A common misconception is that a carport and garage are the same thing. While the 2 do have similarities; both offer undercover protection from the rain and sun, there are some key distinct features to tell them apart.
In this article we explain the key differences between a carport and a garage, as well as list the pros and cons, to help you find what’s most suited to your needs and lifestyle.
What are the differences between a carport and a garage?
What is the difference between garage meaning and carport meaning? Believe it or not, but they are not the same thing. Whether it’s a single car garage, double garage, or double carport, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions below.
What is a carport?
First and foremost, a carport is not completely enclosed, usually only offering overhead protection and occasionally two sides. They are usually much smaller than a garage and require less material to build, making it cheap and easy to construct.
Carport designs are extremely flexible, can be made from a wide variety of materials and can be made as a standalone or attached to the home. The way a carport is designed means there is plenty of space to open your car doors, which means you can do things like getting the kids in the car and off to school without the fear of scratching your car doors on the wall.
The main issue with a carport is that you sacrifice on security and storage space. There are no walls to protect your vehicle from car theft or break-ins, this also means you will not be able to use it as a storage for any of your valuable items without the risk of it being stolen.
The flooring of a carport can be anything from: dirt, grass, gravel, pavers, and decorative concrete. The actual structure can be made from: timber, Colourbond steel, polycarbonate, metal or tiles, with an option to add a roller door if needed. The largest benefit is that a carport does not require council approval to construct since it is not an enclosed area, unlike garages, which can be transformed into ‘liveable’ rooms.
Carport PROS
- Affordable
- Quick and easy to build
- DIY optional
- Often may not require council approval, if so, is generally quick
- Can be made from a wide variety of materials
Carport CONS
- Does not provide adequate security
- No storage space
- Lesser protection from the outside elements
- Less versatile than a garage
- Does very little to add any real value to your property
- May have a shorter lifespan compared to a well-built garage
What is a garage?
A garage, given it has a secure door that you can rely on, provides a far higher level of security to protect your house, protect your vehicles and your belongings. As you may already know, a garage can be built as a permanent extension of your home or as a standalone structure, and offers completely enclosed protection from the elements and theft. This added protection is worthwhile for those who live near the ocean where salt can cause corrosion, or for properties that have a lot of trees.
Most garages are attached to the home, making it a seamless transition from getting out of your vehicle and getting into your home. This helps with getting the kids in and out of the car, removing the shopping, pets, and avoiding the rain in winter.
A garage is also safer for not just your property, but yourself too when you return home late at night when the sun is well and truly down, as opposed to coming home to a carport that has no walls or protection. This is usually where you prepare your front door key before sprinting over in the dark in hopes there’s nothing waiting for you in the dark.
Usually the garage is made out of the same material and style as the rest of the home, with the exception of the garage door. However, garage doors are completely customisable, made from Colourbond steel, aluminium, polycarbonate, or timber, and can be fitted with ventilation and windows, which means they can be made to suit whatever home design you would like.
The major benefit of a garage is that it offers storage space as well as protection. Many homeowners will use the garage to declutter their home, store a second fridge or freezer, washing machine, gardening tools, cleaning supplies, and Christmas decorations.
Another option is to convert your garage into a ‘livable’ home office, gym, play centre or workshop. Because of this, building a garage will require council approval and this can take awhile.
The price can also be significantly higher than a carport, depending if the garage will be connected to the home or as a standalone. That being said, a well-constructed garage can add to the overall value of your property by up to $20,000 to $30,000.
Garage PROS
- Completely enclosed
- Protection from the outside elements
- Provides adequate security from theft
- Provides storage space
- Can add significant value to the property
- A cohesive design can be aesthetically appealing, custom garage doors
- Seamless transition from parking the car to getting inside the home
- Option of converting into living area
Garage CONS
- Can be expensive
- Takes longer to construct
- Require council approval, can take awhile
- Must comply with Australian Building Standards and Regulations
- Require professional installation
Carport or garage–what’s best for you?
Is it worth building a carport? What is the point of a carport if it doesn’t even fully secure my belongings? Which is better, car port or garage? These are just some of the questions you might be asking.
To make the right decision you’ll need to consider your lifestyle, budget and location. Do you need all the benefits of a completely enclosed garage? Or can you get away with simple overhead protection. If budget isn’t an issue and you’re looking to add value to your property while increasing convenience, safety and storage space then a garage is perfect. Otherwise, carport cost will give you great budget overhead protection/
If you’re looking for ways to convert your carport into a garage and are in need of a well-constructed garage door to apply the finishing touches, you should contact a garage door specialist.
Where to get your garage door serviced, repaired and installed
Gryphon Garage Doors is one of the best garage door companies for sectional and roller door repair in Perth, and have been helping Australians protect their homes and commercial spaces in stylish ways for over 25 years. Why is this important? Well it means we’ve come across countless different jobs, and have had to overcome each one. So no matter your situation, you gotta get a Gryphon. We have:
- Finger proof safety
- Quietest motors on the market
- Trained professionals
- Customised products
- Warranty up to 7 years!
- After sales service
Your garage broke down and you need it to open ASAP? Not a problem, give us a call and we will try our best to get to you today and open your space. We look forward to hearing from you.
