Designing and building a carport for your home can provide an affordable way to protect your vehicle with a stable structure and roof. But the benefits of a carport go far beyond reliable shade and shelter.
Here are 10 advantages of building a carport for your home and important factors to consider before you build one.
10 Advantages of Building a Carport
- Protects Your Vehicle from the Elements
- Cost-Effective
- Enhanced Curb Appeal
- Low Maintenance
- Added Convenience and Comfort
- Add Value to Your Property
- Endless Versatility
- Enhanced Security
- Easy Installation
- Added Energy Efficiency
1. Protects Your Vehicle from the Elements
Even with assistance from insurance, vehicle repairs are costly. Perth residents know just how damaging strong summer storms and harsh UV rays can be.
Leaving your vehicle, boat, caravan, or belongings exposed to the elements puts them at risk of damage from the sun, hail, wind, and ice. A quality carport can protect your vehicle — and wallet — and help maximise your car’s lifespan.
A carport can protect your car, truck, SUV, outdoor items, and other vehicles from:
- Hail damage, such as dents in the exterior or a cracked windshield
- Damage to the paint, dashboard, and vehicle interior from harsh UV rays and heat exposure
- Overall wear and tear from the elements
- Damage from rubbish, branches, and debris during high winds and storms
- Paint damage due to animal droppings, leaves, dirt, twigs, and tree sap
2. Cost-Effective
Carports are a cost-effective and affordable alternative to traditional garages. With less labor and materials required, the overall cost of a carport is lower without compromising on functionality.
The cost of a carport varies based on roof design, size, and other factors, but it will almost always be significantly cheaper than a garage.
3. Enhanced Curb Appeal
A quality carport can increase the overall attractiveness of your home and property. A home with vehicles and belongings neatly organised and protected under a quality carport versus exposed to the elements gives a better first impression.
We can also custom-design a carport to complement your home’s existing roof and exterior to further enhance curb appeal.
You May Also Like: 12 Carport Ideas, Tips and Recommendations for a New Carport
4. Low Maintenance
Carports are easy to maintain and require less effort to upkeep compared to other structures.
Cleaning your carport is as simple as inspecting it on occasion for wear and tear and keeping it free of debris.
5. Added Convenience and Comfort
Have you ever carried groceries inside during a downpour or hailstorm? A carport offers convenience and comfort by protecting you while carrying items back and forth from your car to your home. A carport also eliminates the need to bother opening or closing a garage door as you are coming or going.
A carport also shields your vehicle against powerful UV rays, preventing your car seats and interior from becoming as hot.
6. Add Value to Your Property
If you plan to sell your home, a carport can be a worthwhile upgrade. A durable, well-constructed carport can appeal to potential buyers and add value to your property.
7. Endless Versatility
Carports are incredibly versatile and can serve a wide range of purposes. One day, a carport can protect your vehicles from the elements and the next it can be a fun entertaining area for a barbeque with neighbors.
Along with accommodating your vehicles, carports can be used to:
- Protect other vehicles, such as boats, motorcycles, lawn mowers, tractors, trailers, or caravans
- Provide a sheltered play area for children
- Can double as an entertainment area where family, friends, and guests can relax in the shade
- Serve as additional storage space for keeping outdoor items, patio furniture, and other items protected from the elements
8. Enhanced Security
A carport offers protection from more than just Mother Nature’s wrath. A quality carport can also provide added protection against theft and vandalism.
A vehicle parked on the street or out in the open may be an easy target. Parking under a carport can provide added security and protection, especially if your carport is fitted with security lighting or CCTV.
9. Easy Installation
Carports are relatively straightforward and quick to install, especially compared to traditional garages. This saves on the cost of labor and materials.
Most carports do not require flooring, saving money and time on the cost of having a cement floor poured. If you need shelter for your vehicle as quickly as possible, a carport may be the ideal option.
10. Added Energy Efficiency
Carports reduce how much sunlight hits your car, keeping it naturally cooler. This shade eliminates the need to blast your car’s air conditioning when you first get in.
A well-positioned carport can also reduce how much sunlight hits your home to keep it naturally cooler. Further, a quality carport can also provide a possible location for solar panels.
Factors to Consider Before You Build a Carport to Your Home
Here are key factors we recommend considering before deciding to build a carport for your home.
- Budget — If your budget is limited, a carport may be an excellent choice. A carport can provide the protection of a garage without the high price tag. Even a simple garage can easily cost several times more than a carport.
- Timeline — Need protection for your vehicle or extra storage space as quickly as possible? A carport can be installed faster than a garage and give you the fastest result.
- Permits — Local councils may require permits and building approval before you construct your garage or carport. When you work with Aussie Patio Designs, we ensure compliance with all local regulations and obtain the necessary permits.
- Design — When planning a carport, it is important to consider your home’s existing appearance. You’ll also want to consider whether you prefer a freestanding carport or a structure that is fixed to your home.
Carport design is versatile and can be customised to match your home’s aesthetics, architecture, and construction.
Some of our most popular carport options include the classic yet modern flat roof design and the visually appealing Dutch gable roof. Whether you prefer a Skillion roof, a gable roof, or a flat roof, our carports are fully tailored to complement your home design and suit your personal preferences.
Need some inspiration? Browse our carport gallery here to see some of the custom solutions we’ve designed: Patio Examples | Patio Gallery – Aussie Patio Designs.
Why Carports are More Advantageous vs Garages
Carports and garages both provide shade and protection against the elements and can be connected to your house or be a freestanding structure.
However, they also have significant differences that make a carport a more advantageous choice for homeowners.
| Feature | Carport | Garage |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Relatively easy and fast | More involved installation with higher costs related to materials and labour |
| Cost | More affordable than a traditional garage | Costlier than a carport |
| Structure | Open-sided on two ends | Completely enclosed |
| Flooring | May be grass, gravel, concrete, etc. | Usually a poured concrete slab serves as the foundation |
Ready to Get Started on Your Custom Carport?
With a modern, sleek appearance and multi-functional design, carports can enhance curb appeal while protecting your vehicles and equipment. A custom carport can also add value to your home and serve as a creative space for entertainment or storage.
Whether you are set on the sleek appeal of a flat roof carport, the more intricate design of a Double Gable carport, or aren’t sure which style would best suit your home, we can guide you through the entire process.
We can work with you to bring your dream carport to fruition and build it to fit your exact requirements. Many of our customers are pleasantly surprised at how affordable a custom carport can be. Ready to get your free carport quote? Fill out our free patio and carport form or call us on 08 9354 8000 to get started.
