Carport – key information to consider before choosing one

A carport is a roofed structure for a car that protects it from rain, snow and the sun without the need to build a traditional garage. It can be wall-mounted or freestanding, single or double, and its design can be adapted to the building, the space available on the plot and the way you use your car.

If you’re looking for a ready-made, made-to-measure aluminium carport, start by making a few decisions: where it’s to be situated, how many cars it needs to accommodate, whether you need side walls, and which installation option will be suitable for your property.

What sort of carport would be suitable for a house?

When choosing a carport, it’s best to start by considering the space you have available. You’ll need a different solution for a wide driveway, a different one for a narrow plot, and yet another if the structure is to be attached to the house.

The number of cars, the way the property is accessed and the ability to open the doors freely are also important factors. A well-designed carport should not hinder manoeuvring or take up more space than is actually necessary.

A wall-mounted or free-standing carport?

A wall-mounted carport is attached to the building and makes good use of the space right next to the house. This is a solution worth considering if your driveway is next to the façade and you want to keep this part of your property tidy.

A free-standing carport offers greater flexibility in terms of location. You can position it further away from the building, in the spot that best suits the layout of the plot and the access route.

There is no single option that suits every property. Before making a choice, it is worth checking the available space, the drainage system and the installation options.

A carport for one or two cars?

If you only have one car, a single-car carport is usually sufficient. If two cars are regularly parked on the property, it is worth considering a double-carport straight away.

A carport for two cars requires more space, but it avoids the situation where one car is left uncovered or where the existing structure has to be extended at a later date.

When choosing the dimensions, don’t just consider the width of the cars. You’ll also need space to open the doors comfortably, walk past the car and park with ease.

Aluminium carport – when is it worth choosing one?

Aluminium is well suited to outdoor structures as it is lightweight, durable and corrosion-resistant. It also does not require as much maintenance as wood.

An aluminium carport can be colour-coordinated to match the façade, window and door frames, fencing or other features around the house. Thanks to its simple design, it blends in well with both modern and more traditional buildings.

If you’re looking for a ready-made, made-to-measure structure, one option could be aluminium carport, including installation.

A bespoke carport – why is it worth tailoring it to your plot?

The standard catalogue dimensions do not always correspond to the actual layout of the property. When commissioning a made-to-measure carport, the following factors, amongst others, can be taken into account:

• the width and length of the parking space,
• the height of the car,
• its location in relation to the house,
• method of entry,
• the number of posts,
• planned side development,
• method of water drainage.

This means that the structure is designed for a specific location, rather than the other way round.

Can a carport have enclosed sides?

Yes. A carport does not have to remain completely open.

Enclosing one or more sides can reduce side winds, provide greater protection for the car and ensure greater privacy from the neighbouring plot or the street.

The sides can be designed in various ways, depending on the structure and the effect you wish to achieve. At Otwierane.pl, we can combine the carport with solutions used for side extensions, ensuring that the roof and side panels form a cohesive whole.

If, when ordering the carport, you already know that you will want to enclose its sides in the future, it is worth taking this into account right from the start of the design process.

What sort of roof should you choose for a carport?

The type of roof affects not only the appearance of the carport, but also the amount of light beneath the structure, the way water is drained away and the comfort of use.

Depending on the system you choose, there are various roofing options available. Before making a decision, it is worth considering whether your main priority is full shading, natural light or a specific aesthetic for the structure.

The exact roof design should be chosen to suit the specific carport and the installation site.

How much does a carport cost?

The price of a carport depends primarily on its dimensions, the type of structure, the number of parking spaces, the method of installation and any additional fittings.

Factors that may affect the cost include, amongst others:

• wall-mounted or freestanding version,
• the size of the structure,
• type of roof,
• the chosen colour scheme,
• side panelling,
• additional lighting,
• scope of installation.

That is why, when it comes to a made-to-measure carport, the most reliable approach is to obtain a bespoke quote for the specific solution.

Carport with installation – what does the process involve?

If you don’t want to design and build the structure yourself, you can order a ready-made carport, including installation.

First, the design option, its dimensions, installation location and fittings are agreed. A quotation tailored to the specific property is then prepared.

Once the design has been approved, the structure is custom-made and installed at the specified location.

A carport or a traditional garage?

A carport and a garage solve a similar problem, but they are not the same thing.

A garage is an enclosed space that allows you to store a car and other items inside the building. A carport, on the other hand, is primarily designed to shelter a vehicle and is a lightweight, open or partially enclosed structure.

If you need an enclosed utility room, a garage is a different option to a carport. If your main priority is to shelter your car and you don’t need a full building, it’s worth considering a carport.

Would you like to build a carport yourself?

If you’re planning to build a carport yourself, we’ve put together a separate guide: „DIY carport – a step-by-step guide to building one?”. In it, you’ll find information on structural planning, site preparation and the options for constructing side extensions.

Are you looking for a ready-made aluminium carport?

If you’re looking for a ready-made, made-to-measure solution that includes installation, take a look at our range Aluminium carports from Otwierane.pl.

We will select a design option suited to the location, the number of cars and the intended use. We can also include side panels and additional fittings.

Please get in touch with us and ask for a quote.

Frequently asked questions about carports

Can a carport be built against a wall?

Yes. A carport can either be attached to a building or constructed as a free-standing structure. The choice depends on the available space on the property and the installation conditions.

Is it possible to build a carport for two cars?

Yes. Single- and double-car variants are available. If you have two cars, you’ll need to allow for the appropriate width of the structure and enough space to park comfortably.

Is it possible to enclose the sides of a carport?

Yes. Depending on the design, you can enclose one or more sides of the carport. It is worth planning this enclosure when you are choosing your carport.

What determines the price of a carport?

The price is primarily influenced by the dimensions, the number of bays, the design variant, the type of roof, the colour scheme, any additional structures and the fittings.

Can a carport be made to measure?

Yes. As the structure is made to measure, its width, length, height and orientation can be tailored to a specific spot on the property.

Is it better to choose a carport or a garage?

If you need an enclosed space, a garage would be a better option. If your main priority is to shelter your car and have a lightweight structure next to your house, it’s worth considering a carport.