What Are Metal Carport Prices?

Metal Carports Prices and Sizes

Carports range in size, with some able to house an entire RV or only fitting a single motorcycle. While options exist for custom carports, most metal carports come in prefabricated kits with specific dimensions to accommodate most vehicles.

Metal Carport Installation Cost Factors

Beyond size, carports have customization options such as the type of metal used and even down to the type of roof. While carports may come in various prefabricated kits, many options exist.

Roof Types

When considering metal carports, the roof shape of the carport will impact the final cost. Most carports start off with either a flat or A-frame roof, but you also have the options for rounded and neven gable roofs.

Gable Roofs

A gable metal carport roof will cost you around $750 to $3,000 extra. When you gable a metal carport’s roof, you create a seamless look to blend in with your home’s roof. This will create a more cohesive sightline.

Walls

Adding walls will cost around $1,500 to $4,500 extra. Walls add an extra level of security from flying debris as well as prying eyes and animals. You can add as many walls as you see fit, so you may only want a wall on the back of the carport to give you an idea of where to stop. Or maybe on the side of the carport to block people turning onto the street from seeing your vehicle.

Strength

If you live in a snowy area, for example, you may need to switch out a rounded or flat roof for a vertical or A-frame roof to ensure snow doesn’t pile up. This may add an extra $1,000 to $2,000. Whereas those on the east coast battling hurricanes may need to add more anchors, which may cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 extra.

Delivery

Most deliveries cost between $50 and $100. However, most metal carport companies will include delivery in their quotes as a promotional feature. Expect to pay delivery fees if you live outside their delivery zone or under other special circumstances.

Labor

Labor makes up around 5% to 10% of the total cost of installing a metal carport. The lower labor costs come from the fact that the majority of metal carports are prefabricated, so there’s not much needed in terms of supplies and prep work.

Land Preparation

The cost of installation for a metal carport will fluctuate based on the land where the carport is planned to be built. If you’re working with uneven land, you’re going to need to pay around $100 to $200 to level the land.

Metal Carports vs. Wood Carports

Metal carports sit at around $7,000 on average while wooden carports cost around $8,000 for the same size. Generally, metal carports are the better option when it comes to cost and longevity. The only upside to a wooden carport is it often has a more visually appealing appearance. 

Metal Carport Pros and Cons

While carports are an affordable option compared to garages, that doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for everyone. But they’re often still a better idea than simply leaving your car exposed to the elements.

Pros

The average cost of building a garage is around $27,550, making it over double the cost of building a garage port. Metal carports are often the most affordable option for adding a cover over your vehicle compared to garages and other carport materials. They take as little as a day to build and don’t require as many inspections because they lack fire and building regulations.

Cons

Compared to a garage, metal carports only offer a fraction of the protection from weather and other people. If, down the road, you decide you need extra living space rather than vehicle space, you can convert your garage into living space, while carports would require demolition and replacement with a separate home addition or mother-in-law suite.

DIY vs. Hiring a Carport Pro

Installation often comes with the purchase of a metal carport kit. The cost of labor when installing a metal carport will fall between 5% and 10%, making it a relatively minor cost compared to other projects. Hiring a local metal carport builder will ensure prompt and proper installation.

Building Your Own Metal Carport

We don’t recommend DIYing your carport project and encourage you to hire a pro. However, If you’re familiar with DIYing large projects and have a team of fellow DIYers, it might be possible to complete the project yourself. It will likely take a couple of days, however. Follow these basic steps to build your own metal carport:

1. Contact your local municipal to see if permits are needed

2. Measure out the space needed for the carport itself and then enough room to move around the carport as needed

3. Purchase your kit through the manufacturer or third-party seller

4. If needed, this will be the time to level the ground to pour a concrete slab

5. Pour the concrete and level

6. Let concrete set, remembering to cover the area to avoid dirt and debris from getting into the concrete

7. Gather tools needed to begin building carport

8. Assemble kit by following provided instructions

9. Once finished, check for stability and add braces and anchors as necessary

10. Finish off the carport by installing the roof

FAQs

What's the ROI of building a metal carport?

The ROI of a carport is relatively high, coming in at around 65% to 90% ROI of the initial cost of building a metal carport. Homeowners tend to favor any way to decrease the negative effects of weather on vehicles.

Are permits required for metal carport installation?

Building regulations vary by municipality, but there are some general factors that affect the chances that you’ll need a permit for a metal carport. A fully-enclosed model or one attached to the ground is more likely to require permits. 

Are steel or aluminum carports better?

While steel is the stronger material for carports, aluminum carports come in at a lower upfront cost. There’s no correct decision and will come down to items such as material availability, as well as budget.

Do I need to seal a metal carport to protect it from rusting?

Stainless steel and aluminum carports are resistant to rust naturally. However, sealing your carport periodically every five to 10 years will ensure you receive the longest lifespan of your metal carport.

How do I get the best prices on metal carports?

Metal carports often come prefabricated, making their prices pretty standard across the board. It’s always best to receive quotes from at least three different metal carport installers to ensure you’re getting the best price possible. Avoiding custom pieces and unnecessary add-ons will likely help you get the best price for your metal carport.