One Car Carports

If all you’re doing is parking a regular sedan or small SUV, a 12×20 usually does the job.

But here’s the thing — most people forget about the “extra stuff” they end up putting under there. You go to open the door, you hit the post. Or you buy a lawn mower and now you’re shuffling things around every time you park.

If you’ve got the room and a little extra budget, 12×24 or even 14×24 feels way more comfortable. My rule? Measure your vehicle bumper to bumper, give yourself a couple feet on the ends and sides, and you’ll avoid a lot of frustration later.

Right now, a basic 12×20 with a regular roof is running somewhere in the $1,500–$2,500 range installed.

That’s bare bones. You want a vertical roof so snow and leaves don’t pile up? Side panels so the rain doesn’t blow in? A color other than the standard ones? It’ll cost more — but still nowhere near what a stick-built garage runs.

Had a guy last month add two side panels and bump the leg height… added about $400 to the price, and he said it was the best money he spent.

It’s not necessary — you can set it on gravel, asphalt, or even level dirt if you just need a spot to park.

That said, if you want it to look sharp, stay cleaner, or maybe close it in down the road, go with concrete. I usually tell folks a 4-inch slab is the sweet spot — strong enough without overbuilding.

Around here, that’s running roughly $4–$6 a square foot. One customer tried to save money with gravel and called me six months later to pour concrete because the dust was driving him crazy.

If it’s built right and anchored properly, yes.

I’ve put up units that have handled 90 mph winds and heavy snow without a problem.

For high-snow areas, I always recommend a vertical roof — snow slides off easier and won’t build up like it does on a regular style.

All day long. You can add partial or full side panels for more protection, choose different roof styles, pick from a bunch of colors, and even bump up the leg height if you’ve got a taller vehicle.

Most places require one, especially if the structure’s anchored to the ground permanently.

Every county’s different, so check before you buy. I keep standard engineered plans on file for most areas, so getting them to your inspector is easy.

For a 12×20 or 12×24, we’re usually in and out in half a day if the site’s ready.

Bad weather or tricky site conditions might stretch it to a full day. Compare that to a stick-built garage that can take weeks.

Yep. Most of my customers either do Rent-to-Own (no credit check, pay monthly) or go through a local bank or credit union for better rates.
Not many people drop $2,000 cash — financing makes it painless.

Sure can. I’ve seen them used as boat covers, ATV shelters, wood storage, outdoor work areas — you name it.

If you want to turn it into a small shop or storage shed later, we can add walls and doors down the road.