it to crash into the sides of your RV if you’re not careful.

Not all RV carports have covered sides that will offer up protection to your RV. But some, like the Boxed Eave Roof RV Carport, do. They’ll prevent the wind from blowing debris into your RV and damaging it.

4. Eliminates the Need for RV Covers

Some RV owners attempt to put fabric covers over their RVs when they’re not using them instead of parking them under RV carports.

These covers do a nice job when it comes to stopping the sun from shining down on an RV. But they can also scratch the outside of an RV and allow moisture to rest right on the surface of it. That moisture can lead to excessive mold growth within just a few weeks.

RV covers are also very difficult to put on and take off. It’ll be a lot more convenient to park an RV under a carport.

5. Cuts RV Storage Costs

There are a lot of storage companies out there that offer storage options for RV owners. They can provide you with a covered space to keep your RV when you’re not using it.

The problem, of course, is that these storage companies often charge people a lot of money to store their RVs. It can add to the costs you encounter when you buy an RV.

There will obviously be a cost associated with building an RV carport on your property. But that’ll be a one-time cost that will eventually pay for itself when you consider how much you’ll save on recurring RV storage fees.

6. Allows Owners to Keep an Eye on RVs

One of the other downsides of storing your RV with a storage company is that you won’t be able to wake up and see it every day. You’ll have to trust that the storage company is taking good care of it.

An RV carport will allow you to look out the window whenever you want to check up on your RV. You’ll be able to spot potential problems with your RV before they spiral out of control.

7. Makes It Easier to Use RVs

When your RV is sitting in storage, you’re not going to be able to jump in it and go for a ride on a whim. It’ll take a lot of effort to move it out of storage.

This is yet another problem that you won’t face when you have an RV carport. It’ll be easy to get to your RV whenever you decide you want to use it.

8. Extends the Life of RVs

You likely made a big investment in your RV when you bought it. The average RV sells for anywhere from $10,000 all the way up to $300,000 (or more!).

Therefore, you want to get as much life out of it as you can. Parking it in a carport will extend the life of your RV and allow you to make the most of your original investment.

9. Helps RVs Retain Value

In addition to keeping your RV up and running for a longer period of time, an RV carport will also help your RV retain its value.

RVs do depreciate in value just like any other vehicle. But you can slow the depreciation down by doing the proper maintenance on your RV and parking it underneath an RV carport when you’re not driving it.

10. Adds Value to Homes

RV carports will do more than add value to your RV. They can also add value to your home.

The carport that you invest in now will serve as an attractive selling feature if you ever decide to sell your home. People will like the idea of using the carport to protect their RV or any other vehicles they own.

11. Provides RV Owners With Peace of Mind

At the end of the day, you’ll enjoy the entire experience of owning an RV more when you have an RV carport built. You won’t have to spend much time worrying about the condition of your RV or the effect the weather is having on it.

The only thing you’ll need to worry about is when your next road trip will take place and where you’ll go during it.

See Which RV Carports Might Be Right for You

There are plenty of RV carports for you to choose from when you decide to invest in one.

Look for one that’s large enough to fit your specific RV. Choose one that will enhance the look and feel of the rest of your property, too. It’ll prove to be one of the best investments you ever make.

Contact us today to learn more about which RV carport might be right for your RV.

8 Ways Weather Elements Can Damage Your Vehicle

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

weather elements

Are you preparing your car with a trip to the outdoors with your friends? Is this your first time taking your car out of the city and closer to nature?

If so, then it will help to know the different ways the weather can give your vehicle a hard time. Some elements take more time to harm your car more than others, but they can have just as much as an impact.

The weather has plenty to throw at your car that can leave scratches, dent, and even holes. Some elements, if exposed to your vehicle enough, can cause internal damage.

By taking advantage of our vehicle protect services, you can keep your car safe from the elements. This can leave you less to worry about on your trip.

Here are 8 ways weather elements can damage your vehicle.

1. Salt

When someone mentions salt, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the kind that makes hamburgers and hotdogs taste good. However, it also comes in handy during snowstorms.

