subject: Metal Carport Kits: Cost Effective Protection For Your Car [print this page] Looking for cost effective method of protecting your car? Metal carport kits might the answer; they are strong, durable, cheaper than other types of carports and easy to construct.
Metal carport kits can be used for various purposes like a shaded play area for the kids, a covered outdoor entertaining area, protection from the elements for external doors and windows or to provide a shaded garden area.
Metal carports can be erected free-standing or they can be attached to the house or garage, making them very versatile. The kits come in a variety of standard sizes from single car to multiple vehicle widths and lengths. Most companies will also custom make a carport to your specific requirements and measurements, and provide it in kit form to your address.
Metal carports are made from either steel or aluminum. Steel is strong, and is a good option for snowy climates. Aluminum is lightweight, making it easy to work with for the amateur. Both steel and aluminum are practical materials for a carport or cover for whatever purpose you want.
The roof shape is another choice you will have to make. Your carport or cover can have a flat roof, or a sloping skillion roof. You might want to create a more up-market effect with your metal carport, or match the roofline of your house, so you could choose a pitched or hip roof.
You can choose to put sides on your carport; these could be solid aluminum sheeting, shade cloth or timber lattice. The sides offer protection from the sun and weather, so they can come part way down or right to the ground. Metal carports can be erected on any stable foundation like cement, tiles, gravel or dirt.
Kits should come with everything you need to finish the carport, complete with detailed instructions. You could ask about the instructions; look at them if possible, just to ensure that they are actually simple to follow. When the kit is delivered, all pieces are cut to size so you just have to join them up. Start by laying out the individual pieces so you can check that everything is there, and so you can recognize each of the pieces when you need them.
If you have a step-ladder, a screwdriver and a measuring tape, you have all the tools needed to put a carport up yourself. On average, it will take you and a friend one to two days to complete the carport. A small carport will only take several hours but a large one with cladding or a pitched roof will obviously take longer.
There are numerous online companies selling metal carport kits, and they will also be available from building suppliers and hardware stores. Most come with a warranty, but it pays to shop around to find the best price and warranty.
