Carports have been around since the early 1900s, but due to high demand, they have become increasingly more popular and are available in a countless number of designs, sizes, materials, and colors. Although choosing a carport to meet your specific needs involves personal preferences, such as for style and color scheme, there are also other important factors to consider when narrowing down your options to buy a carport.
Local Building Codes
Let’s just get this one out of the way: You won’t be able to enjoy a carport you have to remove due to an infraction on code specifications. Before you decide to buy a carport for your property, research ordinances per your neighborhood association, if applicable, as well as local zoning ordinances. You may need a permit to add a structure to your property.
Cost
We’ll knock this one out, too: Don’t get in over your head. When researching carport dealers and comparing prices, don’t forget to consider all cost factors. This includes installation fees, sales tax, materials, and delivery fees. Not to mention, you may be interested in special features or add-ons that can increase your total cost. Be careful of hidden fees or extra low pricing. The latter can be a sign of price undercutting, without quality and service to back it up.
Buying Local vs Online
Since the carport and outdoor storage building industry is booming, you have many options when choosing a vendor for your carport. The convenience of buying a carport or carport kit online is obvious, but you also aren’t completely sure what you’re getting when buying online. Consider buying from a local carport retailer, which will allow you to get an up-close look at the models they have for sale.
Function
Consider exactly what you want your carport to provide. You may only need a place to park the car you drive daily, or maybe you need the carport for covering an RV when not in use. It’s important to determine exactly what you need from your carport when choosing the style, size, and type of roof.
Add-Ons and Special Features
Once you’re very clear on the desired function of your carport, you can consider any special features or add-ons that might contribute to its usefulness and cost-effectiveness. For instance, skylights can cut down on lighting costs, and industrial anchors for flooring provide superior stability.
Size
The size of your carport will also depend on your desired use for it, and this is a factor to consider when researching local building codes. If you’re planning on parking more than one vehicle in your carport, consider clearances when choosing the correct size, such as for rearview mirrors and opening car doors. Measure your vehicles from side to side, top to bottom, and front to back when making your decision on size.
Leveling the Site
For your new carport to look its best and maintain stability, the site for it needs to be level. Typically, carport installations only allow for 3 to 4 inches out of level. Otherwise, your carport may need to be cut to keep it level.
Purchasing a carport should be a smooth experience that ends with the perfect one for your needs. These considerations may eliminate a lot of hassle and confusion, especially when you consider the limitless options and special features available on the market.
