How to Choose the Best RV Carport in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

As an RV owner, you know how important it is to protect your vehicle from environmental wear and harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall and snowstorms. Choosing the best RV carport is essential for long-lasting security and peace of mind. 
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the key factors, from material quality and design to installation, to help you make an informed decision. We also discuss the types of carports you can find on the market and how to choose the size for your RV.

Understanding RV Carports

An RV carport is a roofed structure designed to shelter recreational vehicles (RVs). Unlike enclosed garages, these carports have open sides, which provide ample ventilation while protecting your vehicle from debris, direct sunlight, rain, and snow. 

This design ensures that your vehicle remains in good condition and makes it accessible without you having to look for your garage door keys. This can be beneficial if you’re a frequent traveler or have an urgent appointment. 

Benefits of Having an RV Carport

Investing in a high-quality RV carport comes with several benefits. These include:

Weather Protection

One of the primary advantages of owning a carport for your RV is that it acts as a barrier against various weather conditions. For example, the vehicle’s exterior can fade and deteriorate if you don’t cover your RV and expose it to direct sunlight for too long. Wind-blown debris can also cause scratches or dents, which can be costly if you need to fix your vehicle. 

However, protecting an RV carport extends your RV’s life and ensures that its mechanical components remain in good condition over time. 

Cost-Effectiveness

RV carports are a cost-effective solution compared to garages, which can be an attractive option if you have a tight budget. They require fewer materials and less labor. 

Carport prices vary depending on the material, size, and other factors. But, as a general idea, building a detached 1-car garage costs $5,500-$16,800. However, the price of building a steel carport can start at $1,295.

Ease of Access and Flexibility

Without walls, nothing is obstructing the carport’s entry and exit. You can easily access your RV if you frequently hit the road. This design also offers more customization. You can tailor the size and design based on your preferences and RV model. (Note: You can add walls to your carport, but more on this later.) 

At Alan’s Factory Outlet, you can select:

• The number of cars you want to shelter
• The frame size
• The roof color
• The trim color

Just as RV carports provide convenience, so does our service. Before placing your order online, you can “build” your own carport in our 3D Builder to get a clearer picture of how your structure will look. You’ll also get a price overview of your customized RV carport. 

Enhanced Resale Value

When you take good care of your RV, its resale value can increase. One way to do this is to install a carport.

As discussed above, carports help preserve your RV’s appearance and mechanical elements. If you’re looking to resell or trade your vehicle, prospective shoppers may be willing to pay more if the RV is well-maintained. When they see that you’ve gone the extra mile to protect your RV, like installing a carport, they see it as an investment. This signals that you’re a reliable seller and that the resale price is high. 

Common Materials and Designs of RV Carports 

Carports come in different materials and designs. These have distinct advantages, depending on what you need and the environmental conditions your vehicle is exposed to. When you understand these options, it’ll be easier to come up with a final decision when buying the best RV carport.  

Metal vs. Wood Carports

One of the most important factors you have to consider is choosing between metal or wooden carports. 

Metal Carports 

Metal carports are often constructed from steel or aluminum, and they are popular for these reasons:

• Strength and durability: Metal RV carports have a robust construction. They can withstand heavy snow and resist high winds more than other materials. 
• Resistance to elements: Corrosion-resistant metals like steel and aluminum have a protective coating that prevents rust. This extends the lifespan of your carport even in harsh climates. 
• Low maintenance: Once installed, metal carports require less regular maintenance compared to wood. 

Wooden Carports 

Wooden carports might blend better with certain landscapes — for example, if you live near a mountainous area. However, wood usually requires more maintenance:

• Regular treatment: Wood has a high chance of rotting if water leaks and absorbs into your carport. It can be noticeable due to visible cracks, discoloration, and peeling. If this happens, you’ll have to gently poke (with a screwdriver) the wood to see if it’s softened, which could be a sign of damage. You may also have to seal the material to prevent further damage, which can add to your carport costs and effort. 
• Environmental considerations: Wood is more susceptible to wear and tear caused by high humidity, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. The material can crack, expand, or become a breeding ground for mold. 

