Carport or Garage: Which is best?

The difference between a carport and a garage

When it’s time to build a new home or renovate an old one, many homeowners face a difficult decision  should they choose a carport or garage? Of course, both options have their pros and cons, and the choice comes down to what’s best for each homeowner. So, which is better for you a carport or a garage?

What is a Carport?

A carport is a roofed structure that is open on at least one side and intended to provide parking protection for one or more vehicles. Carports are typically made from a wide range of designs, like metal or vinyl, and have an A-frame, hip, or gabled roof at an average cost. They can be freestanding or attached to a house, or you may also consider having a single carport or a double carport, depending on your needs.

Carport PROS

• Carport costs are much cheaper than garages.
• Carports can be more appealing than traditional garage structures since there are different carport designs you can choose from.
• Carports can be installed relatively easily and quickly and have a lot of custom designs.
• Carports often do not require permits, whereas garages do in most cases.
• Carports do not take up as much room as a garage, so they are great for small properties or tight spaces.
• Carports can be used as additional covered storage space for other items such as lawn furniture, bikes, etc.

Carport CONS

• Carports can be less flexible than full garages.
• Carports offer less protection for vehicles than garages do.
• Carports typically have a shorter lifespan than garages because they’re made of less durable materials.
• Carports do not provide additional storage.

What is a Garage?

A garage is a building where cars, motorcycles, or other vehicles are stored. Garages can be standalone structures, or they can be attached to a house or other building. It can also be a single garage or a double garage. They typically have a door that allows the car to be driven inside and often have additional space for storing tools, equipment, and other items. Some garages also have an area for working on cars, with a workbench, tools, and extra space.

Garage PROS

• Garages provide added security for your vehicles and belongings, especially locked garages.
• Garages give the potential for increased home value.
• Garages keep your cars 100% protected from the elements.
• Garages provide extra storage space.
• Garages can be used as workshops or hobby areas.

Garage CONS

• Garages can be pretty expensive to build, and they’re often not included in the price of a home.
• Garages can be difficult to heat in the winter, making them uncomfortable to use.
• Garages can be a magnet for pests, such as rodents and insects.
• Garages can take up valuable space on a property.

Building Regulations

Carport

You need to consider a few things when planning to build a carport, as there may be specific regulations you need to follow. First, check with your local authority or council as to whether or not you need planning permission for a carport. If you require council approval, get all the necessary paperwork before beginning construction.

Also, consider the size and location of your carport carefully. It needs to be big enough to comfortably fit your vehicle/s but not so big that it dominates your property or sticks out like a sore thumb. The location is also essential think about which way the sun hits your property throughout the day, and try to place the car there.

Garage

Garage building regulations will vary depending on your location. However, garages must comply with the same council guidelines as any other structure. This means that they must be structurally sound and able to withstand the elements.

To ensure that your garage complies with local regulations, it is essential to contact your local building authority for more information. They will be able to provide you with specific details about what is required in your area and can also help you through the planning process if necessary.

Conclusion: Which one is best for you?

The best way to decide is to consider your budget, the climate where you live, the level of security you need, and what other homeowners in your area have.

However, by weighing the factors involved in each option and asking yourself a few key questions, you can make a more informed decision about what’s best for your needs. We hope this article has helped clarify the topic and that you are better equipped to choose the proper structure for your home.