How much does a carport cost?
The cost of building a carport can vary significantly and depends on several factors. The price is mainly determined by the materials used, the type of foundation, and the size of the carport (e.g., whether it is a single or double carport). The cost of simple carports made of wood or metal starts from a few hundred euros, while larger and more advanced structures, especially those with integrated utility rooms or special designs, can cost over 10,000£.
Costs of a single carport
A carport for one car is the simplest and most popular option. The cost of such a carport depends on the chosen material and size. A classic single wooden carport can cost between 1,000 and 3,000£. If you opt for a solution made of steel or aluminum, the prices can rise to 3,000–5,000£. Additional options, such as roof covering, gutter installation, or lighting, can increase the costs by another 200–500 £. It’s also important to consider the cost of foundations, which are necessary to ensure the stability of the structure.
Costs of a double carport
A carport for two cars is more expensive than a single one due to its larger size and greater complexity. Prices start at around 2,000£ for a simple wooden model and can rise to 6,000–10,000£ for metal or aluminum structures. For larger carports, foundations play an even more crucial role and must withstand greater loads, so higher costs should be expected compared to a single carport.
Costs of lean to carport
Lean to carports, which are attached directly to the building wall, is popular due to space-saving and the ability to visually match the appearance of the house. The cost of such a structure ranges from 1,500£ for traditional wooden constructions to 7,000£ for more advanced metal solutions. Since one side of the structure is supported by the building wall, it often requires less material, which can reduce construction costs.
Costs of a carport next to a garage
A carport installed directly next to a garage offers a practical extension, providing additional covered parking space or storage area. This type of carport creates a visually and functionally cohesive unit with the existing garage. The cost of such a carport starts at around 1,500£ for a wooden model. Metal constructions can raise the prices to 5,000–8,000£. If foundation reinforcement is required, additional costs may also arise.
Installation a carport – additional costs
When planning the construction of a carport, in addition to the construction costs, additional expenses should be considered, which can significantly affect the final price of the project. Considering these additional costs allows for a better estimation of the total budget for the carport construction and avoids unpleasant surprises during project implementation.
Installation by an external company
Although self-building a carport can reduce costs, hiring a professional company ensures the correct and safe installation of the structure. Installation costs depend on the difficulty level of the project and the chosen material, ranging from 500£ for a simple wooden carport to 2,000£ for more complex structures.
Lighting
Good lighting for a carport is very important to make the use of the shelter comfortable even in the evenings. Installing LED lamps or other light sources can generate additional costs of around 100–500£, depending on the number and type of lamps used and the labor required for electrical installation.
Roof
The choice of roofing also affects the total cost of building a carport. The cheapest solutions, such as corrugated sheet metal or plastic roofs, are available from 300£. More durable materials, such as bituminous shingles or polycarbonate, can increase additional costs to 500–1,500£. It’s also worth considering the installation of gutters, which involves additional expenses of 100–300£.
Painting and protective measures
To ensure the durability and aesthetic appearance of the carport, painting or impregnation may be necessary, especially in the case of wooden constructions. Painting costs depend on the size of the carport and the materials used, starting from 200£ for a simple protective layer but can reach up to 800£ when using high-quality paints and varnishes.
Foundations and groundwork
One cannot forget the costs of preparing the site for the construction of the carport. Depending on the type of soil, it may be necessary to create point foundations or a concrete slab, generating additional costs ranging from 500 to 2,500£. These works are crucial for the stability and durability of the structure and should not be overlooked.
Possible savings when building a carport
There are several ways to reduce costs when building a carport, such as choosing the best material – wood – or assembling it yourself.
Choosing natural material: Wood
Wood is not only more environmentally friendly but also cheaper compared to other materials like aluminum or steel. Choosing wood can significantly reduce the cost of building a carport while maintaining an aesthetic appearance and functionality. Wooden carports are also easier to assemble yourself, allowing for additional savings on installation costs.
