Month: April 2021

The name “garage” actually encompasses many different types of structures and spaces. Sure, all garages have a few basics in common, but you need to know exactly what you want before starting on a construction project. In this ultimate guide, we’re going to discuss the various terms associated with the different types of garages so you can determine what’s best for your needs.

American Carports, Inc. offers a variety of metal garages that are affordable, durable, and fully customizable. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, and receive an instant quote!

Three Common Widths

It’s typical for the width of a garage not to be stated in feet, but rather in terms of how many vehicles can fit side-by-side within the structure. So, as a starting point, the smallest standard option is a single garage. You’ll only be able to put one vehicle in this size of a garage, but it might be perfect for your needs. Also, if you don’t plan on parking a vehicle inside, this type of garage can be perfect for a workshop space.

There are also double and triple, or two-car and three-car, garages to consider. The name tells you everything you need to know about how much size will be provided in these various models. When you get up to a big space such as a three-car garage, you might decide to use that space for a blend of parking, storage, and workshop room, rather than solely for parking.

It’s worth noting that you can also go up to a four-car garage if you order from American Carports, Inc. With that much interior space available, there will be very few limitations on what you can accomplish. From running a large workshop to parking multiple vehicles at the same time with room to spare, a four-car garage is certainly a luxury.

What’s a Tandem Garage?

This is where the terminology regarding garages can get a little tricky. It seems like it would make sense for a tandem garage to be the same as a two-car garage, but that’s not usually how it works. Typically, when someone refers to a tandem garage, they’re talking about a space that allows for one vehicle to be parked in front of another. In other words, this is a narrow but deep garage, so there is enough length for two typical passenger vehicles to fit bumper to bumper.

Tandem garages come with some drawbacks—most notably, the fact that you’ll need to move one car out of the way if you want to drive the vehicle that was blocked in. With that said, they can be a functional option for a location that has a long, rectangular space available. On a property where a wide garage with multiple doors just isn’t going to work, turning to a tandem design may be a suitable compromise.

Are All Garages Part of a House?

When you picture a garage, you might first think about a space that has been included in the design of a house. When a garage is integrated into the ground floor of a home, it’s considered an “attached” garage. There’s a lot to like about attached garages, but they aren’t included in all homes. Plus, adding one to your existing house would be very expensive, if it’s even possible.

That’s when the concept of a “detached” garage becomes important. This is a freestanding structure that has the same basic layout and features as an attached garage, but it’s not a part of your home (or any other structure). This is what we offer at American Carports, Inc. Our detached metal garages come in many different sizes and can include a variety of custom features to suit your needs. Taking this route gives you the chance to add much-needed indoor space to your property without having to carve out a huge budget for the job.

Order from American Carports, Inc.

We hope this ultimate guide has taught you more about the different types of garages. From a humble single garage to a massive multi-car shop space, we offer various garage configurations at American Carports, Inc. No matter what garage style and design you settle on, the next step is to start bringing your structure to life. Use our Build & Price Tool to view a 3D rendering of your new metal building! We look forward to assisting you with this exciting project.

Many people use their carports for parking, which is an affordable way to keep vehicles out of the elements. But did you know that parking is just one of many possible ways that you can use a carport? Below, we’ll explore six unique uses for a carport. These options are great for enhancing your property and enjoying the luxury of additional space!

American Carports, Inc. has a variety of steel carports that are affordable, durable, and fully customizable. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, view a 3D rendering, and receive an instant quote!

A Place to Hang Out

Sometimes, a roof is all you need to create a great hangout space. By using your carport as a place to relax with family and friends, you’ll keep the sun and rain off your heads while still getting to enjoy the fresh air and view you have available. In many ways, this is like a patio umbrella taken to a whole new level. You could choose to establish some permanent outdoor furniture under the carport, or you could just bring in a table and some chairs from time to time when people are coming over.

