Do you want to protect your vehicles or equipment from the elements? Or perhaps you want additional storage space on your property.
If so, metal carports and buildings are quickly becoming the preferred option among homeowners. They offer high durability without spending a lot of money…
In fact, the industry for metal buildings is booming. The United States pre-engineered metal building market is expected to grow from $12.98 billion to $27.10 billion by the year 2033, according to Grand View Research.
One thing to keep in mind:
While metal buildings offer many benefits and the demand is increasing, not all metal buildings are equal. Choosing the wrong metal building can result in wasting money, improper protection, and annoyance from a structure that doesn’t suit your land.
Luckily, we are here to walk you through everything you need to know about choosing durable metal carports and metal buildings.
Why Metal Buildings are Worth the Investment
When compared to other material options, metal carports and buildings offer…
Durability that lasts.
A good metal structure can last you 20-40 years with proper maintenance and care. Some steel frame buildings are even known to last over a century. Compared to wooden buildings that fall apart from rot, warping, and termites.
Impressed?
Don’t get us wrong. The durability is what makes metal buildings so great. But there’s a lot more benefits to consider as well.
- Weatherproof – rain, snow, wind, and sun will not be able to damage your quality metal building
- Pest protection – termites and carpenter ants can’t eat steel or aluminum like they do wood
- Low maintenance – no need to paint, seal, or treat wood
- Save you money – they cost less over time to own than traditional materials
Sure, you might be able to find a cheaper wood carport than a metal one. But when you factor in maintenance, repairs, and how long they’ll last… metal is the obvious choice.
Types of Metal Buildings
When researching metal carports and buildings, it’s important to know the types that are available.
Regular Style Carports
This is your cheapest option when it comes to metal carports. They have a rounded roof and work great if you live somewhere that doesn’t get crazy weather. Ideal for basic car port needs.
Boxed-Eave Carports
These carports feature an A-frame style that has horizontal roof panels. This is the traditional look that will fit your home style the best. A great option if you have average weather.
Vertical Style Carports
Vertical style carports are the strongest and most durable option. The A-frame style roof has vertical panels which allow rain and snow to slide off the roof. Recommended if you get heavy snow or lots of storms.
Metal Garages
These metal buildings come with walls and serve as fully covered structures. They offer the most protection and include doors and windows. A great option for something like a garage.
Metal Barns and Workshops
These metal buildings are bigger and better for storage or livestock. They can also be used as workshops.
Remember that each style was designed with different purposes in mind. You’ll want to choose a structure that fits your land and weather best.
Features you want in Metal Buildings
Like anything in life, there are differences between every metal building brand.
Here are some things to look for when choosing your metal building:
Correct Steel Gauge
Steel gauge is the thickness of the steel used to create the building. The lower the number, the thicker the steel. You will want to look at least 14 gauge as your standard. 12-gauge if you know you need extra strength.
Galvanized or Not?
Galvanized steel is coated with zinc which helps prevent rust and corrosion. If you live near the ocean or somewhere with high humidity, go with galvanized steel. ALWAYS.
Wind and Snow Ratings
Your area will most likely face inclement weather. Make sure your metal building has been certified to withhold certain wind speeds and amounts of snow. THIS IS NOT OPTIONAL.
Anchor Abilities
All buildings should come with anchor capabilities. Whether that be concrete anchors, asphalt anchors, or ground anchors. You need to ensure that your metal building will stay put during bad weather.
Warranty
Lastly, you’ll want a brand that offers a great warranty. Your warranty should cover the frame and metal paneling. The longer the warranty, the better the quality will be.
How to Choose the Correct Size Metal Building
This is one of the most common mistakes that buyers make.
They don’t choose the right size.
Here’s how to avoid that problem:
First, measure out the vehicles or items that need protected. From there, add on at least 3-4 feet on each side to allow for access and door openings. It’s always better to be bigger than smaller.
If you are only looking to cover one vehicle, a 12×20 building should suffice. For two vehicles, you will need 20×20 or larger. Covering an RV or boat? You’re going to need something even bigger…
Think 14×40 or more.
Keep in mind future needs as well. Are you planning on getting another vehicle in the future? Will you need more storage down the road? The more space you build now, the less you’ll have to spend later.
Height is something to consider as well. If you have a lifted truck, RV, or boat, you will need to increase leg height. Take all dimensions into consideration when deciding.
Metal Building Maintenance
No maintenance is needed when owning a metal building. However, there’s little things you can do to help your building last.
Inspect Once a Year
Make sure to give your metal building a good once over once a year. Look for loose bolts or rust build up. You should also check for any damage that may have occurred during storms. It’s always best to catch things early.
Keep your metal building clean
By simply keeping your building clean, you can prevent moisture build up. Moist build up can cause rust and corrosion. Hate cleaning? Just grab a garden hose and spray down your building once in a while.
Remove snow
This doesn’t apply to all metal buildings. But if you live in an area that gets tons of snow, remove excess build up. Even vertical style roofs can accumulate heavy layers of snow. Removing snow will help prevent damage to your building during the winter.
Apply touch up paint
All metal buildings should come with touch up paint. If you find scratches in the coating. Just apply paint to prevent rust from occurring.
Check your anchors
Weather and natural ground movement can loosen your anchors overtime. Be sure to check them yearly just in case.
Practice these 5 simple steps. They can help prolong the life of your metal building by years… if not decades.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right metal building for you or your business really isn’t that difficult.
Identify what you need. Choose a structure that will work with your weather. Look for key features that will solidify your purchase. And finally, size correctly.
Metal carports and buildings are one of the best investments you can make for your home. They protect your vehicles, equipment, and just about anything else you can think of.
Not only that, but they require very little maintenance and money to own. If they’re growing in popularity, it’s because everyday homeowners are realizing metal beats alternative materials every time.
Do your research when looking for the perfect building. Compare warranties and prices from different manufacturers. And remember, DON’T sell yourself short by always choosing the cheapest option.
That money you spend by doing it right the first time will save you in the long run. Literally.