While road salt makes the streets less slippery during these storms to ensure safety, overexposure can cause damage to the body. Such damage includes scratches in the paint or corrosion of the metal.

Salt is also easy to come by during trips to the beach, in the sand and the ocean. If your car is close enough to the ocean during high winds or storms, the exterior can experience similar harm.

When it comes to getting through snowstorms, look for any dents, scratches, or brown spots, which is sometimes a beginning phase of erosion, and seek necessary repairs.

Those looking to spend their break by the ocean should look for a beach house with a garage big enough for your vehicle.

2. The Sun

When you wake up to rays of the sun coming through the bedroom window, this may relieve you of any problems that harsher elements of weather can provide. However, you’re not exactly in the clear.

Leaving your car out under the sun for extended periods of time can cause your paint to crack and peel. This can be a major pain if you’ve just given your van or truck a new paint job.

The ultraviolet lights from the sun can be damaging to cars of different colors. It’s also not a good idea to assume that you’re safe if you have a newer model.

If there aren’t any garages or places specifically designed to shield cars from the sun in your area, then we recommend using a combination of sources. Trees can also come in handy for keeping your vehicle cool.

3. Wet Weather Elements

Water is another element that can give your car a hard time. Unlike other elements, though, this one can come in different conditions and forms.

Rust is a major issue that can keep different parts from functioning, as well as staying together later on. This usually comes from keeping your car close to the ocean or in damp and humid climates.

Water can also affect your chances of getting into a car accident.

If you’re driving through harsh rainstorms, it can be hard to see and no matter how much your windshield wipers are getting out of the way, and you might run into something that the rain is making hard to see.

Using a car cover during rainstorms or in humid areas can keep your car dry. if you’re feeling confident about driving in the rain, then find a place that provides a roof for your car.

4. Snow

When it comes to causing harm to the inside and outside of cars, snow takes the cake. This is a bigger problem for people who live in or are vacationing to an area that experiences snow on a regular basis.

As far as damaging the inside goes, snow particles can find their way into the inside of your car. This can lead to problems with your engine, breaks, mufflers, and exhaust pipes.

Corrosion is a major issue when it comes to keeping up the strength of the outside of your vehicle. If enough snow is coming down, you’ll also have a hard time staying safe on the road.

You can avoid these issues by keeping your car in an area safe from snow, as well as give your vehicle a car wash immediately after the snow stops coming down.

Installing winter tires also helps if you’re in an area that’s expected to get plenty of snow.

5. Hail

Some elements of the weather that are bad for your car only show up during certain parts of the year. Hail, however, isn’t one of them.

Hail storms can come in different shapes and sizes, some of which can leave dents in your hood or roof when the storm is over. Hailstones that are big enough can even cause cracks in your windshield.

Even if you’re spotting small hailstones, your car isn’t completely safe. Tinier stones can leave scratches in the paint, as well as find their way into your car to mess with the tires and engine.

Carpets and sheds come in handy when you need to keep your car safe from hail. If you’re staying at a farm and a storm comes by, you can use a barn or similar building for protection.

6. Low Temperature

If you normally live in a warm environment and have a break coming up in a colder environment, you may have an easier time adjusting than your car. This is because of the issues that come with low temperatures.

One part of your car that suffers from this element is your tires. They can lose air by contracting in low temperatures, which causes them to underinflate.

Temperatures below zero degrees Fahrenheit can also cause your windshield wipers to crack, as well as make it easier for dirt to stick to the windows. The liquid inside the car that you need for cleaning the window can freeze, and your battery will have a harder time staying alive.

Make sure that there is a shed or similar building nearby to keep your car clean and warm. This can keep it functioning so that you are safe on the road.

7. Wind

No signs of rain, snow, or hail can be a sign of relief if you’re planning a long drive. However, the wind can also show how the weather can be dangerous for your vehicle.

The weather effect, in this case, has more to do with the outside, as high winds can throw things at your car that can cause dents. This can include natural elements, as well as man-made ones.

