Choosing between a garage vs carport is not something you do often, but when the time comes, it’s important to be informed.
This article will provide an overview of both options so that readers have a better idea about what each one entails. We’ll begin with an overview of garages and their advantages, go over some key features of carports, then offer suggestions on how to choose between them based on different factors.
1) Garage Pros And Cons
The first option we’ll cover is the traditional garage – it’s been around for many years and provides plenty of protection for your vehicle inside. Check out our list of benefits below.
- Protection from outdoor elements: Depending on the type of garage you purchase or build, your vehicle will be protected from sun, rain, snow, etc.
- Added security: If you have a valuable car that you don’t want to be at risk for theft or damage from vandalism, then a garage is the right choice for you.
- Space for additional storage: Some garages can be used as extra storage for other items in your household if it’s large enough. Home improvement professionals recommend maximizing your available garage space by making them areas for storing household items. Modern garages are made of various materials that are similar to the materials used for constructing your home. It means that garages are durable structures and can be considered as extensions of homes in many ways.
There are also some downsides to traditional garages that should be considered. They’re detailed below.
- Issues with space and planning: Garages tend to come with a set size. This means they can’t always offer additional room for vehicles or objects being stored. They also take up space on your property, which can be a downside for some homeowners.
- Difficulty in accessing the vehicle: In many garages, people have to enter through the house (if you don’t have an automatic garage door). This could mean walking around the car if it’s parked inside – and depending on where the entrance is set up, this could be quite dangerous.
2) Pros And Cons Of Carports
As their name indicates, carports are built to protect vehicles from different outdoor elements like rain or snow. Check out our list of benefits below.
- Protection from location-specific weather: If you live in certain areas that experience heavy rainfall or other common types of precipitation throughout the year, then you should consider purchasing a carport.
- Easy access: Carports are typically built right outside a house, so people can access the vehicle with ease from the front door. This also reduces instances of potential damage from falling objects or mishandling by others. This is advantageous for people who use their vehicles frequently.
- Additional covered space: In most cases, carports provide enough room for one or more vehicles to park underneath them – they can also provide some extra storage space if desired.
There are a few downsides to consider about using a carport as well, which are detailed below.
- Can’t be used as a garage: As mentioned earlier, carports have limited space and generally aren’t big enough to be used as a long-term storage solution. If you need a place for your car that offers more protection and is available at all times, then a traditional garage is your best bet.
- Not as secure: Carports don’t offer the same level of security as garages – malicious individuals can gain access to vehicles more easily without an obstacle like a door to block them. Keep this in mind if you have expensive items inside your vehicle that you don’t want to be stolen.
- Your vehicle will not be fully covered: Whether your carport is free-standing or connected to the side of your house, it can only offer two sides worth of protection, which means your car will only be protected 90% of the time from harsh outdoor elements.
2) Which One Is Better?
After covering some key benefits and drawbacks for both options above, we’ll now answer questions of whether a carport is better than a garage. In general, here’s what you should consider before making your decision.
It depends on where you live
If you live in an area with common types of precipitation, then a carport will suit your needs more closely since it offers protection from the elements. But if you have a valuable vehicle and want it to be as safe as possible on a regular basis, then a traditional garage will likely be the better option for you.
Depends on your budget
Your budget can also be a factor that can sway your decision in choosing how you can protect your car. A carport is generally cheaper and easier to construct than a garage. It can be made out of common building materials and can be done as a DIY project. It usually does not require a building permit due to its more open structure. Keep in mind though that a carport has a shorter lifespan than a traditional garage. A garage on the other hand, takes a significant investment and time to build, but the finished structure is durable and can last several years or even decades with proper use. Building a garage can be expensive, but it also adds real estate value to your home should you decide to sell it. Even if you decide otherwise, you’ll find plenty of additional uses for your garage space in the future.
Your daily activities
Think about your daily routine as well. If you are looking for a convenient and secure parking space for your vehicle at home, then there isn’t much difference between the two options. However, if ease of access is important to you or those who may need help reaching the car, then a traditional garage is probably the better choice. If you are the type who wants no-fuss parking and easy takeoff, a carport’s open design is more suitable for you.
After considering this article, you should have enough knowledge to decide between a carport and a garage. The ultimate decision in choosing between these two options will depend on your lifestyle, needs, and budget. It also helps to think about the long-term use of these vehicle parking structures. There’s nothing wrong with deciding to choose one over the other since you can choose to switch to the other option. If you have a hard time deciding, ask for advice from a professional builder.
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