LindbergMaple636
From Nema Wiki
The benefits of Using Carports for Long-Term and Seasonal Storage
When it comes to sheltering your car, boat, or RV, you're likely inside a dilemma: Do I build a garage or go with a carport? To some, building a garage might appear to be much more of an operating option, but the advantages of carports outweigh those of brick-and-mortar structures. Down to putting the dwelling together, installation, and cost, carports clearly have the upper hand.
For creating a brick-and-mortar structure, the very first steps, before construction begins, include drawing up building plans, purchasing a permit, and obtaining materials. All three of these processes are usually costly - and this doesn't include the cost of a construction team putting the garage together. Carports, however, eliminate nearly all of these steps and costs. A building kit includes all parts needed to assemble the shelter and directions for putting it together. In most cases, a permit is not needed to use a carport, even though this varies with area.
On a similar note, a complete building kit cuts down on the total cost of putting together a shelter for your vehicles. While, in general, a carport kit is cheaper than ordering individual materials for a brick-and-mortar garage, labor is practically eliminate. Most carport kits are straightforward enough to be assembled without professionals. Because some carports are designed for short-term or seasonal use, you may find yourself setting one up and anchoring it and, months later, taking it down and putting the metal and polyethylene structure in storage.
Once a brick-and-mortar garage is done, it's in a single location - and stays there. Carports, however, have the benefit of being placed nearly anywhere, so long as the location is at building code or ordinance regulations. Additionally, while carports have to be anchored to become fully effective, they can be taken down and assembled in another location.
Carports, as well, are not uniform and, instead, provide a number of options for different storage needs. If, for instance, your sheltering needs require accessing a vehicle every day, valance carports, with a polyethylene or steel top and open sides, allow you to pull a car in or drive it out without rolling up or moving aside flaps. Weather changes may require more coverage, and a valance carport can be modified with side walls and end panels to supply this. If, on the other hand, the carport is used strictly for long-term storage, most models have an enclosed design, providing full coverage through polyethylene walls and sides.