Roof Styles

Another critical aspect of choosing an RV carport is the design. At Alan’s Factory Outlet, we offer three roof styles. 

Regular Roof

This is the most common design and the cheapest option. It’s effective at shedding rain and snow. The roof has a sloping angle and a rounded design, making it easier to remove snow build-up. The design also minimizes the risk of water pooling. This can be a practical purchase if you’re looking for the best RV carport for moderate weather conditions. 

Boxed Eave Roof

A boxed eave roof has a modern appearance. It features horizontally aligned panels that create a sleek profile and enhance the carport’s structural integrity. It’s ideal if you love a contemporary look but still want to prioritize functionality. 

Vertical Roof

This is our strongest structure and provides more headroom and an airy feel. This works well if you plan to use your vehicle frequently and need additional space for maneuvering. The vertically designed roof also creates a striking visual impact, making your RV carport stand out from traditional designs. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best RV Carport

When selecting an RV carport, it’s essential to evaluate different factors affecting its performance, longevity, and satisfaction with your investment.

Material Quality and Durability

High-grade materials help extend your structure’s life and ensure it can withstand harsh environmental factors like wind. The best RV carports are usually constructed from high-grade aluminum or steel. Let’s look at their differences below.

Durability 

Steel is 2.5 times denser than aluminum, meaning it supports heavy snow loads better than aluminum. It also lasts longer and doesn’t dent as easily. 

For example, when ordering your metal carport, you’ll notice that our steel structures suit different climates, even Florida’s strong winds (170 mph). 

Cost 

Although the price of steel has increased, it still costs less than aluminum (Source: Reuters).

Weight

Steel is heavier than aluminum, indicating that it can be difficult to transport, carry, and install (Source: Gabrian). At Alan’s Factory Outlet, we sell steel carports. Our experts handle all installations and deliveries across 21 states, so you don’t have to spend extra money to hire someone else to help you. 

Corrosion Resistance and Maintenance

This is another factor you have to consider when looking for a metal cover. Aluminum creates a protective oxide layer, making it very resistant to corrosion. 

Steel is more susceptible to rust and corrosion when it comes into contact with water. This, however, depends on the type of steel the manufacturer uses. For the carport’s framing and base rail, we use 14-gauge galvanized steel square tubing (which can be upgraded to 12-gauge if you’d like). 

Galvanized steel has a coating of zinc layer, which prevents oxygen and water from coming into contact with the carport’s surface. This protects your cover against corrosion. It takes a long time to rust. 

Design and Structural Integrity

Beyond choosing the right material, consider the roof pitch, frame strength, and anchoring systems. 

Roof Pitch

Choose a roof pitch that is compatible with local weather conditions. For example, a steeper roof pitch is perfect for shedding snow and removing excess water. We’ve made it easier for our consumers to ensure that our metal structures can withstand regional climates. 

Before building your carport (in our 3D Builder), select your location to get a customized cover that can shield your RV, depending on where you reside. 

Frame Strength

RV carports come in different sizes, and our materials ensure maximum protection for any option you choose. For additional vehicles, we build large carports with high-quality steel frames to protect all your equipment from sun exposure and heavy rainfall. We also stock 60-foot-wide frames for your carport, as you can see in the image below:

Anchoring Techniques

Anchoring techniques refer to the methods you use to secure your carport to the ground so it doesn’t collapse. Carport anchors vary according to the foundation material. 

For instance, auger anchors are popular for buyers who want to install their metal structure on gravel or dirt. They’re straightforward to install and compatible with hard and soft soil types. As for rebar anchors, these are ideal if you’re placing your carport on clay. If you need more guidance, you can contact our experts for personalized advice. 

Size

Selecting a carport that fits your RV is important to maximize protection and functionality. The size should accommodate your current vehicle and fit any modifications or accessories you might add in the future. 

