1. Where do I want/need the carport?
If it’s against the house then a wall mounted carport would the most suitable option and also more cost effective. If it’s further away, with no supporting wall you’ll need a free standing carport that is supported solely by canopy posts and does not provide protection between the carport and your home, this is also more expensive.Something else to consider is the proximity to the house and your chosen roofing material – if it will be under a bedroom window, then remember to consider the noise of rain on the carport – if you think this maybe an issue then consider a glass roof instead of polycarbonate.

2. How much do I want to spend?
Your budget has to be taken into consideration, not just for the one off cost of the structure but also for the long term maintenance costs and the life expectancy of the chosen structure.Steel and timber canopies are expensive and will need more maintenance than aluminium – free standing will also be more expensive due an extra set of supporting posts. Aluminium is a very cost effective material that is durable and naturally rust resistant giving it a long life span. Polycarbonate roofing offers better value for money than glass as its shatter and vandal resistant and is therefore more likely to last longer.

3. How big do I need my carport to be?
If you want to store more than one vehicle under the carport you need to make sure the product you choose can easily cover them all – our Simplicity 35 carport can span up to 6m and can stretch to any length making it perfect for double carports.

4. Do I need it to be a particular colour?
If you want your carport to blend in with your décor, check to make sure your carport supplier can match this colour, or provide a good alternative. Our carports can be finished in any RAL or BS colour to meet your colour requirements.

5. Do I want to use the carport for anything else? 
A carport can also be used as a covered outdoor seating or eating area, if you wish. However, if you are hoping to star gaze at night through the roof then it would be wise to make sure the canopy does not use structured polycarbonate, as it is not easy to see through this. Glass will provide a crystal clear view of the sky.