Top 10 Benefits Of Owning A Carport

A Carport provides shelter for your vehicle(s).  People and pets aren't the only things that need shelter from the elements. Besides a home, an automobile is usually considered to be one of the more important investments you make. A carport is a shelter constructed from wood, metals or other materials. It tends to take the place of a garage. Here are the top 10 advantages of using a carport.

Advantage #1: Weather Safety

The main reason homeowners purchase a carport is to protect vehicles from the elements, including the sun, rain, ice, hail, and snow.  A carport usually has a roof and sometimes it even has sides. However, it is not typically fully enclosed.

Advantage #2: Added Home Value

Carports certainly add value and should be an item you consider for home improvements. In fact, many homeowners are adding carports to their property in addition to an already existing garage. For example, a carport doesn't have to be just for a car, it can be used to protect other large items like boats, trailers, snowmobiles, ATVs, motorcycles and other methods of transportation for which you don't have room in your garage.

Advantage #3: Protection against Burglars

Parking your car under the carport may also shield it from vandalism or other random attacks. Burglars or perpetrators are usually less inclined to enter a carport close to the home.

Advantage #4: Additional Space

You can use carports as outdoor porches if you need extra space.

Advantage #5: Cost Effective

Carports are a cost effective way to protect and store your vehicle(s), and they are generally cheaper to purchase and install than garages

Advantage #6: Shade

You may use a carport as a play area for children or shaded areas for adults.

Advantage #7: Organization

If you install a carport with walls, it may also serve as an extra storage unit for tools, boxes and other items.

Advantage #8: Convenience

Because most carports are open areas, they do not have doors. Ultimately, the lack of a door can be more convenient when you come home with grocery bags or other items you need to carry inside. A carport can also save on energy and electricity.

Advantage #9: Flexibility

A carport has more flexibility than a garage. A garage can seem imposing and make your lot look much smaller, especially when constructed as an addition. A carport structure, on the other hand, is open and feels much smaller sized.  If you get creative, you can discover all sorts of uses for a carport besides just a place to protect your automobile. You also have more choices for decorating a carport. You can put seasonal plants around the edges so that they will grow up providing natural privacy. You can also hang things like plants, lights, or wind chimes from your carport.

Advantage #10: No More Storage Units

A carport could save from having to rent a storage unit.

Before you decide to purchase a pre-fabricated carport, construct a carport on your own or even call in a professional, check with your city or homeowners association for zoning ordinances or for what is allowed in the neighborhood. Some communities require permits and proof of plans.