Measuring Your RV

Start by measuring your RV’s length, width, and height. The carport’s dimensions have to exceed these measurements, as the product’s function is to cover and protect your vehicle. You also have to be able to enter and exit with ease. Also, if you plan to buy another vehicle in the future or store other equipment under the carport, you’ll have enough space to do so. 

(It’s still possible to extend your metal carport if you buy a larger vehicle or need more parking space.) 

The most popular sizes you can opt for at Alan’s Factory Outlet are:

• 12’ x 35’ 
• 18’ x 35’ 
• 12’ x 40’ 
• 18’ x 40’ 

We also advise making the legs just a foot taller than your tallest RV. The height measurements should also include your vehicle’s AC units, top racks, and roll bars. For instance, if the structure’s gables are closed, the clearance would be three inches less than the leg height. 

This means that if the carport legs are measured at 7 feet, the clearance would be 6’ 9”.

If the gables are open, you’ll find the maximum clearance at the center brace close to the roof’s peak. This space is slightly over two feet compared to the leg height. The roof slopes down from this peak until it reaches the leg height on each side. So, a carport with 7-foot legs can accommodate RVs with a height of more than 7 feet if you avoid parking near the sides.

Standard vs. Custom Sizes

At Alan’s Factory Outlet, we understand that every RV has its own unique requirements. That’s why we offer custom-built carports designed to perfectly suit your vehicle’s dimensions and your specific needs.

Our process is straightforward and transparent. When you customize your structure’s width and length, we apply our standard pricing tiers for your convenience. This ensures you receive a high-quality, tailored carport that fits your space with clarity and ease. 

For example, if your ideal design calls for a 17-foot width, we’ll quote our next standard size of 18 feet. Similarly, a 24-foot-long design receives a price based on our 25-foot option. 

Ease of Assembly and Installation

The installation process can significantly impact your overall satisfaction with your structure. Let’s see why.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

If you prefer DIY, you can buy a DIY metal carport kit, which includes all the pieces you need to build your cover and step-by-step instructions. Compare your options, though. Some companies may add an extra delivery charge to your order to transport the metal hardware. You may also need to purchase the necessary tools and equipment to install your carport (e.g., a ladder, drill, etc.). 

If you prefer a hassle-free process and to save time and money, we at Alan’s Factory Outlet offer free delivery and installation. Our team always wears appropriate safety gear (e.g., gloves, safety glasses, etc.) and has all the tools required for a quick installation. 

Permits

Before ordering and building your metal structure, check if you need a permit. This can vary from state to state. Installing a metal structure is usually considered a type of construction project, so you may need to confirm that your carport meets safety protocols and height restrictions.  

Time Consideration

Consider how long you (or a professional) will take to install the RV carport. Our team at Alan’s Factory Outlet installs metal structures within a few hours to five days, depending on the size and complexity. If you don’t have a lot of experience with DIY projects, installation can take longer, so you might not be able to park your vehicle under the cover right away. 

Cost Considerations

Budget is a crucial factor in any major purchase decision, and the cost of a carport is no different. When it comes to RV carports, consider balancing upfront costs with long-term benefits and durability. 

Material and Construction Costs

A higher-quality material signals a higher price. However, this still helps you save money in the long term, as it usually requires fewer replacements and repairs. 

Installation and Maintenance Costs

Whether you install the carport yourself or hire a professional, costs can add up. These can include the delivery vehicle and tools required for installation (as discussed above). (When shopping at Alan’s Factory Outlet, we’ll deliver and install your RV carport at no additional cost.)

Comparing Options

Compare manufacturers to understand their price ranges. To save money, check whether they have any promotions or cash-back plans to earn extra cash. Remember that prices do go up due to inflation, but when placing your order with us, the price won’t change after securing your deposit. 

Let’s say you need a permit to build your carport. Until the authorities process your request, you can still order the metal hardware and pay the deposit—your order will be reserved until you’re ready to complete it.

Warranty and Customer Support

To get the best RV carport service, check whether the manufacturer offers a robust warranty and responsive customer support. These provide peace of mind and indicate that the product you’re purchasing is of high quality and that the company values its customers.