The gravel and dirt that can get into your car from the wind can lead to internal damage to your engine or breaks. If a tornado or hurricane is coming your way, then the winds can be strong enough to break the doors from the hinges or send your car flying.

If the wind is expected to be harsh, then a garage or shed will keep your car safe when you’re hanging out with friends. More severe storms can be dealt with if your option for protection is on the larger side.

8. Lightning

You might not expect lightning on this list because of the rubber tires and metal frames that direct currents to the ground. However, your car can still leave lightning storms in bad shape.

A lightning strike with enough strength can cause problems with your car’s electrical system. This can include your battery short-circuiting and stopping the car, all-together.

Pitting can lead to dents to the outside of your car. Even if the lightning doesn’t hit the car, if it hits close enough, the force and light can cause you to lose control and possibly get into an accident.

Certain garages and sheds are designed to handle lightning so that the inside and outside of your car stays safe. Checking on your car right after a storm will also show you if anything needs repairs.

Our Take

Weather elements, while providing comfort in some cases, can be harmful to your car. Whether it’s wet, dry, cold, or hot, your vehicle can get damaged and cost you plenty of money in the process.

Some forms of nature can lead to dents, paint damage, and less strength in the hinges, while others can cause your breaks, engines, or battery to stop working. With the right tools and locations, however, your car can stay safe.

Check out more of our car protection data today so that you can be assured of your vehicle’s safety while you have fun with friends in the outdoors.

A Home for Your Car: Carport vs Garage Comparison Guide

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

Garage Conversion/carport vs garage

Did you know the average cost to add a garage to a house is over $10,000?

It’s no wonder some people look for other options to see if they can save money.

When it comes to a home for your vehicles, what option is best for you?

Keep reading to learn more about the difference between a carport vs garage to help you choose.

A Home for Your Car: Carport vs Garage Comparison Guide

Both carports and garages have pros and cons and ultimately the same goal of protecting your vehicle from the outside elements. Although their goal is the same the structure on both are completely different. The question for most people is which should one to choose carport vs garage?

What Is a Garage?

A garage is a completely enclosed structure with walls, roof, and an entrance. There are detached and attached garage options for your home. Detached means it’s not part of the house and attached means it’s connected to the house and has a door attached to enter the home.

Detached garages are normally made from fabric or metal.

What Is a Carport?

A carport is a semi-covered structure that stands on its own or attaches to a home. Carports are either fabric or metal and their roofs consist of posts or beams.

Appearance

There are different looks and styles to choose from for both carports and garages. Garages will always have fours walls and a roof because they are a completely enclosed room no matter if it attaches to your home or not. The siding and roofing material will match the rest of the property whether it’s built as a freestanding structure or attached to the house.

A carport will either be a metal frame with a roof, a permanent structure attached to the home, or a metal frame draped in fabric. Some carports have walls made out of stone, brick or siding to match the house. Carports always have at least one side wide open allowing it to also serve as an outdoor patio area.

Durability and Protection

Both carports and garages can accommodate for unpredictable weather, hot or cold. A garage will offer more protection because the vehicle is covered on all four sides. It also protects against heavy rain, sleet, snow, and hail well because of its structure.

A garage offers more protection against theft, as well because it has locks and you can set up the garage to be part of the homes alarm system if you have one. As far as being durable, a garage is usually made from heavy-duty materials because it’s part of the house making them a better option for long term use.

A carport is able to provide vehicle protection from inclement weather as well. If you live in an area that there’s a lot of snow or it’s windy make sure you choose the appropriate material to withstand tough weather. There are carports out there that support snow accumulating on top of the roof and others that can withstand 100 mph winds.

There are durable carports available if you’re considering choosing a carport.

Storage

Garages can keep your vehicle safe and can also be used for storage. Some people also use their garages to hold their tools, garden accessories such as a lawnmower, and bicycles. You can even add a second floor to a garage and have additional living space or an office.

