Today if you consider building anything, even something as simple as a timber carport it seems a lot more complicated than it did earlier, despite the fact that today a number of advanced and easy to work with tools and apparatus are available and even construction materials are easily available. But now you have to consider things like your local building regulations, getting permission from your neighbours, the weather you where you live and most importantly your budget.
As a result, when considering building a carport, proper planning and forethought are crucial. You can start by deciding the material that you want to use to build your carport. The two most popular choices are metal and wood. Generally, people prefer using wood when building a carport on their own. Wood is not only easier and safer to work with but the wooden carport’s look and appeal is lovely and extraordinary. Once you are certain about the material you will be using for your carport the next step is to decide on its design and style. The two main models of a carport structure are the standalone and the semi-attached.
The best thing about building a wooden carport is that a person can get their carport to really look any way they desire, this can range from a simple selection of flat roof for the wooden carport to a shed roof, gabled roof or vertical roof. Always remember that the choice of roof should be made very carefully. If you live in an area that experiences snowfall and rainfall, you should choose a carport with a vertical roof. A slanted roof will allow the snow and rain to slide easily off the roof. For a more appealing appearance you can consider carport designs with gable ends.
The design of the wooden carport is another important factor to be considered. Depending on the number of cars you own, you could build a single wooden carport or double wooden carport. Depending on your needs and requirements, you can decide the size, dimensions as well as the style of your carport. Generally, the size of the carport is about 12 feet wide, 5 feet high and 20 feet long. If you are building a wooden carport to shelter two cars, the width should be approx. 18 feet. While choosing a design also keep the availability of the space, your budget and local building regulations in mind.
Next, choose your site location. When choosing a site location, remember that the space should not be too congested or limited, or it will make using the wooden carport really complicated and difficult. There should be enough space for your vehicle, so that you can easily keep the car in and take it out when needed. After that you should ensure that you get any building permits and any other requirements from your local authority. Generally, it is advised that you take your wooden carport plans to the local authority to ensure your building will pass inspection, which is really very important. Also, consider how much your property taxes will increase when you complete the carport. Ensure that you schedule an ample amount of time to complete the DIY project, and try to schedule the build when the weather is nice and clear. Generally, wooden carports do not need planning permission, but confirming this with your local planning authority wouldn’t do any harm.
Now you can start building your carport. First determine what the best foundation will be for your timber carport on the site. Next, measure the site according to the size and dimensions of your carport plan. Prepare the ground for the foundation, then get all the building materials and organise them where they are easily accessible. Now that you are all set and organised, take your plans and go over them a few times to get acquainted with the project. There is no hard and fast rule about the cutting of lumber while building a wooden carport. You can either cut as your proceed or you can cut all the pieces first. It is completely up to you.
The important thing here is the measurement. So always check at least twice before cutting. Take time to ensure all joists and studs are plumb and level before screwing or nailing in place. Keep in mind that carports have got to have the ability to stand up to the different types of weather conditions that they are more likely to experience, like heavy snowfall, rainfall and gusts of wind. It is important to remember that wooden carports do not have walls, the therefore the roof operates just like an aircraft wing, consequently it has to be designed in a manner that will keep it firmly fixed to the ground, or it may set sail if you live in area where storms and heavy winds are commonplace.
Once your wooden carport is built and erected, you can start working on the finishing details like painting and supplying electricity and water to the carport, if you desire. You can also consider having downspouts, guttering, and splash blocks to take away the rain. Make sure the carport roof lines up with all the guttering to make it well-matched with the guttering of your home. Be very careful and cautious when working with tools, safety is always rule #1. Generally, DIY beginners find it hard and confusing to build a wooden carport from scratch with just a set of plans. It is difficult for sure, especially for the beginner and first timer but certainly it is not impossible.
With proper research and moving forward with a pace you are comfortable with, you can easily handle and successfully complete the simple project of building a wooden carport. If you take your time and get a really good set of plans to work from, then you and absolutely anybody can tackle a project like this. If you are very nervous then a number of smaller projects beforehand will assist in boosting your confidence. So, go ahead and build your wooden carport on your own.
