Having a safe, secure space to park your vehicles is an essential part of any residential property.

But for many homeowners, not having a garage or stable covered driveway can pose a substantial risk to both the longevity of your land and the well-being of your private property.

Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a fortune on building a garage to upgrade your parking area and give your home the added security that it needs.

With an easy-to-install D.I.Y carport kit, you can transform your property with one support post at a time.

But first, let’s take a look at the ins and outs of adding a carport to your home so that you can take on this renovation project with confidence.

Why choose a carport for your property?

If you’ve been parking your car or truck on a gravel or dirt driveway, you’ve probably noticed the effect that the natural elements can have on your vehicle.

However, protecting your car from potential damage is far from being the only reason to add a carport to your property.

Here’s what a D.I.Y carport can do for you and your home….

More Storage Space

Not only can a covered carport be customized to fit multiple vehicles at a time, but it can also be used to store everything from ATVs and motorcycles to outdoor gear, all in one conveniently organized place.

Less Risk of Theft

Statistically, thieves and vandals are more likely to prey upon vehicles that are parked out in the open or on the side of the road. Despite not being enclosed, a carport may discourage trespassers from disrupting your property by adding an extra shield of protection you can count on.

Versatile For All Vehicles

Because D.I.Y carports can be made specifically for your needs, you can fit vehicles of all shapes in sizes without any expensive storage units or added concrete slabs on your property. Your parking space on your terms.

Energy Efficient Parking

Unlike traditional garages, carports do not require any outside source of electricity, saving you money on your energy bill and reducing the need for costly maintenance down the line.

Increased Property Value

Whether you plan to sell your property in the future or not, the addition of a carport is an easy way to increase your curb appeal and add even more value to your home, with no costly renovations required.

Bottom line?

If you’re looking for a simple parking solution that’ll keep your property safe, secure, and effortlessly stylish, then a carport may be the ideal remedy for your vehicle storage needs.

How can I build a D.I.Y carport?

One of the most appealing aspects of installing a carport on your property is the simplicity and affordability of the overall process.

In most cases, you’ll be able to build your own custom carport with just a few key materials and 6 easy to follow steps.

Here’s how to build a carport…

Step 1: Check Local Building Codes

Just like with any other building project, it’s important to ensure that you follow the rules and regulations set forth by local ordinances, so that you can avoid any potential fees or violations that can set back your progress.

You should check with your local authorities to gain insight into local build codes, zoning information, and other critical factors that can impact your carport.

Step 2: Choose Your Materials

Depending on your property needs, the materials you choose to complete your carport can have a huge effect on your finished project.

For example, metal carport roofs and polycarbonate roofing sheets both have unique styles and benefits that you may want to consider when picking your materials.

Most importantly, you’ll need to decide on a base material that can support your carport for the long haul.

Unlike outdated gravel or concrete pad carports, Geocell carport bases give you heavy load capacity with built-in water drainage that prevents erosion on your property. These bases are affordable and easy to install, no matter what your construction skill level looks like.

Step 3: Measure Your Carport

Next, it’s important to ensure that you have an adequate amount of space for your parking needs.

For example, a standard carport might measure 16ft. x 9ft., but will only allow you to safely park one or two small family cars. If you’re looking to store a large truck, RV, or other large vehicles, you’ll need to account for the additional space in your carport plan.

Once your measurements are complete, you can begin excavating and leveling the land underneath your carport, so you have a clean slate to start building on.

Step 4: Dig & Set Beams

After you’ve filled in the foundation of your carport using the materials of your choosing, you’ll need to dig a post hole every 3 to 4 feet surrounding your carport. For average-sized carports, this comes out to be about 6 post holes total.

When it’s time to dig your holes, it’s important to make sure that you provide enough depth for your posts to hold up against the elements. We recommended a minimum of 2 – 3 feet deep for each post.

You can fill in your post holes using a variety of materials to keep your posts set in place, including gravel, dirt, and even poured concrete so that your carport can withstand the test of time.

Step 5: Add Additional Support

Once you’ve allowed your posts to be fully set, you’ll need to reinforce your carport structure with a series of support beams.

To do this, you can use standard 2×6 wood planks that can be securely screwed to the tops of the beams, helping the frame of your carport stay nice and sturdy, even in inclement weather.

Step 6: Assemble Your Roof

Finally, it’s time to put on the finishing touch: your roof.

Before you install your roofing material of choice, you’ll need to lay a solid foundation using standard 2×4 wood rafters and even plywood to cover the entirety of your roof.

For your rafters, you can ensure the stability of your roof by laying the wood flush with the support beams and at equal distances from each other. Then, you can simply attach your plywood using heavy-duty screws.

After that, you can easily lay your metal, polycarbonate, or even aluminum roof with ease.

Ready to start building?

We understand that taking on a D.I.Y carport project can seem like a daunting task.

That’s why Backyard Bases is committed to helping you achieve your renovation goals with industry-leading Geocell technology that gives you an ultra-stable, self-draining foundation for your next project, delivered at an affordable price made for every budget.

Connect with our team to kickstart your carport project today.