Warranty Coverage

When evaluating RV shields, look for warranties that cover structural defects, corrosion, and other common issues. Our metal carports come with a 1-year craftsmanship warranty. If you opt for 12-gauge framing, you also benefit from a 20-year rust-through warranty.

Customer Service Reputation

A survey by BrightLocal found that:

• In 2024, 50% of consumers believed customer reviews were as important as personal recommendations from friends and relatives. 
• In 2025, 20% of consumers feel that customer reviews posted within the past two weeks can influence their purchase decisions. 
• In 2025, 89% of shoppers are more likely to trust businesses that respond to both positive and negative reviews than those that only address positive or negative comments.

Choose a supplier known for excellent customer service. Read both positive and negative reviews. You can find these on social media and review sites (like Trustpilot) and see how the seller responds, especially to negative feedback. If they offer a solution or ask the customer to contact them back via email, this is usually a sign of good customer support.

Even though negative comments can affect a company’s reputation, the key is to know how to address them professionally.

Shopper Approved gives us a 4.8 out of 5-star rating. Over 21,000 reviewers said they’d recommend our services and are satisfied with our prices.

Post-Purchase Services

For the best RV carport, consider post-purchase service availability, such as repair kits, replacement parts, and maintenance tips. These additional services can extend your product’s lifespan and help you address minor issues right away before they escalate. Even if the supplier doesn’t repair carports, ensure you have enough funds if something happens unexpectedly. 

Types of RV Carports and Their Unique Features

When choosing a carport for your RV, it’s essential to understand the types available and how their features can align with your lifestyle and installation needs. 

Permanent vs. Portable Carports

RV carports can be permanent or portable, which differ in terms of flexibility, stability, and installation requirements. 

Permanent Carports

Permanent carports are fixed structures that you (or a professional) install on a dedicated foundation. These guarantee stability and durability, and you can use them for years. Other considerations include:

• Long-term investment: The upfront cost may be worthwhile if you plan to use or store your vehicle in one location long-term. 
• Reduced flexibility: If you plan to relocate your RV frequently, a permanent carport may not be the best choice. Moving and reinstallation are costly and complicated.
• Customization options: Many permanent RV carports have additional custom features, such as side panels or solar panel integration. Solar carports increase property value, as most environmentally conscious homebuyers look for them, and they can be a practical solution if you don’t have ample roof space for solar panels. 

Portable Carports

Portable carports are designed with mobility in mind. They’re lighter than permanent structures and easy to disassemble, transport, and reassemble. Here are some advantages they offer:

• Ease of mobility: Portable carports can be beneficial if your lifestyle involves frequent RV moves. They can also be useful if you need to park your RV while camping or picnicking with friends. 
• Flexible installation: Whether you’re moving to the city center or the outskirts, you can install your portable carport in any location. 
• Affordability: If you’re on a tight budget and just need a temporary solution to shield your RV, consider getting a portable carport. This option can also be suitable until you save money to buy a permanent structure. 

Here’s an example of a portable carport made of fabric. 

Customizable vs. Standard Models

Another key consideration in selecting the best RV carport is whether to choose a standard or a customizable product. 

Standard Models

Standard model carports are pre-designed and come in various common sizes and benefits. 

• Affordability: Because these products are mass-produced, they mostly target budget-conscious consumers, as there are no customization options. 
• Ease of installations: Components are readily available, so suppliers can deliver standard structures immediately.
• General fit: They suit industry-standard dimensions, making them a versatile selection for many RV owners. If you own a large vehicle or have special requests (such as more headroom), you may opt for a customizable model. 

Customizable Models

Customizable carports can accommodate consumers with specific design preferences. They offer more flexibility, allowing you to tailor the structure to your needs.

• Tailored fit: You can customize your model to match your vehicle’s dimensions, such as width and height. This is useful if you have a large vehicle and need to ensure that it’s well-shielded during heavy snowfall. 
• Additional features: Add-ons like different roofing designs or sidewall protection are available.
• Enhanced customization: These models let you choose the colors, materials, and finishes to complement your vehicle’s style. 