Carports, on the other hand, are to store a vehicle and not normally used for the storage of other items. Since there’s always at least one wall missing it doesn’t offer protection from theft and complete protection from the outdoors or animals coming into the carport.

Installation

Garages require more time and planning when installing them. They have four walls, a roof, and a door that sometimes involves an automatic opener, as well. The walls are normally made from cinder block with windows, in some cases. If these are added, it requires more time to install.

After a garage is installed the siding has to be added to match the siding on the rest of the house. The entire process can take weeks to complete from start to finish. The time it takes depends on how large the garage is and the specific materials used.

A carport is a faster installation process no matter the type that’s chosen. Carports have a simpler frame vs cinder blocks or heavy duty material which saves a lot of time when putting a carport together. A carport can take a couple of hours or a few days to install.

If you choose to have an elaborate carport and attach it to your home contacting a professional is a better option to make sure it’s installed correctly. Even if you choose a carport with three walls versus no walls the installation is faster than building a garage.

Both garages and carports are installed on a concrete slab. If the area doesn’t have a concrete slab yet, that’s an extra day for the install to level the ground, pour the concrete, and create the slab.

Permits

Garages are considered part of the living area which means permits and inspections are normally required. This can sometimes delay construction and raise budget costs. Garages normally are required to be flame-retardant and be insulated.

Carports, on the other hand, aren’t considered living space. Some cities might require a permit but there are few that do. This means minimal wait times to get started and less unexpected costs.

Carport or Garage: That Is the Question?

After reading over the main differences between carport vs garage you can have a clearer understanding of what you’d prefer. It’s important to consider everything that would be best for you including where you live.

Are you looking for a company that’s committed to installing the best option garage or carport for you? Contact us today to discuss your future project.

All About the Details: Understanding the Difference Between Different Carport Roof Types

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

carport roof

Where do you park your car? Do you leave your car outside exposed to all sorts of harsh weather?

A car is a big investment and you need to protect it from damage that may be caused to it when left outside unsheltered. If you don’t have the space for a garage, a carport is a fantastic solution to your problem.

A carport will not only protect your car from the elements, but it can also be used to store other things such as lawnmowers, motorbikes, and much more. It is also a less expensive alternative to constructing a complete garage. Even people who own garages still find carport useful.

What type of carport roof do you need? Check out this guide to understand the difference between the different styles to help you choose.

The Different Carport Roof Styles

Here’s a look at three main types of carport roofs.

Standard Roof Style

This is also known as a regular roof design. It is perhaps the most common form of carport roof design. The standard roof design has no trim on ridge caps, eaves or purlins. This makes it very affordable.

A standard carport is very easy to assemble. Simply erect the steel braces, then firmly attach panels to the braces, and the structure is complete.

Its major drawback is that it cannot withstand heavy snow loads or high winds. Plus, its horizontal roof orientation doesn’t allow fast drainage. This is why you can find small pools building up on its roof.

After some time, the ponding water can cause costly damage to the roof.

Boxed Eave Roof Style

Boxed eave resembles a home roof but its panels are horizontal. Boxed eave has no ridge cap or hat channel. It has a small l-Trim on the ends.

Most homeowners choose the boxed eave carport design since it matches the appearance of most house roofs. This design is stronger than a standard carport and can withstand heavy snow loads and high winds.

It uses horizontal paneling, and this makes it share the same drainage issues with regular carport. However, it’s more expensive than a standard carport.

Vertical Roof Style

This design looks similar to the boxed eave roof design. They are both A-frame roofs, but vertical design roofs have vertical paneling. They have smooth panels that run down from the ridge to the eave side.

They also feature a hat channel that runs on the underside of the unit. This supports the vertical panels and makes the structure strong.

One of its advantages is that it can withstand extreme weather conditions such as high winds and heavy snowfall.

The steel reinforcement that runs underneath helps bear the weight of snow that can be packed on top in the event heavy snowfall. Its vertical paneling supports smooth draining, so no water pools can be formed on the roof.

