How To Choose The Right Size

When choosing a carport or garage, first consider the size and type of vehicle or equipment you intend to shelter. Carports 18' wide can accommodate two compact cars, but for full-sized vehicles, opt for a minimum width of 22'. For three vehicles, a triple-wide structure of 26'-30' is advisable. Extra-wide buildings over 30' need special engineering and additional permitting costs. Dimensions start with the roof, allowing a 6" overhang on each end. Ensure adequate clearance for your vehicle, especially if you'll have a roll-up door. Standard lengths range from 21' to 51', but custom lengths are available. Leg height measures from the ground to the start of the roof's bow and is crucial for taller vehicles like RVs. Be mindful of additional elements like trusses or roll-up doors that may reduce clearance. In snow-free areas, buildings with a leg height up to 12' don't need extra reinforcements; beyond that, additional costs and site-specific plans are required. Maximum leg height is 16'. Buildings taller than 12' require a forklift for installation, incurring rental fees. Consult a sales representative for tailored guidance. For larger, economical structures, also consider our barn options.

How To Choose The Right Size Image
Single & Double Wide
12'

Single & Double Wide 12'

Single Wide and Double Wide Garages are our most requested size for home and shop use. If you plan to store a single car, truck or boat a single-wide unit of 12’ will work. However for two full-sized cars or trucks, a 24’ unit would be better. Give yourself room to get in and out of your vehicle. For more information, contact us.

Triple Wide
26' to 30'

Triple Wide 26' to 30'

Our Triple Wide Metal Structures offer ample space to accommodate two cars and a boat, making them ideal for fulfilling your larger storage requirements. Ranging from 26' to 30' wide, these structures can easily accommodate your vehicles and additional items. In case you require a taller structure, double legs and other reinforcement options are available to ensure its stability and durability.

Extra Wide Structures Up to 40'

Extra Wide Structures Up to 40'

With Extra Wide Structures, you can enjoy up to 40 feet of unobstructed space, providing ample room for various purposes. However, it is important to note that their larger dimensions may necessitate special certifications and permits in certain locations.

Which type of roof do I need for my environment and weather?

Selecting the right roof type for your carport depends on various factors. If you're primarily seeking sun protection, a Standard Roof is your most economical option. However, if you live in an area with significant wind or snow, a Vertical Roof would be more suitable. For aesthetic consistency with surrounding A-Frame-style homes, both our Boxed Eave and Vertical Roofs are good choices. For buildings longer than 31 feet, a Vertical Roof is always recommended for its enhanced strength and leak resistance.

Standard Roof
Standard Roof

A Standard Horizontal Roof is our most economical and popular roof style. The corrugated ridges run from end to end and gracefully curve down towards the sides. If you choose to add walls, they merge together seamlessly, providing elegant and economical protection. It is an ideal shade shelter. If heavy rain, wind, or snow is not a concern, this is an excellent and economical choice.

Boxed Eave Roof
Boxed Eave Roof

The Boxed Eave Roof features an A-Frame design with horizontal panels that run from the front to the back of the structure. This classic design complements traditional A-Frame homes well. In the example provided, additional panels are installed for extra shade. When fully enclosed, this roof style creates an attractive garage.

Vertical Roof Style
Vertical Roof Style

The Vertical Roof is the most robust among our three roofing options, featuring a classic A-Frame design enhanced with additional Hat Channel support. This roof style employs vertically oriented panels attached to the Hat Channel for added stability. Ideal for buildings exceeding 31 feet in length, the Vertical Roof excels at shedding rain and snow. If you're concerned about weather conditions like wind, rain, or snow, this is the go-to roof style for maximum resilience.

What gauge of steel frame should I get?

The durability of our structures, whether a carport, RV shelter, or large garage, is determined by the gauge or thickness of the metal tube frames. All our frames are crafted from robust galvanized steel to resist weather conditions. Our entry-level 14-gauge square tube frame offers standard durability, while our 12-gauge square tube frame provides heightened resilience for larger structures or those exposed to high wind or snow stresses. Every unit is engineered to handle up to a 20-pound snow load and wind gusts of up to 105 mph when set on an approved foundation. For locations prone to extreme weather, additional reinforcement options are available, including extra bracing and welded trusses. Consider upgrading with our Santa Ana Wind Package or Big Bear Snow Package for enhanced stability.

Metal Frame Gauges
Metal Frame Gauges

Our metal structures are constructed using various types of tubing to suit different needs. The 15-gauge 2" x 3" rectangular tubing is a popular choice for its strength, closely matching the 12-gauge tubing but at a more affordable price. However, it's important to note that this frame is not certified and may not be available in all regions. For small to medium-sized carports and garages where wind and snow loads are less of a concern, our 14-gauge 2.5" square tubing is the industry standard. It offers a cost-effective yet robust solution for standard-duty applications and can be certified in most areas for structures with leg heights up to 8 feet.

Framing Tube
Framing Tube

Our most robust frame option is the 12-gauge 2.25" square tubing, which is mandatory for taller, certified structures. Designed to withstand high wind and snow conditions, this tubing is your go-to choice for high-stress requirements. Additionally, our frames are precision-formed to exact specifications, ensuring strength and aesthetic appeal regardless of whether the installation is done by us or you.

Larger Metal Structures
Larger Metal Structures

Ordering a taller structure doesn't merely scale up a smaller building; we specifically engineer these larger units to withstand the increased stresses associated with their size. We incorporate double supports and additional welded reinforcements to ensure long-lasting durability and performance for years to come.