No matter where you live, we all have to deal with weather issues. Hot sun and iced over windshields actually have something in common; they each can put us outside of our comfort zone. Carports are a great way to limit your car’s exposure, and your exposure, to the elements.
Easy to construct, very durable, and of high quality, a metal carport is an option to consider. Metal carports can be constructed of aluminum or steel. Let’s consider steel. This form of car port can range in size from 12’x20’ and up to 30’x40’. One company even had a width of 52’. To accommodate the individual who needs a longer than usual carport, some companies have developed a four or five foot incremental length extensions, so your carport could be any length.Typically metal carports are designed with a 3:12 pitch roof. This slight slope allows for the water to flow, but does not require the peak to be high. Normal height is about 6 feet, but can climb as high as 16 feet to accommodate motor homes and high stacks of roll baled hay.
The metal sides and roof of a carport can have a gauge rating of 12 up to a 29 gauge industrial quality full hard steel. ¾” high reinforced ribs on 9” centers makes for strong construction. You don’t have to look far to find a manufacturer with a 15 or more year warranty due to the ruggedness of this type of carport.
The 18’ wide carports are also referred to as “double wides”. For large vehicles and pick-up trucks a 20’x20’ is a wise choice. Carport kits can be built for a host of purposes. From car and truck shelters, boat and RV carports, agricultural uses and boat slips, the usages are endless. In treeless areas horses and livestock can be seen standing in the shade of a metal carport.
Metal carports are relatively easy to assemble. The smaller size of about 12’x20’ are advertized as only requiring two adults up to 8 hours of erection time. Added walls will increase assembly time. For larger projects you may consider hiring a general contractor. Without property erection your whole investment may turn into a pile of scrap metal under a heavy snow fall.
Minimal tools requirements would include a screw driver, step ladder, and measuring tape. Some kits do require cutting of trim and metal sheeting. This can be accomplished by turning the blade of your table saw backwards. Trim can be cut with either shears or a saw. Small jobs may be accomplished with only the tin snips.
Metal carport foundations-
Metal carports can be installed bolted to cement, on dirt, gravel or wood surfaces. Where ever you plan to place it, be sure the surface can handle the snow load and weight of the carport. Check your local codes before selecting your unit. Many carport manuals come with foundation instructions. Everything in building begins with a foundation, so be sure to investigate it and make the necessary preparations. Also whenever you are digging, be sure to contact the local utility company to come and mark the lines. Just look in the yellow pages or call your local utility company for the phone number. Hitting power lines, water lines, or any other kind of lines can make a disaster before you even begin the foundation of your building.
Many metal carport kits and steel carport kits can be found by searching the Internet. Companies will talk to you directly and discuss their quality and pricing of their various carports. Carport kits ship nationwide, so don’t be afraid to talk with someone who is located several states away. Others will simply sell you engineered carport plans. It just depends on exactly what you are interested in purchasing.
And finally, always before you build, always consult your local building codes. Some areas in the United States do not require any permits. Other areas may be much more stringent. Sometimes, it is actually easier to get permits for a free standing carport than a wooden carport addition to an existing home.
Metal carports a great choice when looking for a more permanent addition to your property. With many color choices, a whole array of companies, quality, and pricing, you can probably locate one that fits your needs and also matches well with your budget.
Tags: carport kits, carport plans, carports, metal carport, metal carport kits, metal carports, rv carports, steel carport kits