Deluxe Carports Vs. Standard Carports: What’s The Difference?

When it comes to metal carports, there are mainly two types – deluxe and standard. The difference lies in the level of customization and additional features they have to offer. With deluxe carports, you get more options for size, material choice, and design elements. They may have attached sheds, storage units, lighting, and solar roofs. However, standard carports offer basic features and come in standard sizes and materials without much added bells and whistles. Meanwhile, both are equally durable when it comes to protection from elements; the final choice is often based on the customer’s style, preferences, and budget.

What Are Deluxe Carports?

A deluxe metal carport is a premium version of a standard metal carport. It is made using high-quality material like 12-gauge galvanized steel, which provides extra durability, can withstand severe weather, and has a sleek look for aesthetic appeal.

Deluxe car sheds may have additional storage units [built-in], lighting, and even solar roof panels. They combine strength, style, and functionality.

What Are Standard Carports?

The standard metal carport is a simple, cost-effective structure made with a 14-gauge steel frame. It provides protection from direct sun, rain, and snow. Here, the roof is supported by four or more metal posts but usually doesn’t have any additional custom features.

These are suitable for people on a tight budget looking for a sturdy car shed and are ideal for moderate climatic zones.

Material Used In Deluxe Vs. Standard Carports

Type of Steel Carports	Deluxe	Standard
Frame	12-Gauge Steel Frame [thicker gauge] Marine-Grade Aluminum [superior resistant to rust, ideal for harsh weather]	14-gauge steel frame [industry standard] Aluminum frame [lightweight & corrosion resistant]
Strength	Galvanized steel is resist to rust and corrosion. It has higher strength & durability.	Galvanized/ Metal quality varies with the manufacturer.
Panels	26 or 24 -Gauge Metal Panels [26ga is industry standard]	29 -Gauge Metal Panels
Panel Design	Corrugated	Corrugated/ Flat

 

Design Difference Between Deluxe & Standard Carports

Design Features	Deluxe Steel Carports	Standard Metal Carports
	Materials	High grade steel or aluminum to enhance durability and weather resistance	Usually low grade steel or aluminum for moderate weather conditions
Design	Custom designs Stylish & functional Aesthetically pleasing	Simple Functional Minimal aesthetics
Roofing Style	Vertical or boxed eave roof Better durability Higher weather protection	Regular with curved eaves Economical Not suitable for extreme weather
Additional	Can include features like – built in storage lighting solar panels lean-tos vents colors	Basic design without any extra functionalities

Features & Amenities Offered In Deluxe Type Carports

In a deluxe-style carport, you get the basic functionality of parking cars along with several other benefits, such as:

1. Material Quality: You can use high-quality or even certified material that can withstand high-speed winds and heavy snow loads.
2. Customizations: From choosing roof style to colors for trim, roof, side walls, gable ends, and wainscot, you can customize the carport to match your home aesthetics.
3. Built-In Storage: Every homeowner appreciates extra storage space to keep their home clutter-free and clean. You can customize the size of the shed to meet your storage needs. Plus, this shed is fully enclosed so that you can secure it with a lock.
4. Lighting: With custom deluxe carports, you can include natural lighting and artificial lights for better visibility 24/7.
5. Solar Panels: Since deluxe car sheds are made using thick, high-quality steel, they can support solar panels, and you can get free electricity.
6. Enhanced Roof: You can select roof pitch and style to improve drainage after rain and snowfall. Some even include a cupola-style roof for style and ventilation.
7. Warranty: Top-quality steel comes with up to 20 years of warranty for your peace of mind. It also assures the quality of the material. Difference metal carport dealers offer different warranties, so check before you buy.

Cost Comparison Between Deluxe Vs. Standard Carports

Cost Per Sq. Ft.	Deluxe	Standard
Size: 20’ x 36’	Starts at $9695 [for 20 ft. wide, 36 ft. long, & 10 ft. high]	Starts at $2295
Features	Vertical roof Storage shed Garage doors [roll-up] Walk in door Matching screws Closed front gable ends Custom color options	Regular roof Custom color options

 

Durability & Longevity Of Deluxe Vs. Standard Carports

Since standard carports are made using 14-gauge steel or lightweight aluminum, they might not be able to withstand extreme weather conditions. But, with proper care, they can last for decades. You can get a 12-gauge frame standard carport, depending on your need & local climate zone.

A deluxe one, on the other hand, comes with a high gauge, thicker steel frame that can bear more load. If you opt for certified steel structures, durability and weather resistance will increase. They are usually galvanized, making them resistant to rust & corrosion.

With metal one-car carports, you generally get pest and fire-resistant structures that can last for 20 to 30 years with minimal maintenance.

Installation Process For Both Types Of Carports

A standard car parking carport will take about 1 to 4 hours, depending on size and complexity. You can even DIY it. However, with professional installation service, it may take up to 2 days, but you will get a sturdy structure that lasts longer.

For a deluxe car parking carport, it can take about 2 to 3 days to build, depending on the design, size, and customizations.

Note that some metal building dealers may not offer warranties with DIY kits, as a metal building is only as good as its installation. If that’s so, opt for a professional installation crew. Some dealers even offer shipping and installation, which are included in their quote, so you don’t have to worry about construction.

Maintenance Requirements For Deluxe Vs. Standard Carports

For Standard Metal Car Carport:

• You can clean it every six months or so with mild soap and warm water.
• Inspect for rust spots, holes, cracks, gaps, etc., and treat them promptly.
• Ensure all screws, nuts & bolts are tight to maintain its structural integrity.
• Clean the roof after rain and autumn to remove water, dead leaves, twigs, etc., that can lead to moisture retention and cause rusting.

For Deluxe Steel Car Carport:

• Apart from regular cleaning, ensure all coatings [fire/ paint finishing] are intact to maintain a shiny metal surface.
• Deluxe-style carports are made using high-quality rust-resistant material, so ensure to treat any spot as soon as possible to avoid spread.
• Since deluxe-type carport comes with additional features, you need to check them for proper functioning and maintain them as per manufacturer guidelines.
• You can seek a professional inspection every few years to ensure that all the features are intact and in better condition.

Elevate Your Carport Game With Premium Steel Structures!

So, which carport is right for you? If you are looking for a basic carport for your lot to protect your vehicles and belongings without much flair and within a tight budget, then a standard carport is suitable for you.

However, if you prefer to add a car shed that matches your existing home aesthetics and gets some ROI when you list your property up for sale, then a deluxe carport would be the one you should opt for.