How to Design a Carport Plan and Make it Work

Carports are excellent low-cost alternatives, to having a full-fledged garage. They can be built, in addition to a garage, as parking space for extra vehicles.

When funds are low and building a garage is not an affordable alternative, you always have the option of building a relatively low-cost shelter, which is a carport. Though, it does not offer the kind of space, which a garage does, it serves the purpose of an effective primary shelter, against the elements.

Designing these plans is all about understanding the basic structure of a carport and acquainting yourself with all the design aspects. A well-designed and constructed carport can really enhance the overall look of your property. Here are some tips.

The first thing to consider, are the funds you can allot for your construction project. A decision on the budget will help you narrow down your options, for plans that you can choose from. It ensures that costs don't exceed your allocated budget. So, decide on a maximum budget cutoff.

The next thing to do is to get an idea about the size of the structure. It will be decided by what you are going to store inside it. If you are planning to store a truck or an SUV, you require more space, compared to an average size car. So, decide on the height and dimensions for your plans. Keep a couple of feet of extra space, while designing.

One of the basic considerations, that will largely affect the cost of building a carport, is the choice of materials, that are used for building. There are two main choices, which include wood and metal. Building a metal structure is cheaper than building a wooden one. Metal kits are available, which can be easily built.

However, wooden carports look more elegant than the metal ones, though they require more maintenance. A wooden carports, built with bricks and mortar for support and can have an elegant roof and excellent visual appeal. This plan generally uses cedar or salt pine, if you want a less-expensive option. So, choose the material which you want as per your budget.

Next thing to do is peek around and have a look at the various designs around you. Browse through magazines and online plans, for more ideas. Look for plans with storage, which can be very convenient, if you want to use the structure, as more than just a shelter or parking space. Narrow down on a few catchy designs and inculcate the features in your plan.

Decide the location and position that would be the best for your carport. Ease of access to the driveway will largely dictate your choice. Make sure that it gels with the overall layout of your house. It should not stick out like a sore thumb, in comparison to the overall design.

A concrete foundation is a must, as it stands the test of time. A strong concrete foundation will cost a lot but it will add to the overall resale value of your house. This foundation can withstand rainy weather quite easily, compared to a gravel foundation, which will erode and get soggy.

A good roof design in your plans will add to its aesthetic value. There are many roof styles that you can opt for, in your plans. Some options are a skillion roof, a flat roof, or a classic sloping roof on both sides, which can be an excellent deterrent against rain.

You could also opt for a Dutch gable roof or a W-panel roof. Decide the style, in such a way, that it is in sync with the overall appearance of your house.

Building one on your own is not much of a hassle, if you have experience in construction projects. Putting careful thought into designing and building every integral part of your house, leaves no causes for complaints later.