Enclosing a Carport: Benefits, How-to, and Expert Tips
Enclosing a metal carport you already have, or purchasing an open carport with the plans to enclose it yourself is a great way to save money and increase protection.
Enclosing a steel carport is pretty simple to do, and you should be able to do it yourself with no experience. In this article, we’ll be covering the advantages of enclosing a carport, and why an enclosed carport is better than an open one.
Want to purchase an enclosed carport from the factory? 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!
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Why Enclose a Metal Carport?
Enclosing a carport transforms an open shelter into a secure and functional space with several benefits:
1. Enhanced Protection
An enclosed carport shields your vehicles and personal items from wind, rain, snow, UV rays, and other damaging weather, allowing you to preserve the condition of your belongings for a longer amount of time.
2. Added Security
Walls and lockable doors deter theft and unauthorized entry, providing greater peace of mind that your stored items will remain safe.
3. Expanded Utility
Enclosing a carport allows you to use the space for more than just keeping vehicles out of the weather. You can create a workshop, garage, or even some kind of shed for your hobbies and crafts.
4. Increased Property Value
An enclosed carport, especially one done by a professional, can vastly increase your property value, allowing a higher resale price.
How to Enclose a Metal Carport
Choosing to enclose your metal carport yourself, instead of hiring a professional, is a great way to save money. We’ve outlined a simple step-by-step guide to enclosing your carport:
1. Plan Your Design
First decide upon what you are enclosing the structure for. Will you be using the space as before, just for vehicle storage, or will you be using the space as a man-cave of sorts? Will you be installing windows, doors, insulation, or ventilation? What about electricity? Taking your time during the planning phase will help you save money. It’s a “measure twice, cut once” type situation.
2. Choose Your Materials
Carports we sell are made from either 14 gauge or 12 gauge galvanized steel tubing. The roof sheet metal is typically 29 gauge or 26 gauge steel. You do not have to match this gauge when enclosing the carport, you can use any gauge you want, or you could even enclose the carport with vinyl siding or wood. We recommend deciding on your materials before obtaining a permit, as having a clear plan and not deviating is essential for building regulation compliance.
3. Obtain Permits
Converting an open carport to an enclosed one will typically require a permit. Check with your local township or building department to see if you need one. Permit fees are typically $50 to $150. If you choose not to get a permit, your government may fine every day until you revert the modifications.
4. Prepare the Frame
Inspect your existing carport frame and ensure it is both sturdy and level. If you are adding ends to your carport, you will want to add additional framing to support the material you’ll be using to enclose the carport. If you want to use vertical siding, as opposed to horizontal siding, you will also want to add horizontal runners or perlins, as you will need somewhere to screw/nail the siding material into.
5. Add Doors and Windows
If you wish to add doors or windows to your structure, you will need to frame out both the siding material and the framing. It is typically easier to measure and cut the siding material before you attach it to your structure. If you are installing a roll up or overhead door on the end of your structure ensure you install a header to help pull some of the weight load. Choosing to skip this step and installing a heavy roll up or overhead door can lead to building collapse. installing a header is not necessary when installing windows or walk in doors, as long as the door/window is going between the legs. If you have to cut a leg to get the door/window where you want, then you will also want to install a header.
6. Install Walls and Roof Panels
Attach your chosen siding material to the frame. Begin with walls and ends, ensuring they are securely fastened. If you plan to add insulation or wiring for electrical outlets, we recommend doing this before you finish sealing up the walls.
7. Finish the Interior
Congratulations! The shell of your structure should now be completed. You can choose to leave it as is, or you can modify the structure by adding flooring, shelving, electrical, or lighting.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
If you’ve decided to enclose your carport, you have two options: enclose the carport yourself, or hire a professional to do it for you.
Should You Do It Yourself?
Enclosing a carport can be a rewarding DIY project for those with the necessary skills and tools. It allows for customization and cost savings, but it requires time, effort, and a solid understanding of construction and engineering principles.
Pros of DIY
- Lower costs
- Full control over design
- Satisfaction of completing the project yourself
Cons of DIY
- Time-consuming
- Risk of errors leading to structural issues or collapse
- Voids warranty, no guarantees
When to Hire a Professional
If you lack construction experience or have a complex design in mind, hiring a professional is a smart choice. Professionals, such as professional metal roof installers, ensure the job is efficiently done, prioritize safety, and ensure the building is up to code.
Pros of Hiring a Professional
- Expertise and effeciency
- Guaranteed workmanship
- Compliance with building codes
Cons of Hiring a Professional
- Higher costs
- Less personal involvement in the project
Conclusion
Enclosing a metal carport is a great way to enhance its functionality and value. Whether you choose to DIY enclose your carport, or hire a professional to do it, careful planning and execution are key to a successful project.
Choose The Carport Co. as Your Carport Provider
At The Carport Co., we’re committed to helping you navigate prefabricated metal building and the carport shopping process with ease. If you have questions, or need help to enclose your structure, our experts are here to help.
Ready to find your perfect carport? Contact The Carport Co. today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to enclose my metal carport?
Yes, in most areas, you will require a permit to enclose your metal carport. Contact your local building department or township to check requirements for your area.
What materials can I use to enclose my carport?
You can enclose a carport with a variety of materials. The most common type of material used to enclose the sides of a carport is sheet metal, followed by vinyl siding, then wood.
Can I insulate an enclosed carport?
Absolutely! You can and should insulate your enclosed carport. We wrote a separate article surrounding this subject: Carport Insulation: Why It’s So Important + Tips & Tricks.
How much does it cost to enclose a metal carport?
Costs to enclose a metal carport vary by size and location, but typically you will pay $1,500 to $4,000 to fully enclose a metal carport.
Will enclosing my carport increase my property value?
Yes, enclosing a carport, especially when done professional, can increase your property value. We wrote a separate article on this here: Will a Carport Raise My Property Value?
Can I add electrical wiring and plumbing to an enclosed carport?
Yes, you can install plumbing and electricity to enclosed carports. Be sure to get any required permits before doing anything.
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.
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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.
