Here are five common carport materials. They are ranked from lowest to highest based on material grade as fabric carports, metal carports, glass and metal carports, brick-and-concrete carports, and wooden carports
Portable fabric carports
Fabric carports are the ideal carport choice for many homes. Portable fabric carports often consist of a metal frame and a fabric covering. The covering material is usually a high quality polyethylene fabric.
Pros: 1. Compared to metal carports and wooden carports, fabric carports are easy to move and can be located anywhere in your yard. You can set up a portable carport in a short time.
2. Low maintenance cost. Portable fabric carports are very reliable and you don’t need to spend much on maintenance.
3. Low price. Portable carports are much cheaper than metal carports and wooden carports, which can save you a lot of money.
Cons: Durability. Fabric coverings obviously cannot match the strength of metal coverings. But because of the lower cost of fabric carports, most people can live with this expected drawback. Fabric carports can also last a long time if you maintain them regularly.
Metal Covered Carports
Metal covered carports can provide long-lasting protection for your vehicles and equipment such as tractors. Common types include aluminum carports and steel carports. Using a metal carport can improve the quality of life and protect your property.
Pros: 1. Strong and durable. Metal carports are stable and can withstand high winds, rain, snow and UV rays. In terms of home enhancement, metal carports can last for a long time.
2. Easy to maintain. Both steel and aluminum carports are easy to maintain. Although you may face metal oxidation problems in the process of use, as long as the steel and aluminum surface to add the perfect coating and regular maintenance, these carports can also be used for a long time.
Cons: 1. Heavier and difficult to install. This is a problem that most metal carports will face during installation. The heavier metal material can cause problems with installation, and you may need to work with two to three people to install a metal carport, which can take a lot of time.
2. Complex structure. Metal carports are heavier and more complex in structure than portable carports. You are likely to have trouble and spend more time in the installation process.
3. More expensive. Compared to fabric carports, metal carports are more expensive. Expensive materials are not ideal for some users.
Glass roof carport
Home glass top carports are often built on the side walls of houses. Glass top carports are considered to be a stylish home carport option.
Pros: 1. Aesthetically pleasing. Most families customize their glass carports to fit the conditions of their home and backyard. These carports are beautiful, stylish and ornamental.
2. Versatile. Glass roof carports are loved by many families for their beautiful appearance. These carports can be used not only for parking vehicles, but also as a place for entertainment, such as parties, BBQ, afternoon tea, etc.
Cons: 1. Expensive. Custom glass carport will bring a huge expense. You need to determine your budget in advance to avoid overspending.
2. High maintenance cost. Generally speaking, glass carports are not easily damaged. But if you need to maintain or replace parts, the repair cost is much higher than portable carports.
Concrete-and-brick garage
It is traditional garage style that can be seen in many homes’ backyards. This type of carport usually covers a large area and is built by the user.
Pros: 1. Sturdy construction. Built of brick and concrete, garages are structurally strong enough to withstand fall and winter winds, rain and snow, providing the perfect protection for vehicles.
2. Multi-purpose. Not only can you park your vehicles here, but you can also store your weed whacker, tractor and other miscellaneous items here. You can also barbecue and do other activities here.
Cons: 1. Long construction time. Compared with portable carports, metal carports and glass carports, the concrete brick combination garage takes longer to build. You need to spend at least a week to build a small size garage of this type.
2. No flexibility. If you choose a place to build a garage, it’s likely that the land won’t have any other use later. Because building and demolishing such a garage is very troublesome.
Wooden carports
Wooden carports are considered to be the most traditional but also the best style of carports. These carports have a much better ornate appearance and are a great sustainable investment that can increase the value of a property.
Pros: 1. Aesthetic appearance. Wood carports are recognized as one of the most beautiful looking carport styles. Wooden carports never go out of style and are suitable for any kind of house style.
2. Sturdy Frame. Wood is one of the strongest building materials. You won’t have to worry about parking your vehicle in a wooden carport.
3. Value-added. A wooden carport as part of your backyard can increase the value of your property.
Cons: 1. Fire hazard. Fire is a devastating blow to any wooden carport.
2. Prone to decay. Wood is easily eaten by termites, causing it to break. Also, prolonged rainfall will deepen the decay.
3. High maintenance cost. Wooden carports require frequent maintenance, such as checking for rot, painting and others.
