Do Metal Carports Sweat? Causes and Solutions
Metal carports are a popular choice for protecting vehicles, equipment, and outdoor spaces due to their durability, affordability, and low maintenance. However, one common concern among owners is whether metal carports can sweat. The short answer is yes – metal carports can sweat under the right conditions, but you can mitigate with the right solutions.
In this article, we’ll explain what causes metal carports to have condensation, AKA sweat, its potential effects, and how to prevent it.
Need to discuss a carport or metal building that won’t sweat? A Carport Co. representative would be happy to discuss the best solutions for your specific situation. Give us a call at (317) 300-4190, or email [email protected]. Thank you for choosing The Carport Co. for your project!
Get Started
It’s quick and easy! Get a quote for a carport built in a way that doesn’t sweat.
Manufactured in the United States
20-Year Warranty
Licensed and Insured Installers
Outstanding Customer Service
Structures That Stand Strong™
What Causes Metal Carports to Sweat
Sweating in metal carports and other metal building buildings is primarily caused by condensation. This occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with the cooler surface of the metal roof. When the warm air cools down, the moisture in the air condenses into water droplets – much like how water beads form on a glass of cold water during a hot day.
Several factors contribute to this condensation:
1. Temperature Fluctuations
Rapid temperature changes, especially during early mornings or late nights, can create the conditions necessary for condensation to form.
2. Humidity Levels
High humidity increases the moisture in the air, which leads to more condensation when it meets a cold metal surface.
3. Lack of Ventilation
Poor airflow traps warm, moist air inside the structure, making condensation more likely.
4. Ground Moisture
If your carport doesn’t have a proper foundation or is placed directly on grass or bare soil, moisture from the ground can evaporate and increase humidity under the carport.
Why is Carport Sweating a Problem?
Preventing condensation is the key to keeping your metal carport in top condition and protecting its contents. Excess moisture in your metal carport can lead to a number of issues, including:
Dripping Water
Condensation can cause water droplets to fall onto vehicles, tools, or other items stored under the carport, potentially leading to rust or water damage.
Mold or Mildew
Prolonged moisture exposure can create an environment for mold or mildew to grow, which can affect stored items and the structure itself.
Corrosion
Whilst the metal carports we sell are coated in a layer of rust-resistant galvanized steel, persistent moisture can still contribute to long-term wear.
How to Prevent Carport Sweating
The good news is you can prevent condensation from forming, or significantly reduce how much condensation forms on your metal carport by implementing the following strategies:
1. Seal Gaps, Cracks, and Leaks
When attempting to remove moisture from a metal building or carport, your highest priority should be to ensure you prevent new moisture from getting into the structure. If you have a fully enclosed carport or metal building, ensure there are no gaps, cracks, or leaks allowing moisture into your structure.
2. Improve Ventilation
Proper airflow is one of the most effective ways to prevent condensation. By installing vents on your enclosed carport, you can allow warm, moist air to escape before it condenses on the cooler metal surface. This is especially important when the carport or metal building is fully enclosed as opposed to partially enclosed, and when you have no insulation on the structure.
3. Install a Vapor Barrier
You can install a vapor barrier, such as CondenStop or Dripstop, on the underside of your roof’s sheet metal. This helps block moisture from condensing on the metal of the structure. Because both products are a felt like material, any condensation that would form gets absorbed. In the event of a gap or crack in your roof’s sheet metal panels, the CondenStop or Dripstop would absorb any water getting in.
Another option is to install a ground vapor barrier underneath your carports foundation. This will prevent ground moisture from rising into your carport.
4. Add Insulation
Insulating your carport roof is a highly effective method you can employ to completely stop your metal carport’s roof from sweating. Insulation prevents the metal surface from becoming cold enough to cause condensation. Options like bubble wrap insulation or foam board insulation are both cost effective and easy to install yourself. We wrote a separate article going over insulation in more detail: Carport Insulation: Why It’s So Important + Tips & Tricks.
5. Move the Carport to a Moisture Resistant Foundation
Avoid placing your carport directly on bare ground, as moisture can easily evaporate from the soil and increase humidity under the structure. Instead, install a concrete slab, gravel base, or other moisture-resistant foundation to reduce ground moisture.
6. Use a Dehumidifer
If your metal carport is partially or fully enclosed, a dehumidifier can help reduce the overall moisture levels in the air. This is a practical option in areas with consistently high humidity.
7. Ensure Proper Drainage
Make sure you direct rainwater and runoff away from your carport or metal building. Installing gutters and downspouts can help manage water and reduce moisture buildup near the structure.
Final Thoughts
While metal carports sweat because of condensation, the problem is both manageable and preventable. By improving ventilation, using insulation, and controlling moisture levels, you can keep your carport and its contents dry and in excellent condition.
If there is anything you need further clarification on, feel free to call (317) 300-4190 or email [email protected] and we would be happy to assist, free of charge.
Choose The Carport Co. as Your Carport Provider
The Carport Co., we’re committed to helping you navigate the metal carport shopping process with ease. If you have questions, or need help to select the ideal carport dimensions, our experts are here to help.
Ready to find your perfect carport? Contact The Carport Co. today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does condensation happen in metal carports?
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cooler metal surface, causing the moisture in the air to turn into water droplets.
Will insulating my metal carport roof stop sweating?
Yes, insulation prevents the metal surface from becoming cold enough to cause condensation, making it an effective solution.
Is ventilation necessary for an open carport?
Whilst open carports naturally allow airflow, installing vents can still help improve circulation and reduce moisture buildup, particularly if you are a very humid area.
Can condensation damage my carport?
Whilst most metal carports are resistant to rust, prolonged moisture exposure can contribute to corrosion and damage stored items.
How can I reduce ground moisture under my carport?
Installing your metal carport to a concrete foundation, gravel base, or vapor barrier can help minimize ground moisture and humidity under the carport.
Do I have to pay sales tax when purchasing a carport or metal building?
Yes, most states consider carports and other metal building taxable goods, so you will have to pay sales tax on your purchase.
Ready to Begin Your Project?
Do you think The Carport Co. would be a good fit for you? We’d love to earn your business. Fill out the quote form, and one of our friendly representatives will be in touch with you shortly. We’re here to answer questions you may have, provide personalized recommendations, and get you an estimate on your project.
To speak with someone, call (317) 300-4190 or email [email protected].
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your property with a durable, versatile, and visually appealing metal structure. Contact The Carport Co. today and experience what we can do.
Visit our 3D Builder to design your own structure!
Get Quote
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide is a collection of articles by The Carport Co. These articles have been catered to first time steel and metal carport, garage, and commercial building buyers. Our goal is to share as much information with customers as possible, to help make informed decisions, and ensure a customer doesn’t discover an addition they would have liked to added at the time of sale, but was not aware of the option’s existence.
Here is a preview of a few articles. To view the full Buyer’s Guide, please visit the Ultimate Buyer’s Guide page.
