What Are Metal Carports Made Of?

Steel Carports

• Steel is the sturdiest material for carports and the weight if this metal makes it preferable for carports in areas where hurricanes, tornadoes, gale winds and other intense weather conditions prevail. They can survive fires and are impervious to invasions by insects or rodents. Steel carports are extremely heavy and may require heavy equipment to manipulate the frame and roof during construction.

Aluminum Carports

• If you live where the weather is relatively mild year-round, aluminum is an acceptable carport material. Aluminum retards fire, can't be damaged by rodent or insect infestations and is less expensive than steel. Since aluminum is so lightweight, aluminum carports are easily constructed by two or three people in a few hours.

Size Considerations

• When calculating the dimensions for a carport, planning for more room than you need is recommended so you can shelter riding lawnmowers or other small vehicles alongside conventional vehicles. Allow ample clearance for opening vehicle doors and hatchbacks and enough room to comfortably change tires or perform routine maintenance such as oil changes, washing and waxing. If you plan to store RVs in the carport, make the structure tall enough to make repairs to the top of the vehicle.

Metal Carport Advantages

• Unlike other building materials such as wood or plastic, metal will not warp or disintegrate from exposure to the sun or other elements and is impervious to rotting, mildew, termites and cracking. Most metal carports are easier and quicker to construct than those made from other materials and require fewer, if any, interior load-bearing posts or walls that compromise space. If the carport is dismantled, most metal materials can be recycled.

Cost and Material Considerations

• Aluminum is usually cheaper than steel and considerably lighter in weight. When shopping for carport kits, consider the weight of your purchase as well as shipping, handling and applicable taxes in the cost. Be wary of companies with abnormally low prices, and carefully check warranty details and restrictions as well as installation and construction charges if you are having the carport built for you. Before investing in carport materials, check with local government agencies to learn of any building code restrictions on construction materials.