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What Size Carport Do You Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right Dimensions


So you are planning to install a carport in your home? Awesome! But how do you make sure you choose the perfect size for your vehicle(s)? Things like the roof style, color, and design are important, but getting the right size is the real deal!


It’s no less than a headache when limited space makes parking a tight squeeze. Similarly, it’s really annoying to maneuver your vehicle in and out of your cramped carport, and worst of all, your car might still end up partially exposed to the elements! On the other hand, going for too big carport could mean wasting precious space on your property and spending more than necessary. This is exactly why the right size is the most important thing to consider when getting a garage. 


In this article, we will guide you through the important considerations for selecting the perfect carport size.   Keep reading to make the best decision for your vehicles! 

Steel Garage

Why Choosing the Right Carport Size Matters?


No doubt, a new carport would be a fantastic addition to your property since you will have a dry, safe location to park and store. Here’s why getting the appropriate size matters: 

 

  • Protection from Wild Weather 

An adequate-sized carport leaves no part to weather thus it provides full coverage for your vehicle   from rain, snow, or even intense sun. So, you won’t have to worry about parts of your car being exposed to the elements.


  •  Easy Access

With a properly sized garage, you don’t have to struggle to get in and out of your car. There will be enough space to open the doors and maneuver without the risk of hitting anything.


  • Cost Effectiveness

When you build a carport with the right dimensions, you avoid overpaying for unnecessary construction and losing extra space. You get exactly what you need! 


How To Choose the Right Carport Size and Dimension 

So before you buy a carport, you need to put a lot of thought into the size of the carport. Let’s take a quick look at the most important factors you should consider before choosing a carport size: 


1. Purpose of Your Carport

The first thing in choosing the right garage is understanding what you are protecting. A single car, multiple vehicles, or larger assets like caravans, trucks, or boats? Knowing the size and number of vehicles you need to protect will help you determine the appropriate dimensions and size.


Here is a summary of carport dimensions for different vehicle types:

Vehicle Type Width (Feet) Length (Feet) Height (Feet) Considerations
Compact Cars 10-12 20-24 Standard Make sure that the vehicle is of sufficient height.
Sedans 10-12 20-24 Standard Slightly larger carport for easy movement.
SUVs 18-24 24-30 Taller Check the height of your SUV or Crossover.
Trucks 18-24 Custom Taller Measure your truck's dimensions, and consider lifted suspensions or accessories.
Farming Equipment 18-30+ Custom Custom Adequate height for tall equipment and additional storage for tools and supplies.
RVs 12-20+ Custom Custom Check if there is enough height to accommodate rooftop accessories (e.g., air conditioning units).
Boats 10-20+ Custom Custom Extra height for tall features like T-tops.

2. Dimensions of Your Vehicles

Measure the dimensions of the vehicle you want to park in the garage. Bring a tape measure and measure your car from the front bumper to the rear bumper. Then measure the widest part of your vehicle, which is from the right side mirror to the left side mirror. Add 6 to 12 inches extra to both length and width so that your car has enough space for easy maneuvering. For the height, measure from the ground to the roof of your car and consider a little extra height for antennas.


If you have two or more vehicles then make sure that your garage is wide enough to accommodate them side by side or end to end.


Carport Type Vehicle Type Width (Feet) Length (Feet) Height (Feet) Best For
Attached Carport N/A Varies Varies Varies Provides easy home access and is budget-friendly thanks to shared structural support, but offers less flexibility in space design.
Detached Carport N/A Varies Varies Varies Flexible design: can be placed anywhere on your property but needs extra space.
Single Carport Compact Cars 10-12 20-24 Standard A practical and affordable choice for homeowners with one car or small space needs.
Sedans 10-12 20-24 Standard Choose a slightly bigger carport to allow easier movement.
Double Carport SUVs 18-24 24-30 Taller Ideal for bigger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, or boats, offering flexibility and reliable protection for multiple cars.
Triple Carport Trucks 18-24+ Custom Taller Provides convenient covered parking for multiple vehicles and doubles as a workspace or recreational area, but demands ample space.
Utility Carport Farming Equipment 18-30+ Custom Custom Protects large farming equipment from the weather and provides extra storage for tools and supplies, but requires customization to accommodate specific equipment.
RV Carport RVs 12-20+ Custom Custom Can fit different RV sizes, with enough height for rooftop accessories and air conditioning units, but needs customization to suit specific RVs.
Boat Carport Boats 10-20+ Custom Custom Protects boats from the elements and is designed to suit the size and type of boat, but needs customization to match individual boats.

3. Clearance Height


Another key factor for carport size is the height clearance. A good height of a carport allows vehicles to fit comfortably. The minimum clearance height is 2.1 meters, but 2.4 meters is more common. 

Taller vehicles like SUVs, RVs, or trucks require more clearance area so that they do not hit the roof. So in case you own an SUV or a truck, make sure to add an extra 12-18 inches to its height. But keep in mind that the taller the garage, the less resistant it will be to high winds, especially if its width and length aren’t close in comparison to its height. 


4. Room for Future Vehicles

If you plan to purchase a second vehicle, boat, bike, or even upgrade to an SUV, RV, or truck, your current carport will not be big enough. That’s why it’s also essential to consider your future plans while choosing the right size for your carport. This will save you time, money, and the hassle of upgrading your garage later on.

Get the Best Custom Carport From Shed Solutions

Struggling to protect your vehicles or belongings from harsh weather? No more worries! Shed Solutions has brought you the most durable metal carports in collaboration with Eagle Carports with weather-resistant vertical roofs and spacious designs. Our durable metal carports feature weather-resistant vertical roofs, spacious designs, and a variety of models ranging from 12x15x9, 12x30x12 16x3A0x9, 18x30x9, 20x20x11, 20x20x7, 20x20x8, 20x20x9, 20x20x9, 20x20x9, 20x25x8, and 20x25x9. Plus, we offer fully customizable options to meet your unique requirements. 

Secure your vehicles and belongings with Shed Solutions' reliable metal buildings and carports. Call (540) 867-0890 or visit Shed Solutions today!


FAQs


Q1. How do I determine the right size for my carport?

Ans: To choose the right carport size, measure your vehicle’s length, width, and height. Add 6-12 inches to the length and width for easier maneuvering. Consider the clearance height for taller vehicles like SUVs or trucks, and think about whether you may need space for future vehicles.

Q2. What types of carports are available for different vehicles?
Ans: Carports vary depending on the vehicle type. Single carports are great for compact cars and sedans, double carports work well for SUVs and trucks, and RV or boat carports require custom dimensions to fit large vehicles and accessories.

Q3. Can I customize the size of my carport?
Ans: Yes, many carports are customizable to suit specific needs. You can choose the dimensions, height, and design that match your vehicle(s), whether for a single car, multiple vehicles, farming equipment, or RVs.

Q4. Why should I consider future vehicle needs when choosing a carport?
Ans: If you plan to purchase additional vehicles, a boat, or upgrade to a larger vehicle in the future, it’s wise to choose a carport that offers extra space now. This will save you from having to upgrade your carport later on, saving you both time and money.

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