Vehicles are costly, and it's crucial to keep them safe from weather damage to maintain their value. While homeowners with built-in garages may not fret over this, a carport is a wise alternative for others.
What is a Carport?
A carport is a simple structure typically supported by beams or posts and covered with a roof. There are various types of carports, but they all serve the same basic purpose: shielding your vehicle from outdoor elements. Essentially, it's an open-air alternative to a garage.
If you lack a garage, owning a carport offers several advantages. It shields your vehicle from wind, rain, snow, and UV rays, potentially prolonging its lifespan. Additionally, having a carport can boost your property's value and provide a flexible area for storage or other uses. Exploring these benefits can help you determine whether a carport is a suitable investment for your needs.
Carports Offer Protection for Your Vehicle Against Different Weather Conditions
Carports offer considerable protection for your vehicle against various weather conditions, reducing the likelihood of damage from natural elements. While extreme weather can still pose a threat, this holds true for vehicles stored in garages as well. Generally, carports shield your vehicle from:
Rain
Heavy rain can harm your vehicle in multiple ways. Not only can it harm your vehicle's paint, but it can also lead to rust. In severe cases, water can cause mechanical issues, such as when it enters the crankcase, affecting vital engine and transmission fluids. Having a carport ensures your vehicle is sheltered during thunderstorms, offering peace of mind knowing it's protected from rainfall.
Snow
Similar to rain, snow can also cause significant harm to a vehicle. Snow promotes rust, making your vehicle less appealing, and repairing rust damage can be time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, snow can damage your windshield, necessitating costly repairs. A carport prevents most snow from accumulating on your vehicle, reducing potential damage and saving you money on repairs each winter.
Hail
Hailstorms, though infrequent in most areas, can still occur occasionally and pose a threat to vehicles. A single hailstorm can cause significant damage, such as smashing windshields or denting cars, leading to costly repairs. To safeguard against hail damage, a carport provides effective protection by deflecting hailstones away from vehicles, preventing potential harm.
UV Rays
Furthermore, carports offer additional benefits by shielding vehicles from the harmful effects of UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can cause paint discoloration and damage to the vehicle's roof, resulting in dents and cracks. By providing shade, carports help preserve the vehicle's paint job and maintain the roof's structural integrity, preventing sun-related damage.
Do Carports Raise Your Home's Worth?
Having a carport isn't just about shielding your vehicle from the weather. It can also boost the resale value of your home. Potential buyers appreciate the ability to protect their vehicles or repurpose the carport for storage or outdoor use, making it an attractive feature.
Many homeowners with garages often opt for carports instead, repurposing them for various uses rather than vehicle protection. Carports offer ample shade and sun relief, making them ideal for gatherings or relaxation spaces. They also serve well as outdoor workshops, studios, or storage areas.
Constructing a new garage can be costly and may face zoning restrictions. In contrast, carports are more budget-friendly and can still safeguard vehicles effectively at a fraction of the cost. Installing a carport can lead to significant savings on vehicle maintenance expenses over time, essentially offsetting its initial investment.
Various Types of Carports
There are several types of carports available, each offering its own advantages. The best option for you depends on your specific needs. Let's explore the common types to understand their benefits and decide which one suits you best.
Metal Carports
Metal carports are known for their durability and longevity, providing superior protection for your vehicle. They can withstand more stress compared to fabric carports, making them ideal for areas with heavy rainfall or long winters with significant snowfall. While metal carports may have a higher initial cost than fabric ones, they offer better value in the long run due to their extended lifespan.
Fabric Carports
Cloth carports still offer decent protection from weather conditions and provide the same advantages as having a carport. While not as sturdy as metal ones, cloth carports can still shield your vehicle, add value to your home, and serve as flexible storage space.
Carports with Open Sides
Metal and cloth carports come in various types, including those with walls and those without. Carports with walls are more costly but offer extra protection, making them a worthwhile investment for those with valuable vehicles or a need for more privacy.
On the other hand, open-sided carports lack walls and are supported by beams or posts connected to the roof. This setup is convenient when moving from your car to your house in the rain, preventing you from getting drenched on your way to the door.
Attached Carports
Another kind of carport is the attached carport, simply put, it's a carport that's directly linked to your house. Attached carports are very convenient, almost akin to having a garage. They also provide added security for your vehicle, being closely situated to your home, making it less appealing to potential thieves or intruders.
Besides the types of carports discussed, there are a couple more factors to mull over before purchasing one. Let's delve into two key considerations that should always be examined before spending your money on a carport.
Understanding Wind and Snow Load Ratings
When selecting a carport, it's crucial to consider its ability to withstand wind and snow. Metal carports typically come with ratings for wind and snow loads, indicating their resistance to wind and capacity to support snow. Higher ratings signify greater durability against wind and snow.
If you reside in an area prone to heavy snowfall or frequent high winds, it's advisable to invest in a carport with high ratings in these aspects. It's important to note that fabric carports lack wind and snow load ratings as they're not designed for withstanding severe winds or snow. When uncertain, opt for an all-steel carport, which generally boasts the highest wind and snow load ratings.
A Carport Is A Smart Investment
If you aim to shield your vehicle from weather damage, enhance your property's worth, discourage potential thieves, or create a flexible outdoor area, consider investing in a carport. Besides saving you money on repairs, a carport can enhance your home's appeal.