A carport is an unenclosed structure with a roof, designed to accommodate at least one motor. For those who don’t own a garage, a carport can be a very cost-effective alternative, whilst providing your car or other vehicles with excellent protection from the elements. 

If you are interested in learning a little bit more about calculating your carport cost. We recommend taking a little time to research your options so that you know exactly what to expect. Things such as design, material, location, and the size of your carport, will ultimately influence the overall cost of a carport installation. 

That being said, you’ll be glad you did when you’re at the other end, enjoying the following benefits:

Is it worth the cost to build a carport on your property? 

The short answer is yes, absolutely. This is why: 

• A carport can make your property look considerably bigger (not that size matters of course…)
• It will also add value to your home (and increase ‘buy ability’ – it’s a practical, attractive extra to prospective buyers)
• And it can lower insurance premiums (carports are considered secure parking by insurance companies and is reflected with lower car insurance premiums) 
• In fact, simply being able to keep your car in the shade offers benefit enough on its own:
  – Keep it cool on those roasting summer days (the feeling of having to jump into a suffocating hot car with molten leather seats is not something you ever get used to)
  – Keep it shaded and out of those damaging UV rays (prevent the colour of your car from fading, and the fancy leatherwork/upholstery inside protected too) 
• Oh, and they look great! It can never hurt, improving the overall aesthetic of your home

Now, it’s all well and good talking about the features, but how much is all of this going to cost? And how long will it take for you to make a return on your investment? 

Cost to build a carport

When it comes to the cost of building a carport in, there are a number of factors that will influence how much you have to spend, for example: 

• How big do you want to go? Do you already have one car in the garage and only need a single carport? Or perhaps you don’t own a garage at all and need to accommodate two vehicles? 
• What type of roof would you like? (there are many options to choose from)
• Which materials would you like used in its construction? (again, several options, each with their own pros and cons)
• Would you like any lighting or other features? (perfect for detailing or cleaning your vehicle in the evening) 
• Are there any fees or permits required to do so? (depending on where you live, there may be certain limitations in place) 
• And, do you want a custom-built carport? Or would you like to do it yourself with a carport kit (and save yourself some money in the process) 

The average cost for a carport kit can range anywhere from $1,000 at the lower end of quality, and $5,000 at the higher end. 

As you’d expect, custom carport costs can vary considerably more, from $6,000 for a single carport, and upwards of $20,000 for a double. 

Double carport cost

For a double carport kit, you’ll be looking at between $4,000 and $5,000. 

As for custom-built carports and having them installed by professionals, you’ll be looking at an average of between $10,000 and $20,000. Of course, if you should around, you may be able to find cheaper alternatives. 

Single carport cost

For a single carport kit on the other hand, you’ll be looking at between $2,000 and $3,000.  

And as for having a custom carport installed, it comes in at an average of between $5,000 and $10,000.  

Shade sail carport cost

Depending on a number of factors (i.e., whether it is waterproof or not), the cost for a shade sail carport is between $3,000 and £5,000. 

Stratco carport cost

Stratco carports can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $7,000. Again, this depends heavily on where and from whom you buy it from. 

Metal carport cost

How much does a metal carport cost? Well, a single skillion roof carport made from galvanised steel can cost you as little as $1,200 and under. 

• A double skillion roof carport of galvanised steel can cost approximately $2,000
• For an extra-wide, double carport with galvanised steel, you can expect to pay from $2,000, $3,000, and $4,000

 

How do the materials affect the cost of a carport?

Depending on how much money you have available in your budget, there are various materials options you can choose from: 

• If you would like to opt for the more durable materials (with a wider choice of colours too), a single carport made from aluminium or Colorbond steel might set you back about $3,200
• If you would prefer your carport be made from timber with a gabled roof and all the trimmings: $5,000 and upwards 

Is there anything else that might increase the cost of a carport installation? 

It depends on how much preparation is involved, for example:

• If there is surface preparation required or;
• A cement slab needs laying; 
• You are having professional installation (rather than using a DIY kit);
• Any council fees (if applicable);
• And/or a building permit is required

Then you may well be looking at other costs involved. Otherwise, that should give you a rough idea as to how much you will be looking at spending on a carport installation on your property. 

Conclusion 

We hope that you have found this information useful. Please note that these are not entirely accurate figures and are subject to change. We have just gathered rough estimations to give you an approximation in mind. Of course, should you want a more accurate figure, then reach out to a reputable supplier for more information.