If you're reading this, then you are probably looking to buy a carport and attach it to your house. While there are many nuances to attaching a carport to your home, this guide is here to give insights on the customizations needed to make your installation picture perfect. Carports are very versatile, but they are typically manufactured before installation. If you're not sure of the exact dimensions, this can make the process more difficult for the installers and may lead to higher installation costs. This guide will help you navigate the process, making attaching a metal carport to your home a breeze.
Things to Consider Before Attaching a Metal Carport to Your House
Before attaching a metal carport to your home, you should consider the following: space, ease of access, and curb appeal. You must have enough room to construct a carport. Most carports are between 12 and 30 feet wide and 20 to 30 feet long, depending on how many cars you want to fit underneath the metal roof canopy. Using an accurate measuring tape will help you get the right size.
You should also consider ease of access. Do you have a driveway leading up to that side of your house? Would you need to add to your driveway? Or do you already have good access to that side? If you have good access, the next thing to consider is curb appeal. If not, you should consider reaching out to a concrete or landscaping company to prepare your site.
The carport you attach to your home should have good curb appeal, so it doesn't look like something you bought off Craigslist. We recommend using colors that match or complement your house. For example, if your house is trimmed in white, we suggest doing the same for your carport. Other examples to consider include matching the wall panels to your house's color or matching the roof to your home's roof.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Metal Carport
Understanding the anatomy of a metal carport is essential when attaching it to a home because metal carports are pre-manufactured at manufacturing facilities. They need to be specifically manufactured for attaching to a home. Standard carports are built with a base rail, upright legs, and a roof, which typically has a 6-inch overhang. When attaching it to your home, it needs to be constructed without this overhang.
Specific roof types can also make a difference when attaching a carport to your house. For example, regular roofs have a 6-inch overhang on the front and back, while A-frame roofs and single-slope roofs have a 6-inch overhang on all four sides.
Metal carports come standard with a base rail on both sidewalls because those walls are load-bearing, meaning they support the weight of the metal structure. This makes the base rail a crucial part of the construction. You may want to consider exploring the different carport styles available from the company you are working with..
How Are Metal Carports Attached to a House?
Metal carports that are "attached" to a house are often not actually physically attached. They are typically built beside it, and the best ones appear seamless with the construction of the home. Metal carports are built the same way whether freestanding or "attached" to your home. The carport is still anchored into the ground, cement, asphalt, etc., and constructed from the base rail. The main difference in construction is adjusting for the roof's overhang and the design, which impacts the installers' need for space.
Understanding Carport Installation Requirements
When attaching a carport, the installers will not be able to install paneling on the side you want connected to the house because they will need room to screw the panels into the frame. The remaining three sides can have panels, windows, frame-outs, etc. Additionally, the installers cannot have anything interfering with the frame—no gutters, downspouts, windows, trim, or anything other than the siding.
The 6-inch overhang should be discussed with your building specialist before placing your order. They will need to coordinate with the manufacturer to ensure it is manufactured at the correct length, preventing additional time and labor, which would ultimately cost you more money.
Permits and Local Regulations
Before getting too far into the process, it's crucial to check whether you need a permit to attach a carport to your house. Depending on where you live, local building codes and zoning laws may require you to get approval before starting construction. Some areas have rules about how close structures can be to property lines or what materials can be used when building onto a home. Homeowners' associations (HOAs) may also have guidelines on the appearance of any structure attached to your house.
Getting the proper permits and understanding any restrictions ahead of time will save you a lot of headaches later. Be sure to contact your local building department or HOA before placing your order. Many times, installers are familiar with these requirements and can guide you through the process, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
Making the Carport Seamless with Your Home
One of the most important aspects of attaching a metal carport to your home is making sure it looks like a natural extension rather than an add-on. This requires thoughtful planning regarding colors, roof pitch, and overall design.
Colors: The carport colors should complement your home’s exterior, not clash with it. Matching the trim, roof, and siding colors to your home is key to making the structure blend in. For example, if your house has neutral tones or white trim, try to incorporate those same colors into the carport design. A well-chosen color scheme will make the carport look like it was always part of the house.
Roof Pitch: The pitch of the carport roof should align with your home’s roofline. A mismatched roof can make the carport look out of place. By matching or complementing the roof pitch, you ensure the carport flows with your home’s architecture, giving it a more cohesive look.
Thoughtful Planning: Consider how the carport will affect your home’s overall appearance and function. Think about how it will look from the street, how it will impact access to your home, and how it fits with the existing landscaping. Planning ahead and visualizing the finished product will help you avoid surprises once it’s installed.
Choosing the Right Company
Choosing the right company to handle your carport installation is crucial. Since attaching a carport to a house involves more complex planning than installing a freestanding structure, it’s important to go with a company experienced in this type of work.
Look for a company with a proven track record of attaching carports to homes, and ask to see examples of their previous projects. Be sure they’re licensed and insured, and ask questions about their process. A reputable company should help with everything from design ideas to navigating local regulations.
Don’t forget to read reviews from other homeowners. This can give you insight into the company’s reliability, quality of work, and how easy they are to work with.
Final Thoughts
Attaching a metal carport to your house is a smart way to protect your vehicles and add value to your home. With careful planning, you can create a seamless look that enhances your property. Pay attention to details like color coordination and roof alignment, and choose a company experienced in attaching carports. With the right approach, the process will go smoothly, and you’ll have a structure that serves both function and style.