When it comes to the cost of wood, it can vary depending on the type and quality you choose. For example, using pressure-treated pine is often one of the most affordable options, costing approximately $200 to $400 per cubic meter. This makes it a cost-effective choice for those who want a sturdy yet economical material. On the other hand, if you prefer more durable and aesthetically pleasing woods like cedar or redwood, the costs can be higher, ranging from $500 to $900 per cubic meter. Even with these higher-quality options, wood remains generally more affordable compared to metals like aluminum or steel, which can easily exceed $1,500 per cubic meter.
Additionally, the relatively low weight of wood means lower shipping costs, and you can often source wood locally, further minimizing expenses. By choosing wood, you not only cut down on raw material costs but also reduce labor expenses, as working with wood typically requires fewer specialized tools and skills compared to metal. Many people find that they can complete a wooden carport project themselves, saving money that would otherwise be spent on professional installation.
Self-Assembly
By deciding to assemble the carport yourself, you can save on the costs associated with hiring a construction company. Many ready-made carport kits are designed to be assembled without specialized tools and expertise.
Avoiding unnecessary additional features
Every additional element that is not part of the standard carport equipment leads to increased costs. It is worth considering whether all additional features, such as special lighting, extra security, or non-standard roofs, are truly necessary.
Prefabricated models instead of custom designs
The cost of a carport can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the design and individual requirements. Choosing a prefabricated kit instead of a custom-designed carport significantly reduces costs, as these kits are cheaper to produce and assemble. Prefabricated models are standard, quickly available, and easier to assemble, which also leads to further savings.
Do I need planning permission to build a carport?
Whether you need planning permission to build a carport depends on several factors, including the location of your property, the size and height of the carport, and local building regulations. In general, you may not need planning permission if the carport meets certain conditions, such as:
Size and Height: The carport should not exceed a certain height (usually around 2.5 to 4 meters, depending on local regulations). Additionally, if the carport is a single-story structure and does not exceed a specific floor area, it may fall under permitted development rights.
Location on the property: If the carport is located within your property’s boundaries and does not extend beyond the front of your house or towards a public road, planning permission might not be required.
Proximity to boundaries: The carport should maintain a minimum distance from the boundaries of your property (usually about 2 meters), unless it’s attached to the house.
Listed buildings or conservation areas: If your property is a listed building or is located in a conservation area, you may need planning permission regardless of the carport’s size and location.
Purpose: The carport should be used solely for domestic purposes and not as a commercial or industrial space.
To be certain, it’s always advisable to check with your local planning authority or council, as regulations can vary widely depending on your region. They can provide specific guidance based on your circumstances and ensure that your carport complies with all necessary building codes and regulations.
Choose the right company for your carport
If you are looking for a reliable manufacturer of wooden carports, it is worth considering Bertsch Holzbau. This company specializes in wooden constructions, with many years of experience and a wide portfolio of various carports and wooden garages. Thanks to its experience and high-quality workmanship, Bertsch Holzbau offers solid and aesthetically pleasing solutions that perfectly meet your needs.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a wooden carport cost?
A wooden carport typically costs between £1,000 and £3,000 for a single carport. More complex or double carports made of wood can be more expensive, depending on size and additional features.
Can I build a carport myself?
Yes, building a carport yourself is possible, especially if you purchase a ready-made kit. However, it requires at least basic manual skills and the appropriate tools.
Is building a carport cheaper than building a garage?
Yes, building a carport is usually cheaper than building a garage because it requires fewer materials, and the assembly is quicker and simpler.
Does a carport increase the value of the house?
Yes, a well-designed and solidly built carport can increase the value of the property, as it provides additional protection for vehicles and enhances the functionality of the plot.
How much does it cost to build a carport in the UK?
The cost of building a carport in the UK varies widely, depending on materials and size. A basic single carport can cost around £1,000–£3,000, while more advanced models or metal constructions can go up to £10,000 or more.
How much do materials cost for a carport?
Material costs for a carport depend on the type of material used. Wooden carports are generally cheaper, with material costs starting from £1,000, while metal carports (steel or aluminum) can range from £3,000 to £7,000 or more, depending on complexity and design.
