Frequently Asked Questions About Carports and Garages

That depends on how it’s installed! If your carport is bolted to a solid foundation it’s considered a permanent structure. But if it’s not anchored down and can be moved it’s considered temporary. If you’re unsure check with your local regulations to see what applies in your area.

The depth of your footings depend on a few things—like the height of your carport, local wind conditions and soil type. If you’re not sure, it’s always a good idea to check local building codes or ask a professional to make sure your carport is anchored properly.

If your carport is leaking, we recommend contacting us first to see if it’s still under warranty before making any modifications as changes may void the warranty. Our carports are not designed to leak and we offer a 1-year workmanship warranty that may cover the issue. If the warranty has expired and a repair is needed, cleaning the area, removing old sealant and applying new sealant may help prevent further leaks.

Most of our metal carports can handle 35 pounds of snow per square foot (PSF) and are designed to withstand up to 50 PSF in areas with heavy snowfall. They’re built with your local weather in mind to keep your carport strong and reliable through the winter!

J trim is a finishing piece that goes along the exposed edges of your carport’s paneling. It protects those edges and gives the structure a neater look.

Not necessarily but it’s a good idea! You can put a carport on dirt but a solid foundation like concrete or gravel will make it more stable and keep your vehicles cleaner. Some areas may have foundation requirements so be sure to check your local building codes before installation. Check out our carport page for more info on foundation options.

We wouldn’t recommend moving a carport once installed. You can damage the structure during the move and void any remaining warranties.

A metal carport can weigh anywhere from a few hundred pounds to over 1,000 depending on the size and design. Metal is lighter than wood but big carports can still be heavy.

Our plans do include footings for any metal structure we sell but whether they are required depends on local building codes. Be sure to check your local requirements before installation.

Want to make your carport look more cool? A few simple changes can make a big difference! Try adding some landscaping around it with shrubs or flower beds or hang string lights to give it a warm glow. Even choosing a color that matches your home can make a big difference. For more creative and budget friendly ideas check out 21 Functional Carport Ideas!

Regulations vary by area. Contact your local building department before you start your project to avoid any surprises. In some cases, Homeowners Association (HOA) approval may also be required so be sure to check your community guidelines before installation.

Definitely! Carports are a budget friendly way to protect your vehicle from sun, rain and snow without the cost of a full garage. They’re easy to set up, low maintenance and can even add value to your home. If you want a simple and easy way to keep your vehicle covered a carport is a good idea!

Yes you can build your own carport—especially if you have the right tools and some DIY experience! Just make sure to check your local building codes and make sure you have a solid foundation before you start. And if you’d rather not deal with the hassle we offer professional installation!

Absolutely! Insulating your metal garage helps with temperature control and keeps your space comfortable. Whether you use it as a workshop or just want to protect your vehicles, insulation is a good idea. We have two types of insulation here at Alan’s to fit your needs. Check out our insulation guide to see what’s best for you!

Most people like to have some windows in their garage. They let in more natural light creating a more welcoming space. Windows also help with ventilation, improving airflow and reducing heat buildup in the garage.

For 6 cars to fit comfortably you’ll need a garage with over 2,900 square feet of space. If you’re looking for something that will work for you check out our larger-sized garages!

If you have multiple drivers in your home or need extra storage a 3-car garage is a great investment! It keeps your vehicles safe from the elements, adds extra storage space and can even boost your homes value when it’s time to sell.

It depends on what you’re going to store! A standard garage should be at least 20 feet deep but if you have a larger vehicle, a boat or need a work space you may want to go bigger. Think about what you need now—and what you might need in the future!

No, we can’t attach a metal garage to your house, building or any other structure. Please note we need at least 3 feet of clearance on all four sides to install the garage. Some larger buildings may require more spacing so be sure to check the specific requirements for your structure before installation.

Yes! Carports are generally less expensive than enclosed garages since they use less material. If you just need weather protection for your car a carport is a budget friendly option.

Permits vary by location so always check with your local authorities before installing a metal garage. In some areas HOA approval may be required so be sure to check your community guidelines before buying.

There are many ways to make your metal garage look great! Choose colors that match your house or add some simple landscaping around it. A few plants or string lights can go a long way in making it feel more welcoming. Need more ideas? Check out our garage transformations blog.

Metal garages are the more budget friendly option. They cost less upfront and less maintenance over time compared to wood garages which can be more than twice as expensive. On average a wood garage is around $50 per sq ft and a metal garage is around $14.13 per sq ft (for a 20×20 regular roof garage with 2 8×8 G doors). Plus metal structures last longer and hold up better to the elements. Want to see a full comparison? Check out our metal vs wood buildings blog.

While building kits kits can be more affordable, we save you the hassle with a building from our company which includes free installation on your level land. Check out our Metal Garage Prices page for more info.

Yes! Metal garages are a cost effective way to add a strong and long lasting structure to your property. They’re durable, low maintenance and can even increase your homes value. If you’re looking for a hassle free solution that will last for decades a metal garage is a great choice!

Yes! A metal garage will add value to your home. It’s extra storage and protection for your car or belongings which many buyers love. Plus it’s a durable and low maintenance addition that will make your property more attractive.

Thanks to good steel and regular maintenance a metal garage will last for decades.

Our buildings are free standing and cannot be attached to an existing home or garage. If you need more storage you may want to consider putting a shed next to your garage. For more info on shed options and pricing check out our shed pricing blog!