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As a homeowner with a vehicle, you might wonder whether carports or garages will serve you better. Many factors can determine which of the two will help you better, including location, budget, and lifestyle. You should remember that your vehicle and home are essential assets, so you'll need to carefully consider the pros and cons before choosing.
When providing storage for your vehicle, you can count on both options to meet your needs. However, it's important to note their differences before choosing. In this article, we'll take you through the differences between a carport and a garage and some of the critical things to consider before choosing one. Let's get right into it.
Carport VS. Garage: The Differences
A carport is an outdoor structure designed to house cars by providing overhead protection. It is generally a much smaller option than garages. In addition, carports are more economical, and their construction doesn't take much time. On the other hand, garages are enclosed completely, but they provide more security and storage space.
The most noticeable difference between the two lies in their structure. The structure of a carport is generally more straightforward, and this is characterised by an overhead shelter that provides cover for vehicles. On the other hand, garages are enclosed, with a roof at the top, solid walls, and doors.
Since walls and doors do not enclose carports, they are not referred to as garages. Even though carports are entirely different from garages, they are still an excellent option for protecting vehicles. Carports and garages have unique benefits, and if you're still wondering which is best for you, you should check through these benefits.
Benefits of a Garage
Garages are generally bigger than carports, and they offer more security. In addition, they offer many other benefits, which include the following:
More protection
Most cars spend more time parked than in motion, so it's advisable to have a secure parking space. Garages are entirely enclosed, which offers better protection than carports. A garage is also a better option for protection from the elements like rain, wind, and storms.
It's important to note that dust, extreme temperatures, sunlight, and pollen can cause damage to your vehicle, and a carport alone may not be sufficient to provide the protection you need. With a garage, you can get this level of protection.
More convenience
Even though the distance between your front door and driveway may seem irrelevant when you think about loading up your car, it might start to feel like a long distance. However, life can be a lot more convenient with a garage attached to the building and features like garage doors for easy access to your home. Unlike carports, garages remove the need to go farther to access your car or the front of your house.
More space
Another fantastic thing to know about garages is that they offer more storage space for your vehicle and other household items. Most people use their garages to store power tools, emergency supplies, maintenance equipment, and lawnmowers.
It can also be an extra working or living space. The extra space you get in your garage has many potentials you can explore in many ways.
Better appearance
People interested in curb appeal and appearance can also consider getting a garage instead of a carport. It's a lot easier to match the style and appearance of your garage with that of your house.
For someone who doesn't want their garage to be overwhelming, a freestanding or detached garage is equally a great option to consider. This option also offers enough space and protection and further enhances the appearance of your home.
Benefits of a Carport
Even though garages have many unique advantages, carports equally have their advantages. Ultimately, the option you choose depends on your budget, time, and preferences. The pros of a carport include the following:
Easier to build
Unlike garages, carports are much easier to construct and are generally more straightforward than garages. They have a simple roof, and in most cases, they don't have walls. Even carports with walls are a lot easier to construct than garages.
If you want to increase the protection it offers, consider making it an enclosed carport.
Carports don't have doors, air conditioning, electrical wiring, or windows; they are generally not considered extra living space.
This is why they don't need to comply with building codes. Another thing to note is that carports don't require concrete slabs or floors, which further reduces the time it takes for construction and the overall cost.
Less clutter
One of the common problems with garages is that people dump unnecessary items in them and end up forgetting them. Eventually, this clutter builds up, and the garage becomes messy.
That's not the case with carports, thanks to their structure and size, which makes it easier to prevent the buildup of clutter. This further ensures that you have more space to park your car.
Increased value
Garages and carports are often debated, and most homeowners like to know which is more valuable. For a home without a garage, installing a carport is a smart way to increase its value. This will make it more attractive, and if you plan to sell the house, you can rest assured that it will likely attract more buyers.
Factors When Picking Between a Carport & Garage
With everything above, you should now have a good idea of the differences between the two. However, in addition to knowing their differences, there are a few other factors to consider before choosing between a garage and a carport. These factors include the following:
Reasons for building a carport or garage
The reason for building either of the two is a factor that can help you determine which is best for you. A carport offers protection to valuable items, but the level of protection cannot be compared to that of garages. Therefore, building a garage is a better option than a carport if you're building because of the protection they offer.
Your vehicles are valuable
These two options are excellent if your cars are valuable, and you can rest assured that they will effectively keep your vehicles safe. This applies to carports with only two sides, as they effectively protect your car from up to 90% of natural elements. However, the garage remains the better option when viewed from this angle, as it provides complete coverage that offers up to 100% protection.
Your location
The current location of your house is another factor to consider before choosing between the two. Carports and garages are great, and with either of the two, you won't need to get out of your vehicle into heavy rain or wind.
These days, people join their carport to their house to further enhance their protective ability. However, this ultimately depends on your budget, as it can make it more expensive.
Budget
Another critical thing to consider before choosing between the two is your budget. Carports are generally easier to construct and don't require too many building materials. You can build one yourself or with the help of a few friends.
However, the main thing to note is that carports don't last as long as garages. It is essential to remember that carport costs can differ, but they are a better option to consider than garages if you're on a budget.
Choosing What's Best for Your Home
The option you choose ultimately depends on your budget and needs. Even though they are different, they both have unique benefits they offer. For emphasis, garages provide more space and protection for belongings and your vehicle. However, carports are more affordable than garages and are equally easier to build.
Suppose you need a quick option to protect your cars without the commitment of building a garage. In that case, you can contract carport designers to build a strong and secure carport for your home.
