Anyone who lives in a region where harsh elements are prevalent appreciates the value of carports. Carports not only shield your vehicle from the elements, they ensure your asset is well-protected too.
And the best part? If you’re comfortable doing a little DIY work, you don’t need to hire a professional builder to get the job done.
Building your own carport not only means you’re a responsible car owner, doing it yourself can save you a lot of money as well. In other words, a DIY carport is an excellent alternative for anyone seeking a low-cost way to protect their vehicle.
If this sounds like something you’d like to do, check out these 5 DIY carport plans.
Considerations when building a carport
Creating a carport is a labor-intensive project that requires considerable planning. Below are a few key points to keep in mind. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment before you begin. Aside from tools, there are a few other factors to think about.
Height and Width
Do you have enough room for a carport? Is there enough room for the carport? Before you grab the first tool, ensure that the final structure will be high enough for your vehicle to fit. You’d be surprised at how often this is overlooked.
Tools you’ll need
If you’re an avid DIYer you probably already have most or all of these tools. If you don’t have some of the larger items, especially (e.g. scaffolding) consider renting to save money:
- ⬥ Safety gear
- ⬥ Concrete
- ⬥ Tape measure
- ⬥ Power drills
- ⬥ Screws
- ⬥ Hammer drills
- ⬥ Grinder
- ⬥ Tin snips
- ⬥ Sockets
- ⬥ Rivet gun
- ⬥ Spirit level
- ⬥ Laser level
- ⬥ Ladders, duct lifts, scissor lifts, scaffolds, trestles
Carport Location
Another important consideration is the placement of the carport. For best results, build the carport on a level and smooth surface. Second, determine whether the surface is adequate for constructing such a structure.
If you’re close to gas, electric, and/or water lines, contact local authorities and have them do a locate so you don’t accidentally damage the lines (or yourself)!
Other Considerations
Before starting to build your DIY carport, there are a few more things to consider. For example, install a carport that complements the overall design of your home. It won’t look out of place this way.
Remember to check or apply for local permits as well. If needed, go to the local government’s offices to learn more about the restrictions.
How much manpower will it take to build the carport? Some plans are easy enough you can do it solo, however others will require the help of a team — even amateurs such as friends and family — to complete the DIY project.
1. Attached (lean-to) carports
By attaching it to your house, the DIY lean-to carport becomes part of the larger structure.
To build it, you need to ensure the corners are right-angled. DIYers can typically build the attached carport in one day (depending on their skill level).
2. Two-Car Carport
You’ll love this DIY carport if you have multiple cars (or toys) that you want to protect from direct sunlight or bad weather.
It will be less expensive and easier than constructing a garage that may or may not satisfy your needs. It’s an excellent model for building a modern carport that any skilled DIY individual can do.
3. Storage Container Carport
Granted, this DIY carport isn’t suitable for every home, but if you live in an area with limited restrictions, and you have the space and desire, it can be a perfectly functional carport, with the bonus of protected storage space.
4. Freestanding Carport
This single carport is 20 ft long x 10 ft wide, and it’s the simplest of carports. The plan includes options for post installation and bracing because each location is different and individual tastes vary.
The structure itself is made from wood, but the roof (which is not steep) can be made from a variety of materials, including PVC, tin, or other metals.
5. Free standing with storage
Finally, this wood carport plan will give you extra storage space alongside your carport.
There is an additional 6×12-foot storage unit attached to the rear, which is perfect for tools and gardening equipment.
An experienced woodworker should be able to complete the job in a weekend with the right materials and tools.
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