It has wall options that create privacy, block airflow, and control temperatures. The reinforcement on the backs and eaves of the roofing panel limit bending or lifting due to high winds. Its durability is impressive.

The main disadvantage of vertical design is its cost. Its other disadvantage is that it’s difficult to assemble compared to other roof varieties. There also may be some specific legal requirements governing the installation of vertical carport designs.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Roof Type for Your Carport

Before choosing any of the above carport designs, there are a number of important features that you need to consider. The features include panel orientation, maintenance, local building codes, drainage, and size.

You also have to think about the climate. If you live in a place with heavy snow loads or a climate with lots of rain, you’ll need an equally sturdier structure.

The Size of Your Car

The dimensions of your car determine the style of roof you can choose. If you’re looking for a parking space for your standard car, you’ll not need much space, unlike when you want to park an RV.

Regular style and boxed eave roofs are suitable for standard cars. Vertical roofs are ideal for accommodating bigger cars. If you are looking for a large carport, consider vertical design.

Panel Orientation

The second feature to consider is the orientation roofing panels. Metal buildings are essentially steel braces masked with a thin layer of metal paneling.

You can get either horizontal or vertical panels. The orientation of the horizontal panel makes it difficult to drain water. They run from the front to the back of your building.

Vertical panels are able to drain water since they have a smooth surface that connects its ridge cap to the eaves. This allows the flow of water and prevents damage to the surface.

Upkeep

Maintenance is another factor to consider. Settle for a design that is long-lasting and easy to maintain. Vertical roofs, for example, are designed to help reduce maintenance costs by allowing fast run-off from the roof surface.

Local Building Codes

You shouldn’t violate the building codes governing the choice of roofs for carport construction in your local area. Learn about your building jurisdiction before choosing the type of carport to install. Your neighborhood may be having some specific requirements about carport installation.

Some jurisdictions don’t allow vertical designs in favor of standard roof designs. This may be due to aesthetic reasons. Make sure you follow your local area’s guidelines on roof selection.

Consider Your Future Needs When Choosing a Carport Roof Design

Each of the above carport roof types has distinct pros and cons, so the type you choose should match your needs, budget and personal preference.

A carport is an important investment and it is necessary to think about your future needs as well. You may only be having a single car for now, but you may need more space in the future.

A carport that is easy to assemble will be easy to disassemble too. This is especially important when it is time to move to a new home.

Contact us to place an order or learn more about our carports designs.

Carport Warranty | Built in the US| CarportUS

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

Today we learn about the warranty that comes with your carport. We understand that this is a large purchase and we want it to be protected for years to come. Watch the video below to learn more about the warranty that comes with your new carport. We also learn a little more about the most common issues we see on warranty work.

Carport Options When Building Your New Carport

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

Options For You New Carport

So you’ve picked your new carport! Now comes the time when you choose your new carport options. Your new carport is completely customizable for the options of your own choosing. From the top to the bottom you can pick the options that are right for you. CarportUS will guide you along the process to pick the options which are right for you. From those extra windows to optional garage doors we’ve got it all. You can also choose to insulate your new carport. Each option you pick is customizable from the factory and guaranteed.  Need an extra man door on the side? Don’t worry we can make that happen. Looking for side entry garage door? Don’t stress we can accomplish that.

Building a New Carport

Our friendly staff here at CarportUS has years of knowledge from building thousands for carports all across the US. Our expert team can answer all your questions on the process. We understand picking colors and options can be overwhelming but our team is ready to assist. From styles of carports, to colors, to options, we can guide you along the way.

CarportUS also offers the best pricing so no need to shop around. They are all proudly manufactured in the United States at one of our many factories. Don’t wait any longer. Ready to protect your car, boat or RV during the winter? Tired of having to dust your car off of snow in the morning. Call our friendly staff today

Delivery within a few days 

Once your order has been placed let the fun begin. Your custom carport is then made inside one of our factories. Typically the fastest turn around is a few days to a few weeks depending on many factors. This is from purchase to install. And don’t worry, all delivery and install fees are included minus a few exceptions.

