Last week we talked a little bit about the benefits of having a garage, but what about a carport? You might be wondering how similar they are or which one is best for you. Below we will discuss the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision.
Carports
Pros:
If your looking to save money upfront the cost of a carport is significantly less then a garage. You also won’t have to consider city regulations and fire safety during construction. This is because a carport is not an enclosed space, so its not necessary to build a fire rated ceiling or walls. Depending on if you have homeowners association rules and what they are, you may be able to build a carport from a kit that takes less then a day to install. Parking your car under a carport will keep the sun from destroying the paint and can also save it from falling tree branches and hail.
Cons:
If you’re looking for space or storage a carport is not for you. Carports are just big enough to shelter a car or possibly two, so you won’t be able to set up a work area or store any items. You probably wouldn’t want to anyway. Because a carport is an open structure it isn’t secure, you can’t lock it or protect it from wind and rain. It also won’t keep animals out. While a carport can add some value to your home it’s nothing compared to a garage.
Garages
Pros:
Garages can be as secure as your home. With good door locks your garage will be a safe place to store cars, tools, lawn equipment, and anything else. You can install all types of shelving, cabinets, drawers, and even hooks designed specifically for garages to customize the area. You could also turn it into a work shop, man cave, or anything else your heart desires. Unlike a carport a garage provides complete protection from the sun, hail, rain and wind. Plus it keeps the animals out. A garage can also triple in value what you paid for it so it is a great investment!
Cons:
A garage does costs quite a bit more up front to build than a carport, and it does take longer to finish. You will also have to follow more rules and regulations when you build a garage regardless if you’re adding it to your home or having it built as a separate unit. City building codes and fire safety regulations require the walls to be fire rated to slow the spread of a fire. Contact your city’s permits office for all of the rules and regulations.
Still confused about what you should build? Feel free to give us a call and we will be happy to help you figure it out.
C&H Construction is a licensed general contractor and Custom Home builder located in Blairsville, Union County Georgia serving Towns County Georgia, Fannin County Georgia, Gilmer County Georgia and the North Georgia Mountains