Here’s a screenshot from our 3D Builder, where you can select your own roof and trim color:

How to Evaluate the Quality of an RV Carport

For an RV carport, you need to ensure that your product is both reliable and durable. Perform a thorough evaluation by evaluating real-world experiences and reviewing the seller’s technical certifications and standards. Below, we discuss key strategies to help you assess a product’s quality.

Reading Reviews and Testimonials

Before committing to a purchase, read the manufacturer’s customers’ reviews. Real user experiences will help you decide whether the vehicle carport you’ve had in mind is the best one for you. Here’s how to check the reviews like a pro.

Ease of Assembly

Check whether customers have mentioned the installation process in their reviews. Did other RV owners find the assembly straightforward? What precautions did they have to take for the DIY construction project? Were instructions clear? Did they need any professional assistance? 

Durability and Weather Resistance

You don’t have to read all the reviews (no one has time for that!). But you can enter keywords related to your search, like “weather,” so that you can find reviews (if there are any) that mention issues like rust, wear, and tear. Positive comments where customers report that their carport has helped protect their RV against harsh weather conditions are signs of quality. 

Inspecting Product Certifications and Standards

Building and installing metal structures should adhere to recognized industry standards to ensure they’re safe and compatible with local weather conditions. Consider the following factors when evaluating the metal structure’s technical aspects.

Compliance with Regional Building Codes

Before ordering your carport, check that the product meets local building regulations. Independent testing organizations often provide certifications that verify this. Certifications are formal assurances that the product has been tested under specific conditions. 

Weather Resistance Standards

It’s okay to ask friends and relatives for recommendations. However, confirm that the products are certified, indicating they can withstand environmental factors. Look for a reliable seller who has tested the materials and products in harsh weather conditions, which is important if your area frequently experiences harsh winter weather conditions. 

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation and regular maintenance are key to ensuring you have the best RV carport that stands strong through the years but provides ongoing protection for your vehicle. 

Best Practices for Installation

Installing your carport correctly from the start is crucial for long-term stability and performance. These steps will guide you through the process:

• Prepare the site: Choose a flat, stable area without obstructions. Install your carport away from direct sun exposure to protect your RV from heat buildup. A sheltered spot might be ideal if your location experiences strong winds.
• Choose the proper foundation: Depending on your model, you may opt for a gravel bed or a concrete slab. If you order a permanent RV carport, a concrete foundation might be best for providing stability over time. 
• Read the instructions carefully. If you’re installing the metal structure yourself, you should receive an instructional manual. If the instructions aren’t clear, watch online tutorials or contact the manufacturer’s customer support team. 
• Consider safety measures: Your safety matters. When working on a DIY construction project, wear safety glasses so debris doesn’t harm your eyes. Wear gloves and sturdy footwear for extra protection. Remember: If you’ve never worked on a DIY project, leave the job to the professionals.
  

Maintenance for Longevity

The best RV carports can last for years if they’re well-maintained. Our team recommends these key carport maintenance practices:

• Routine inspections: Even if professionals have installed your carport, you should inspect your structure for any signs of wear or damage. Check if rust has formed or if there are any loose bolts to help prevent serious damage. 
• Cleaning and upkeep: Clean your RV carport with a soft brush and mild detergent to remove dirt and snow buildup. This helps preserve its protective coatings and prevent deterioration. 
• Damage repair: If the steel’s galvanized coating is scratched, rust can form if it’s constantly exposed to water. If this happens, address it with a rust removal product and a scouring pad.
  

Choosing the Best RV Carport

Selecting the best RV carport involves carefully evaluating materials, designs, and sizes. A carport should shield your vehicle from environmental elements and add long-term value by preserving its appearance. 

Visit Alan’s Factory Outlet today to explore our styles and features and build your custom RV carport to match your vehicle’s dimensions and lifestyle needs.

FAQs

Got questions about RV carports? We’ve got answers!