Amazing Metal Carports

Metal carports are great for storing vehicles under, but they are also fun to stand under when it is raining. I have a lot of early memories of doing that during the big thunderstorms that would roll through the Arizona desert. I can almost smell the rain and dust, and hear the rhythmic tapping on the metal roof above. Sort of scary, but fun at the same time.

Now that I'm in big people world, I don't think so much about rain storms and being entertained, or scared, under metal carports. Maybe I should, but I have moved on to other things. The use of carports in America today has actually become quite varied. Many people use them to store extra vehicles, RV's, motor sports, and boats. Other people use them as relatively inexpensive alternative work areas. I have a friend who bought one to set up over a concrete pad so he could construct a wooden boat. I have another friend who bought one for storing his winter wood under. The point is that it doesn't matter what it is used for, metal carports are versatile and affordable.

One of the things to look for in metal carports is ease of construction. Companies like VersaTube offer amazing customer support and their product is second to none. I particularly like how they swage the metal frame members. This makes assembly quick and easy. Once the frame is assembled and secured over an appropriate foundation of either gravel, grass, or concrete (depending on individual taste and application), you can move on to covering it with the metal sheets. These are best installed on a day when the wind is calm. Wind and metal sheets definitely don't mix! They can kite away on you if you aren't careful, and injury is likely. Once you screw the metal sheets on you will feel like quite the do-it-yourselfer. And you should! Many people wonder if they can actually assemble metal carports successfully. The answer to that concern is a resounding, yes!

So why should you consider metal carports as a viable alternative to traditional construction for additional storage space? Probably the biggest reason is cost. A stick built structure of similar size will run you thousands of dollars more. Materials and labor are expensive. As with regular construction projects, contractors can be hired to build your carport for you if you don't want to tackle the job yourself. However, this is entirely unnecessary for most people who have good health, average common sense, some basic tools, and have the motivation to follow simple instructions. It can be pretty rewarding to put up your own structure and you can save a few bucks in the process.

Metal carports have been around for a long time and are likely to remain with us for the foreseeable future. You already know why you may want to get one, just find a suitable location and decide if you want to build it yourself, or have someone help you out. And don't forget to invite your kids to stand with you under it next time it rains.