For many homeowners, the terms carport and garage are confusingly synonymous. But there are actually…
Constant exposure to the sun can cause lasting damage to your car. You might not notice it until one day the paint is oxidized and peeling. Along with damage from the sun, hail, rust from salt, and falling tree branches can also affect the bodywork of your beloved vehicle. Having a covered area for your car will save it from harm and can also give you savings on your car insurance premium.
You need a structure that is durable, strong, and convenient to keep your vehicle safe. It's not necessary to get in contact with a contractor or builder to draw up plans. Your vehicle protection needs can be met with ready-made solutions, like a metal carport or garage. Identifying the advantages and disadvantages that both options have can help you to decide which option suits your needs the best. Let's take a look at the definition of both terms.
What Is a Carport?
A carport is an outdoor storage area comprising of a roof supported by posts or beams. The roof protects your parked vehicle from direct elements like sun, rain, and snow. Carports can be simple metal frames with roofs, metal frames draped in fabric, or permanent structures tied to your home. It can be either attached to your main house or detached.
Protecting your vehicle helps maintain its finish, keeping it looking good, and prolongs your vehicle’s life.
What Is a Garage?
A garage is a structure built to house a vehicle, and you access the space through a large garage door for your vehicle or a separate door for people. As the garage is completely enclosed, it offers protection for your vehicle and storage space for other items like tools and handheld appliances. Similar to a carport, a garage can be either attached to your home or detached.
Which Is Better, a Carport or a Garage?
Garages and carports both protect your vehicle from the elements. When attached to your house, they allow you to enter and exit your car without having to go outside. Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of both options so you can make an informed decision about which one might be right for you.
Carport
Some advantages of having a carport installed are:
- Carports protect your vehicle from the elements.
- They are easier and less expensive to build than a garage since they do not have to conform to building codes.
- They can be used for any type of vehicle.
- They are an energy-efficient option, as there is no electric door or lights to power.
- They are easy to use, as they require no operation.
- They are easier to install than a garage.
The disadvantages of installing a carport in comparison to a garage are:
- Not theft-proof
- Can't be used for storage
- Less value added to the property when compared to a garage
- Not as versatile as a garage
Can You Put Garage Doors on a Carport?
Yes, you can install a garage door on a carport. It increases the safety of the structure as it keeps out any unwanted intruders. If it's attached to your house, it provides another barrier to any intruders trying to get into your home.
Does a Carport Add Value?
A carport can add value to your home. The amount varies from several hundred to thousands of dollars. Some factors that impact the value include the location of the carport, the street traffic in the neighborhood, and the availability of street parking.
Garage
The advantages of building a garage for your house are:
- Increased security from theft
- Even more protection from the elements due to its full enclosure
- A flexible space that can be used for living space, storage, etc.
- Generally looks nicer than a carport
Some of the drawbacks to building a garage are:
- It takes much longer to build
- Significantly more expensive than a carport
- Must adhere to more stringent building codes
Does a Garage Add More Value than a Carport?
Both options add value to a house. However, due to the added security and protection for the contents, a garage does add more value. Depending on the size of the garage, you'll increase the value with the additional storage space, too.
How Much Cheaper Is a Carport vs. a Garage?
Both carports and garages vary in price depending on the design and size. Metal Carports has many different styles of carports.
Our standard garages also have a wide range of prices. Custom features and add-ons may increase the price.
Address Your Vehicle Protection Needs
If you are looking to install a carport or garage for your house, we have some great options for you. Our metal carports and garages are affordable, long-lasting, include installation, and come with a warranty. Hopefully, using the information in this article, you can now decide what suits your needs the best. Contact us today to discuss your options, and one of our qualified professionals will be sure to find the right option for you!