A Workshop

Typically, when you think about a workshop space, you think of an enclosed garage or shed. Those are great options, but some people may be able to use a carport effectively as a workshop. Whether you want to learn woodworking or take on car maintenance projects, the shelter a carport provides would be ideal. This way, you can stay out of the rain and sun while still feeling like you’re getting to work outside rather than in an enclosed space.

Protect Your Animals

If you raise animals on your land, you already know that it can be hard to protect them from the elements. Specifically, the blazing summer sun can be a threat, which is why a carport would be such a nice addition. With open sides, the animals could come and go as they please, but they’d always have the option to retreat to the shade that the carport provides. By ordering your structure from American Carports, Inc., you’d have the ability to customize the carport so it perfectly suits the needs of your animals.

Enhance a Pool Area

The whole point of a pool is to enjoy time splashing around in the cool water while the sun beats down. However, at some point, you might want to take a break from that sun—and that’s where your carport will come into the equation. By positioning your carport strategically near the pool, you can establish a spot to relax and get ready for your next swim. Or, the carport could serve as a comfortable spot for parents to keep a watchful eye on the kids as they have fun in the pool.

Play Space for Kids

Every parent worries about keeping their kids outside in the sun too long. At the same time, parents know how important it is for kids to get outside to play and explore. Using a carport as a roof over the top of a play space will make it easier for kids to enjoy the outside playtime they crave. Not only can the carport protect from the powerful sun, but it can also serve as a dry spot to play even on rainy days.

Temporary Storage

Most likely, you won’t want to use your carport for long-term storage, since the sides are open to the elements. Most things will wear down if left in that environment all year long. However, carports are ideal for temporary storage, like when you need to stock up on supplies that you use on your property. Early in the spring, you can fill your carport with various supplies that will be used to tend to the land all summer long. Then, you can gradually go through those supplies over the summer, and the carport will be empty by the fall.

Order from American Carports, Inc.

We hope you enjoyed learning about these six unique uses for a carport! As you can see, this structure can be utilized in a variety of ways. Between the typical use of parking and some of the ideas presented above, you should have no trouble getting maximum value from this new structure. If you’re ready to add this versatile building to your property, order from American Carports, Inc. today! We’re happy to serve you.

Build Your Carport

When the time comes to add a new building to your property, you’ll have a few important decisions to make. Specifically, one of the first choices you’ll face is what type of structure you’d like. Two popular options are carports and garages—but which is right for your property? Read on to help you decide on the building that will best meet your needs.

American Carports, Inc. has a variety of steel carports and garages that are affordable, durable, and fully customizable. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, view a 3D rendering, and receive an instant quote!

What’s the Difference?

First, it’s important to understand the fundamental difference between a carport and a garage:

• A carport is an open-side structure that features a roof and four legs. While it’s possible to add one or more walls to your carport when you work with American Carports, Inc., most people think of a carport as a completely open-sided structure. Shop Now.
• A garage is an enclosed structure, with four walls to go along with a roof. Typically, a garage will have at least one roll-up door, if not more. Adding a detached metal garage to your property would provide additional enclosed space beyond what is available in your home or other existing buildings. Shop Now.

Advantages of a Carport

These are some of the main benefits to choosing a carport for your property:

• Easy in and out. If you’re looking to add covered parking to your property, nothing gets the job done more efficiently than a carport. You won’t have a door to deal with, and the wide opening at the front makes it easy to pull your vehicles in and out.
• Low cost. Since a traditional carport is a relatively minimalist structure, the cost remains rather low for the completed project. Metal garages are also affordable buildings compared to wood structures, but they do cost more than a basic carport.
• Simple construction. Given the straightforward design of a metal carport, the construction process is quick and easy in almost every case.

Advantages of a Garage

These are some of the main benefits to choosing a garage for your property:

• More versatile space. An open-side carport will provide shelter from rain and snow, but it is still open to the elements. With a garage, you gain complete enclosure and you’ll be able to work on more projects and store more items as a result.
• Long-term storage. You may not want to store a vehicle or other equipment under a carport over the long term—especially through the winter. But that would work just fine in a garage.
• Adapt over time. Even if you only want this new building for parking at the moment, your needs may change, and a garage will be more able to grow with you.

