Last Updated on February 13, 2024 by April
Cars are one of the most significant investments we’ll ever make, and it’s essential to protect them as much as possible. Leaving your vehicle out in the elements can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your paint. Sunshine, bird droppings, and acidic rain are just a few ways your car will deteriorate when left outside. DIY carport plans are a great way to save money while adding protection to your vehicle.
Building a carport will save you money in the long run, assuming you eventually plan to sell your car. It will also keep your car beautiful for years to come. Say goodbye to burning hot seats in the summer and freezing air in the winter by placing your vehicle in the safety of a carport.
Why Build a DIY Carport?
More Affordable Than Hiring Professionals
In any home improvement project, the most expensive component tends to be labor costs. You can save thousands of dollars by taking on the project on your own or with friends and family.
Protects Your Car
The cost of repainting environmental damages along with the depreciation caused by those damages adds up. Protecting your car from the start will save you money on damages from exposure to the elements.
It Looks Great!
Despite being a cheaper alternative to a traditional garage, carports can look sleek. There are various styles to choose from to fit the aesthetic of your home.
DIY Carport Cost
You can build a carport on a budget by doing as much work as possible by yourself. If you need extra help, ask family and friends to lend a hand in the process. There is also the option to buy a carport kit in case you have time constraints.
Carport Expenses
Concrete Footings: $75 per cubic yard
Demolition, Excavation, etc: Highly depends on project
PVC Roofing: $450 plus cost of labor to install
Electrical Wiring: Electricians cost around $75/hr
Carpentry: Around $75/hr
Wood Framing
Average Price of Carport Built by Pros
$2,500-$11,000
Average Price of DIY Carport Kit
$1,000-$6,000
Tips for Building an Inexpensive Carport
Are you wondering how to build a carport cheaply without sacrificing quality? Build the perfect carport space by following these helpful tips.
- First, check if your local zoning laws require you to obtain a permit for building a carport
- Using a carport kit will ensure you have the correct materials that an engineer has already approved
- If you are already an expert at DIY projects, you can save money by picking your materials
- Save upgrades for later and focus on building the main structure
- If you’re not an engineer, follow exact instructions for structural integrity
Free DIY Carport Plans
Here are some of the best free plans for building a carport on a budget. Aside from cutting labor costs, using a free plan is one of the best ways to reduce costs.
Get all your storage needs taken care of without a garage. This carport plan features a generous amount of storage space.
If metal carports don’t fit the aesthetic of your home, opt for this beautiful wooden carport instead.
Flat roof carports are popular and sought out by many looking to shade their car from the elements.
This freestanding double carport gives you the freedom to decide its placement.
Freestanding Single Carport Idea
This freestanding double carport plan is perfect for beginners.
Learn how to build a PVC carport with this Hunker tutorial.
Low-Cost Carport Plans on a Budget
You can purchase these guides for easy-to-understand instructions on building a carport. They feature several options to customize your carport design project to your needs.
Build Your Own Carport or Garage From Scratch
Build Your Own Canopy Car Shade Shelter
DIY Carport Kits
These DIY carport kits are perfect for beginners looking for a foolproof method. Take the overwhelm out of the carport building process by letting a professional teach you how to do everything. You may even save money by avoiding easy-to-make mistakes following an online plan.
White Attached Palram Carport Kit
This lean to carport style is great if you want to limit the distance from your home to your carport. You’ll love the convenience on rainy or snowy days.
Heavy-Duty Metal Unattached Carport Kit
Provide shade for an oversized vehicle like a truck. Unattached carports make it easy to wash your car during the summer months.
While most carport styles have a country feel to them, this shade shelter functions in style. Try this modern carport design if you live in a big city area that’s low on space.
This carport is the most affordable kit option. It is practical if you require a carport that’s portable.
I hope you found these DIY carport plans and carport kits useful. If you have any tips or tricks to share, please leave a comment!
Looking to fix up your backyard next? Check out these backyard projects and DIY backyard sheds.