Questions to Ask Before You Start Work on a New Garage for Your Home

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

Adding a new garage to your home is a decision that should never be taken lightly. It is, after all, an addition that will be attached to your home, not to mention, something that may cost you a lot of money. This is why asking yourself these questions before you begin working on or even planning such addition is crucial.

These questions will help you determine what kind of garage is best for your plans. It will also help you figure out what design you should consider, what materials are best for your new garage, and what features these should have. These questions are essential to your plans because these will determine a lot of important factors that will affect the outcome of your garage project.

garage storage ideas

Is it for one car or two? 

Even if you currently have one car, you still need to ask this question. Will you be adding on another car in the future or are you planning on having that extra space for something else? This will also help you determine where to put the garage since the size of a one-car garage is definitely smaller than that of a two-car one.

Is it detached or attached? 

You need to ask this question since it will involve some cutting into the side of your home to attach the new garage. You will, after all, need to have a door leading from your new garage to your home if you are to choose an attached one. An attached garage is also considered a cheaper option if you are considering constructing one from the ground up since you will already have one wall up (the side of your home) and only three to add to the structure.

Which type of garage is better for your budget? 

When you are contemplating whether to go with a constructed garage or a prefab metal garage, what you need to think about is whether or not your plans fit your budget. If a constructed garage is too cost-prohibitive, you should opt for a garage kit. Always keep in mind that when you are building a garage from scratch that the cost involves more than just the materials. It will also involve the cost of construction, which means permits, the people who have to work on it, and even the cost of the design itself.

Do you already have a driveway?  

Some people do not ask this question when they build a garage but it is an important one to ask. How will you get your vehicle from the street to your garage? Do you need to pave part of your property to create a driveway for your vehicle or will you be using alternative materials for this, such as gravel or stones?

How much space do you have for this project?

Whether you are building a garage, putting together a prefab structure, or installing a carport for your vehicle, space matters. You will need enough space for any of these and even more space if you are planning on a structure that can fit more than one vehicle. Survey your property to give yourself an idea as to what kind of garage or structure is best for it. If you need a two-vehicle garage but don’t have space for it, you might want to consider building a one-car garage instead and have a carport placed in your driveway for the second vehicle.

These are just a few of the questions you need to ask yourself when you are planning on having a new garage for your home. If you want a garage that is cost-effective and you can build it quickly, a prefab one by Carports US is your best. We build and design durable metal structures such as custom garages, pre-fab garage kits, poratble carports, and prefab structures ideal for commercial use. Contact us at (844) 557-6375 so we can help you with your garage and prefab structure needs.

How To Plan Your Garage Extension

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

Planning an extension for your existing garage is not as easy as it may sound, but it is not as difficult either. You can build your garage extension in as short a time as a single day or it can stretch for as long as a couple of weeks. This is dependent on what kind of garage extension you are putting up and other factors that can affect such a plan.

Garage Conversion

The creation of your garage’s extension all depends on planning. When you are planning this addition to your home, there are a number of things you need to consider. Here are some of them:

Purpose of the extension

What is this garage extension for? Is it to accommodate a new vehicle or is it to add more space to your garage for storage needs? If it is for storage needs, wouldn’t a prefab shed or a store room be a more appropriate structure to build? Some people think that a garage is the perfect structure for just about anything, and in some ways, they are right. This is because garages are so versatile and can be used for more than just housing your car.

Size of the extension 

You will also need to figure out how big the extension will be. Is it going to be as big as the current garage that you have? This move will essentially double the garage space that you will be able to use. Or will it be just big enough to accommodate the stuff you want to put in the space? If you are planning the extension to create extra space for an external freezer or to move your laundry room out into the garage, then you won’t need to create too big an extension.

Permits for building 

If you are building a garage extension twhich is a part of your home in every sense of the word, you might want to ask about building permits from your local building authority. If you put up a garage extension without asking about these, you might find yourself being fined for it or being asked to tear it down due to non-compliance. Knowing the legalities of what you are planning on doing will help you create the extra space you need without fear of fines or violations.

