A carport is a great addition to any home. It is perfect if you need to cover a boat, car, or your ATVs. Or maybe you just want to stay dry when you get out of your car in a rain storm. There are a couple important factors you need to consider before you launch your do it yourself carport project.
First thing to do is decide which type of carport you want.
There are two basic types of carports. The free standing and the attached to the home style.
There are light weight free standing carports made with aluminum framing. These are easy to build and can be moved to another location if you ever want to move it.
The alternative to the light weight carports is a heavy duty free standing carports
. These are permanent structures that require posts to be placed in concrete. They are more of a challenge to build, but they provide a higher level of protection.There are also carports that are attached directly to the home. These provide the most protection, and are more complex to build.
2. If you decide on a permanent structure you will need to check with your local officials to see if you are required to have a building permit before you start construction. Every city has their own building codes. If these codes are not obeyed you could be subject to expensive fines. So be sure to cover yourself by having the right building permit for your carport.
3. Very Important: Call your local utilities to check for underground gas, water, sewer, and power lines. Even if you think you know where everything is at, it is better to be safe than sorry.
4. You will need some basic construction skills. If you do not have any, you will need to find someone that does. A do it yourself carport is not extremely difficult to build, however it can get that way fast if you do not know what your doing.
5. You need a set of blueprints. Whether it is free standing or attached, you will need these plans to help you install the exact design you want. It is your road map to building your structure. Blue prints are also important when you go see about your building permit. The city will need the details, and may want to see the plans you have decided on.
So whether you choose the light weight free standing aluminum carport that is easy to move, or you choose a permanent structure, you are sure to get the desired level of protection you want and need.
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