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How much does it cost to build a carport? | 2024 cost guide

5th Feb '24 • By Jared Jeffery

Carports are well-renowned as one of the simplest and most effective ways of protecting your vehicle from weather conditions and dust, and are a cheaper alternative to installing a garage. It’s important to work out a budget for your carport project, and get an understanding of how the different materials, styles, sizes and location will impact on the final costs.

how much does it cost to build a carport

So, if you are thinking about investing in a carport in 2024, here are a few helpful things to consider in this guide on the costs of installing a carport below.

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Article Overview 

  • How much does it cost to build a carport in 2024?
  • Custom carport costs
  • Different types of carports
  • Who to hire to install a carport? 
  • Common mistakes to avoid when building a carport
  • How to get the best quote for a carport?
  • Carport FAQs

How much does it cost to build a carport in 2024?

Free-standing carport prices can vary, depending on whether you opt for a carport kit, or a custom-built carport to protect your vehicles. A carport kit is usually the cheaper option, but you will still need a qualified person to install it. 

A single carport kit can cost roughly $1,200 - $2,200. A steel double carport kit with skillion roof can cost from $2,000 - $2,500, while a spacious steel double carport with a gable roof can cost $3,000 - $4,000.

A custom-built Colorbond steel carport with a skillion roof can cost from $4,000, and a custom-built Colorbond steel carport with a gable roof can cost from $5000. 

Custom Carport Costs

The total cost of a custom carport can be broken into several segments, estimated at the following prices:

  • Surface preparation/excavation: $95 per hour for a bobcat
  • Cement slab concrete pouring:  $75 per square metre, on average
  • Carport materials: From $3,000
  • Carport installation/labour: From $80 per hour for a qualified builder
  • Building permits and council fees: Potentially up to $1,500, if required

Carports require plenty of arrangements. This includes site preparation, demolition or excavation of the site. The average cost of your entire project starts with this arrangement. Carports also require a sturdy concrete slab, which will cost extra.

Carports can be built using wooden frames and gabled roofs. Few other essential parts of the carport include angle brackets, rafters, joist hangers and galvanized bolts. These are discrete components that can add more costs to your budget. A carport of this description can cost up to $5,000.

If your budget doesn’t allow for it, you can always opt for a Colorbond carport for a rough price of $3,000.

What are the different types of carports?

There are a variety of factors which determine the type of carport you’re installing:

  • Frame materials: Carports can be constructed with timber frames, Colorbond or aluminium, depending on your budget 
  • Colour choice: Colorbond is available in many colours, while timber can be painted to suit your tastes.
  • Carport roofing options: Flat or skillion roofing (single sloping side) is cheaper than gable roofing (two sloping sides)
  • Size: Differs greatly depending on how many cars you’re planning to shelter, and whether you’ll add any extra features such as storage
  • Fixed or free standing: The carport can be attached to the house or completely detached

Who to hire to install a carport? 

The best person to hire to install a carport is a licensed and fully qualified builder or carpenter. This will ensure that your carport is installed to a high standard, while meeting your local laws and legislation.

When it comes to hiring the best building business for carport installation, make sure they’re the right fit for your job. Some important questions to ask your tradie include:

  • Do you have a licence?
  • Are you insured?
  • Do you have photos of your past work?
  • What warranty do you offer on your work and your materials?
  • Do you have past customer testimonials?

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Carport

  1. Not checking local regulations: Failure to research and comply with local building codes and regulations can result in fines and delays.

  2. Poor site selection: Choosing an improper location for your carport can lead to drainage issues, obstruction of views, or even property damage.

  3. Incorrect measurements: Failing to measure accurately can result in a carport that's too small to accommodate your vehicle or too large, wasting space and money.

  4. Neglecting foundation requirements: Improper or inadequate foundations can compromise the stability and durability of your carport.

  5. Choosing subpar materials: Opting for low-quality materials can result in a carport that doesn't withstand weather conditions or last as long as it should.

  6. DIY without proper skills: Attempting to build a carport without the necessary expertise can lead to safety hazards and structural issues.

  7. Ignoring aesthetic considerations: Overlooking the visual appeal of your carport can detract from your property's overall appearance and curb appeal.

  8. Underestimating future needs: Building a carport that's too small or lacks flexibility can become inadequate as your vehicle or storage needs change over time.

How to get the best quote for a carport?

When choosing a professional to build your carport, it’s best to get several quotes from qualified builders or carpenters on Service.com.au for an estimate of the price range you can expect to be paying. To get the most accurate quotes and to save wasting time, when you create your quote request it’s best to give carport builders as much information as possible. This includes if you need a slab or any excavation, or if you need electricity installed. Details like these affect the cost of building a carport significantly, so listing them from the beginning will ensure you know what to expect early on.

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Carport FAQs

1. What are the benefits of carports?

  • Carports keep your car in a better condition by protecting it from sun and water damage, as well as leaves and other buildup.
  • You car insurance premium may be reduced as a result of covered parking
  • Carports keep your vehicle and its contents cool
  • Carports can add value to your home
  • They are versatile and can be used as an outdoor entertaining area
  • Cheaper alternative to a garage

2. What factors determine the cost of a carport?

There are many variables that will impact on the final cost of a carport when getting quotes from a qualified carpenter or builder, including:

  • What materials you want
  • If you require a concrete slab
  • If you require excavation
  • If your carport needs electricity
  • If the carport will be attached to your house
  • Whether council fees and building approvals are required
  • If you decide to add extra storage/workbenches

3. Do I need a permit to build a carport?

Carports built in Australia need to meet certain legal requirements in regards to their appearance, size, positioning, distance from other buildings and the street. It’s important to research your local regulations before you decide on a design.You may need to get a council permit to build a carport depending on its cost and size. You may also need a building permit.

Most Australian states require some type of building permit or building approval when installing a carport. There are exceptions to the rules in Victoria and New South Wales, so ensure you check with your local council.

Further Reading

Please note that all prices mentioned are to be used as an approximate guide only and are accurate at the time of writing. These prices may differ by location and at the discretion of each business.

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