There isn’t a bad option here, as both carports and garages have a lot to offer. Only one is right for your needs, however, so it’s important to take your time to consider all factors before placing an order.

Adding Value

Beyond your own needs, there’s also the value of your property to consider as part of this equation. Generally speaking, building a garage as opposed to a carport is going to add more value, since it’s a more versatile structure. While some buyers are sure to be drawn to the presence of a carport and the benefits it provides, there are even more benefits associated with a sturdy, detached metal garage. If you can afford to purchase the garage, and it will work properly for your needs, going in that direction may offer a nice boost to the overall value of your property when it’s time to sell.

Purchase a Quality Carport or Garage from American Carports, Inc.!

We hope you have a better idea of whether a carport or garage is right for your property. It’s wise to spend some time deciding, as this is a building that you want to stand on your property for years to come. No matter which structure you choose, when you order from American Carports, Inc., you’ll receive a high-quality project that is guaranteed to stand the test of time.

Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, view a 3D rendering, and receive an instant quote. Place your order today and our team will get to work making your vision come to life!

A double wide carport is one of the most versatile additions you can make to your property. By opting for this size, you’ll have more flexibility and options than you would with a single wide carport. Many buyers find the double wide style to be the “sweet spot” that serves their needs without being overly large. Learn more about the double wide carports from American Carports, Inc. below!

American Carports, Inc. has a variety of steel carports that are affordable, durable, and fully customizable. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, view a 3D rendering, and receive an instant quote!

A Comfortable Place to Park

It’s common for a family to have two cars that they use on a day-to-day basis. If that is the case for you, a double wide carport is an excellent parking solution. You won’t incur the significant cost of building a whole enclosed garage, but you’ll be able to park under cover and away from the elements. Those in snowy climates will particularly love getting into their vehicle each morning without having to brush away the previous night’s snowfall.

As you plan your order, keep in mind what kind of vehicles you drive and other needs that are specific to your family. If you have no kids and drive small cars, you can opt for a modestly sized double wide carport without any trouble. However, if you have a truck, an SUV, and a few kids to load and unload, adding a couple of feet of width to the structure will make a big difference.

An Outdoor Project Space?

If you love working on projects around your home, having a double wide carport could be a great addition as a covered outdoor workspace. For instance, you might decide to do some work on a vehicle, or you might want to take on a woodworking project. Whatever the case, your new carport will be a flexible space that you can use for a variety of purposes. Even if you do use it for parking on a regular basis, the cars can always be rolled out when you want to take on a project while being protected from the elements.

Great for Working the Land

Another potential use for a double wide carport is as storage space on a farm or other agricultural property. If you work with your land in any way, you’re sure to have plenty of equipment and supplies to assist you. It’s easy to run out of indoor space to store all of those items, especially if you don’t have a full-sized barn available or if that barn is full of animals.

Adding a double wide carport is a cost-effective way to get the covered space you need without taking up too much of your valuable land. You can park a tractor or other equipment under this roof, and some of your supplies may find a temporary home here until they are put to use out on the property.

Lean on a Trusted Name

When you place an order with American Carports, Inc., you can trust that you’re going to receive a quality product. Our long-standing reputation in the industry speaks for itself, and you will be able to customize the design of your building to perfectly suit your needs.

Don’t make the mistake of buying the cheapest carport you can find on the market today. Sure, it feels good to save a few bucks at the time, but you’ll soon regret that decision when you check out the quality of your new carport and find that it only lasts a couple of years. We pride ourselves on delivering a product that will stand the test of time and will work as you expect for years to come.

Purchase a Double Wide Carport from American Carports, Inc.!

There’s no time like the present to purchase a double wide carport from American Carports, Inc.! When you order from us, you can trust that you’ll receive a solid, durable product that’s prepared to work for your specific needs.

Whether you opt for a double wide size or decide to go bigger or smaller, we are here to serve you. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, view a 3D rendering, and receive an instant quote. Place your order today and our team will get to work making your vision come to life!