Carports can be a great addition to any home whether you choose a free-standing structure or one attached to your home. In addition to protecting your vehicles, carport canopy options can also be used as a patio or lounging space. Choosing the right carport option for your climate, home age, and style consideration will enhance the value of your home. Investing in a carport will provide you with a cooler home and additional space for multiple activities. Here are our tips to choose between all carport canopy options and find one that will best suit your needs.
Choose A Carport That Fits Your Climate
Carports placed in most climates can stand for many years, however, some extreme weather conditions could impact the longevity of the carport materials. The type of weather that your area frequently gets should be considered before installing a shade cover. Areas with heavy snowfall will require a more sturdy structure than mild climates.
Carports of all types that are placed in harsh climates may need extra maintenance in order to maintain their appearance. Staining, coatings, or repairs will need to be done frequently to save you from unnecessary replacement costs.
Aluminum Canopies
This is a lightweight material that still provides durability in carport design. Aluminum offers a sleek and minimalist design that provides enough shade over a driveway or parking space without overshadowing the home.
Aluminum canopies over a carport are easy to install because of their lightweight design. They are relatively affordable as well because of the small amount of material and the ease of installation.
Polycarbonate Panels
Polycarbonate is a UV-blocking and durable material often used for carports. Filtered light comes through the panels so that it is less intense but still provides warmth. They can be adjusted to offer flexibility in shading and even come in colored options to provide colored reflections.
Fabric Canopies
For homes that only need shade and not weather protection, fabric options can be utilized. These carports or canopies are more cost-effective options than other materials and can still provide adequate shade for your home. Fabric is often UV-treated to limit rotting and frequent replacement. Fabric carports also allow more flexibility as they can be made to roll up, come in many colors, and offer flexibility in shade levels.
Wooden Canopies
Wood is a classic construction material that can also be used for carport canopies. Natural wood can blend seamlessly into your rustic or traditional home while providing shade and cooler temps for the home. Treated woods like cedar are best for outdoor elements like carports. A lattice-type carport made of wood slats will provide shade and airflow.
Carport Sizes
Before anything else, you should measure the space where you want the carport to be placed. Depending on the size, the price of materials will increase the more space you want to cover. You will want ample space for vehicles or lounge furniture but you should also keep future considerations in mind. While your carport may be used for a vehicle now, it could need to serve a different purpose in the future.
Most medium-sized carports or ones that are attached to a home are affordable. Take into account the size of your home and your land to choose a size that doesn’t overpower the space.
Customization Options To Enhance Carport Style
Carports can be customized in order to match your home design and personal style. One of the benefits of working with a carport or shading company is that there are many decorative elements, colors, materials, and additional features you can add to your design. Adding a more personal touch to a carport canopy will help it feel less like an added expense and more like a needed enhancement.
Other customization options include:
- Powder-coatings
- Curved or other roof shapes
- Shelving or cabinets
- LED lighting
- Solar panels
- Flooring options like pavers, gravel, or stamped concrete
- Side panelling
- Windows
- Sliding doors
Options From Kool Breeze
Kool Breeze is known for its durable shading options in Utah. We offer carports in many different materials and colors as well as attached and free-standing structures. Our company has been family-owned and operated since 1947. Our experts have many years of experience in the industry and our goal is to provide you with a durable cover at the most affordable price.
In addition to carports, Kool Breeze also offers enclosed rooms, patio covers, pergolas, insulated covers, solar shades, and other patio accessories.