Why Are Carports So Expensive?

Carports are a practical and durable solution for protecting vehicles, equipment, and other belongings from the elements. However, many buyers find themselves surprised by the cost. Gone are the days of getting a 12×20 steel carport for $495.

Whilst carports may seem simple to fully enclosed garages, they come with their own set of unique challenges that drive up the price.

Need help to find a carport that falls within your budget? 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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Three metal carports by The Carport Co. stacked on top of each other, the first one possesses a curved AKA regular roof, the second a horizontal a-frame, and the third, a vertical a-frame. The carports are all measured to be roughly 12 feet wide x 15 feet long x 5/6/7 feet high

Why Do Carports Costs So Much?

There are many factors that go into the price of a carport, but there are some factors that impact the price more than others:

1. Quality of Materials

The materials used in carport construction play a significant role in determining cost. We sell carports made from high-quality galvanized steel framing and sheet metal, making our carports highly durable, weather resistant, and resistant to rust. These materials are more expensive than wood or plastic alternatives, but provide greater longevity and strength, especially in harsh weather. 

2. Customization Options

Carports are not a one-size-fits-all structure. Buyers can customize their carport’s size, color, roof style, and add additional features like partially or fully enclosed sides, gable ends, and more. Whilst these options allow for greater functionality and aesthetic appeal, they also contribute to higher costs. Custom features require additional materials, design considerations, and sometimes specialized labor.

3. Labor and Installation

Building or installing a metal carport is not as simple as it may seem. Installation involves precise measurements, groundwork preparation, and structural assembly. Depending on the complexity of your carports design and size, labor costs can quickly add up. Professional installation ensures the structure is stable and compliant with local building codes, but this expertise comes at a price.

Note: Every carport and metal building The Carport Co. sells comes with FREE delivery and installation. We do not charge you for labor!

4. Shipping and Logistics

Most prefabricated carports get shipped directly to your installation site. The size and weight of the components involved in your structure can make shipping costly, especially for larger carports.

Again, you won’t have to worry about this when purchasing a carport from The Carport Co., as we do not charge for the delivery or installation of your structure.

5. Engineering and Certification

For areas prone to severe weather, such as heavy snow, high winds, or hurricanes, carports need to meet specific engineering standards. Engineer certified carports can withstand these conditions and come with documentation proving their structural integrity. Achieving certification involves rigorous testing and adherence to strict building codes, which increase both the manufacturing and the purchase costs.

6. Demand and Market Factors

Market dynamics heavily influence the prices of carports. Fluctuations in steel prices, labor shortages, and increased demand can drive up costs. This is the same reason manufacturers run sales so often. A lot of the time they aren’t taking a hit on profit, instead the price of steel has just decreased.

Open carport with enclosed carport storage area. Sometimes referred to as a carport combo unit or carport with storage area.

Why Carports Are Worth the Money

When you invest in a carport, you’re not just paying for a shelter; you’re paying for peace of mind, durability, and protection. The combination of high-quality materials, professional craftsmanship, and customization options ensure your carport exceeds all your needs and stands the test of time. Whilst it may seem like a hefty expense upfront, the benefits far outweigh the initial cost.

If you’re in the market for a carport, it’s important to work with a trusted provider like The Carport Co. We offer a range of options to fit your budget and needs, ensuring you get the best value with your investment.

Red Carport with Curved Roof and no Sides Surrounded with Pentago above The Carport Co. in Writing. The Carport Co. sells metal buildings and metal carports.

Choose The Carport Co. as Your Carport Provider

At The Carport Co., we’re committed to helping you navigate the affordable carport and metal building 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

There are several factors that contribute to a carport’s cost, such as quality of materials, customization, labor costs, and engineering certification.

Yes, steel carports are generally more expensive than carports made from wood or plastic. However, steel provides superior durability

Professional installation ensures that the carport is properly assembled, stable, and compliant with local building codes. This process often involves groundwork preparation, precise measurements, and skilled labor, all of which lead to high costs.

Yes, you can save money by installing a carport yourself. We offer discounted metal carport kits delivered to your door.

Yes, steel carports are a great long term investment. They add to your property value and can save you thousands over time by avoiding costly repairs on your vehicle.

Yes, most manufacturers selling prefabricated carports have stamped engineering plans and certified carports.

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!

Red Carport with Curved Roof and no Sides Surrounded with Pentago above The Carport Co. in Writing. The Carport Co. sells metal buildings and metal carports.

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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.