Two-thirds of single-family housing units in the United States have either a carport or a garage. These buildings have many benefits, most of which are shared between the two. However, installing a carport is generally the more accessible option.

If you’re looking to add a parking or storage solution to your home, you’re far from alone. The benefits of a carport may exceed those of a garage in certain situations. Continue reading to learn what the benefits of a carport are.

1. Protection Against the Elements

Metal buildings like carports can help protect both you and your vehicle from the elements. Hail and debris thrown around in storms with high winds can cause significant damage to your car.

A few examples of potential weather-related damage to your vehicle include:

• Dents in the body
• Chipped paint
• Scratches
• Chipped or broken windows
• Chipped or broken side mirrors

A carport can offer another layer of protection against these types of weather-related damage when it’s parked at your home. A carport may also provide extra protection against heavy snow.

Having a carport attached to your home means you won’t have to face the rain, snow, or wind when getting out of your vehicle. After a long day of work or running errands, facing the elements is likely the last thing you want to do.

2. Additional Security

A carport offers additional security against vehicle theft. It could even provide more protection than a garage because the space is open.

A well-lit open space makes it easier to view your vehicle and offers fewer spaces to hide. This could be a deterrent to potential burglars.

With a garage, there may be additional protection against break-ins. However, once someone is inside, it’s easy for them to find a place to hide in the darkened interior of your garage. This is likely something a potential home intruder would consider.

3. Cost-efficient

Building a garage can cost a small fortune. But, on the other hand, a carport is much more affordable and therefore more cost-efficient. There are several reasons for this.

A garage has four enclosed sides and friendly garage doors. A carport either has four or two open sides and no motorized door. This drives costs down significantly.

Also driving down costs is that a garage and carport are built using different materials. Garages are generally created using the same materials as the home (although not always). Carports are usually constructed using aluminum or similar metals.

Although more affordable, a carport can last for years or even decades if taken care of. When it does come time to repair or replace your carport, it will cost significantly less than if something was wrong with your garage.

4. Convenient

Carports are convenient to use and incredibly versatile. Simply pull your vehicle in or out of the carport. You don’t need to open or shut doors to facilitate use.

Additionally, caring for a carport is simple. Besides regular checks for the structure and foundation, you should be sweeping the floor of your carport as needed. Cleaning the roof to prevent damage is also recommended.

5. Perfect Storage Solution

A carport doesn’t have to house only your car. It can accommodate other things in addition to (or beside) your vehicle.

For example, you can store all other types of vehicles in your carport. Your boat, RV, detached car trailer, four-wheeler, dirt bike, and motorcycle can be stored in your carport. But vehicles aren’t where storage options stop.

You can store basically anything you want in your carport, as long as it’s stored in sealed, airtight containers. Of course, if you’re worried about moisture, you can always lay a tarp over containers to keep things extra safe.

6. Helps De-clutter Your Yard

If you’re storing many vehicles and other outdoor items in your yard, things can quickly start looking cluttered. Not only is clutter an eye-sore, but it could go against code in certain situations. For example, if you live in an area with an HOA or a township with strict regulations.

Consider a wider carport so you can both park your vehicle and have an area for storage. Not only can you get your leisure vehicles out of the yard, but also things like your kid’s bicycles, the grill, and your tools.

7. Provides Shade

Another use for a carport is as an outdoor seating or play area with ample shade. Add seating and a table for a place you can enjoy nature no matter the weather.

You can also use a carport as the basis of an outdoor play area for your kids. Store items like outdoor play kitchens, a playhouse, and a sandbox here. Your kids can enjoy time outside even when it’s raining, and the inside of your home will be less cluttered.

8. Adds Value to Your Home

If you plan to sell your home at any point in the future, a carport is a worthwhile investment. Many potential homebuyers look for a garage or carport. Some even filter their potential homes, so they only see those that have parking solutions.

Having a carport could sell your home faster. It could also help you get a higher price on it.

More Questions About the Benefits of Installing a Carport?

There are many reasons to have a carport. However, the benefits listed above are only the most significant and not an all-inclusive list by any means.

Do you have more questions about the benefits of installing a carport? Check out our other blogs. You’ll find articles on carports, garages, and similar topics to help you learn more on the matter.