9 June 2023,

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A carport is a permanent structure designed to provide shelter to your vehicles. You will never have to worry about their safety or damage during inclement weather.

These structures can be made of steel or other material you want for your vehicle’s storage area. Because they are free-standing, they can be installed anywhere in your outdoor space. Their designs are fairly simple – with adequate support posts and a good roof.

In this article, Compare Home Quotes aims to inform you on the different carports you can choose from, their advantages, and average prices.

Depending on the type of house you own, you can choose a carport that is tailored to your needs and budget!

You also have the option to attach the carport to your home or adjacent structure.

Read on to know what you need to plan the construction of your carport and how to connect with reliable contractors in your area.

Fill out the short online form on this page to get started with comparing offers with no obligation on your part.

Reasons to build a carport: The pros and cons

Our cars need shelter for most of the year, especially around November all the way to April. During these months, makeshift plastic shelters for cars can be seen in many front yards and they don’t look very attractive.

Have you considered the option of building a carport as a permanent solution for shelter for your vehicles in winter?

Most homes have carports built in the driveway going to the house or the entrance.

Although you will need to spend more for your car shelter than the plastic ones you used in the past, a carport will last a long time and even increase the value of your home. Over time, your carport will cost you less resources and time.

What are the other advantages of using a carport? Compared to a garage, a carport costs less to build. It needs fewer materials and labour but can offer shelter to your car and protect it from the elements.

Carports also save on space. Because they usually have open spaces, your car gets the shade/roofing it needs. At the same time, the space can be used for other purposes such as outdoor cooking, entertainment, or recreation.

Last but not least, carports are easier and take less time to construct. You can choose materials such as metal or wood to match the design of your home.

Are there any disadvantages to building a carport? Aside from the expense, carports only offer about 90% protection from the elements compared to a garage. There is also limited space for storage or a work bench, in some cases.

When you have made up your mind to construct a carport for your home, the next step is to find out the cost based on your design and materials. You will need to look for the right contractor for the job. You can start right here by filling out the short online form below to receive free quotes.

Choice of materials for your carport

The most popular materials for carports are metal and wood. Both materials can easily be adapted to your home’s design.

Metal is, of course, more expensive than wood but you can always work with your contractor to find the material that suits your budget.

The cost of constructing your carport will also vary based on the size and type of roofing you choose.

Modern carports today also use tin, aluminum, or galvanized steel.

Fabric and steel

Depending on the climate in your area, you can choose a poly-fabric and steel carport. The surface does not fade and is waterproof while the steel posts are strong and rust-resistant. This model is easy to assemble or build and is the cheapest option. This model is also seasonal.

Galvanized steel

For homeowners looking for a stronger material for a carport, galvanized steel is the perfect solution

It is perfect for wet conditions as it resists corrosion and chipping. A steel carport can be used throughout the year- in rainy or windy weather, snowy, or hot weather.

A steel carport is best handled by professionals to ensure proper installation. The roof must also be of good quality to provide great shade and shelter.

Vinyl

Vinyl carports is one of the strongest available. The vinyl coat is applied on galvanizes steel and gives 5x more protection and strength. It is an ideal option if you are attaching a carport to your home.

Wood and steel

This type of carport combines the natural aesthetics of wood with the durability of metal. Pine wood is a good choice due to its durability and capacity to bear load. Pine wood must be protected during a boiler pressure process.

Hardwood

Hardwoods like oak, ash, and beech are hard and firm and ideal for construction. They are robust and can withstand all types of weather.

If using wood for a carport, you can choose treated or untreated wood (should be protected before use for durability). Wood for carports can be painted for aesthetic reasons.

The different models of carports in Canada

There are several models of carports that meet the varied needs of Canadian homeowners. Here are some of the most popular models:

Lean-to (attached)

Detached

Whichever you consider more ideal to your property, our partner renovation companies can help you with the design, materials, and budget for your project.

Request free and no-obligation quotes today using our short online form!

The average cost of a carport in 2024

Pre-made carports are cheap and are ready for DIY assembly. They can cost as little as $500 but they don’t last long and are not appealing to look at.

On the other hand, steel or wood carports are durable and attractive but they are more expensive. A permanent carport construction in 2024 can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $30,000, depending on the model (attached or detached, the size of your carport, and the materials you select.

One thing is sure, though: a carport is generally less expensive to construct than a garage.

If you decide to have an attached carport with siding, it is considered a home expansion but offers the potential of a future conversion to a garage. Hence, it can also add value to your home.

A carport should be able to withstand heavy rains or snow so the foundation must be strong. Hiring a general contractor will ensure that the work is done correctly.

You will also select the type of roofing for your carport – flat, pitched, membrane roof, or shingles. Your choice will also be a huge factor in the cost of your project.

The basic costs of the construction of a carport include:

The installation cost: Basic installation includes preparing the ground, assembling the carport structure and securing it properly.
Roofing
Foundations and anchoring: (according to the specific needs of your project).
Electricity and lighting: (if desired).
Additional options: Special finishes, custom coatings, or storage shelves will increase the overall cost of the installation.
Building permit: cost may vary depending on the municipality.

How to choose the right carport for your home

Before choosing a carport model, you will need to think about your needs and additional function you want for your carport.

It is important to clearly define your needs. How many vehicles you want to house in your future carport? Take into account the dimensions necessary to accommodate them comfortably.

Size and Capacity

How many vehicles you want to house in your future carport? Take into account the dimensions necessary to accommodate them comfortably.

Materials

Carports can be made from different materials such as wood, metal, or vinyl. Each material has its own advantages in terms of durability, aesthetics, and maintenance

Design

It is important to select a carport that matches the architectural style of your home. For this, there are a variety of styles available, which range from traditional to modern.

Climate

Choose materials suitable to your local climate, especially the resistance to strong winds and snow. Opt for a model that is designed to cope with the specific climatic conditions of Canada.

Customized options

Carports can offer additional options. We can mention garage doors, side walls, storage shelves, or integrated lighting. Therefore, it is important to identify the characteristics that are important to you.

Budget

Establish a budget for the purchase and installation of the carport. Compare prices and quotes from different contractors to get the materials you need that fits your budget while still providing the quality and features you want.

Work with a professional for the installation of a carport

To install a carport at home, it is recommended to work with qualified and experienced professionals. Fortunately, our network consists of hundreds of reputable general contractors, roofers, and other renovation specialists you can count on.

General contractor:

A general contractor has the skills to manage and oversee the entire carport installation project. They can coordinate the various aspects of the installation including site preparation, construction of the structure, and installation of additional items.

Contractor specializing in exterior structures

Some contractors specialize in building outdoor structures such as carports. They can offer you professional advice on the materials, design, and the installation of a carport.

Carpenter:

If you want a wooden carport, a qualified carpenter may be the ideal person. They have expertise in woodworking and can create a strong and aesthetically pleasing structure.

To find the best professionals for your carport installation, request FREE and NO-OBLIGATION quotes using our short online form.

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Guide to building a carport in Canada and their Prices