DIY Kits Versus Custom-Built Carports

Which is the Better Option for Your Home?

If you’re a homeowner in Brisbane, you know that protecting your car from harmful elements is essential.

It’s not just about keeping it shiny and free of bird droppings.

It’s about preserving its value too.

That’s why we have carport professionals in Brisbane offering great solutions.

But if you’re like many people weighing the options, you probably find yourself asking the question: “Do I choose one of those DIY carport kits, or do I go for a custom-built carport?”

Exposure to Weather Damages Vehicles

Here in Australia, our cars are exposed to some harsh weather conditions. From scorching sunny days to torrential downpours, extreme heat and UV rays can cause paint to fade, crack, and peel. Also, hail storms leave unsightly dents. Moreover, wet weather leads to rust and corrosion. As a result, our vehicles deteriorate more rapidly compared to other parts of the world.

Add a Carport for Weather Protection

Installing a carport on your property provides much-needed shelter from the sun, rain, hail, and more. By parking under cover, you can dramatically slow the weathering process and keep your car in tip-top shape for years to come. The real question is, which type of carport is right for you? A DIY kit or custom build?

DIY Carport Kits: The Quick and Convenient Option

DIY carport kits provide a fast, budget-friendly way to add covered parking to your home. Many home improvement retailers like Bunnings offer a wide range of ready-made steel, aluminium, and also polycarbonate kits that can be constructed in your driveway on weekends.

Popular options include:

  • Single carport kits for covered parking of one vehicle
  • Gable carport kits with triangular, pitched roofs
  • Extra tall or extended kits for large trucks and 4x4s

In short, there is a huge range of DIY carport kits available to suit your needs.

The Pros

  • Lower Upfront Cost: DIY carport kits are significantly cheaper upfront compared to custom builds. You can find basic kits starting around $500, with more robust options up to $3000.
  • Quick Installation: DIY kits are designed for easy assembly by the average homeowner. Most can be installed in 1-2 days with basic tools.
  • Convenience: Kits come with all the parts and hardware needed for assembly. There’s no need to source materials and components yourself.
  • Flexible Placement: DIY kits are freestanding structures, making them easy to position wherever you want on your property.
  • Ample Storage Space: Some kits include extra covered space for storage alongside your parked car.

The Cons

  • Limited Customisation: You’re limited to the size and style options available. There’s little room for customisation to suit your space.
  • Professional Installation Needed: While advertised as DIY, some larger kits actually require professional assembly. This adds to the total cost.
  • Durability Concerns: DIY kits tend to use lightweight materials that may not hold up well long-term, especially in extreme weather.
  • Appearance: DIY kits have a basic, standardised look. If you want a carport that complements your home’s architecture and style, a custom build is better.

Custom Built Carports: Personalised to Your Home

For homeowners who want a carport tailored to their property, lifestyle, and aesthetic tastes, a custom build is the way to go. Working with an experienced custom carport builder, you can create a fully personalised structure.

The construction process allows for:

  • Custom size, dimensions, and layout
  • Choice of materials like wood, brick or metal
  • Incorporation of design elements like gables, skillion roofs, etc.
  • Building regulation approval and council permits

This results in an extra sturdy, durable carport that matches your home’s existing design.

The Pros

  • Custom Size and Layout: Get the exact dimensions, height, and layout you need, with room for as many or as few cars as you want.
  • Custom Style: Match the look and architectural detail of your home. Choose colors, materials like brick or timber, and design elements like gable or hip roofs.
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Constructed from quality hardwood, aluminum, steel, and other robust materials designed to withstand the elements.
  • Enhanced Property Value: A professionally crafted carport can add value and appeal to your home for resale.
  • Permits Handled: The installer handles the permit process for you. DIY kits may require a permit you’ll need to obtain.

The Cons

  • Higher Upfront Cost: Custom carports have an upfront cost ranging from $3000 on the low end to $15,000 or more for larger, intricate builds using premium materials and detailing.
  • Longer Installation Time: Construction typically takes several weeks depending on the complexity of the design.
  • Limited DIY Ability: Requires hiring a qualified carport installer to handle the entire process.

Key Factors to Consider

  • Budget: How much are you able to invest upfront? Custom builds cost substantially more.
  • Car Size: Measure your car’s height and width to ensure adequate clearance. Tall trucks or SUVs need more room.
  • Number of Vehicles: Are you parking for 1 car or multiple? Custom allows more flexibility.
  • Permits: Will you need council approval? Custom installers handle permits for you.
  • Future Plans: Do you plan to move soon? DIY kits are portable.
  • Weather: Is snow load capacity or wind resistance needed in bad weather? Custom offers stronger structures.
  • Aesthetics: Is complementing your home’s look important? Custom offers design flexibility.
  • Timeline: How soon do you need the carport built? DIY kits install faster.

Helpful Tips for Your Carport Project

  • Check your local council’s requirements for size, height, and placement on property. Getting permits can impact the timeline.
  • Measure car height and width, accounting for roof racks, spoilers, or anything adding height. Leave 12-24 inches of clearance on each side.
  • Consider placement. Avoid low-lying areas that can flood. Leave room to fully open doors.
  • For custom builds, get quotes from 3 installers before choosing one. Check reviews and certifications.
  • Ask about wind and snow load ratings. 200km/h wind resistance is recommended for cyclone-prone areas.
  • Use durable materials like colorbond steel roofing, galvanised steel frames, and reinforced concrete slabs or footings.
  • Add gutters, drainage, and water sealing to direct rain runoff away from the carport and house.
  • Consider extras like lighting, power outlets, ceiling fans, and garage door openers.

FAQs

Do I need council approval for a carport?

Indeed you do. Behind every quality build is a professional carport builder who is savvy and willing to help walk you through the necessary building application process, especially if you live in a heritage building.

What size carport do I need?

Need just enough room for your roadster? Or perhaps you need double the space for two vehicles? Also, no matter the types of carports that appeal to you, with a custom design, we can factor in additional storage or extra space as per your requirements.

What are the factors that determine the cost of carports?

The cost of your perfect carport may vary depending on multiple factors such as quality material used or added customisation options. However, rest assured at Sun State Carports Brisbane we aim at bringing to you only the most suitable material which makes your carport sturdy despite its affordability.

Are polycarbonate panels better than metal roofing?

It all depends on what type of weather conditions you deal with regularly. Polycarbonate panels are excellent for blocking out harmful UV rays while letting in some natural light. On the other hand, metal roofing is unbeatable when it comes to bearing heavy load and surviving severe weather conditions, such as hail storms. A more suitable option if ‘bad weather condition’ sings ‘home sweet home’ on our cold environment front.

Should I pour a concrete slab or use pre-cast pads?

While pouring a concrete might be an excellent project for DIYers savvy about these things, using pre-cast pads could save time and offers sufficient sturdiness under constant exposure to bad weather conditions like heavy rainfalls during Brisbane’s wet season or cold weather spells.

Conclusion

A generic pop-up shelter from a DIY kit where you risk encountering extra costs and troubles down the line?

Or a specially crafted, bespoke structure, built to weather whatever comes its way?

Custom-built carports offer sturdiness, are designed to accommodate your specific needs.

Whether that’s extra space or particular materials and give you complete control over design aesthetics.

They might require a bigger upfront investment, but they pay for themselves in their longevity.

Indeed, opting for professional carport builders will result not just in an excellent project completed on time.

But also lasting satisfaction for years to come because you deserve nothing less.