Carports and garages share similar purposes but have a few differences. When deciding which structure you prefer, you need to consider several factors. This guide will compare and contrast carports and garages to help you decide which structure works best for you. It would be best to consider cost, uses, and maintenance before deciding which structure works best for you.
What is the difference between a carport and a garage?
Carports are large structures typically detached from a house and are not fully enclosed. Garages are fully enclosed structures that are either attached or detached from your house. Both structures will keep your vehicle safe from the weather.
Carport materials
Carports are generally composed of aluminum structure beams and a metal roof. These structures use minimal materials because they are only designed to cover a specific spot.
Garage materials
Garages require more materials than carports because they are fully enclosed structures. Garages are generally composed of the following materials:
- Vinyl siding
- Steel
- Concrete
- Wood
Advantages and Disadvantages of Carports
Carports have pros and cons that need consideration before building or buying this structure. The list below will help you make comparisons to determine if a carport is an ideal structure to suit your needs.
Cost
Carports are cheaper to build or buy than garages because fewer materials and functions are involved with a carport. Carports have an average cost of about 4,000 dollars. The cost varies depending on material costs and availability at the time of purchase.
Quality
Carports have an extensive range of quality depending on the materials involved in the build. These ports will hold firm against any weather conditions when made from steel. However, you can also get a cheap portable carport if you are okay with sacrificing quality.
Installation
Installing a carport on your property is easy. You can install it on a concrete slab or install it over grass. You only need a designated area where you want to put the carport and the carport itself.
Maintenance
Maintaining a carport is very easy. Carports don’t require frequent cleaning or special accommodations. You can sweep the inside to get rid of debris and power wash the outside occasionally to clean it. Carports don’t typically use siding, so you don’t need to powerwash the structure often.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Garage
Garages have pros and cons that need consideration before building or buying this structure. The list below will help you make comparisons to determine if a garage is an ideal structure to suit your needs.
Cost
Garages will cost more than carports. Garages use more materials because they are fully enclosed structures. The price of a garage varies greatly depending on the size of the garage and the features you want to add. The cheapest you can buy a single car garage kit for is 7000 dollars, but the price can get up to 50,000 dollars depending on what features you add to your garage.
Quality
Garages are always made from durable materials and will last for years. Garages are fully enclosed to keep your vehicle and items completely safe. Therefore, you can always expect your garage to be high quality and practical. Garages have the additional benefit of acting as storage space because they are enclosed.
Installation
Installing a garage on your property is more complicated than a carport. You need to install a garage on an even concrete slab, and it can be even more complicated if you want your garage attached to a house. To install a garage, you should hire a professional to ensure the job is done right and looks fantastic.
Maintenance
Maintaining a garage can be difficult. It is essential to keep your garage clean because wild animals will be attracted to the enclosed structure if you are not careful. In addition, garages use siding, so you will need to power wash the outside occasionally to keep the siding looking good. You will also need to lube your garage door to keep opening and closing it with ease.
Other Factors to Consider
You need to consider the type of vehicle you have and your area’s climate when deciding what structure works best for you. Also, consider the spot you plan to put the structure. For example, if you want to put the structure on grass, you need a carport. On the other hand, if you don’t mind using a concrete foundation, you may want to invest in a garage. If you need to consult with a local carport or garage builder in Brisbane, search using “Carports Brisbane” on Google, you will find the locals.
Conclusion
The structure you decide to add to your property depends heavily on your budget and what you want out of the structure. If you have a limited budget and only care about covering your vehicle, a carport will be better. If you have a bigger budget and want storage space, you are better off investing in a garage. You need to consider your space, budget, and maintenance before investing in either structure.