Homeowner’s Guide To Building The Right Carport

Building the right carport will add value to your property. They are a fantastic addition to any home because they’re functional.

Depending on the space you have at your disposal and the idea you have in mind, you’ll have to establish a plan on how you’re going to erect it. You’ll basically need to design one, from scratch, perhaps with the help of a designer. It’s almost like what you would do when building a house from scratch.

It’s important to note that building the right carport is an intensive process, so don’t take it lightly. However, with the right tools and information, you’ll be able to construct the perfect carport for your property.

Step-by-Step Guide To Building The Right Carport:

1. Get A Building Permit

Before commencing construction, your design might have to be cleared by the city council in your locality. Since adding a carport will alter the building plan, it will also affect your house’s value. Hence, you need to secure a permit from the town planner to proceed with the project.

And in most cases, you’ll have to present the actual designs for approval. They’ll also require you to provide proof of ownership and permit application documents.

2. Purchase Building Materials

Building the right carport, it is important to know that you’ll use wood or metal (sometimes. both). Now, the material you’ll use is likely going to be influenced by the climate in your area. And the cost of the materials.

Normally, galvanized metal is way cheaper than wood. Metal garages are easier to install too. With metal carports, it’d be a good idea to purchase pre-fabricated kits if you’re taking the do-it-yourself (DIY) route. Therefore, metal will be the go-to building material for the person on a budget.

3. Take Measurements

Now, depending on the size of your vehicle or the number of vehicles you own, take measurements that will accommodate your vehicles. If you have a truck, you’ll have to take bigger measurements.

4. Level The Ground

You certainly don’t want to build your carport on uneven ground. So, you’ve got to level it out first and clear out any grass from the portion you’ve outlined using a rake. If you’re unable to level the soil with a rake, you can add granite stones on top of the soil to create an even surface.

5. Dig Holes For The Posts

Make sure that you equally space the holes between each post. Ideally, every hole should be at least 2.5 feet deep, but there’s no harm in going even deeper. Also, if you live in a windier or colder climate, you’d need to dig deeper than that.

Note, however, that when you’re using metal poles, they’re secured using mounting plates on cement. A hammer drill is used to drill holes into the cement.

6. Set The Poles In The Ground

Pour concrete into each hole, about six to eight inches deep. Then place a post into the hole and allow the concrete to harden at the bottom. Once hardened, add another layer of soil on top, and then top it off with some concrete.

Make sure that the post is vertical. Also, use a level to ensure that the concrete is even as well. Let the concrete rest for at least a day or more to allow it to harden.

7. Make A Datum Line

When you install your roof, this ensures that it will be level. With pre-fabricated metal carports, you don’t need to do this. But, if it’s wood, you’ll have to create the datum line.

You’ll need to outline where you want the roof to be on all posts. It’s best to use a pencil. Then, use your spirit level to get the same height for all the posts you’ve put up. Once complete, cut them off to achieve the right height.

8. Attach Beams

Ideally, you must fasten the front and backside beams first. Then go onto the side beams. Also, make housing for the side beams first and then place the beams on top so that they lay horizontally. Note that you’ll probably need a ladder for this operation.

9. Attach Rafters

Rafters are attached to and will support the entire roof upon installation. You can either use the notch method or the hanging method.

Depending on the dimensions of the roof, the number of poles, and the number of beams, you’ll need to buy adequate rafters. If you’re unsure, ask a carpenter to help you with this.

10. Install A Gutter

You’ll need to install this from the back end of the carport. A gutter is important because rainwater needs to run off to avoid water damage. Simply attach the gutter to the back beam using items known as gutter clips to hold it in place. Make sure that you install it at an angle to allow for runoff.

11. Install Roof

Take your metal roof sheeting and lay it on top of the rafters. Make sure that it’s inside the side beams. Once it’s level, attach it to some fasteners. Check whether the entire structure is steady. And you’re all done!

Conclusion

The method by which you build a carport largely depends on the materials used. Thus, the above steps provide an accurate overview of the building process.

Take note not to build it under trees, just in case you want to cut them off in the future. Also, before commencing any project, make sure you’ve bought all the materials. And if you’re ever unsure of anything, call a carpenter for help.

 

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