Protect Your Vehicles Without Breaking the Bank
For multi-car families or homeowners needing extra storage, protecting assets from the elements is a priority. Sun, rain, and hail can wreak havoc on a vehicle’s finish over time. While a full garage offers comprehensive protection, the price tag often puts it out of reach for budget-conscious buyers. This is where the double wide carport shines as a practical, cost-effective solution.
However, pinpointing an exact price isn’t always straightforward. The double wide carport cost can fluctuate significantly based on materials, location, and customization. It isn’t just about buying a kit; it involves understanding the total investment required to get that structure standing securely on your property. This guide breaks down the financial landscape of installing a double carport, ensuring you find a solution that offers true value for money.
Initial Cost Factors: Materials and Design
The first set of variables that will influence your budget involves the physical structure itself. Before you even consider labor, the choices you make regarding materials and design will set the baseline price.
Material Selection
The material you choose is the single biggest driver of cost.
- Steel: Galvanized steel is the industry standard for durability and value. It resists rot, fire, and pests. Prices generally sit in the mid-range, offering the best balance of longevity and affordability.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel and resistant to rust, aluminum is often used for smaller or attached structures. It can be slightly more expensive than basic steel options depending on the gauge and finish.
- Wood: Timber offers a classic aesthetic that matches many homes, but it often commands a premium. Beyond the initial lumber cost, wood requires ongoing maintenance (staining, sealing) to prevent rot and termite damage, which increases the long-term cost of ownership.
Size and Dimensions
A standard double carport typically starts around 18 to 24 feet wide. However, if you drive large SUVs or trucks, standard dimensions might feel tight. Increasing the width, length, or clearance height will directly increase the material volume and, consequently, the price. Adding just two feet of height to accommodate an RV can add hundreds of dollars to the final bill.
Roof Style Configuration
The roof isn’t just for looks; it impacts structural integrity and cost.
- Regular (Rounded) Roof: usually the most economical option. It uses fewer materials but offers less overhang protection on the sides.
- Boxed Eave (A-Frame): This style mimics a traditional house roof. It is slightly more expensive due to the complex frame but offers better aesthetics.
- Vertical Roof: The premium option. The panels run vertically (from ridge to eave), allowing snow and water to slide off easily. This requires additional framing (hat channel), making it the most expensive but also the most durable choice for harsh climates.
Carport Pricing Factors: Site and Customization
Once you have selected your structure, you must consider the site-specific and functional additions. These carport pricing factors are often where budget overruns occur if not planned for.
Foundation Options
You cannot place a high-quality carport on soft grass. You need a solid foundation.
- Ground Installation: Anchoring directly into the earth or gravel is the cheapest method. It requires specialized auger anchors but saves on concrete costs.
- Concrete Slab: Pouring a concrete slab provides the best stability and cleanliness but is a significant expense. The cost of concrete varies by region but serves as a major line item in your total project budget.
Customization and Add-ons
A basic frame provides a roof, but many homeowners want more protection.
- Side Panels and Gables: Adding metal sheeting to the sides or closing off the gables (the triangular space under the roof) increases wind and rain protection.
- Utility storage: Some double carports come with an attached shed or utility room, transforming the structure into a multi-use space.
- Doors and Windows: If you choose to fully enclose the carport later, framing for doors and windows will add to the initial engineering costs.
Location and Permits
Your zip code influences price. Regional steel prices, local labor rates, and snow-load/wind-load certification requirements all play a role. Furthermore, almost all permanent structures require a building permit. Permit fees vary by municipality, and you may need to pay for certified drawings to prove your structure meets local codes.
Installation Costs: DIY vs. Professional
When analyzing the steel carport installation cost, you have two main paths: handling it yourself or hiring a crew.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Manufacturers often sell carports as kits. Assembling it yourself can save you 10% to 20% on labor costs. However, erecting a double wide structure is heavy work requiring specific tools and at least two people. If the structure is not anchored correctly, it could fail during a storm, voiding warranties and endangering property. Professional installation ensures the job is done right and typically comes with a workmanship warranty.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Be transparent with your budget by accounting for these often-overlooked expenses:
- Site Preparation: The ground must be level before installation begins. If you need to bring in excavation equipment or fill dirt to level the site, costs will rise.
- Electrical: If you plan to add lighting or power outlets for tools, you will need to hire a licensed electrician.
- Delivery Fees: Depending on your distance from the distribution center, freight charges can add a surprising amount to the final invoice.
Comparative Price Analysis
To understand if you are getting a good deal, it helps to look at the market context. When researching the double car shelter price, you will likely find a wide range. Entry-level metal shelters might look appealingly cheap, but they often lack the bracing and gauge thickness required for long-term durability.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
Value is not just the sticker price. A cheaper, non-galvanized frame may rust within five years, requiring replacement. A certified vertical-roof steel carport might cost 30% more upfront but can last 20+ years with minimal maintenance. When you amortize the cost over the lifespan of the structure, the higher-quality option is frequently the smarter financial move.
Getting Custom Carport Estimates
Because variables like snow load ratings and local labor rates fluctuate, generic online price lists are rarely 100% accurate. The only way to know the true cost is to seek custom carport estimates.
How to Get Accurate Quotes
When contacting suppliers, clarity is key. Provide them with:
- Exact Dimensions: Width, length, and leg height.
- Installation Surface: Dirt, gravel, asphalt, or concrete.
- Zip Code: For wind/snow load calculations.
- Photos of the site: This helps them assess accessibility issues.
Understanding Quote Variables
Review estimates carefully. Does the quote include anchoring? Is delivery included? Is the tax listed? A transparent quote should break down materials, labor, and delivery separately so you can see exactly where your money is going.
Making the Right Investment
Determining the final double wide carport cost requires more than a quick Google search. It involves balancing your specific needs for protection and durability against your available budget. While it might be tempting to cut corners on the foundation or steel gauge, a carport is an investment in your property and the vehicles it protects.
Focus on value over the lowest possible number. A well-built steel carport adds functionality and potential resale value to your home. If you are ready to explore your options, reach out to reputable local dealers today.
Ready to protect your vehicles? Contact us today to receive a personalized quote tailored to your property and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a double wide carport cheaper than a garage?
Yes, generally speaking, a double wide carport is significantly cheaper than a traditional garage. Because carports require fewer materials (no walls, windows, or garage doors) and have a simpler foundation requirement, costs can be 40% to 50% lower than building a fully enclosed garage of the same size.
Do I need a permit for a double wide carport?
In most municipalities, yes. Even though a carport is an open structure, it is considered a permanent addition to the property. Local building codes dictate setback requirements, wind load ratings, and size limits. Always check with your local planning department before purchasing to avoid fines or forced removal.
How much does site preparation affect the total cost?
Site preparation is critical and can vary in cost. If your land is already flat and level, the cost is minimal. However, if your site requires excavation, tree removal, or significant grading to ensure the carport sits level, you could add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the project before the installation crew arrives.
What is the lifespan of a metal carport?
A high-quality galvanized steel carport can last 20 to 30 years or more with proper maintenance. Regular cleaning and inspecting anchors can extend its life. In contrast, untreated wood structures may begin to show signs of decay or pest damage in 10 to 15 years if not rigorously maintained.
Read Also: Triple Wide RV Maintenance: A Comprehensive Guide for Owner