Garage Conversion

These are a few of the things you need to think about when you are putting together plans for a garage extension. Extensions to your garage, particularly if your garage is an attached one, you can consider it an addition to your home. This can add value to your current residence, which in turn may also mean additional property taxes for you.

This is why it is important to go into this with both eyes open and with all the information you need. Building a garage extension without knowing what it truly entails can put you in a lot of hot water. Information is your best friend in this situation, so the careful planning of such an extension should be well researched and you should be prepared for whatever comes with it.

Garage Expert Advice

If you want to get expert advice on garage extensions, what you should and should not do, and how to go about doing this without any problems, you should consult with Carports US. We are a company that manufactures, designs, and delivers metal structures like custom prefab garages, portable carports, commercial metal structures, and even metal barns. We can give you valuable advice regarding your garage extension, carports, and other prefab structural needs.

All you need to do is to contact us at (844) 557-6375 and we will be able to help you make the informed decisions needed to avoid any problems that may come with your garage extension plans.

Garage Conversion Done the Right Way

Posted on by Mike Bolynn

Whether you have extra garage space due to the sale of one of your vehicles or your kid drove off to college with their car, the fact of the matter is, you have extra space. What do you do with that extra space in the garage? Do you just pile old stuff in it or should you do something different with it? You need to do a garage conversion!

Garage Conversion

When you have that extra space, it is space that you can use for a lot of things. On the top of the list of considerations include a guest room, a home gym, a man cave, a workshop, and a hobby room. These are just a few ideas that you can consider for your extra garage space conversion.

Before you break out your handyman and carpentry tools, however, there are a few things you need to think about. Converting your extra garage space into something else requires more than just your imagination. It also requires a bit of research, planning, and forethought.

Garage Conversion

Here are some of the things you need to think about before garage conversion into any of the many ideas you come across online:

Flooring 

Most garages come with concrete floors, some of which needs polishing. If you are planning on converting part of your garage into a space that requires smooth and clean flooring, you will need to pick from a list of choices. These include tiles, vinyl, and polished concrete. If you have the budget for it, why not cover the entire garage floor with this new flooring. This will not only give your new space the proper covering you want it to have but it will also help give your garage an updated look.

Walls

If you are thinking of dividing the current space into two, with one being the place where you park your car and the other being the area that is being converted, then a dividing wall is in order. This will give you the kind of definition you need for each useful area and will give your vehicle the protection it needs for whatever you are planning on doing with the converted space.

Insulation

If your garage still needs insulation, and you are planning on using the converted space for an extra bedroom, home office, or recreational room, insulation is a must. You might want to approach this like you did the flooring situation. Instead of just insulating the area you are converting, why not insulate the entire garage? You will end up with a better garage and a properly insulated extra room in the process.

Windows and doors

You will also need to decide on whether or not you will add windows and doors to the conversion work you are taking on. If your garage is like most standard garages, you will probably have two walls and the front of the garage that has a garage door. You will want to think about changing your garage door first into one that can be used on a single car garage and then covering the gaping hole on the other side to complete the four walls needed for a room. Doors and windows can be cut out from the structure to give it the much-needed entryway and natural lighting that it needs.

Aside from these, you will also need to consult with your local building authority to ask about permits, fees, and taxes that may come with such a conversion. Remember, you are actually improving your home with this move and, in the process, will be increasing your property’s value. This is regardless of whether you have an attached garage or a prefab metal garage that you simply added to the structure fairly recently.

Get Expert Advice Wherever and Whenever You Can

It is better to avoid trouble than to court it, and going into your garage conversion plans without all the information you need is courting trouble. If you want expert advice from people in the know, you can ask the experts at Carports US for help. Aside from being a company that produces high-quality metal structures like customized garages, movable carports, and commercial metal structures, we also offer expert advice on any of your garage and carport questions.

Simply contact us at (844) 557-6375 and our team of certified garage professionals will be happy to assist you in any way they can.