Choosing the right size carport for your home can be a tricky task. Get it wrong, and you may end up with wasted space or find your carport is too cramped to be useful. But when armed with the proper carport dimensions for your needs, you can feel confident you’ve selected the perfect size.
You’ll learn standard width, length and height measurements so you can custom fit your carport. Let’s start designing your ideal covered parking space!
Standard Carport Widths and Lengths
The most basic carport dimensions to consider are the width and length. This determines the interior floor space and number of cars your carport can accommodate.
For a single car carport, the typical width is 3 meters while the length is 6 meters. This provides enough room for one standard sized vehicle like a sedan, small SUV or pickup truck. There’s space to open the doors fully and walk around the perimeter.
| Single carport | 3 meters wide x 6 meters long |
When building a two car carport, most opt for dimensions of 6 meters wide by 6 meters long. This equal square footage allows you to fit two average sized cars or trucks with adequate room to maneuver.
| Double carport | 6 meters wide x 6 meters long |
For three or more vehicle spaces, extend the length while maintaining a width of 6 meters. A carport of 8 meters long by 6 meters wide can comfortably fit three vehicles. Some two story models may even allow parking on the ground level and second level.
Factor In Vehicle Size
While those dimensions work for average sedans, small crossovers and trucks, larger vehicles like vans or full sized SUVs need a bit more space. Add about a half meter of width and length if housing oversized models. Talk to your carport provider about customizing dimensions if needed.
Consider Future Expansion
Even if you only have one vehicle now, there’s a chance your needs could change down the road. Constructing a slightly bigger carport than required today gives you flexibility to expand later. For instance, choose a double carport rather than single to allow for a second car in the future.
Ideal Carport Height
Beyond the floor space, height is a critical carport dimension. You want adequate overhead clearance so vehicles fit comfortably without hitting the ceiling.
The standard carport height is usually around 3 meters. This works well for most sedans, small SUVs, and trucks under 2 meters tall. Make sure to measure your tallest vehicle though.
| Standard height | 3 meters |
Added Height for Large Vehicles
If housing bulky vehicles like vans, full sized trucks or SUVs over 2 meters tall, increase height to at least 3.3 meters. For max overhead space, go up to 3.5 meters.
| Oversized vehicle height | 3.3 to 3.5 meters |
Remember to account for factors like a long radio antenna or luggage racks. You want ample clearance as the vehicle enters and exits the carport.
Consider Door Height Too
There should be enough space to fully open your vehicle’s doors without ducking down. Measure the height of your tallest vehicle’s door opening and add at least 30 cm.
If anyone will access the vehicle using a wheelchair or mobility device, increase the height even more to allow easy entry and exit.
Slope and Drainage
On properties with a sloping driveway, the height may need adjusting. Factor in the slope so water drains away from the structure. Work with your carport installer to determine ideal height to facilitate drainage while maximizing interior space.
Adjusting Dimensions to Fit Your Needs
While there are standard carport sizes, you may need to tweak the dimensions to perfectly fit your vehicles, property and lifestyle needs.
Accommodating Sloped Land
Significant sloping on your property can impact ideal dimensions. Widening the uphill side allows you to maintain the proper interior space. The downhill side can taper slightly since less clearance is needed.
For drainage, consider a lowered floor height on the open side. An experienced installer can help modify design to account for sloping issues.
Incorporating Storage Solutions
If using your carport for storage as well as vehicle parking, factor that into size selection. Allow space along the perimeter or end for shelving units, tool benches, or other storage solutions. Measure furniture dimensions to ensure everything fits.
Sun Orientation
Carport placement should optimize shade based on sun exposure on your property. Adjusting length and width can maximize coverage during peak sun times. An angled orientation may also help block more direct sunlight.
Ensuring Accessibility
For wheelchair users, the elderly, or those with limited mobility, wider dimensions allow easier access. Expand doorway width to at least 1 meter for wheelchairs. Include room to maneuver a mobility device around the vehicle with doors open.
Vehicle and Door Clearance
Check that your carport design has adequate vehicle clearance getting in and out. There should be space to fully open doors without hitting walls or support beams. Leaving 1-2 meters of clearance around the perimeter helps.
Future Expansion Options
Building slightly larger than present needs allows expanding your carport later. You could enclose part of it for a workshop, storage shed or garage conversion. Plan ahead so you have flexibility down the road.
Material and Design Considerations
The materials used to construct your carport also relate to sizing decisions. Material type impacts cost, durability and structural integrity.
Common Carport Building Materials
Carports are often built using long-lasting, low maintenance materials like:
- Colorbond steel – Durable, weatherproof steel sheeting
- Wood – Treated timber framing and sheeting
- Aluminum – Lightweight, corrosion resistant metal
- Vinyl – Plastic sheeting that won’t rot or warp
Cost and Durability
Cheaper materials like vinyl and untreated pine save money upfront. But they deteriorate faster compared to Colorbond and treated woods. Invest in quality materials for longer lasting carports.
Weather Resistance
Select materials designed to withstand sun, rain and wind in your climate. Colorbond steel stands up well to extreme weather with minimal upkeep required.
Matching Your Home
Consider how the carport exterior will blend in with your home aesthetically. Colorbond comes in a variety of color options to complement your property’s style.
Structural Integrity
Make sure the structure meets wind and snow load requirements for your area. The dimensions impact the amount of material needed to properly reinforce it.
A reputable installer will ensure the carport’s materials and dimensions provide lasting and safe operation.
Determining the ideal carport dimensions for your needs involves assessing factors like number of vehicles, vehicle sizes, property layout and more. Follow the measurements provided for typical single and double carports.
Adjust the width, length and height to suit your specific situation. Account for elements like sloped driveways, storage needs and sun orientation. And choose robust, weather resistant construction materials for best results.
By understanding the right carport dimensions for your situation, you can install worry-free covered parking customized to your lifestyle.
